Most of us can’t justify dining at Plumed Horse before going to a Duran Duran or Lucinda Williams concert. But that’s okay, because the charming hamlet of Saratoga offers more in the way of dinner options than Michelin-starred fare. Here are three great options, including the fast-casual pasta spot from Plumed Horse chef Peter Armellino.
Burgerim
Never heard of it? Oh, you will. The Tel Aviv-based gourmet slider expert is expanding like crazy in the Bay Area, including this West San Jose location six miles from Mountain Winery. We sent our critic to the Pleasant Hill location in the East Bay to check out the 3-ounce pick-your-own-patties, and he went ga-ga over the Wagyu beef. They also offer dry-aged beef, spicy Merguez beef, Spanish beef, lamb, turkey, chicken, salmon and a meat-free falafel. Sides, such as thick, round potatoes (he loved those), salads and onion rings, complete the offerings.
Details: 840 El Paseo de Saratoga, Suite 840, San Jose; www.burgerim.com
Pasta Armellino
Located across from Plumed Horse, Pasta Armellino’s interior is industrial-chic and fabulous, with a skylight, graffiti art and casual counter service. Seasonal soups and salads are excellent, as are the pastas, which are handmade daily. The house special, a tagliatelle made with black pepper, Parmigiana, crab and uni cream, is umami magic, while the Impossible Bolognese satisfies vegetarians and omnivores alike. Not to be overlooked: Cocoa nib cannoli, and the fact that beer and wine are under $10 a glass.
Details: 14560 Big Basin Way, Saratoga; www.pastaarmellino.com
The Hero Ranch Kitchen
Global small plates is the focus at this newish restaurant from Opa! owner Angelo Heropoulos. His Almaden Ranch supplies much of the produce for the eatery, which is located inside the former Sent Sovi digs on Big Basin Way. Stand-out nibbles include the citrus-infused Carnitas Cups and Australian Grass Fed Lamb Chops with tzatziki. Don’t want to share? The menu offers everything from a $15 Hero Ranch ½-pound burger to a Grilled Organic Skuna Bay Salmon entree with shaved fennel and asparagus. Reservations recommended.
Details: 14583 Big Basin Way, Saratoga; http://theheroranchkitchen.com
