Dining Guide

The hardest part about enjoying Back Wine Bar is finding it tucked behind a Raley’s in a Folsom shopping center. But once you’re inside the cozy space, with its wall of wine—all the design work was done by owners Jeff and Gail Back—settle in and enjoy the 35 wines by the taste, glass or bottle (another 75 are available by bottle only). Jeff Back is certified by the International Sommelier Guild and the Court of Master Sommeliers; he adds new wines weekly, focusing on small-production gems. And executive chef Michael John produces delicious nibbles; try one of the delicately crisp bruschettas (like the one with tomato almond pesto and fresh mozzarella or the one with caramelized onions, fig jam and Gruyère cheese), or the striking, spicy ahi poke topping sushi rice.