Chateau du Sureau – Oakhurst, Yosemite National Park
It’s difficult to say what’s more surprising: That there’s a Relais Gourmands designated restaurant in the Sierra Nevada forest next to Yosemite National Park, or that it would be housed in an inn that resembles a Spanish villa protected by a large guard tower. The restaurant, known as Erna’s Elderberry House (named for Cordon Bleu-trained owner Erna Kubin-Clanin) opened in 1991, and is currently presided over by chef James Overbaugh. The menu changes daily based on the availability of ingredients, but is largely European influenced, with an emphasis on fresh local vegetables and produce. The highly rated inn also features a spa (with a spa menu, of course,) and the restaurant regularly offers hands-on cooking classes in their kitchen.

Eaten here? Add your comments with the EasyEdit button