Tuesday September 6, 2016
Vixen Vittles ~ Sheldon Inn
Last month the Vixens along with photographer, Andrea Bucheli, enjoyed a site visit of Sheldon Inn located in the countryside and outskirts of Elk Grove, CA (just 15 minutes from downtown Sacramento). Holly Kennedy, the coordinator of weddings and events, invited us to enjoy a dinner with samplings of their menu. We could tell this restaurant is a favorite among the “locals” (and many who drove some miles) because the place was hoppin’ and packed. Each of our items was delicious… with the flavors and style of good old fashioned home cooking (but with updated and modern twists). This same kitchen prepares the cuisine for all their socials and weddings held at the venue. Check them out!!!
We started off sharing a plate of very fresh Heirloom Tomatoes and Fresh Mozzarella with fresh picked basil from the restaurant’s Kitchen Herb Garden. Then we shared three different salads on the menu: Classically prepared Caesar Salad (very lemon-y), a Young Spinach Salad with sliced strawberries, goat cheese and honeyed walnuts, and a Hearts of Romaine with applewood bacon, crumbled Bleu cheese and balsamic vinaigrette.
The entree selections are fantastic and we passed around all three offerings so we could taste a little of each. The Organic Farm Raised Salmon, grilled with tarragon lemon compound butter was nicely done. One of the house favorites is the Niman Ranch stuffed Pork Chop (so so good). Stuffed with Granny Smith Apples, Applewood Bacon, Sage and Sparkling Cider Cream Sauce. And the third entree is the popular “Mary’s” Free Ranch Chicken Breast sauteed with artichoke hearts, tomato concasse, fresh basil and Marsala wine.
We were so full, but there is always room for dessert(s)! We were putty in their hands when they brought out the tray of their selections for the evening – all housemade. Lordy! Some were on the menu, others were special for the evening… the first photo is where I lost it(!)… a seasonally made Peach Fruit Cobbler with Gunther’s Vanilla Bean Ice Cream. We all loved the Bread Pudding with cream and the one that took us over the top was the Chocolate Bombe.
Wine flowed… from an impressive wine list made up of all California wines (that’s nice). So, if you’re considering holding an event at Sheldon Inn, you’ll be in excellent hands in the cuisine department. But if you’re considering just driving to the country for an outstanding dinner, DO IT!!