Elite Event: Vin De Syrah Spirit & Wine Parlor

At first I was like, man there’s hardly any food. Lol. And then after be general manager explained how it’s a wine bar and they don’t typically serve main courses of food, I was very pleased with their efforts to make tray passed appetizers and provide a bread and cheese table. Let me just say that the grilled cheese with truffle honey was amazzzzzzzing! I wanted to try and make
It at home! Lol. The drinks were great too! I had the watermelon.
I’ve been to Syrah a couple times for the nightlife and it’s always been super fun! I love love love the décor and set up. The Alice in Wonderland theme is so awesome and I love when places put an effort into their environment.
What I think is also important is to note the special events they have for their wine tastings… Like ladies night. That is something I didn’t know they offered and it sounds like so much fun. One of the reasons I think Unilocal elite events are important is to really learn about what the business is about and different things they offer. The general manager did an amazing job explaining everything and setting up the venue.

I know this review is a bit late but I’m still trying to catch up on all my reviews! Sorry!
Anyway, I remained sober the whole event due to some meds that I was on, but their wine sure did look delicious. My water on the other hand was icy cold and tasty. Mmm tasty.
The charcuterie board was plentiful and had many options. I love all their deli meats, especially their prosciutto. They had different breads, fruits, cheeses, and meats. All very good. The items going around was okay. I did enjoy their Mac and cheese. Towards the end there was an abundant of food coming around.
Since I couldn’t drink and pretty much lost my appetite (not due to the good or anything… Just a personal problem) I wasn’t able to try the dessert. It looked good but I wasn’t feeling it.
The place however looked like somewhere I would love to come back and hangout with some friends. The servers and chefs were super nice and helpful! Kudos to brad for the amazing event.

My first event!
This was my first event for Unilocal and as an Elite! It was such a fun time exploring a new location and meeting so many awesome people.
It was great being able to meet all the wonderful Unilocalers in person and being able to connect like that. I felt so welcome. The food was delicious and the location was beautiful! A sketchy little entrance that turns into this amazing underground experience. Totally worth it. The red sangria had me hooked all night. The bacon wrapped asparagus became my new best friend.
There was a woman singing the whole night! Her voice was beautiful and soothing. One friend didn’t even realize it was live! She was on point with her songs and having a good time while doing it. Also, her shoes get a 5 star review on their own! ;)
I’m glad I was able to meet such an amazing crowd and experience such a cute little wine bar. I’ll def be bringing my friends when they come and visit. Thanks for making me feel home in San Diego, Unilocal!I can’t wait for more fun. :)

The Return! It was a pleasure to enjoy a relaxing evening with Unilocal’s finest.
Descending the staircase to revisit the not-​so-​secret space below street level was nostalgic. I was first introduced to Vin de Syrah a few years ago as a Unilocal newbie during one of Danny W.‘s CMYE bar crawls. I knew no one then, but got acquainted with some neat people. I still run into them occasionally, except for Danny because he’s back home as Unilocal Chicago CM.
It’s fun bringing new visitors to Syrah for their first time when the stairwell is empty and watching them ‘discover’ the entrance, however, I noticed the faux foilage was not covering the door this evening. The interior layout still looks familiar; cozy indoor garden with subdued lighting. You can hang out at the main bar area, lounge at one of the sitting areas or semi-​private booths. Live music filled the room with keyboard melodies and beautiful vocals.
This return to Syrah was fantastic. Early arrivals got first dibs on neat Unilocal swag and the charcuterie table. I managed to pick some almonds and moved back to the bar, but conceded to more motivated folks that crowded the area as the station was refreshed. It was no big deal because Team Syrah provided tray passed appetizers throughout the latter part of the evening. Plenty of food circulating the room to satiate the crowd.
Of the various snacks I sampled, my favorites were:
*savory bacon wrapped dates stuffed with Gorgonzola. I could’ve eaten a tray of this delightful treat.
*mini grilled 3-​cheese sandwiches with truffle honey. Crunchy, toasted bread, melty cheeses, plus the sweet drizzle made a delicious combo. That pepper jack cheese was a spicy kicker.
*prosciutto wrapped asparagus. I burned my fingertips since the food came freshly made from the kitchen. Tasty bites with a touch of balsamic reduction.
Craft beers and select wines were flowing freely. I enjoyed a glass of Syrah’s watermelon spritzer. Light, effervescent, and refreshing. I was mostly in a sangria mood and indulged on both red and white varieties. Full pint pours with a fresh citrus garnish. Hi Cat, it wasn’t ice water ;)
Return shout-​outs to classy, cool peeps Cathleen F. & Maridel A. for remembering lil ol’ me. It’s great running into genuinely awesome people from diverse backgrounds that we initially kinda sorta maybe know each other from online until an Event actually brings us all together. Cheers to the serial Unilocalers, beloved degenerates, UYE crew, and special congrats to the newly anointed first year Elite ’15 badgers. Hi-​fives, handshakes, and hugs all around.
Thank you to everyone at Vin de Syrah, from behind the bar, in the kitchen, and working the floor. Thanks to GM Danielle for allowing us to invade your parlor for a couple of hours. The generosity and hospitality was exceptional. Of course, thank you to our Dream Team CM’s bRad & eStef for yet another delightful Event!

