Barnoa Wine & Beer Bistro

by Dina Scaglione

Locally known as a hidden gem, Barnoa Wine & Beer Bistro in Talega offers a truly unique culinary experience. Rarely do you find a wine bar and taphouse sharing space, each with an impressive menu for connoisseurs on both sides. A thoughtfully curated selection of starters and entrees delivers more diversity than many local eateries. The ambiance strikes a balance between upscale and comfortably stylish, with a well-appointed bar anchoring the space and a large wraparound patio perfect for lively conversation, great wine and delicious fare. Think Cheers with a modern twist.

Owner Kim Norris curated the wine list with intention, offering enough variety for seasoned enthusiasts while still appealing to those looking to explore. The selection of Old World wines stands out, featuring hard-to-find varietals. Food is often where wine bars fall short, but not at Barnoa. The menu is thoughtfully designed to pair naturally with the wine. Each dish feels deliberate, well-executed and portioned for sharing. For starters, the Nutty Goat is a must—goat cheese coated in roasted peanuts, drizzled with chipotle brown sugar sauce and served with sliced French baguette. The Burrata Crostini is crisp and flavorful, topped with diced tomato, fresh basil, balsamic glaze and pesto. The Blackened Salmon Tacos arrive as a trio, layered with chipotle aioli, tangy slaw, pickled red onions and cilantro. Additional offerings include the Stuffed Acorn Squash, Pesto Penne Pasta, Barnoa Chicken Sandwich, Wagyu Beef Burger and Flat Iron Steak.

Join the Wine Club to receive two hand-selected wines each quarter, with the option of two reds or a red and a white. Happy hour runs Wednesday– Saturday from 3–5 p.m. and all day Sunday. Monthly events include themed dinners, wine tastings and educational classes. The space is also available for private events of up to 120 guests.

Whether you’re in the mood to explore or enjoy a favorite, Barnoa offers something for every palate. Open daily, hours are 3–9 p.m. Sunday and Monday, until 10 p.m. Tuesday–Thursday and until 11 p.m. Friday and Saturday. It’s the kind of spot for a relaxed yet elevated night out—great wine, genuinely delicious food and a welcoming atmosphere that never tries too hard.

Barnoa Wine & Beer Bistro
831 Via Suerte 106, San Clemente
949.388.4378
Barnoa.com