The essence of a great dining experience!

Welcome to Cafe Merlot, located in the Bernardo Winery, the oldest family-run working winery in Southern California. We have a new menu that is sure to please our most sophisticated guest. Review our selection of fine cuisine for a truly wonderful dining experience.

Proud new owners, Toni and Rick Kraft, along with the talented culinary team of Chef Daniel Reynolds and Sous Chef Stella Midori Makofski have taken their years of culinary experience, their love of food, and the Southern Californian sun, and transformed an already great restaurant into a full dining experience.

Discover why discerning individuals who know and enjoy great food and wine from around the globe come and dine at Cafe Merlot.

Its about the food...

Toni and Rick are no strangers to Culinary Tourism and the Hospitality Industry. Toni was born from a family tradition of bread making and cooking - she could not and did not want to escape the smells coming through her family's home every day. Along with a developed passion for quality food as well as being creative with fresh herbs and seasonal ingredients, she set off in the Midwest to open her own Catering Company. Toni was able to work along side WolfGang Puck, and Oprah Winfry, and design many events for dignitaries and corporations. Custom catering became a natural for her for parties from 20-20,000.

Today she shares that same passion with her customers and balances this with fine wine and a serene surrounding. With her feet firmly planted at the Vineyard, she draws on her memories and on all of her 5 senses to have added to the recipes of Cafe Merlot. She recognizes the importance of family and those who have touched her life not only in the kitchen but in all aspects of business. This has taught her to work hard, have integrity, and to always be optimistic in life. Thus the result is the fruition of Toni's life long dream to produce great food, and teach the love of cooking - she can now see a little glimpse of paradise here on earth.

"What a great experience! Our first visit, very impressive, will return again!"
Joyce & Jack Tetley, England

"One of my favorite spots!" - Diane DeBolt, Poway, CA

"What can we say? What a beautiful little piece of heave! The food ws phenominal, the wine was to die for, and the service was wonderful in every way!"
John and Tammy Masi, Schaumburg, IL.