I keep looking for a secret combination of keystrokes that will unlock a sixth star for me to bestow upon this gem. Up up down down left right left right A-B-A-B start! Damn!
Au Cinquième Péché (The Fifth Sin = Gluttony) evokes an immediate Pavlovian response: Just uttering the name brings an ear-to-ear grin to my face and I immediately start salivating.
I've been here at least a dozen times over the past five years and take anyone who is knowledgable or passionate about food here for dinner.
Classic bistro fare refreshed with expert touches coupled with seasonal, local and frequently organic ingredients. This is the stuff dreams are made of for a northern californian transplant. Truly exceptional cuisine by any standard, knowledgeable and warm staff, well-curated and reasonably priced wine list, great drinks, intimate interior, terrace...this restaurant has it all.
Wine and three courses = $60 - $75 per person (tax and tip included). In NY or SF, it would cost you almost double.
Rating Scale:
1 Star: Avoid the town in which this place is located just to be safe.
2 Star: With so many great places to choose from, why risk this one?
3 Star: I'll try it again or consume here in a pinch.
4 Star: I go here regularly if financially and/or calorically feasible.
5 Star: I look forward to taking my wife or friends here.