Having been to Vin De Syrah on several occasions, I was very excited to journey down the rabbit hole with fellow Unilocalers. I knew this was going to be a night to remember, and thanks to Brad, Estefany, Unilocal Elites, and the wonderful crew at Vin De Syrah, it exceeded my expectations!
Since it’s in my nature to overdress for every occasion, I took it upon myself to don a Steampunk outfit inspired by The Mad Hatter. Then I descended into the lovely bar and spread my magnificent plumage for all to see. Luckily, I got there early so I was able to sample the meat and cheese station before it was ravaged by insatiable Unilocalers (it’s no secret that we like to eat… a lot!).
I grabbed a glass of red wine and wandered around looking for a place to settle. That’s when I saw Jack in a small area beside the faux fireplace. He kindly invited me to join him, so I did, and then we were joined by Steve-​O and Isabella (she had just arrived from the Bay area, and it was great to see her again). We were then joined by the courteous couple, Mel and Vin, and eventually, Elle (sans Camilla) also made her way to our little area. I also met some lovely Unilocalers named Ali, Dung, and Rachel. I had a couple more glasses of wine at the event, so I’m sorry to say that I don’t remember the names of several other Unilocalers I met, but they were all very warm and friendly and I hope to see them again.
As for the food, what can I say except that it was sublime! Is it a coincidence that when I mentioned how much I love the bacon-​wrapped dates at PrepKitchen, an untouched tray of them magically appeared in front of me? They were just how I like them, with a combination of savory and sweet as well as a richness from the partially melted Gorgonzola cheese inside. Some of the other highlights of the event were: Prosciutto-​wrapped asparagus, Grilled cheese with truffle honey, and the Avocado flabread.
The staff was extremely courteous and we all wanted for nothing! I was especially impressed with the manager who served tray-​passed apps all night! The coolness was extended by the musical duo of keyboard and singer, which helped to give the place a classy lounge vibe. Thanks again to everyone involved with throwing this splendiferous event!

The Return Indeed!
I review Unilocal events on my experience, if you want to know more, that’s what we have the event page for, there you will see more, and then you are able to fill in the blanks to come full circle.
I now see why Brad selected this eclectic, cosmopolitan & Bohemian establishment for this YEE for a third time with him as the CM at the helm.
As my Unilocal friend David G put it, «Entrance down the Rabbit Hole» cue in Alice in Wonderland and more, truly so true, helped make this this YEE venue a 5 Star review!
Nice job Brad, what better way to give this establishment the exposure it needed for its new direction, than feedback from Unilocalers present here at the YEE, but on return visits, (which Marty & I plan on making).
==================================================
Estephany was a beautiful site at check in after passing the Unilocal items very aesthetically appealing & placed, like following bread crumbs.
And, we did, as Marty & I approached the bar and gladly reached for the bottle that had [Drink Me]-in this case Tito’s vodka, which in this case made for a delicious Watermelon Spritzer accented by a tasty cucumber, which cleaned my palate for the noshkies placed, replaced that continuously kept coming to us all either in at a booth, table, or just standing socializing with many.
Marty & I had the pleasure of being joined by 2 beautiful ladies Susanna & Jazmin, who were socially engaging & wonderful to spend time with.
Also, we all 4 took turns getting grub, Unilocal Schwag, and loving our Cheshire Cat’s eye view from our booth.
So much so, all 4 of us were able to enjoy the social interactions of all, and mesmerize our senses from the fireplace, to the Bohemian accents from cards & umbrellas on the ceiling.
The GM of Vin De Syrah (during announcements from Brad & herself), definitely made on point statements as to what they want to bring The Gas-​Lamp area of SD, and that is a bar with special appetizers that were not their normal fare, but for this YEE, yet but worked so well with Mediterranean, European accented noshkies & asparagus, bacon wrapped delights & more, that kept the mood in spirit-​you will succeed, this area needs a place like this!
Summing that point up, this avanguard experience themed business, reminded me so authentically of bars & the like in Denmark, Germany, and many other European countries & areas within, with a Cosmopolitan, Bohemian theme, which is not only welcoming, but so diverse, the appeal is irresistible-​THIS event did just did that and more.
Perfect timing, well planned by Brad et al, and with Chris Brake Photography at work, Besos De Coco charming us with classics done so well by someone who was not even born when they were hits & written, including photos from other Elites in attendance, again this was my third standout YEE here in SD!
I was thrown back to a time when men dressed wearing hats with class, women donned themselves with elegant style including stockings with seams, and perfumes that raised pheromones, so much so that I only could think of one song that would fit the theme here, and is not from a Disney Movie either.
THIS was a time, when you felt transported to the times, places & elegance that once ruled a night of you & yours [Stepping Out with my Baby], an event that had me tapping my Zoot Suit dress shoes to:

