Show 7: November 24, 2012: Chef Dean A. Thomas, Innkeeper (with his wife, Nicole) of The Inn At Europa Village and Executive Chef de Cuisine at Europa Village Winery and Tasting Room

The Inn at Europa Village is perched on its own private hilltop in the heart of the Temecula Valley Wine Country. Each of the newly renovated 10 rooms has a majestic view of the surrounding lush vineyards. The patio (where guests may enjoy breakfast) has a sweeping 180 degree view of the Valley.

Before he came to Temecula, Dean was the highly regarded Executive Chef of Barona Resort & Casino (the large Indian casino) in San Diego County. He supervised everything from fine-dining to the casual fare there.

Chef Dean brings that same impressive culinary tradition to breakfast at The Inn. Each morning Chef Dean and Nicole prepare a rotating, 2-course breakfast spectacular for their guests. A lot of the fruit comes from the Inn’s property or Dean’s organic garden at nearby Peltzer Farms. He typically makes his own condiments, salsas, and preserves.

Dean is also the unofficial concierge of the Temecula Valley. He offers superb, unbiased recommendation for activities and locals-only dining spots for lunch and dinner. It’s a very personalized experience tailored to the guests’ specific needs. Producer Andy recommends The Inn with enthusiasm as he’s been a frequent guest over the last two yearts.

They have a TravelZoo discount promotion coming up for a weekday stay so be looking for that.