The Blue Plate

Blue Plate has long been a diner full of surprises. Chef-owner Cory Obenour almost always keeps meatloaf and braised shortribs on the menu, but also crispy pork belly with mussels escabeche and gnocchi with braised lamb shoulder and charred turnips. As you move back past the open kitchen through the rambling, vividly hued restaurant, the scene grows more subdued and romantic, until you're on a back patio ringed in trumpet vines. If you expect to find big American wines to go with the familiar American flavors, you may find yourself ecstatically stumped by the German reds and Italian gavis on his fascinating, reasonably priced wine list.

• Cuisine(s): American, California

  Hours: Sun 5:30pm-9:30pm, Mon-Thu 6pm-10pm, Fri-Sat 6pm-10:30pm

  Price: $$$, $$$$

• Payment Types: MasterCard, Visa, American Express, cash, check

  Features: Patio/Sidewalk Dining, Takeout, Delivery, Private Party

  Serving: Dinner

• Alcohol: Full bar

  Reservations: Accepted, Online Reservations Available

  Parking: Street