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Saratoga

The Plumed Horse in Saratoga, California, is celebrated for its Michelin-starred New American cuisine and elegant dining experience. The restaurant offers a seasonal tasting menu and a four-course prix-fixe menu, both crafted by Chef Peter Armellino. The ambiance is sophisticated, featuring a modern dining room, bar, and lounge area. The wine cellar boasts over 20,000 bottles, earning the Wine Spectator Grand Award. The restaurant provides private dining rooms, valet parking, and is wheelchair accessible. Guests appreciate the attentive service and the quality of the food, making it a popular choice for special occasions.

The Plumed Horse: A Sophisticated Culinary Gem in Saratoga, California.

Nestled at 14555 Big Basin Way in the heart of Saratoga, California, The Plumed Horse stands as a beacon of sophisticated dining for food enthusiasts and special occasion seekers alike. This Michelin-starred restaurant delivers an exceptionally elegant yet inviting ambiance, perfect for savoring Chef Peter Armellino's masterful New American cuisine crafted from the freshest seasonal ingredients.

The Plumed Horse offers an exquisite tasting menu, including a seasonal selection and a curated four-course prix-fixe menu. Diners embark on a culinary journey featuring artfully presented dishes such as the famed black pepper and parmesan soufflé, tender beef tenderloin, and delightfully creative desserts like the apple crumble. Each plate is thoughtfully paired with wines from their renowned cellar, boasting over 20,000 bottles and honored with the Wine Spectator Grand Award.

Guests appreciate the impeccable service, with knowledgeable staff providing attentive and personalized care, often enhancing special celebrations with complimentary touches such as champagne.

The restaurant's modern yet warm decor features various dining rooms and a sleek bar and lounge area, creating a cozy atmosphere ideal for intimate dinners or group celebrations. While outdoor seating is not available, guests enjoy convenient valet and free parking options. The venue is wheelchair accessible, ensuring an inclusive experience.

Dine-in exclusively (no takeout or delivery available)

Offers beer, wine, and crafted cocktails to complement your meal

Reservations recommended to secure your spot

Not suitable for children or large groups seeking casual dining

What are the operating hours of The Plumed Horse?

 The Plumed Horse operates from Tuesday to Sunday, 5:00 PM to 10:00 PM.

Does The Plumed Horse offer vegetarian options?

 Yes, the menu includes vegetarian dishes thoughtfully curated to complement the overall dining experience.

Is there a dress code at The Plumed Horse?

 While not strictly formal, dress code encourages jackets and prohibits shorts, sandals, and t-shirts to maintain the elegant atmosphere.

The Plumed Horse is renowned within the Saratoga community for its exceptional service, elegant ambiance, and exquisite cuisine. Diners often praise the attentive and knowledgeable staff who enhance the dining experience with warm hospitality. It's a favored destination for romantic dinners, anniversaries, and memorable celebrations. While some guest reviews note occasional service and pacing issues, the overall reputation remains stellar, emphasizing the restaurant's commitment to culinary excellence and guest satisfaction.

For those seeking an elegant dining adventure with carefully curated dishes and a sophisticated atmosphere in the Silicon Valley area, The Plumed Horse promises an unforgettable experience that marries culinary artistry with warm hospitality.

North America

United States

Nestled in the picturesque town of Saratoga, California, Plumed Horse is a culinary gem that offers an exquisite dining experience. With its elegant ambiance and a menu that celebrates Californian cuisine, this restaurant is perfect for food enthusiasts and special occasions alike. The moment you step inside, you are enveloped in a warm, inviting atmosphere, accentuated by soft lighting and tasteful decor that sets the stage for an unforgettable evening.

 The restaurant is renowned for its chef's tasting menu, which showcases a variety of meticulously crafted dishes that highlight seasonal ingredients. Each course is a work of art, designed to tantalize the senses and provide a unique culinary journey.

At Plumed Horse, every meal is a celebration of flavors. The standout dishes include the Black Pepper & Parmesan Soufflé, a light and airy delight that melts in your mouth, and the Beef Tenderloin, perfectly cooked and paired with seasonal vegetables. The attention to detail in both presentation and taste is evident in every bite.

 For dessert, the Granny Smith apple-shaped creation is a must-try, offering a delightful combination of tart and sweet flavors that leaves a lasting impression.

One of the unique aspects of Plumed Horse is its commitment to using locally sourced ingredients, ensuring that each dish reflects the rich agricultural bounty of California. The restaurant also offers an impressive selection of wines, curated to complement the menu perfectly.

