Donovan H.
Yelp
I rarely visit the Lodi area and when I do, it is usually to enjoy a day out enjoying some of the award-winning vineyards for some wine tasting. So to make sure I didn't get too saturated on wine alone, I took matters in my own hands by indulging in some hearty comfort food for lunch. This takes me none other to "The Dancing Fox Winery & Brewery". This place is definitely an all-in-one business combining a lunch/dinner restaurant, a brewery, and a dedicated wine tasting area, all under one roof.
Located at the corner of W. Lodi Ave and Church St. in the heart of downtown Lodi, the Dancing Fox has been in operation ever since 2009. And what makes this location unique is that brick building at 203 S. School St. was built turning the turn of the 20th century. I absolutely love historic buildings like this and the strong attention to detail is very apparent everywhere you look. Just about everything inside of this place screams vintage as if you've taken a step back to the 1930's.
I also wanted to add that the entire layout and aesthetics of this place is very well executed. You will notice a very generous amount of indoor seating for small and larger parties. The bar has that rustic speakeasy look with hundreds of their wines being showcased. There is also a beer station that serves up delicious craft beers; both local and out-of-state. There is also a very charming outdoor patio; perfect for the more comfortable Central Valley afternoons and evenings. But the real winner here is a hallway that takes you to the dedicated wine tasting area which is separate from the actual restaurant with no distractions.
This is where I specifically did tastings of their reds ($15 for 5 tastings but complimentary if you purchase a bottle). I tried their 2016 Cabernet Sauvignon, Barbera, Cabernet Franc, Old Vine Zinfandel, and Petite Sirah. After giving it some thought, I finally settled with the Old Vine Zinfandel (priced at $39 + tax) which had a really amazing smooth bold texture to it. And luckily, after my final tasting, our table was ready.
Since this gave me plenty of time to look at their food menu. I started off by ordering an appetizer of their "Bruschetta" (for $13). This was five individual baguettes complete with garlic, tomato, basil, feta cheese, and glazed balsamic reduction. My main dish was their "Tri Tip Green Chili Melt" (for $17). This consisted of smoked tri-tip complete with green chilies, cheddar cheese, and spicy aioli complete with toasted jalapeño sourdough bread. I opted for a side salad with Italian dressing and settled with iced water (as I knew I'd be drinking more wine later).
Our Bruschetta arrived first and I've got to say, this was absolutely amazing (5/5). The presentation was on point while they gave us a very large amount; enough to split between our entire party. As for my sandwich, this also hit the spot. And to those of you asking if this is a "hot/spicy" taste, it actually wasn't as spicy as I thought. They didn't skimp on the tri-tip while the aioli mayo with melted cheese really pulled everything together perfectly. This sandwich was so filling, I was only able to finish half of it. But just as the Bruschetta was delicious, so was my sandwich (5/5).
I have to say, "The Dancing Fox" far exceeded my expectations. The gentleman that poured our wine (while we were waiting for our table was knowledgeable & friendly) while our server took care of us from start to finish. Best of all, the prices here don't break the bank. With the elaborate and over-the-top interior, excellent service, and perfect ambiance, I am giving The Dancing Fox a perfect five-star rating. A must try if you're in the Lodi area.