Finding a quiet moment along Grapevine's Main Street, may be something of a challenge: when the cute, historic downtown isn't hosting something like last weekend's Chocolate Fest or the New Vintage Wine Festival coming up April 16-17. But every time I go wandering up there to see what's happening, I find another place to eat that I know I'll return to again.
A few days ago, that was Farina's Winery, a cool wine bar in a big, airy space overlooking the main drag. It's connected to a charming antique shop, and the feel of refurbished old furnishings and vintage glass chandeliers fills the bistro, as well.
The entree salads in big, angular red bowls wowed us first with their size, but we wound up being impressed at how addictive they were. The Italian salad, piled with olives, pepperoni, tomatoes and grated cheese atop a deep bed of lettuce, came with a lush, creamy vinaigrette. The Greek, generous with feta and pepperoncini -- and our addition of sauteed shrimp - made me a little giddy. The salads are about $8-$9.50 at lunch and just a buck or two more at dinner.
Farina's also serves thin-crust bistro pizzas, which go well with wines by the glass. Among wine choices are a red made by Farina's and a number of interesting small-batch selections from around the world. Coming in late summer is Farina's own rose, a non-sweet wine in the French tradition, and a good pairing with - you got it - pizza. Find Farina's at 420 S. Main St., Grapevine.
