Experience the New Dining Delight at Vin: A Change in Taste and Ambiance

Embracing New Beginnings: Vin’s Transformation in San Rafael

In the heart of downtown San Rafael, a familiar dining destination has undergone an exciting metamorphosis. The restaurant previously known as Vin Antico has transitioned into a trendy new establishment called Vin, embracing a modern, seasonal California cuisine that speaks volumes about the essence of local dining.

After a short two-month closure, Vin reopened its doors to eager patrons last month, promising a fresh culinary experience paired with an inviting atmosphere. The rebranding is not just a change in name but a comprehensive alteration of the dining experience at this beloved family-owned restaurant. The shift was officially celebrated with a launch event planned for May 9 and 10, drawing in fans who are keen to explore the new offerings.

A Fresh Take on Dining

Co-owner Mike Heffernan, who manages Vin alongside Oliver’s Pizzeria, a speakeasy-style establishment located above, has reinvigorated the downstairs dining area with a facelift. With reupholstered seating, updated lighting, and a revamped interior design, the space feels contemporary yet retains a warm, welcoming vibe that resonates with locals.

Heffernan’s vision for Vin stems from an intense love of local ingredients mixed with the innovative techniques brought by the new culinary team. Leading this fresh gastronomic venture is chef de cuisine Dan Costa, along with sous chef Kendall Mazet. Both chefs carry a wealth of fine-dining experience from respected establishments throughout the Bay Area, which they channel into crafting dishes that are both inventive and seasonally perfect.

A Culinary Adventure: Menu Highlights at Vin

The new menu encapsulates the essence of modern California cuisine, focusing on ingredients sourced from nearby farms, ensuring every bite holds a piece of Marin County’s heart. The selection features an array of shareable small plates and heartier main courses, allowing diners to experience a variety of flavors in one sitting.

Patrons will delight in options such as Sicilian kampachi crudo, a refreshing celery salad hailing the spring vibe, and the comforting shrimp toast embellished with a sweet chili sauce. Entrees promise satisfaction with choices that include a luscious pork chop accompanied by a rich cannellini bean and burnt fennel ensemble or a crisp chicken schnitzel with vibrant piquillo pepper remoulade.

Each plate is designed with the principle of sharing in mind, where culinary creations not only tantalize the taste buds but also evoke engaging conversations among diners.

Innovations Behind the Bar

To complement the delightful dishes, Vin’s cocktail bar has been thoughtfully curated. Handcrafted by mixologist Dylan Jones, the drink menu emphasizes seasonal ingredients and creative mixtures that make every sip special. It aligns seamlessly with the updated culinary identity, showcasing local wines predominantly sourced from Napa and Sonoma County, interspersed with select offerings from Northern Italy.

A Gathering Space That Cultivates Community

Mike Heffernan encapsulates the essence of Vin as a space that bridges intimate dinner dates with family gatherings. The ambiance invites connections, nourishing not only bodies but also relationships, reinforcing Vin’s commitment to becoming a gathering place for the Bay Area community.

“We want to take what we’ve seen, learned and been exposed to and combine it with our love for this county,” Heffernan states passionately. The fresh approach aims to make Vin not just a restaurant but a culinary home—a spot where the community can consistently reconnect over sumptuous meals.

Join the Celebration

As Vin prepares to fully celebrate its grand reopening with festivities unfolding on May 9 and 10, this is the perfect time for food lovers and community members alike to visit and discover what’s new. Nestled at 881 Fourth St., Vin is open Tuesdays through Saturdays from 5 to 9 p.m. Whether you're looking for a place to enjoy a sumptuous meal or to connect with others over shared plates and drinks, Vin’s refreshed identity promises to deliver an enjoyable experience.

The culinary journey at Vin is just beginning as the kitchen aims to rotate offerings and keep the menu focused, creating new tastes that will beckon diners back for more each week.