 A fun fact: the restaurant’s name, Plumed Horse, is inspired by the historic California equestrian culture, symbolizing grace and elegance, much like the dining experience it offers.

 Plumed Horse is celebrated for its chef's tasting menu that showcases seasonal Californian ingredients and exquisite culinary craftsmanship.

 The restaurant offers a unique dining experience with a focus on high-quality ingredients, artistic presentations, and a romantic atmosphere, making it ideal for special occasions.

 Plumed Horse is conveniently located near the scenic Saratoga Springs and several local wineries, making it a perfect stop after exploring the area.

Whether you’re celebrating a special occasion or simply indulging in a night of culinary exploration, Plumed Horse promises an experience that will linger in your memory long after the last bite. Reserve your table today and embark on a gastronomic journey that showcases the best of Californian cuisine.

This special-occasion spot serves Californian fare in an elegant setting with various dining rooms.

https://www.google.com/local/review/rap/report?postId=ChZDSUhNMG9nS0VJQ0FnSUNfanVQNERREAE&d=17924085&t=1

places/ChIJ01EehuBKjoARf8mKQoPv8oA/reviews/ChZDSUhNMG9nS0VJQ0FnSUNfanVQNERREAE

Had an amazing dining experience at this amazing restaurant for our anniversary. Great service and exquisite food! Love the set, omakase type, menu so you get to taste a wide variety of food. Everything was perfect, from the service to plating to tasting. We also go complimentary champagne for our celebration. 🥂

https://www.google.com/local/review/rap/report?postId=ChZDSUhNMG9nS0VJQ0FnSUR2djlDWkxREAE&d=17924085&t=1

places/ChIJ01EehuBKjoARf8mKQoPv8oA/reviews/ChZDSUhNMG9nS0VJQ0FnSUR2djlDWkxREAE

We enjoyed a wonderful Christmas Eve dinner here featuring a set menu with wine pairings. Each dish was thoughtfully prepared and delicious. The service was warm and attentive, and the atmosphere was perfect—inviting and cozy, with just the right level of privacy to enjoy our conversation without feeling intrusive to others. It was a delightful experience overall!

https://www.google.com/local/review/rap/report?postId=ChZDSUhNMG9nS0VJQ0FnSURQNjhpckl3EAE&d=17924085&t=1

places/ChIJ01EehuBKjoARf8mKQoPv8oA/reviews/ChZDSUhNMG9nS0VJQ0FnSURQNjhpckl3EAE

This was my second time at Plumed Horse. Took my in-laws from out of town to experience their first culinary experience and they really enjoyed it. We reserved the chefs tasting menu and every dish was delicious.
The service was excellent. The main waiter was well informed on all the dishes & wines and great in accommodating dietary restrictions. Since we were celebrating a birthday they gave us complimentary champagne ( which was quite good), cookies, and extra bread to take home which they make in-house. Super delicious.
Only issue with service was at times couldn’t understand the waiters explaining each of the dishes. Spoke too fast and had masks on which was hard to hear. Otherwise the food was great, lovely atmosphere, and good service. Favorite dishes : Parmesan soufflé, apple crumble desert, and mushroom tart.

https://www.google.com/local/review/rap/report?postId=ChZDSUhNMG9nS0VJQ0FnSUNINEpDbFdREAE&d=17924085&t=1

places/ChIJ01EehuBKjoARf8mKQoPv8oA/reviews/ChZDSUhNMG9nS0VJQ0FnSUNINEpDbFdREAE

Highlights:
Food:  5
Atmosphere: 4
Service: 3

Food:
The food was excellent. We had the 4-course menu.  The canapes were delicious, as was the Black Pepper & Parmesan souffle.
The Beef Tenderloin was delicious, although my wife's was apparently a bit over done.  She greatly enjoyed the strawberry shortcake.
I had the chocolate tart, which was very good, but had a bit too much salt.

Atmosphere:
The dining room was very elegant. The wine display in the center was stunning.  I felt that the music, which should have provided a nice background, was a little too much in-your-face, both in selection and volume. And while most patrons were nicely dressed, no one but me was wearing a jacket.  Several were wearing jeans (some pretty worn), short sleeve shirts and running shoes.  Disappointing.

