Pluto’s Wine Bar is pouring Bastrop customers their first rounds after opening downtown in early January.

In a nutshell

Bastrop resident John Wayne Formica, a veteran who is classically trained in French cuisine, said he launched Pluto’s Wine Bar with the support of his family.

He has prepared meals in a variety of kitchens across the world, including those in:
  • Sorrento, Italy
  • Los Angeles, California
  • Los Alamos, California
Now, Formica is hopeful Pluto’s Wine Bar will secure its status as a “welcoming neighborhood destination” for “everyday gatherings and special occasions.”

What we know


Here’s a taste of what Pluto’s Wine Bar’s menu brings to the table:
  • Butter-poached salmon
  • Smoked tandoori half chicken
  • Oysters on the half shell
  • Wine-braised beets
  • Stuffed avocado tartare
What residents are saying

Several Bastrop-area residents expressed their pleasure that Pluto’s Wine Bar—the former location of CC Wine & Co.—has added to the growing hospitality scene in downtown Bastrop.

“I cannot rave about this place enough,” Jennifer Parker said in a social media post. “The owners are absolutely fabulous and so welcoming, the wait staff was incredible and the food was out of this world yummy. We have been driving to Austin for this kind of food and finally, we can make this a go-to.”

Sammi Deeder, a fellow Bastrop-area resident, shared that sentiment and called Pluto’s Wine Bar the “new best hangout” spot.


“Staff are so over-the-top welcoming and knowledgeable,” she said in a social media post. “Let’s help make this their home.”

Also of note

Pluto's Wine Bar is open from noon to 4 p.m. as a bottle shop and from 5 p.m. to 9 p.m. as a restaurant.

Reservations are being accepted online for Valentine’s Day.