MC is here to write the real FTR on the page… *ahem*
We arrived fashionably late after coming from a Unilocal Elite Pre-​Party at Spike’s. Check-​in was smooth and efficient — Thanks Estefany!
As we walked in, we were greeted by the fabo-​Brad! Because our small group had eaten, we left the spread to the other Elites. There was a lot of tasty bites on the table. I was able to snag a bite of Jimmy D’s brownie (thanks JD!). DELICIOUS!!! It was a chocolate chip filled brownie.
I also had a Watermelon Spritzer which was refreshing. Nothing can compare to the décor of Vin De Syrah. Every time I come here, it’s so magical. There was a live singer and pianist that filled the room with cool music, and there were tray passed bites in every corner. I respectfully passed since I was too full to try the bites.
I do love this place and also love how it’s close to Horton Plaza (free 3 hour parking) and only 2 blocks away!
Thanks Chris for traveling all the way from LA to take photos of the YEE, and for Vin De Syrah for hosting our Elite event. I love the smaller events since you get to actually mix and mingle with everyone. I noticed a lot of new faces in the crowd — WELCOME!
Shoutouts to my peeps and glad to see you all again. Great event as always, Brad!

Curiouser and curioser, Mel J thought as she tumbled merrily down the rabbit hole. How does Brad B come up with yet another creative venue for a YEE? After enjoying a Spritzer cocktail with watermelon purée, a glass of Sauvignon Blanc, and a mystery cocktail with vodka, I played cards on the ceiling with a Cheshire Cat named Jeb. I admit I stole tarts from the queen of hearts.
The Unilocal Elite Event at Vin De Syrah unfolded like a fairy tale in a hidden wine bar on 5^th avenue. If you haven’t been here yet, you’re in for a fun surprise! The décor is inspired by Alice. Only in the wonderland of Unilocal do I get to taste grilled cheese with truffle honey and write myself into a Unilocal tale, along with my favorite Unilocal friends. (-;
The manager and staff of this fantastical wine bar were supremely thoughtful in continuously passing trays of appetizers all evening. My favs were the grilled cheese with truffle honey and the bacon wrapped dates.
Vin de Syrah is full of private nooks where you can get cozy with your friends. I love this set-​up! It’s a very welcoming place, even if you have to fall down a rabbit hole to arrive here. Thank you for the invitation to follow Alice. (-;

This event was all about the delectable small bites, good wine that gave you the warm fuzzies, the special ambiance, and finally the room filled with friendly « Unilocal Elites.»
Although I never made it to the Stationed Mixed Meat and Cheese Platte and Chocolate Platter, I here it was one fine place to visit. You sure could not keep Ali and Vin away from that station most of the evening. I was fortunate enough to sit in a comfortable corner, where fellow Unilocal Elites, such as Jeb, Ali, Steve, Isabella, Mel, Dung, Vin, Rachel and how could we forget Elle to the J!, where we enjoyed tremendous service, by the tray service and most importantly, great conversation.
The Dates wrapped with bacon and stuffed with Gorgonzola were a big hit amongst all, and the Grilled Cheese with Truffle Honey were quite the scrumptious little sammies. I say, «pass me one of those trays over here please.» The Prosciutto Wrapped Asparagus was very nice and had good salty element via the seared prosciutto and the asparagus was tender with a good al dente appeal. The Caprese on a Stick was great and with fresh flavors and Mediterranean-​style Bruschetta full of great flavors. Everything we ate went very well with either wine or beer.
This was a smaller event than most, but it suited the place very well. The eats were more like amuse-​bouches, perfect for a socializing event as this. The event allowed great positive San Diego Unilocal Elites to mingle and get to know each other, and most importantly to welcome new San Diego and transplant Elites to the San Diego Elite Squad. Welcome, and it was a pleasure to meet all of you this evening: Kelli, Maridel, Lucy, and Katie!
Thank you Brad B. for this magnificent event, and Estefany for helping putting this all together. My heart warmed gratitude goes out to Vin De Syrah and her wonderful staff for making us all feel welcomed and special for one evening. Well done indeed…
Shout out goes to Ali L. for bringing me a nice glass of read wine! Thank you!

Always an Adventure at Vin De Syrah.
Sometimes when you go to tray passed events, it’s easy to not get much food, however this event was great because Vin De Syrah and Manager, Danielle was looking out for us and a wonderful hostess.
I’ve been to Vin De Syrah a few times and each time I’ve managed to not get a coveted booth, this time, I did, and it was perfect. Perfect for intimate, semi-​private, girl talk AND the tray passed appetizers made it to use after all. Sure, I missed the grilled cheese, but a few of my other boothmates were able to have a serving.
The bar is a long bar and well manned. Not once did I approach it and have to wait long for service. The bartender even fixed the drinks with charm and flair.
One question though… where was the ivy covered door? The ‘hidden door’ used to be half the fun!