Where natural wine and mac & cheese meet
Gather owner Cynthia Berkshire didn’t expect her casual, no-reservations wine bar to become a dinner destination. “I just wanted to drink good wine by the glass.”
And so, like many small businesses born of unmet desire, Gather came to be a stylish spot to explore (mostly) natural wines by the glass, like an effervescent rosé Pet-Nat from Paso Robles—especially refreshing after a beach day—or a juicy French grenache from Domaine de la Damase. That said, the margarita is a local legend, made with a housemade rosemary syrup that adds a subtle, not-too-sweet note.
But you’re hungry, too, aren’t you?
Mobilizing a tiny kitchen with a talented local chef and Cynthia’s California-inspired food aesthetic, Gather evolved into a low-key restaurant offering refined comfort foods informed by fresh ingredients from nearby Granor and Mick Klüg farms. Produce is purchased daily because the fridge really is that small, and it shines in the sleeper-hit veggie grain bowl. But don’t overlook the mainstays. A luscious, four-cheese mac and cheese made in small batches, a crisp-skinned roasted half chicken, and a hearty pappardelle bolognese are all worthy of fandom. There’s usually a lovely fish dish, too, and a bright salad or three.
An airy, sunlit space with fresh flowers on every table, Gather operates in a decidedly modern manner. Most guests order via QR code on the Toast app, with staff nearby to host, serve, and talk through the wines. It’s an adjustment for some and if it’s really not your thing staff is happy to serve traditionally, but the obvious plus is that food and drink come out quickly, and guests set their own pace. Stop by for a Negroni and parm-dusted fries, or linger for hours, coursing your meal however you please. Dessert first? No judgment here, as well as no pressure to turn tables. Gather for as long or short as you like.
Local Tip: In summer, expect a wait during peak dinnertime, so don’t arrive hangry at seven. Instead, plan to enjoy a cocktail out back while you wait, or take advantage of Gather’s seamless carryout service, wine and batched cocktails included.
words Alex Beggs
images Jamie Kelter Davis
