By Linda Sutter in Hiouchi, California — April 25, 2025

My God in heaven, if you haven’t yet experienced the Wine and Dine Dinners at the Hiouchi Cafe, you are truly missing out. Nestled among the majestic Redwoods of Del Norte County, this small and quaint restaurant proves that you don’t have to travel far to find a world-class gourmet experience.

Tonight’s event was nothing short of spectacular — a seven-course meal, each dish thoughtfully paired with a different wine. Let’s take a walk through this culinary journey:

AMUSE BOUCHE

The evening began with a Cream Cheese Bacon Avocado Fritter paired with a Valley View Winery Aromatique White Wine from Jackson, Oregon. Crispy, savory, and kissed with jalapeño ranch, the fritter was to die for, setting the tone for the night. The white wine was light, refreshing, and the perfect start.

APPETIZER

Next came a Pork Belly Potsticker drizzled with Ginger Scallion Sauce, perfectly matched with Quercia Chardonnay. The potsticker’s rich flavors combined with the dry Chardonnay, teasing the palate and leaving guests eager for more.

SOUP

The Potato and Asparagus Soup, sprinkled with crispy potatoes and bacon, was comfort food elevated to an art form. Paired with a Riesling, the soup was especially delightful when dipped with their house-made focaccia bread — and really, who doesn’t love bacon?

SALAD

This wasn’t your average side salad. The plate featured Prosciutto, Arugula, Tomatoes, Red Onion, Ricotta, Bread Croutons, Balsamic, and Hot Honey, paired with a Gravel Lane Pinot Noir. Light, flavorful, and utterly satisfying.

PASTA

The fifth course, Pasta Molicata, brought together tomatoes, basil, garlic, chili flakes, lemon breadcrumbs, and parmesan. Paired with a Merlot, it was a bold and unexpected match that, despite some mixed opinions, harmonized beautifully for those open to the experience.

MAIN COURSE

By the time the Lamb Chops with Pistachio Chimichurri, Grits, and Greens arrived, many guests — myself included — were feeling deliciously full. The lamb was paired with a BDX Blend, but alas, I was so stuffed that I had to box my dessert to-go, missing the full experience of this dish.

DESSERT

Later, as I write, I am savoring the final course: a Lemon Mousse Parfait with Chantilly Cream, Blueberries, and Vanilla Wafers, paired with a Late Harvest Sauvignon Blanc. It is a bright, flavorful ending to an unforgettable meal.

The Experience

Approximately 100 guests gathered tonight, sharing laughter, conversation, and extraordinary cuisine under the cozy roof of the Hiouchi Cafe. It’s amazing to think such a fine dining event takes place right here in our little corner of the world.

Hiouchi Cafe hosts these Wine and Dine dinners quarterly, with the menu kept a closely guarded secret — part of the magic. Beyond these special events, they are now offering special dinners every Thursday, Friday, and Saturday evening.

A heartfelt thanks goes out to Kevin, the chef, and the entire Hiouchi Cafe staff. Their hard work, passion, and attention to detail made tonight’s experience nothing short of phenomenal. It’s clear they pour their hearts into every plate.

Whether you’re a local or just passing through Del Norte County, mark your calendar for the next Wine and Dine. It’s an experience you will not want to miss.