Service:
The wait staff service was excellent, with good explanations of the courses and the best way to get the most of them.  Our main server, who took our order, seemed to disappear after taking our order and promising to bring us a wine list, which we never received.  I asked him if the Pocket Pear cocktail was sweet, and he said it was "a little sweet", so I ordered it.  It was VERY sweet.  Also, I didn't realize that the first course would be presented soon after our order was taken, and so was drinking a sweet cocktail with the canapes, which did not pair well. My recommendation would be to NOT order a cocktail, as the canapes come quickly, but rather a white wine or champagne.  While our main server was busy with other tables around us, I couldn't manage to catch his attention, and so was finally able to select a glass of wine looking at the wine menu on my phone, and getting the attention of another server walking past.  Too bad I had no chance to consider a bottle.  Again, disappointed with the value of the built-in 22% gratuity.

https://www.google.com/local/review/rap/report?postId=ChZDSUhNMG9nS0VJQ0FnSURmcmRUMmNBEAE&d=17924085&t=1

places/ChIJ01EehuBKjoARf8mKQoPv8oA/reviews/ChZDSUhNMG9nS0VJQ0FnSURmcmRUMmNBEAE

Seriously disappointed!  Went here on a Saturday night to celebrate a special occasion.

1.        Ambiance was off.  Tables were large & close together, so much so that I was closer to the person at the table next to me than I was to my date.  This made conversation difficult, and got in the way of service – they often had to dance around each other to refill glasses or bring dishes, which was rather distracting.  The background music was techno-lite, which was an appropriate soundtrack for the sometimes frenetic pace of the service.  I was left with the feeling that they were trying to churn as many of us as they could out of there as quickly as possible, which doesn’t mesh well with the overall vibe of enjoying a chef’s tasting menu.

2.        Food was very expensive, but most of it was not very good.  The tasting menu skewed heavily towards excessively rare meat – the opening course was mostly tartare, there was a mushroom tart that consisted of barely-cooked mushrooms in a pastry shell, and there were two courses of raw meat with sad vegetables (gristly raw duck that I couldn’t cut with the knife, accompanied by a piece of overcooked bitter endive, and super-rare beef with mushroom tempura that was so hard I couldn’t get it on a fork).  The best savory course was the caviar dish, but it was served in a high-sided dish that made it challenging to access.  The black pepper & parmesan souffle was ok, a little bland, and once again, served in a way that made it difficult to eat (blisteringly hot with tiniest spoon ever made).

3.        The bread was fantastic – fresh hot dinner roll, and pretzel roll.  But they each came out mid-course, and it wasn’t clear if they were supposed to accompany the current course or the next one.

4.        Dessert courses were generally good – the pomegranate sorbet was the palate cleanser I needed after the less-than-edible savory dishes, and the granny smith apple-shaped dessert was fantastic.  There was also a dish of small pastry bites, most were dry/flavorless.

5.        So much awkward!  We were celebrating a significant anniversary, and we were asked if we would like to start with some champagne.  We assumed (correctly) that we would be paying for it, which was fine – until the end of the meal halfway through the dessert course someone came by offering us “complementary champagne for our anniversary”.  We declined, because we didn’t want a drink right before leaving, but that left us wondering why wasn’t that offered at the start?  Awkward.  That beef dish was so unappetizing I couldn’t eat it, and I was asked if I wanted it boxed up to-go.  Sure, I guess.  So it was taken away, and I saw the box being carried up front.  THEN someone came by to ask if anything was wrong with it, and when I said it was too rare for my taste they offered to “throw it back on the grill”.  After it was boxed up?  Awkward.

So, yeah.  $700 for two, at an eight course chef’s tasting menu special occasion dinner, and the nicest thing I can say is “the bread was really good”.  I see so many good reviews, was it an off night?  It was Saturday, should have been their A game, but at that price point I won’t be giving them another chance.

Luxury Dining at Plumed Horse in Saratoga, CA

Established in 1952, The Plumed Horse has been a staple in Saratoga, California, offering upscale dining experiences. Under the leadership of Chef Peter Armellino since 2008, the restaurant has consistently earned a Michelin Star and the Wine Spectator Grand Award.

Nestled in the heart of Saratoga, California, the Plumed Horse has stood as an icon of refined dining since its establishment in 1952. This elegant restaurant has long been a destination for food lovers seeking a sophisticated experience that blends local Californian flavors with culinary artistry.

Since opening its doors in 1952, the Plumed Horse quickly became a staple in the local dining scene. Its commitment to quality and elegance set it apart as a destination for special occasions and discerning diners alike. Over the decades, it has maintained its reputation by evolving while honoring its roots in California cuisine.

A new era: leadership of chef peter armellino

In 2008, the Plumed Horse entered a remarkable new chapter when Chef Peter Armellino took over as Executive Chef and Owner. His visionary approach to modern Californian fare and dedication to culinary excellence elevated the restaurant’s prestige. That same year, the Plumed Horse earned its first Michelin Star, marking it as a must-visit destination for gourmets around the world.

