In July, the team behind Coast Wine House in historic Dublin added a subsidiary called Gene’s, located in a historic home just a few doors down from the wine bar. Like Coast, Gene’s offers a dynamic wine selection, but is rounded out by a full cocktail and beer bar and a focused menu of elegant yet approachable dishes.

Gene’s is a single room with a U-shaped bar in the center, a checkered floor, and seating along the edges.

The space is decorated with vintage wine bottles, photos and illustrations.

The main bar menu includes wines by the glass, classic and seasonal cocktails, beers and soft drinks. We both went with seasonal sips. On the left is the refreshing and apple one The predicament of Pariswith Applejack rum, baking spices and ginger. It’s on the right Harvest Moon with reposado tequila and Aperol.

Of course, since Jean is part of a wine bar, I had to try something from the list, so I tried the 2022 Beaujolais.

The food menu is loosely grouped into four sections, from smaller plates to larger ones to appetizers and a few desserts. From the first level we tried a whipped ricotta with perfectly baked sourdough. It was a great start to the meal.

From the second section we tried an eggplant tonkatsu. This is one of the best versions of eggplant I think I’ve tried, thinly sliced, super tender, with a lovely crust. Served on sumac yogurt with herbs and pickled onions.

For the main course, we share two plates. It was first chicken fried wild mushrooms. They are served on a canapé of black peas and vegetables. Featured mushrooms include shiitake, maitake, trumpet and lion’s mane. They’re given a Sriracha glaze that’s nicely offset by a hint of sweet agave.

And then there is halibut on squid ink risotto. The fish is firm but well-seasoned and tender, and is enhanced with dill and pickled beech mushrooms.

I like the European-style cafe tables out front, arranged to face out onto the sidewalk and street. Looks like a great place to have a glass of wine!

We would highly recommend Gene’s for a night out with cocktails and wine! The food and atmosphere are comfortable and cozy, and it’s hard to beat such a great use of a historic building.

Gene’s is open Wednesday through Sunday, 5:00 PM to 10:00 PM. Reservations are recommended.

to Jean
91 S. High St.
Dublin, Ohio 43017
(614) 553-7050
Website: dineatgenes.com
IG: @dineatgenes