In the restaurant business, it’s saying something to make it through the first year and rare to last more than 10. But in Sonoma County, there are more than a dozen restaurants that have survived well past their 30th year and a handful which have outlasted generations of diners, stretching back more than a century.

These are well-worn eateries that have a proven formula. Most share a common heritage: They were built by Italian immigrants and have continued to serve hearty family-style meals at approachable prices for decades. It’s not a stretch to say that the farms, timber mills, railroads and vineyards of Sonoma County were built on pasta and meatballs. And maybe a steak or two.

We pay homage to several tried and true local restaurants that have stood the test of time and are still going strong.

Stormy’s Spirits and Supper, 1854

Established as a roadhouse, Stormy’s has hosted generations of Sonoma County diners. The restaurant turned into a steakhouse in the early 1970s and remains a family-style dining destination in Bloomfield. Open limited hours Friday through Sunday. Call or check Stormy’s Facebook page for updates. 6650 Bloomfield Road, Petaluma, 707-795-0127, stormysrestaurant.com

Washoe House, 1859

A former stagecoach stop connecting Petaluma, Santa Rosa and Bodega, this historic roadhouse is best known for two things: Dollar bills pinned to the bar ceiling and The Battle of the Washoe House. According to legend, following the 1865 assassination of president Abraham Lincoln, a group of Petaluma militia were intent on creating trouble for Southern-leaning Santa Rosans. Their thirst got the best of them and the group ended up getting drunk instead of rabble-rousing. 2840 Roblar Road, Petaluma, 707-795-4544, washoehouse.site

Union Hotel, 1879

This Occidental restaurant has been around for 146 years. What began as the Union Saloon and General Store grew into a family business, with four generations managing the restaurant over the years. The restaurant serves salads and pizza as well as a fan-favorite bruschetta. Open 4-8 p.m. Friday and noon to 8 p.m. Saturday and Sunday. (Note: The Union Hotel in Santa Rosa has separate ownership and is open daily.) 3731 Main St., Occidental, 707-874-3555, unionhoteloccidental.com.

Madrona Manor, 1881

The historic hotel underwent a major renovation in 2022, reopening as The Madrona. While the property has retained its Victorian past, the restaurant, mansion and guest houses have been infused with a modern, artistic sensibility. Chef Patrick Tafoya oversees the restaurant, offering an upscale dinner menu, relaxed lounge dining and a popular brunch.  1001 Westside Road, Healdsburg, 433-4321, madronamanor.com

Swiss Hotel, 1892

Sonoma’s history is etched into the walls of this historic inn, restaurant and bar. An Italian-focused menu reflects the generations of family ownership. 18 W. Spain St., Sonoma, 707-938-2884, swisshotelsonoma.com

Pick’s Drive In, 1923

One of the oldest hamburger joints in America, this Cloverdale drive-in has been serving up beefy burgers, hot dogs and shakes for over a century. The restaurant sources local produce and meat for its menu, and offers hand-scooped shakes, malts and soft serve with a modern twist. The historic drive-in is currently closed, but new ownership and upcoming renovations were announced in June. 117 S. Cloverdale Blvd., Cloverdale

Volpi’s Ristorante & Bar, 1925

Though it has operated as a grocery for most of its existence, Volpi’s major claim to fame was as a Prohibition-era speakeasy. Locals know that the “secret” bar is still in operation, with a convenient escape door to the alley in case of a raid. Or your ex-wife. The grocery became a full-fledged restaurant in 1992, though there’s still an old Italian grocery vibe with well-worn wooden floors and walls lined with Italian tchotchkes, accordions and candle wax-covered Chianti bottles. 124 Washington St., Petaluma, 707-762-2371, volpisristorante.com

Catelli’s, 1936

Italian immigrants Santi and Virginia Catelli opened Catelli’s “The Rex” in tiny Geyserville as a humble family eatery, serving up spaghetti, minestrone and ravioli. After closing in 1986, the restaurant later reopened in Healdsburg, where it stood until 2004. In 2010, siblings Domenica and Nick Catelli reopened Catelli’s at the original Geyserville location, where it has been host to a number of celebrities, but remains an approachable family-style restaurant. Their paper-thin layers of lasagna noodles make Catelli’s version one of the best in the region. 21047 Geyserville Ave., Geyserville, 707-857-7142, mycatellis.com