More than a decade later, the Plumed Horse’s commitment to quality remains unwavering. In 2024, the restaurant celebrated receiving the prestigious Wine Spectator Grand Award for the tenth consecutive year. This accolade highlights the establishment’s carefully curated wine selection that perfectly complements its innovative menu offerings.

Today, the Plumed Horse offers an exquisite dining experience that appeals to those who appreciate fine cuisine, exceptional service, and a sophisticated atmosphere. Whether celebrating a milestone or simply indulging in a memorable meal, guests can expect a thoughtfully prepared menu showcasing seasonal ingredients and a wine program recognized for its excellence.

 - Marked the beginning of an iconic fine dining presence in Saratoga.

 - Chef Peter Armellino took helm, bringing Michelin Star status.

 - Celebrated a decade of excellence in wine curation.

Valet Parking

Free Parking Lot

Free Street Parking

Plumed Horse offers an exquisite dining experience that harmonizes gourmet flavors with an inviting ambiance. This gem in Saratoga, California, beckons food enthusiasts and casual diners alike with its creative culinary offerings. Each dish is a masterpiece, thoughtfully prepared by skilled chefs who pride themselves on using fresh, locally-sourced ingredients.

Plumed Horse

Dine In

Restroom

Live Music

Outdoor Seating

Good for Groups

Serves Beer

Serves Wine

Serves Coffee

Serves Dinner

Serves Dessert

Parking Options

An eight-course experience featuring seasonal canapés, starters, mains, and desserts crafted by Chef Peter Armellino.

Black Pepper & Parmesan Soufflé

Chantrelle Mushroom Tart

Liberty Farms Duck

Flannery Farms Prime Saratoga Cut Rib-Eye

Pomegranate Sorbet

Granny Smith Apple

Chef's Seasonal Tasting Menu

Nestled in the heart of Saratoga, Plumed Horse offers an elegant dining experience that celebrates the best of Californian cuisine through its chef-curated seasonal tasting menu. Here, each dish is a masterful blend of fresh, locally sourced ingredients and inventive culinary techniques, promising a memorable feast for food enthusiasts and special occasion celebrants alike.

Begin your culinary adventure with sophisticated starters like the Black Pepper & Parmesan Soufflé, where the subtle heat of black pepper and the sharpness of Parmesan meet the luxurious richness of uni and Dungeness crab fondue. For mushroom lovers, the Chantrelle Mushroom Tart is a highlight, boasting earthy chantrelle mushrooms, roasted chestnuts, and a delicate mushroom duxelles enhanced by a silky barigoule emulsion.

The main courses epitomize refined California fare with standout choices like the Liberty Farms Duck, featuring tender duck breast complemented by spiced onion marmalade, endive farci, and a rich duck jus. The Flannery Farms Prime Saratoga Cut Rib-Eye offers a sumptuous bite of prime rib-eye steak paired with crispy tempura maitake mushroom, Swiss chard, and a classic Bordelaise sauce—each element harmonizing to create a deeply satisfying entrée.

Conclude your meal with artfully crafted desserts designed to cleanse and captivate the palate. The Pomegranate Sorbet delivers a refreshing burst accented by tonic tapioca and a pink peppercorn foam that teases the senses. Alternatively, indulge in the Granny Smith Apple dessert, a playful creation blending tart apple notes with a spiced cookie base and velvety caramel crèmeux.

Complement your dining experience with Plumed Horse’s curated selection of cocktails, fine wines, and carefully paired beverages that elevate each course. Whether celebrating a milestone or savoring a sophisticated evening, the chef’s seasonal tasting menu offers an eight-course odyssey of flavors, thoughtfully crafted by Chef Peter Armellino to showcase the best seasonal ingredients and culinary artistry.

 various private dining rooms ideal for special occasions.

 ensures freshness and seasonality in every dish.

 expertly matched to enhance your tasting menu experience.

Indulge in an unforgettable dining experience at Plumed Horse in Saratoga, CA. Savor exquisite cuisine and craft cocktails. Reserve your table now!

Fine Dining at Plumed Horse, Saratoga CA

Santa Clara County

A four-course menu offering a selection of dishes from the Chef's Seasonal Tasting Menu.

Four-Course Prix-Fixe Menu

Nestled in the charming town of Saratoga, California, Plumed Horse offers an exquisite dining escape for those seeking a refined culinary adventure. This elegant establishment is renowned for its special-occasion atmosphere, featuring various private dining rooms that create an intimate and inviting setting for guests to savor exceptional Californian fare.

