Longtime clients have been packing Siena Bistro for its closing days and nights of service this week.
They’re coming for one final plate of Indignant “Arrabbiata” Pasta or the decadent Roasted Duck Lasagna or maybe a closing Sole Amandine, one of many bestsellers. And for a sentimental farewell chat with chef-owner David Wiesner.
And, within the case of many, they’re hoping the turnout will persuade him to remain open as a substitute of shutting Sienna’s doorways this Saturday, July 12, after 18 years.
However Wiesner seems resolute as he makes the rounds of tables.
“This is not sustainable,” he stated, motioning to the complete inside and patio and noting that on some other Tuesday night time he’d be serving simply 20 diners.
“People live their lives differently” as of late, he stated, including that youthful diners specifically are frequenting informal, extra reasonably priced eateries that supply shared plates. “They don’t want comfort food from 25 years ago, which is what I do.”
Nevertheless, these entrees — the high-quality preparations and substances, the eye to element — have been protecting the Siena regulars coming again. Together with the conviviality of Wiesner and his workers.
Longtime buyer Michele Eaton — she’s right here for the Dijon-Crusted Cedar Plank Salmon and husband Chris for the Braised Quick Rib — estimated that 90 % of the diners are repeat clients, “He seems to know everyone who walks in the door and greets them by name.”
To wit, Laurie Stapleton, a diner from Day One, calls the place “the ‘Cheers’ of Willow Glen, the quintessential neighborhood comfort stop.”
She stated she and her buddies have been consuming frequently right here at this “hidden gem” tucked behind Lincoln Avenue ever since Wiesner left Hawg’s Seafood in Campbell and determined to open Siena.
Native Realtor Holly Barr is alongside those that have been making repeat visits to order all her favorites. “Went back to Siena Bistro AGAIN,” she posted on Willow Glen Allure, her Fb web page. “Had to get the Cheesy Garlic Bread, more polenta with Bourbon Stout Braised Short Rib, the Kale and Brussels Sprout Salad, Clam Chowder and creamy gelato for dessert.”
It’s an emotional time too for Wiesner’s devoted staff.
“This is the first job where I felt a connection with every customer,” stated Eduardo Medina, a server, bartender and supervisor right here for a decade.
He’s additionally by no means labored at a restaurant like this the place he may wholeheartedly suggest each dish on the menu — due to Wiesner’s dedication to consistency of taste. The kitchen “puts a lot of love even into the vegetables.”
Though some reservations are nonetheless obtainable for lunch and dinner Thursday and Friday (and a few walk-ins might get tables), the ultimate night time is booked, primarily by regulars.
“It’s going to be an emotional day for sure,” stated Jocelyn Lucatero, who has been a Siena server for 10 years. “We love our regulars. Our regulars love us.”
And, she stated, regardless that Wiesner — “a great boss” — has been holding his feelings in examine this week, “I know he’ll be tearing up” come Saturday.
Stapleton, who’s coming in Friday for “sadly, my last Crab Sandwich,” stated: “Each time I consider Siena now not being there, I actually get choked up. I want everybody had stepped as much as help them when it was wanted the final six months.
“Willow Glen is truly losing a gem.”
Particulars: Lunch is served from 11:30 a.m. to 2:30 p.m., dinner from 5 to 9 p.m. at 1359 Lincoln Ave., San Jose. To guide one of many remaining time slots, click on on the Yelp reservations hyperlink at www.sienabistro.com.
