J. Bookwalter Breathes New Life Into Old Richland Favorite
When John Bookwalter was growing up, he didn’t foresee himself taking over his family’s wine business. But now, 25 years later, he’s elevated the Bookwalter name and expanded their dining experiences beyond only wine — and he’s not stopping yet.
J. Bookwalter is working to open Fable, an expanded, nice-casual eatery that pulls its name from the winery’s full-service craft bar. A new food concept, Fable Craft Bar, Wine Saloon, & Food Joint has been on Bookwalter’s wish list for some time, and when RF McDougall’s unfortunately closed early in the pandemic, John saw the bar’s local history as perfect setting for his vision.
Photo credit: Brian Rohan
This doesn’t just mean a new start for Fable — the brand will take this opportunity to refresh and re-invent Fiction, their winery’s fine-dining restaurant, elevating its menu and moving some of the more casual menu items to Fable. Bookwalter notes that Fiction has been a bit of a catch-all dining experience, but opening their new eatery will allow the brand to offer two distinctly different eat-in experiences.
With a nod to the location’s history, Fable will feature RF McDougall’s old wooden bar, built in the 1860’s and brought to its current home in the 1970’s (source). Bookwalter jokes about slinging wine down the bar, hence the “Wine Saloon” part of “Fable Craft Bar, Wine Saloon, & Food Joint.”
Bookwalter isn’t just a charming last name, the literary theme is also an indication of where they align their values and support. From their eatery names to their philanthropy — John has a passion for reading and ensures that J. Bookwalter walks the walk. They support The Children’s Reading Foundation of the Mid-Columbia, Room to Read, King County Library, and Hugo House in Seattle among others.
A big reader himself, John recommends the following books:
Cataclysms on the Columbia, by John Eliot Allen, Marjorie Burns & Scott Burns. Everything about wine is tied to the soil, and this is an interesting account of our region’s geographical history.
Anything by Erik Larson, a journalist and author of several works of non-fiction.
The Power of One by Bryce Courtenay, an uplifting work of historical fiction which John cites as his favorite book.
Lonesome Dove by Larry McMurtry, which John has re-read a number of times.
You can find the Bookwalter Dining Suite at the following locations:
Fiction: Upscale dining at Bookwalter Winery. Re-opening January 10th. 894 Tulip Ln Richland, WA 99352.
Fable Craft Bar, Wine Saloon, & Food Joint. Set to open mid-February. 1705 Columbia Park Trail, Richland, WA 99352.