Dinucci’s Italian Dinners, 1939

Though the building dates back to 1908, when it served train travelers, the current restaurant didn’t open until 1939. Owners Henry and Mabel Dinucci turned it into a welcome stop for hearty family-style Italian dinners. In 1968, Dinucci’s sold to the Wagner family, but some of Mabel’s original recipes are still in use today. The historic interior hasn’t changed much over the years, with red-and-white checkered tablecloths right out of the 1940s. 14485 Hwy. 1, Valley Ford, 707-876-3260, dinuccisrestaurantandbar.com

Pat’s International, 1940

Pat’s in Guerneville has been a reliable Russian River eatery for over 80 years, weathering everything from floods to global pandemics. Late last year, owner David Blomster put the business up for sale, however, the restaurant continues to serve customers. 16236 Main St., Guerneville, 707-604-4007, patsinternational.com

Negri’s, 1942

This family-owned Italian restaurant began as a stopover for train travelers journeying from San Francisco to Eureka. According to restaurant lore, original owner Joe Negri Sr., an Italian immigrant, was once the personal chef for movie legend Rudolph Valentino. After moving to Santa Rosa, he opened Negri’s, which has served traditional Italian pasta dinners ever since, many made using original recipes from the 1930s. Open for dining in the attached Joe’s Bar from 4-8 p.m. Friday and Saturday and 3-8 p.m. Sunday, offering its famous ravioli, burgers, pizza, salads, sandwiches and housemade desserts. 3700 Bohemian Highway, Occidental, 707-823-5301, negrisrestaurant.com

Superburger, early 1950s

Opened as a modest burger shack on the corner of Santa Rosa’s College and Fourth streets in the early 1950s, Superburger has become one of Sonoma County’s go-to family spots for made-to-order char-grilled hamburgers, tater tots, onion rings and old-fashioned milkshakes. Two locations: 1501 Fourth St., Santa Rosa, 707-546-4016, and 8204 Old Redwood Highway, Cotati, 707-665-9790. originalsuperburger.com

Mac’s Deli, 1952

Mac’s bills itself as Sonoma County’s oldest continuously operating breakfast and sandwich café. Opened by Mac Nesmon in 1952 as a New York-style deli, it was purchased in 1970 by the Soltani family, who still run the restaurant today. Don’t miss the classic Reuben sandwich. 630 Fourth St., Santa Rosa, 707-545-3785, macsdeliandcafe.com

Mary’s Pizza Shack, 1959

Mary Fazio opened her first pizzeria in Boyes Hot Springs in 1959 using family recipes and her own pots and pans. Thought Fazio died in 1999, her legacy lives on in the family-owned restaurant chain with locations across the North Bay. maryspizzashack.com

Tide’s Wharf, around in different shapes and forms since the 1950s

Made popular by Alfred Hitchcock’s 1963 thriller “The Birds,” this Bodega seafood restaurant has been a coastal staple for more than 50 years. With sweeping bay views, it remains a magical spot. 835 Bay Highway, Bodega Bay, 707-875-3652, innatthetides.com/tides-wharf-restaurant

Pinky’s Pizza, 1962

A classic hometown pizza parlor, loved by generations of Petalumans. 321 Petaluma Blvd. South, Petaluma, 707-763-2510, facebook.com/pinkyspizzapetaluma

La Casa, 1967

Opened in the late 1960s, La Casa has seen Sonoma’s transformation from sleepy rural town to bustling tourist destination. The restaurant was purchased in 2015 by the Sherpa Brothers Group, Nepalese restaurateurs who’ve revitalized several local restaurants. La Casa continues to serve simple, traditional Mexican cuisine — if you go, don’t miss the margaritas. 121 East Spain St., Sonoma, 996-3406, lacasarestaurants.com

Betty’s Fish and Chips, 1967

Serving English-style fish and chips and the world’s best lemon pie, Betty’s has been a Santa Rosa favorite for over five decades. The restaurant got a face-lift in 1996 but remains true to its roots. 4046 Sonoma Highway, Santa Rosa, 707-539-0899, bettysfishandchips.com

