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CHOW: Graham's Restaurant |
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Written by Words and photos by Morgan Kriz
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Tuesday, 05 August 2008 |
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 The space
Eating at Graham's is like having dinner at home but with full service. Graham's restaurant is located in the original Poulsen house in Squaw Valley. The homestyle dining room is decorated with a large chandelier in the center of the dining room and a rustic stone fire place and local artwork displayed on the walls. The artwork is changed out frequently so there is always some thing new to  appreciate. The tables are complemented by beautiful antique Italian chairs that create an intimate and refined dining experience.
During summer months the outside patio is covered, with ample heating and a colorful array of potted flowers surrounding the deck. The restaurant is tucked in off the main road, so it is quite and guests can enjoy views of Squaw Valley. When the sun goes down, the white lights around the tent create a romantic setting. The deck and dining area are perfect for intimate gatherings which are available for groups of 25 or more.
Saddle up at the bar and be treated like a long-time friend at Graham’s. There are only a few seats at the bar so make sure to call ahead to reserve (especially in the winter) but if you care to just pop in, there are tables in the bar area that will have the same great service. They will make you feel at home whether you are ordering a five-course meal or wine and appetizers. There is also a fire place in the bar (hand built by the Poulsens) for those cozy winter nights.
 The Food
The menu is changed a few times a week to keep a variety, especially for the regular customers who are in Graham’s a few times a week. Some signature items on the menu never change. California native and Graham’s executive chef Steve Rivas creates incredible dishes that burst with flavor. His culinary and life experience is apparent in his conscious cuisine. The key is “taste, taste, taste, with as much product that is plentiful to the earth,” Rivas said.
During winter months Rivas creates a heftier menu including items like cheese fondue. Graham’s is a restaurant for all seasons and appetites.
 The drinks
Graham’s got its liquor license more than a year-and-a-half ago and, now, have a full bar. While their wine list reads like a long novel because of their extensive selections (more than 900 wines), it is constantly being tailored and refined by restaurant manager Rich Trottnow.
Trottnow’s comprehensive knowledge is always available to help in pairing a beverage with your meal. The award-winning wine list is at the heart of the beverage selection, but they also serve cocktail drinks, beer and have a rounded selection of dessert wines. If they don't have something you order, they have something better, Trottnow said.
Gotta Try
The sweet potato gnocchi is flavorful and filling. Enjoy it as an appetizer or order another appetizer and make it a light meal. There is much variety in the menu so any palate can be pleased.
As a warm up cocktail, diners must try the Mojito. It is like no other drink you have ever had before and the ingredients are far from a traditional Mojito — but it has a very fresh, light and delightful aroma and taste.
Tidbit
The building Graham’s is located the classic Poulson house, owned and built by Wayne and Sandy Poulsen (original Squaw Valley owners) more than 50 years ago. It was the first house built in Squaw Valley, even before the ski resort was imagined and the traditional Tahoe theme lives on. The rooms in the back of the house have been converted into Christy Lodge which includes six guestrooms, all with private bathrooms. It is all just steps away from Graham's dining area.
Hours of Operation
Graham's is open Tuesday through Saturday, the bar opens at 5 p.m. and dinner starts at 6 p.m. The restaurant is closed on Mondays. Graham's also offers catering.
Location
Graham’s is located at 1650 Squaw Valley Rd., in Olympic Valley, Calif.
Contact
Call (530) 581-0454 or fax (530) 581-5631 or visit www.dinewine.com
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Last Updated ( Tuesday, 05 August 2008 )
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