Thomas Keller’s Yountville caviar lounge has entered its second act.
RO Restaurant & Lounge , formerly the Regiis Ova Caviar & Champagne Lounge , reopened on Wednesday as a whole new dining spot. Alongside chef de cuisine Jeffery Hayashi, Keller has created a fresh menu with a focus on Asian-inspired cuisine, as well as wine, cocktails, and—yes—a large selection of Champagne and sparkling.
“We’ve listened to our guests looking for a local spot that highlights some of the best Asian flavors,” Keller said in a statement. “Chef Hayashi will continue evolving the menu, and we’re excited to see where he takes it.”
Many of the plates are inspired by Hayashi’s upbringing in Hawaii, with Keller’s quintessential emphasis on California’s bountiful produce thrown in. Small bites and snacks include Hokkaido uni toast, artichoke custard infused with almond wood-smoked pork belly and fennel, and chicken liver with springy accompaniments like cherry blossoms, strawberries, and rhubarb. Several of the starting dishes can be enhanced with uni or caviar, naturally.