Costeaux French Bakery, 1973

In 1973, French natives Jean and Anne Costeaux bought a 1920s-era French American bakery in Healdsburg and renamed it Costeaux French Bakery. Karl and Nancy Seppi purchased the bakery in 1981 with a vision to expand — and Jean taught them the art of bread baking. Today, Costeaux, with additional locations in Santa Rosa and Petaluma, is renowned for its sourdough baguettes, French macrons, princess cake and cinnamon walnut bread. 417 Healdsburg Ave., Healdsburg, 707-433-1913, costeaux.com

Blue Heron, 1977

The building that houses Blue Heron was originally built in the late 1800s, but the 1906 earthquake destroyed most of Duncans Mills. In 1976, a restoration project revived the town — and with it, the Blue Heron. The restaurant’s expansive menu includes local seafood, burgers, salad and chowder. 25275 Steelhead Blvd., Duncans Mills, 707- 865-2261, blueheronrestaurant.com

Don Taylor’s Omelette Express, 1977

Most weekends, Don Taylor can be found at the door of the original Omelette Express in Santa Rosa, greeting regulars who have made a breakfast at his restaurant a family tradition. Opened in 1977, the all-day breakfast spot has since expanded to Windsor and, in 2018, it went international with a location in JeJu City, South Korea — Santa Rosa’s sister city. Omelets remain a best bet, of course, but there’s plenty more to explore on the menu, including Benedicts, burgers, sandwiches and salads, plus some of the best coffee in town. 112 Fourth St., Santa Rosa, 707-525-1690; 150 Windsor River Road, Windsor, 707-838-6920, omeletteexpress.com

Old Chicago Pizza, 1978

Opened by William Berliner in 1978 inside a historic 1870s building, Old Chicago Pizza has become a Petaluma fixture, known for its hearty, deep-dish pies served in a space that reflects the city’s historic charm and offers a second-floor view. 41 Petaluma Blvd. North, Petaluma, 707-763-3897, oldchgo.com

La Gare, 1979

Chef Roger Praplan relishes the fact that he’s now serving the grandchildren of some of La Gare’s early customers. His parents, Swiss-born Marco and Gladys Parplan, opened the restaurant in 1979 after purchasing the lot for $25,000 two years earlier. Though dining trends have come and gone since, La Gare has remained steadfast in its approach and was featured on KQED’s “Check, Please! Bay Area” last year for staying “true to its Swiss-French roots.” 208 Wilson St., Santa Rosa, 707-528-4355, lagarerestaurant.com

John Ash & Co., 1980

Long before “farm-to-table” became a culinary catchphrase, John Ash was sourcing local produce, dairy and meat for wholesome, seasonal dishes paired with excellent regional wines. His namesake restaurant helped define Sonoma County’s food identity and launched the careers of many local chefs and winemakers, including Jeffrey Madura, Dan Kosta and Michael Browne. Though Ash has stepped away from the restaurant kitchen, John Ash & Co remains a top dining destination with a recently revamped menu following the renovation of Vintners Resort (where the restaurant is located), now named Vinarosa. 4330 Barnes Road, Santa Rosa, 707-527-7687, vinrosaresort.com

Grateful Bagel, 1981

Founded by East Coast transplants yearning for New York-style bagels, Grateful Bagel opened in 1981 on Mendocino Avenue in Santa Rosa. Within a year, the bakery was distributing its bagels to delis and grocery stores from San Francisco to Fort Bragg. While the original location has since closed, Grateful Bagel locations can be found at 631 Fourth St. and 925 Corporate Center Parkway in Santa Rosa; 300 South Main St. in Sebastopol; 221 N. McDowell Blvd. in Petaluma; and 10101 Main St., Suite A, in Penngrove.

Worth the trip: Tony’s Seafood Restaurant, 1948

For nearly seven decades, this seafood shack overlooking Tomales Bay was run by a Croatian fishing family. By the time it changed hands in 2017, it was a fading relic, but a two-year renovation by the owners of Hog Island Oyster Co. brought new life to the space. Today, Tony’s is a vibrant, modern seafood house with panoramic bay views. 18863 Shoreline Highway, Marshall, 415-663-1107, tonysseafoodrestaurant.com

The post Historic Sonoma County Restaurants That Are Still Going Strong appeared first on Sonoma Magazine.

In temperate Sonoma County, it’s rare to find a dining spot without a lovely patio or sidewalk seating. Still, a few standouts truly shine at offering stellar outdoor spaces alongside great food.

