We weren't sure what to expect from Walnut Creek's newest addition to the foodie scene. We already have Ruth's Chris Steak House, as well as the world famous "Vic Stewarts". We're already in love with the ambiance and steaks offered at Bix, and know we can count on a perfect filet every time. Do we really need another (gasp) chain style steakhouse/restaurant?

It was with these thoughts that we checked out the new Fleming's Steakhouse in downtown Walnut Creek. We were also motivated by the 75.00 off coupon we received in the mail.

Finding the place was easy enough, as we breezed down Mt. Diablo Blvd, but where to park? We were hoping to see a valet sign out front and where disappointed to not find one. We decided to pull into the public lot around the corner, and were pleased to see the clearly marked Fleming's signs directing us to the upper level. When we arrived, we were greeted by a valet service, and a door greeter. We were not pleased to be charged $7.00 to park in an otherwise free lot, but decided to go for the full service treatment anyway.

We were nicely greeted by the valet service, the door holder, and the cheery hostesses. They were expecting us, and led us to a beautiful private booth - which thankfully had its own lighting. The restaurant was a little dark for my liking, but overall the restaurant is bustling, and appears to have been a Walnut Creek establishment for years - not days. The mood was of a vintage, dark supper club. There didn't appear to be any confused bus boys, or inexperienced waiters.

We were greeted promptly by a knowledgeable waiter that happily fetched us some hand-shaken (table side) cosmopolitans. He also left us with a complimentary tasty tray of crostini with wine infused spreads, and celery. This was a nice touch from the usual bread basket while we perused the menu.

Overall the menu is teeming with a large wine list (which is shown before the food items). They boast over 100 wines by the glass, and an impressive list of reserves. We decided to place our order, and let their wine manager (Tony Gordon) choose the wine for us. He expertly calculated the flavors we had ordered:

- Beef Wellington in a Madeira sauce

- Pepper Crusted Filet Mignon

- Creamed Corn, Garlic Mashed Potatoes and macaroni & cheese

Our only parameter was that the bottle be under $100.00. We love to have the wine experts choose our wine. So often there are many treasures that extend outside of our knowledge. We're from California, and often find ourselves keeping within our region's offerings.

Tony proclaimed that we had ordered a lot of strong spicy foods, and it would be a bad match for a robust cabernet. Something lighter would pair better. He settled on one of their "Wines of Special Interest" menu items: La Spinetta, Barbera d'Asti Superiore - Italy 2004; price: $99.00.

Tony was extremely knowledgeable, friendly and eager to answer all of our questions. He asked us if we'd like the wine decanted (yes!). I was disappointed to have the wine poured into wine glasses that seemed more perfect for water. A Riedel would have been a nice touch considering the price of the bottle.

Tony's input was the exact knowledge and experience we were looking to draw from. We would not have paired with a Barbera, as it is not a common varietal for us. Tony was right, and the match was wonderful. We saved enough of the wine to enjoy with our unbelievable chocolate volcano cake. (well worth the 20 minutes it takes to prepare). Tony brought us the label placed onto a Flemings card made specifically for saving the wine label; an extremely well thought out touch.

Overall, we will go back to Flemings. Their staff was fabulous, and the food and wine experience could keep us away from Bix and Ruths Chris.
Restaurant Website