Alexis V.
Yelp
Walnut Creek... you are not ready for this one!
Stereo 41 just opened and I'm already planning my next five visits. Add this to my rotation immediately, the restaurants in WC hate to see me coming!
We were invited to the soft opening and from the moment I walked in, the vibe was vibing. Velvet walls, graffiti-style art, moody lighting, it's giving hip, modern, and effortlessly cool without trying too hard. And then the DJ starts playing the perfect soundtrack... like okayyy, ambiance, I see you. 10/10 on the energy.
Drinks:
Amazing. Like the type of drinks that make you forget you swore you were "only having one tonight." Balanced, flavorful, dangerously smooth.
Starters:
Hamachi tostada, Listen LINDA. LISTEN. This hamachi melted in my mouth so beautifully I almost shed a tear. Buttery, bright, perfect.
Halloumi cheese, Delicious. I'm a grilled halloumi girl and they delivered.
Potatoes, Crispy, flavorful, addictive. I would like a bucket for takeout, thanks.
Mains:
Short Rib, I don't eat meat (pescatarian life), but everyone else at the table went SILENT when this came out. Fall-apart tender on top of Middle Eastern bread that soaks up all the juices... it smelled incredible even from my pescatarian bubble.
Whole Chicken, looked Perfectly seasoned, juicy, crispy and honestly looked like something you'd see on a cooking show finale.
Every main comes with a full platter of sides: Middle Eastern bread, hummus, spreads, olives, dips, and OMG the mashed chickpea soufflé dish??
What was that? Why was it so good? Why am I still thinking about it? I'd eat a whole bowl as a standalone entrée.
Dessert:
The matcha tres leches deserves its own paragraph, its own award, maybe its own zip code.
I didn't want to share. I'm STILL not over it. This is the dessert that ruins other desserts for you.
Service:
The owners were incredibly friendly, like genuinely proud of their menu, excited to share the story, and took time to visit every table. They explained each dish, checked in constantly, and made the whole experience feel special. You can tell they care.
Stereo 41 is officially in my Walnut Creek rotation! Amazing food with a middle eastern and Japanese fusion, gorgeous space, the perfect DJ set, and a menu that hits every category from comfort to creativity.
If you see me camped out at the bar with another matcha tres leches... mind ya business! Or order one and join me.