Kinnee O'Reilly's in El Dorado Hills reopens as 36 Handles

We greeted Kinnee O'Reilly's Irish-themed pub in El Dorado Hills with enthusiasm when it opened in September 2011, featuring a menu of well-handled pub-grub classics and, of course, Guinness beer on tap. But the restaurant biz is brutal and diners' tastes are fickle, and Kinnee closed after only eight months.

Surviving, however, is the building's striking exterior – scarlet, black and gold woods, tall doors, Gaelic words etched into the glass windows. Inside was a beautifully decorated space with hardwood floors, a handcrafted wood bar, artwork and framed vintage advertising, wall sconces, tall bookcases crowded with antique Irish bric-a-brac, and dark-wood tables and chairs made in Ireland.

Furnishings-wise, little has changed since veteran restaurateur Richard Righton bought the place, renamed it 36 Handles and reopened it Dec. 1. Well, he did bring in a new menu, and ...

http://www.sacbee.com/2013/01/11/5103871/counter-culture-el-dorado-hills.html 

Executive Chef Heather Zamarripa has created an exciting menu with delicious selections meant to be shared, paired, and enjoyed with friends and family. She has been the acting Catering Manager for the Bidwell Street Bistro in Folsom for the past year. Her pub style menu for 36 Handles incorporates flavors and cooking techniques from around the globe, and will include standards like six styles of Fish & Chips (traditional and panko crusted), Cottage Pie and Corned Beef, as well as some lighter selections like Shrimp Scampi. “I look forward to working with the team at 36 Handles as we breathe new life into the incredible space at the Montano Center."

36 HANDLES

Where: In the Montano Center, 1010 White Rock Road, El Dorado Hills

Hours: Food is served 11 a.m.-9 p.m. daily; bar hours (with small bites) are from 11 a.m. until closing.

Information: (916) 941-3606, www.36handles.com