Here are my picks for shaded patios, prime sidewalk people-watching and sun-dappled gardens worth seeking out. As someone prone to severe sunburn, I’ve included a “shade score” to indicate how much coverage you can expect from umbrellas and other shade sources.

Santa Rosa

Mitote Food Park

Set in the heart of the predominantly Latino community of Roseland, this happy gathering of food trucks features the flavors of Oaxaca, Jalisco, Michoacan, Yucatán, and Mexico City. There’s also a vibrant al fresco bar and live music with fully-tented sun coverage. Shade score: 9/10. 100 Sebastopol Road, Santa Rosa, mitotefoodpark.com

Spinster Sisters

This outdoor garden is all about wide-open spaces in an urban setting. Enjoy supper and wine beneath colorful sails and twinkling lights. Charming bistro tables and retro picnic benches covered by floral oilcloth match the creative vibe of the SOFA (South of A Street) neighborhood. Shade score: 6/10. 401 South A St., Santa Rosa, 707-528-7100, thespinstersisters.com

Windsor

Grata

This Windsor restaurant serves up neighborhood Italian fare on a semi-enclosed patio with plenty of shady spots and cool breezes. The tiny tables aren’t ideal, but the risotto more than makes up for it. Shade score: 8/10. 186 Windsor River Road, Windsor, 707-620-0508, gratawindsor.com

Sonoma Valley

Sunflower Caffe

This longtime breakfast, brunch and lunch café has a secret — it’s shaded back patio features a sunny oasis decorated in cheery yellow hues. Surrounded by old oaks and topped with a weather-resistant pergola, it’s ready for almost any season. Best bites include their breakfast biscuit, passion fruit coconut waffle and kale chicken Caesar salad, along with wellness shots and mimosas. Shade score 9/10. 421 First St., Sonoma, sonomasunflower.com

Salt & Stone

Outdoor tables (with umbrellas) surround a tranquil lily pond and at night, twinkle lights give off a soft glow, making this a favorite romantic rendezvous in Kenwood. Solid American classic cuisine with a full bar. Shade score 4/10. 9900 Sonoma Highway, Kenwood, 707-833-6326, saltstonekenwood.com

Valley Swim Club

This seafood-centric restaurant has no indoor seating, so the year-round outdoor space is well-covered with retro-chic furniture and comfy bench seats. Oversize striped umbrellas create a shaded oasis for yard seating. Shade Score: 9/10. 18709 Arnold Drive, Sonoma, 707-243-3032, valleyswim.club

El Dorado Kitchen

A private courtyard and pool transport you from the busy downtown square to a restful retreat. Excellent Cal-Italian food and craft cocktails compliment the intimate space. Shade Score: 7/10. 405 First St. West, Sonoma, 707-996-3030, eldoradosonoma.com

The Girl & the Fig

Large umbrellas and sunshades cover the enclosed patio space that’s a world away from the daily grind. Casual French cuisine with a full cocktail bar and friendly service. Shade Score: 7/10. 110 West Spain St., Sonoma, 707-938-3634, thegirlandthefig.com

Sebastopol

Handline

Shoji screen-style windows open wide to let cool breezes flow through the restaurant, but the tented patio remains a favorite for families and pets. A newly added children’s area nearby helps keep little ones entertained. Creamy soft serve is a nostalgic nod to the restaurant’s past as a Foster Freeze. Shade score: 9/10. 935 Gravenstein Highway S., Sebastopol, 707-827-3744, handline.com

Khom Loi

It’s the best of both worlds — indoor while feeling like you’re outdoor — at this popular Thai restaurant. Enclosed on three sides with a soaring atrium, the space lets in the breeze while keeping you out of direct sunlight. Ramen Gaijin’s chef team brings their love of Thailand’s sweet, salty, sour and fragrant cuisine to Sebastopol with style. Shade score: 10/10. 7385 Healdsburg Ave., Sebastopol, 707-329-6917, khomloisonoma.com

Wild Poppy

The rambling outdoor patio of this offbeat Sebastopol roadhouse has always been a magical place, full of nooks, crannies and hidden spaces to explore. Despite plenty of umbrellas, it can be hard to find complete shade on extra hot days, but a quiet ledge overlooking the creek offers leafy coverage. Don’t miss the Cosmic Queso! Shade score: 7/10. 9890 Bodega Highway, Sebastopol, 707-503-6332, thewildpoppycafe.com

