Rude Dante has gone nostalgic, and takes us back to his childhood home. Let's see what he recommends (or doesn't)...NEPOTISM ALERT: Dante's sister owns the joint.
The Vine has been a standby in Elkhart for 10+ years, however it has been 'under new management' for the past 5-6 years. In a town famous for really good Italian chow, this place brings a bit of variety not often found in a small- to medium-sized city in the Midwest.
Rather than a specific dining recommendation, this will serve instead as a guidepost for those who might wander in and wonder what to get.
For starters, the bar has a great set of interesting and varied custom cocktails that rotates seasonally. I'd recommend a libation before dinner at the bar if that is an option.
Outdoor patio seating is especially appealing late spring to middle fall. At other seasons, tables are split between the front / bar area, back dining room or the wine cave (a small dining room that seats 6-8 comfortably at the back of the back dining room).
Wine list is short, sweet and eclectic. A couple better options usually include a barolo or brunello di montalcino - have been known to hit on these during most visits.
My dining experience has generally been for dinner, though I have enjoyed on or two nice lunches as well. Steaks have been great and well prepared, and there is usually a decent selection of seafood on the menu (walleye in summer is my personal fave). A variety of salads, sandwiches, pasta dishes, and artisan pizzas round out the menu, with appetizers & desserts to accompany if desired.
Chef and staff have been pretty consistent since reopening after the ownership transition, so quality of food and service is consistently good.
- Rude Dante review
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