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Take a look at Tyler's review of Feast Bistro on his blog, which I can certainly echo. Ojai has long needed a "'tweener" restaurant - you know, one that falls somewhere along the price/value continuum between say Suzanne's and Boccali's. Walking along the arcade at night, Feast's curb appeal definitely draws you in. From the sidewalk, watching Chef Susan Coulter do her thing at the open kitchen or walk through the warmly lit dining room to visit with patrons, you can't help but wander in and hope there is a seat waiting for you. My husband and I plan to dine there again with my in-laws this Saturday night - and you can bet we will make a reservation.

Auberge is a reinvention of the former L'Auberge, which Paul Franssen recently sold so that he could take his wife and their new Airstream on the road and enjoy their retirement. I adored Paul's cooking and was so sorry to hear that he was giving up the restaurant, and when I heard a new owner was changing things up, I was skeptical.

Bill and I had dinner there last weekend, and first glance at the menu showed that the new Auberge would not be sticking with the French Country theme of its predecessor, nor the pricing. The restaurant has had a major face lift inside and out and it looks great. After a glass of Pinot Noir, the sticker shock subsided and we enjoyed a wonderful mushroom and asparagus risotto first course. It was rich, creamy, buttery and had a perfect bite. Our entrees were equally impressive: Bill had the duck and I had the grouper. The dessert, though, takes the cake (pun intended). How's this one: hot chocolate cake with a gooey chocolate center, served in a coffee cup with a roasted marshmallow spoon? It still makes me dizzy thinking about it (in a good way).

The price tag also makes me dizzy (in a not-so-good way); 3 courses (one was shared), a glass and a half of wine each: $130 plus tip. I can't say I was disappointed, because the food and service were excellent. The chef is a little slow, though. This isn't fast food; plan on 2 hours for dinner. We sat on the deck and now that all of the shrubs have been trimmed back, there is a nice view all the way down Ojai Ave to the arcade. And here is a secret tip: if you want the absolute best view in the entire valley of the Pink Moment, request a seat at Table 15, and make your reservation at least 30 minutes prior to sunset so that you've got that glass of wine at the ready when the sky dims and the mountains begin their colorful show.