Aspiring to be a chef since age four, Tyler Reiner is that and the co-owner of the recently opened Circle & Square in Corralitos. Born in Sacramento, he grew up in Costa Rica and has lived in seven states and moved 40 times in his life. “Food was always my constant,” he says, explaining that he was inspired by diverse cuisines and church pot lucks from a young age. Graduating from Le Cordon Bleu in 2002, he worked in fine dining before a humanitarian transition to assisted living facilities, drug rehab centers and youth organizations. Living locally and seeking a sense of community for the last 13 years, he decided to do what he loved—cook—and let the community come to him.
With that guiding vision, Circle & Square opened its doors in August with a classic bistro motif amid earthy colors and Bohemian touches. The small menu is described as California-centric with a global approach utilizing French techniques, seasonal inspirations and what Reiner calls “intuitive cooking.” Appetizers include local tomatoes paired with burrata cheese and a roasted winter squash salad with pear butternut vinaigrette. Entrée favorites are chargrilled ribeye steak with chimichurri, a pork belly sandwich and weekend seafood specials. Dessert is a rotating seasonal option.
What’s it like being the only cook in the kitchen?
TYLER REINER: I’m able to hyper-focus on freshness, quality and attention to detail. Every plate that comes out of our kitchen has been cooked by me and me only, which is almost unheard of in the restaurant industry. A lot of this is out of necessity, but we do plan on bringing on apprentice chefs.
How does your location inspire you?
Our concept is community, and our name is representative of this. As individuals, we are all a bunch of squares. But stacked on top of each other, we create a circle to gather and share—and this metaphor guides our philosophy and business. We honor where we live and work, and the local bounty of produce, proteins, wine and beer. I source our food intentionally and try to cut out third parties, I really like to personally know the people growing and providing for us. The Corralitos area is a great place to be able to execute this vision; it’s very validating, and we are so happy to be here.
2904-A Freedom Blvd., Watsonville, 831-288-0004; circlesquarebistro.com
