Goose and Gander Review- The Burger of Your Dreams in Napa Valley

Goose and Gander Review- Burger of Your Dreams in Napa Valley

By Lauren Ferry

In the heart of Napa Valley lies the burger of your dreams. Many venture to the valley in pursuit of the finest glass of wine paired with upscale cuisine. But for those in search for something a little less chichi, Goose and Gander is your ticket. We’re talking gastropub eats with an extensively creative cocktail list featuring fifty innovative collaborations to quench your thirst.

Paloma Hermosa is for the margarita lovers. An exotic entanglement of lime, grapefruit, St. Germain elderflower, and bitters is a cosmic palate refresher. The tequila is Tapatio Blanco. Egg whites complete this cocktail for a frothy finish.

Bali Spice Old Fashioned is one of Goose and Gander’s featured favorites. A definitive yet gentle spice hits the nose, and you know you’re not in Kentucky for this California classic. Clove, cinnamon, star anise, orange, and bitters smoothly come together for an aromatic beverage. And the bourbon of choice is Old Forester.

Perhaps it is a soup and salad kind of lunch you are seeking. Goose and Gander delivers in this aspect with options like the Yellow Heirloom Gazpacho and the Arugula Salad with French feta and pistachios. Regardless of your current culinary craving, fresh ingredients thematically play throughout the menu. I, however, was in the mood to taste something a bit outside of the box.

The Hamachi Crudo is anything but nostalgic in the best way possible. From eyes to taste, it keeps you in the present moment allowing you to admire the vibrant colors and robust flavors of the dish. The hamachi itself is delicately shaved throughout the dish. An assortment of pickled Moroccan vegetables accent the plate for a punch of color and a pop of flavor. On the outskirts of the vegetables, lie crispy quenelles of falafel for dimension. And let’s not forget those dainty polka dots of yogurt– the “cooling” ingredient of the dish. I recommend this dish as a Gander go-to as it dynamically incorporates crunch, smooth, pop, and cool into one fun plate.

The G&G Burger is why we’re here. The burger base is made from grass fed beef. During the grilling process, the burger is smothered in melted Gruyere cheese before being topped with none other than bacon. The oozing, delicious condiment on top is a remoulade. Manhattan pickles are wedged in there, too. And the homemade, brioche bun makes the sandwich come together. Its crispy buttery outside and soft flesh holds everything together creating an orchestra of flavors. This burger speaks for itself. But if this isn’t enough for you, you can order this gem with Foie Gras or Bone Marrow-or both for an extra decadent treat.

Duck Fat Fries accompany the G&G burger. Even though the burger is capable of standing alone, the duck fat fries were a pleasant surprise. Don’t let their skinny appearance fool you as they are packed with savory goodness.

Elements of the dessert I ordered reminded me of my mother’s chocolate ganache cake. The layers are richly divided by a silky, fudgy ganache-like texture. Feasibly an oxymoron, the cake itself is spongy yet dense at the same time. This gives the dessert some distinction in its simplicity. With a touch of whipped cream and a brown buttery crunch, you have yourself one decadent finish to this three-course meal.

With the crispness of Fall approaching, this is the perfect place to warm up. The bar is nestled cozily underneath the restaurant. The vibe took me back to a speakeasy type of ambiance. It’s dim, it’s underground, and it’s cool. If you’re looking for authentic gastropub style eats, creative cocktails, or a place to unwind after work, Goose and Gander is your spot.