Sixty Vines opens in Uptown Dallas today with 40 wines on tap, hundreds more in the cellar. Here’s a peek inside

The owners of Sixty Vines say they had no idea when they opened their Plano location that the wine-focused restaurant with a California wine country sensibility would become a runaway hit. But it has, which spurred owners Jack Gibbons, Randy DeWitt and their Front Burner Restaurant group to open another, this time choosing the former Palamino space in Uptown’s Crescent Court development for the second of what may become a mini-empire of Sixty Vines. Front Burner owns and operates more than a half-dozen other successful brands including The Ranch at Las Colinas, Haywire, Whiskey Cake Kitchen, Ida Claire, Mexican Sugar and The Keeper. They’re also the folks behind Velvet Taco and Legacy Hall.

“We think Sixty Vines would be successful in several different markets,” Gibbons told me. “This is our second, and we already have our eyes on a place for a third.”

As with the original Plano location of Sixty Vines, the staff are all Guild of Master Sommelier trained and knowledgeable about the 40 wines on tap and a hundred others in their wine cellar (All of their wines are available by the glass.)

At a VIP preview this weekend, we were mightily impressed with the new restaurant. From wood-fired pizzas to veg-friendly entrees (whole or riced cauliflower, roasted beet salads, pastas) to one of the best grilled pork chops in the city, there’s a lot to like here. Fans of the original location’s look and feel will like the new place very much. Same gorgeous, honeyed lighting that flatters everyone. Same Cal-Ital focus on the food from a menu executed by chef Stan Rodrigues and his crew. Same gracious service, tall ceilings, comfy corners and thin-lipped wine stems.

I love Sixty Vines values wine, food and service equally. I think you will, too.

Here’s a peek inside.

500 Crescent Court, Suite 160, Dallas, (214) 814-8463