Having grown up in this area, I’ve had the privilege of witnessing the evolving Downtown Campbell strip. That being said, I can genuinely attest that Wild Rose, which recently celebrated its first anniversary, has breathed new life into this location, giving it the rejuvenation it had long yearned for.
Ambiance alone, Wild Rose blends modern sophistication with understated elegance, radiating an electrifying atmosphere reminiscent of Santana Row, San Francisco, or even Los Angeles. The chic and contemporary vibe is set first by the soundscape, playing some of the latest and trendiest upbeat music in the background.
As you soak in the atmosphere, you’ll notice that virtually every corner of the restaurant is a feast for the eyes, adorned with captivating artwork, vibrant color palettes, stylish furnishings and decor, and imaginative neon installations–perfect for Instagram-worthy moments.
The restaurant’s distinctive style is no coincidence but rather a reflection of the impressive track record by some of their neighboring Silicon Valley Nightlife and Foodie partners like Nova, Myth, Distrito Federal and Bell Tower Cafe, to name a few.
The aesthetics are just the tip of the iceberg. The real star is the culinary experience. Whether you visit on a Tuesday or Saturday, or opt for their signature Sunday Brunch, there’s something for everyone.
Wild Rose offers a delightful fusion of culinary influences with a diverse menu–a raw bar featuring Asian-inspired selections, house specialties spanning Italian, American and Asian cuisine, and even some enticing snacks for the occasional herbivore.
During my recent visit, I had the pleasure of indulging in the raw bar offerings, which included oysters and a sushi tower. As a main course, I chose the Short Rib Pappardelle, while my friend went for the Spicy Seafood Pasta.
The oysters arrived first, presented beautifully with white wine and red wine apple mignonette. The red wine mignonette, with its tangy flavorful sweetness, perfectly complemented the brininess of the oysters.
For sushi enthusiasts, the Sushi Tower was a visual and flavorful arrangement, featuring generous portions of tuna, hamachi, crab, shrimp and fresh avocado atop a bed of sushi rice. It’s elevated with a zesty sriracha mayo, and a mouthwatering unagi sauce glaze, served with rice chips for scooping–complimenting the dish and making a harmonious blend of textures and flavors.
As I enjoyed the start of my meal, I entrusted the bartender with a ‘dealers choice’ for my first drink. He promptly served me La Vie En Rose, a refreshing citrus drink with floral hints. It paired nicely with my meal.
When my main course arrived, anticipation was high. Steam wafted from the plate, and the aromas of the sauce, meat and garlic drew me in. I was captivated by the sight of my luscious pasta dish topped with burrata cheese.
The braised short rib, pancetta and pappardelle pasta melded seamlessly together, bathed in a creamy ragu sauce, creating a satisfyingly hearty dish. Surprisingly, I had no room for dessert by the end of my dinner.
Additionally, I must mention their recently introduced Sunday Brunch, which began in July.
I was fortunate to celebrate my birthday recently with a large brunch gathering at this venue, which is perfect for groups and parties. We sampled almost everything on the brunch menu, and as no proper brunch is complete without boozy beverages, this included their Wake Up Flight, featuring a trifecta of breakfast-themed shots like French Toast, Pancake and my personal favorite, The Wake-Up Call; a tantalizing mix of spiced rum, butterscotch and a crisp bacon accent to balance the sweetness.
I once enjoyed Chicken and Waffles across nine states during a music tour, and Wild Rose’s version did not disappoint. They feature crispy, juicy chicken alongside perfectly golden waffles. If you have a sweet tooth, their French or sinfully delicious Oreo Pancakes won’t disappoint.
Breakfast traditionalists can also rejoice at their Steak and Eggs. Such a simple staple, yet so elegantly presented. They serve the dish with eggs customized to your preference, savory seasoned country potatoes, and a beautiful 8-ounce ribeye seasoned with a delightful coffee spice rub. Pair it with their signature Bloody Mary, The Breakfast in Bed, served with veggies, bacon and fried shrimp for an exquisite breakfast experience.
To sum it up, Wild Rose offers an adventurous culinary haven suitable for groups, solo explorers, or a romantic evening out.
With extended hours that cater to night owls seeking quality dining experiences on weekends and a brunch that lasts until 4pm, Wild Rose is a destination where flavors, ambiance and the opportunity to create lasting memories combine to craft an unforgettable experience.
