The decor at Creola's Restaurant is simply an extension of home. The patterned wallpaper, lace curtains at the windows, and a comfortable dining room, extend a warm welcome. The menu reflects home, too. Meat loaf, pot roast and steak are present, together with assorted seafood. She offers not only an American touch, including San Joaquin Valley Basque, but also Mediterranean, as well as sparkling sauces that lend simple elegance and charm to the entire operation, yet defy categorization.
Appetizers have a Mediterranean touch.
Eggplant caponata has full flavor of herbs and tomato. It simply tastes good, as do the mushrooms in garlic butter. The roasted peppers definitely reflect a Greek influence. Smoky and saturated with rich virgin olive oil, they are served with feta cheese sprinkled over the top, and augmented by large sliced black olives flavored with herbed oil. Riley says her day starts in the morning with soups, sauces and desserts.