For the ultimate gastronomic journey, the Chef's Seasonal Tasting Menu is a must-try. Priced at $225, this eight-course experience is thoughtfully crafted by Chef Peter Armellino, showcasing seasonal canapés, starters, mains, and desserts. Each dish is artfully plated to delight both the eyes and palate, offering a sophisticated exploration of fresh, local ingredients and inventive culinary techniques.

For those seeking a slightly lighter yet equally refined dining option, the Four-Course Prix-Fixe Menu is available at $128. This menu features a curated selection of dishes from the tasting menu, offering a taste of Plumed Horse's signature flavors in a more concise format. It’s perfect for intimate dinners or celebrating special moments without committing to the full tasting experience.

 combine to create a memorable evening. Guests have praised the attentive staff and the cozy yet sophisticated atmosphere, making it ideal for anniversaries and special celebrations.

The wine list complements the culinary offerings beautifully, with knowledgeable servers ready to recommend perfect pairings. The cocktail menu also shines, featuring expertly crafted drinks to enhance your dining pleasure.

 to ensure a perfect table in this sought-after restaurant.

 with a focus on seasonal, fresh ingredients.

Welcomes groups for an intimate and memorable experience

 but is not suitable for children or casual brunch dining.

Located at 14555 Big Basin Way in Saratoga, Plumed Horse offers an elegant setting perfect for foodies and travelers looking to indulge in a remarkable Californian dining experience. With amenities like valet parking, free street and lot parking, and contactless payment options such as NFC, credit, and debit cards, your visit will be convenient and comfortable.

Discover the Plumed Horse in Saratoga CA: A Michelin-Starred Dining Experience with Distinctive Flair and Considerations 

Nestled in the heart of Saratoga, California, the Plumed Horse stands out as a refined culinary destination known for its exceptional service and sophisticated atmosphere. This Michelin-starred restaurant offers discerning food lovers an opportunity to indulge in exquisite Californian fare, presented with artistic flair and accompanied by an extensive wine list that complements each course impeccably.

Stepping into the Plumed Horse, guests are embraced by an elegant and inviting setting that balances privacy with warmth. The multiple dining rooms provide a cozy yet sophisticated environment, perfect for special occasions or intimate dinners. Patrons frequently praise the attentive and knowledgeable staff, who enhance the dining experience with personalized recommendations and thoughtful accommodations, including dietary restrictions and celebratory gestures such as complimentary champagne.

Exquisite cuisine with a creative Californian touch

The culinary offerings at Plumed Horse showcase a carefully crafted tasting menu that highlights a variety of flavors and textures. Signature dishes like the black pepper and parmesan soufflé, mushroom tart, and innovative desserts such as the granny smith apple-shaped delight exemplify the kitchen's commitment to creativity and quality. The restaurant's extensive wine selection further elevates the meal, allowing for expertly curated pairings that enrich the overall taste experience.

Considerations before dining at Plumed Horse

While the Plumed Horse offers a remarkable dining experience, there are some factors to keep in mind. The premium quality and exclusivity come with a high price point, making it more suited for special occasions rather than casual dining. Additionally, the restaurant maintains dress code expectations, which may limit more casual attire including jeans or athletic shoes. Some guests have noted occasional challenges with service timing and seating proximity, which could affect the intimate vibe some seek.

 from attentive and informed staff who personalize your experience.

 with thoughtfully designed dining rooms that create a cozy yet refined setting.

 featuring creative, chef-curated tasting menus with inventive flavor combinations.

 that pairs perfectly with the diverse menu offerings.

 guarantees a high-caliber and memorable dining experience.

 may make it less accessible for everyday dining occasions.

 require guests to adhere to a more formal attire, limiting casual wear like jeans or athletic shoes.

California

Experience the elegance of Plumed Horse in Saratoga, CA. Enjoy a Michelin-starred tasting menu crafted by Chef Peter Armellino. Book your unforgettable meal today!

Plumed Horse: Luxury Dining in Saratoga, CA

Plan your visit to Plumed Horse in Saratoga! Discover insider tips, seasonal menus, and perfect dining experiences. Make your reservation now!

Saratoga's Plumed Horse: Culinary Itinerary & Tips

Established in 1952, Plumed Horse offers Michelin-star dining under Chef Peter Armellino. Discover its history, ambiance, and awards today!

A sumptuous journey at Plumed Horse

Starters to awaken your palate

Mains crafted with precision and passion

Desserts that delight and refresh

Beverages and specials

Experience highlights