Second Press Wine Bar and Eatery celebrated its grand opening this month, bringing diners another upscale option for fresh local flavors, wines and beer.

Owner John Clarizio drew inspiration for the restaurant’s name the “Second Press” from the rich history of the building. It was once home to the Paso Robles Press newspaper and was more recently the Meritage Wine Tasting Lounge that closed over a year ago.

Second Press executive chef Ryan Swarthout.

The space has been totally remodeled with a new kitchen, bar, wine cellar and dining room. Clarizio’s vision for a modern, sophisticated and comfortable restaurant is played out in rich fabrics, dark woods and warm colors with vibrant accents.

The bar is located in the front near the restaurant’s expansive views of the downtown city park. The restaurant’s kitchen is in the back and open for diner to watch their food being prepared.

The menu was crafted by Chef Ryan Swarthout. It’s inspired by his many years of living and working in Paso Robles, he says. The style is contemporary wine country cuisine. It features seasonal, local produce and meats to impart dishes with unique flavor combinations.

Swarthout has been at the helm of some of the best restaurants in Paso Robles, including six years as executive chef of Deborah’s Room at Justin Winery and most recently at both Robert’s and Estrella Restaurants.

Swarthout is joined by sommelier Eric Connolly, who is complimenting the new menu with beverages selected from his experience with Central Coast wines and craft Beers.

Selection of Second Press menu items

• Dungeness Crab Cakes
• Seared Ahi Stack
• Fried Brussel Sprouts
• Coconut Clams
• Baked Parmesan Artichoke Dip
• Grilled Romaine Caeser
• Corn Lobster Bisque
• Alsatian Pizza
• Grilled Mushroom Polenta
• Rancho Sisquoc New York Steak
• Pan Roasted Scallops
• Coho Salmon
• Cider Glazed Grilled Pork Chop
• Colorado Lamb Sirloin
• Stuffed Flank Steak

The restaurant has opened to solid reviews. Local food and wine writer Matt Browne says in his Hoot n Annie blog, “The wine and beer list was solid… We only ordered two food items, crab cakes and a pizza, both of which were great although the pizza won for me. I can easily see this place becoming a regular spot to hang out. I love how the building is perched, it’s above sidewalk level so if you’re near the windows you’re looking out over the park…pretty cool.”

About Second Press Wine Bar and Eatery

The Second Press Wine Bar and Eatery, located at 810 11th Street in Paso Robles, is open 7 days a week. Lunch is served from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. and dinner from 5 p.m. to 9 p.m., Fridays and Saturdays till 10 p.m. Reservations are recommended. For more information, call (805) 226-7500 or visit www.secondpress.biz.