Set on the former Avensole estate—now Truffle Pig Winery—Domenico’s Italian Chophouse brings a best‑of‑both‑worlds brief: a true chop program with Italian accents, calibrated for pre‑ and post‑tasting crowds along Rancho California Road. Think bistecca and veal parm one table over from cacio e pepe, with a glass list that makes lingering inevitable. For the winery context, read our Truffle Pig Winery — C&J Review.

History & Founding

When Avensole transitioned to Truffle Pig Winery (2025), the ownership group relaunched the on‑site restaurant as Domenico’s Italian Chophouse to anchor the hospitality side during the winery’s phased reopening. The concept nods to Temecula’s Italian roots (and the Renzoni/Galleano lineage) while serving as a full‑service complement to the tasting lounge next door. See the Temecula Valley Winegrowers Association listing for estate details.

Menu & Signature Dishes

Based on the restaurant’s published menus and first‑look coverage, Domenico’s centers on steaks/chops with Italian standards and a few seafood and pasta options. Verified highlights include:

• Six cuts of steak (core chop‑house program)
• Duck breast
• Veal shank
• Chicken Parmesan (Fantastic)
• Pork Milanese
• Select pastas plus a kids’ menu
• Grilled Cheese & Tomato Soup (guest favorite)
• House Hamburger
• A selection of salads (well‑executed and popular with our table)

For current selections and pricing, see the Main Menu image links on the official page. Cross‑reference this first‑look walkthrough: Domenico’s Italian Chop House at Truffle Pig Winery.

Beverage Program

Curated to play with both steakhouse depth and Italian brightness. By‑the‑glass rotates with Truffle Pig’s tasting lineup; bottle selections lean Temecula Valley (Italian and Rhône varietals) with Old‑World anchors for context. Ask for staff pairings—Sangiovese or a GSM works across much of the menu; richer cuts take nicely to Syrah or a structured Cabernet‑family pour. For winery releases and pairings, browse Truffle Pig Winery.

Dining Experience

The room is light and airy, flowing directly to a patio that overlooks the winery estate. Service is paced for conversation; courses are staggered smartly for tasting‑day schedules. Weekend prime times fill quickly; mid‑week dinner slots are relaxed and often the sweet spot for wine‑geek service.

Ambience

Bright, open, and sun‑washed rather than clubby—clean lines, plenty of natural light, and a seamless transition to the estate‑view patio. Golden hour amplifies the setting without overpowering the room; heaters extend the alfresco season.

Neighborhood Context

You’re in the thick of Rancho California Road—Temecula’s core wine‑country corridor. Domenico’s sits steps from the Truffle Pig tasting spaces, with easy parking on the shared estate and short drives to other marquee wineries. For trip planning, see our Temecula Valley AVA Guide.

Closing

Domenico’s threads the needle between destination steakhouse and wine‑country trattoria. It’s the kind of place where a ribeye, a simple pasta, and a judicious bottle do the talking—no pretense required.