Internationally renowned chef Yvon Goetz has fond memories of growing up in the kitchen. Goetz, who co-owns The Winery Restaurant & Wine Bar in La Jolla, said his earliest memories were spent with his beloved grandparents.
“From a very early age, I spent a lot of time in my grandmother’s kitchen,” Goetz said. “I was always very curious in her techniques and how she put dishes together.”
Goetz said his grandmother created dishes with ingredients from his grandfather’s garden, creating a “true farm-to-table experience,” that’s popular in today’s restaurant industry. In fact, Goetz brings the farm-to-table ideals, along with other lessons from his grandmother, to life today at his chain of restaurants, which also has locations in Tustin and Newport Beach.
“I learned about making stews, soups, cheese, charcuterie, sausages, yogurt, amazing holidays family meals, and on and on,” Goetz said. “Nothing ever went to waste, and that’s something I carry with me today in my kitchen.”
Goetz, who grew up in France, has a long history in the culinary industry before he brought his dishes to La Jolla in 2018. Having worked with chefs such as Chef Emile Jung and Chef Anton Mosimann, Goetz came to the U.S. in 1991 to work at the Ritz Carlton in Boston.
Years later, he teamed up with JC Clow and William Lewis to open their brand of restaurants known as The Winery. Today, the popular chain of restaurants are known for their gourmet dishes, some of which were inspired by Goetz’s grandmother, and their extensive wine list.
Goetz said some of the most popular dishes include a pizza, a recipe directly from his grandmother.
“Guests rave about the ‘YG’s Alsatian Pizza,’ a must-order dish with a rich story, as it is a dish that his grandmother would make for me when I was growing up in France,” said Goetz, a father of two.
Seafood dishes such as the mahi mahi, chilled seafood and scallops, along with the wild game, are also popular among patrons.
But, what separates The Winery Restaurant from the growing number of eateries in the region is its commitment to the public, Goetz said.
“The Winery Restaurant & Wine Bar differs from most other restaurants in the region because of its commitment to the guest and focus on every aspect of the dining experience,” Goetz said. “Our team comes with years of expertise and experience, so while our chefs and sommeliers work together to create a terrific meal, the experience is completed by our staff, who are highly focused on service.”
Goetz, who spends his free time playing soccer or traveling, said he continues to be inspired to create new dishes.
“I find that I’m most inspired by seasonal farmers markets and visiting my purveyors,” Goetz said. “It’s a great way to get my creative juices flowing and keep our menus exciting.”
For more information about Yvon Goetz or The Winery Restaurant, go to thewineryrestaurants.com.