Petaluma

Brewsters Beer Garden

Everyone’s welcome (including your pup) at this indoor-outdoor destination. Excellent barbecue and burgers, mostly California-made beers on tap and cocktails. Live music can get a little loud if you’re trying to converse, but after a few beers, who cares? Shade Score: 7/10. 229 N. Water St., Petaluma, 707-981-8330, brewstersbeergarden.com

Water Street Bistro

Rise and shine on the riverfront with excellent morning pastries, sandwiches and salads at this cozy French bistro. You can’t get much closer to the river action than this. Shade score: 5/10. 100 Petaluma Blvd. North, Petaluma, 707-763-9563, waterstreetbistropetaluma.com

Healdsburg

Acorn Cafe

The former Oakville Grocery has plenty of patio seating, complete with a cozy fireplace for chilly mornings. It’s great for well-behaved dogs and kids, or even not-so-well-behaved adults. I love their over-the-top takes on breakfast, brunch and lunch. The lineup includes tiramisu French toast, a brown butter hollandaise Benedict and quite possibly the world’s most inspired fried chicken sandwich. A tasty low- and no-alcohol cocktail menu and an inspired wine list create a Sunday brunch vibe even on weekday mornings. Shade score: 7/10. 124 Matheson St., Healdsburg, acornhealdsburg.com

The Rooftop at Harmon Guest House

Take in views of Fitch Mountain, the Mayacamas range and downtown Healdsburg while you nosh on small bites and casual dishes. Full bar, plus some excellent wines. Shade score: 6/10. 227 Healdsburg Ave., Healdsburg, 707-922-5449, harmonguesthouse.com

Olive Terrace at Montage Resort

Perched high above the Alexander Valley, the Olive Terrace at Montage’s Hazel Hill restaurant overlooks vineyards and hundreds of acres of open landscape. It also comes with cozy rocking chairs and fire pits. The menus offer both small bites and hearty dishes. Order craft cocktails at the adjacent Scout Field Bar. Shade score: 6/10. 100 Montage Way, Healdsburg, montagehotels.com/healdsburg

Roof 106

Chef Dustin Valette’s ambitious venture is a multistory building with The Matheson restaurant on the ground level, a mezzanine overlooking the restaurant for private events and a rooftop lounge, Roof 106. The rooftop lounge has a more casual indoor-outdoor setting with craft cocktails, small plates and seasonal flatbreads from a custom 3,800-pound wood-fired Mugnaini oven. Shade Score: 8/10. 106 Matheson St., Healdsburg, thematheson.com

Bravas Bar de Tapas

“Jamon In,” reads the neon arrow pointing to the patio that Healdsburgers flock to every summer. Sangria, paella, Spanish tapas and plenty of gossip are what you’ll find at this popular watering hole and restaurant. Shade score: 7/10. 420 Center St., Healdsburg, starkrestaurants.com

Healdsburg Bar & Grill

Known to locals as HBG, this buzzing American eatery serves up comfort classics like macaroni and cheese, grilled fish tacos, fried chicken and the classic HBG burger. The fenced patio offers space for kids to roam. Don’t miss the okonomiyaki tots! Shade score: 7/10. 245 Healdsburg Ave., Healdsburg, healdsburgbarandgrill.com

Occidental

Altamont General Store

The outdoor space is the perfect addition to this eclectic café and market. Umbrella-covered tables plus a grassy knoll for cartwheels on cool summer evenings. Shade score: 5/10. 3703 Main St., Occidental, altamontgeneralstore.com

Geyserville

Catelli’s

Lasagna with paper-thin layers of pasta and a tried-and-true meat sauce is a signature dish worth the trip north. Chef Domenica Catelli is one of Sonoma County’s bright lights, committed to using the best local ingredients. The expansive outdoor area with black and white tiles is iconic — and one of the best event spaces in Sonoma County. Shade score: 6/10. 21047 Geyserville Ave., Geyserville, mycatellis.com

Diavola

You’ll swear you’re in Italy at this temple of charcuterie, wood-fired pizza and unmatched pasta entrées. The cheeky hanging laundry that lines the walkway to the back patio completes the experience. Shade score: 9/10. 21021 Geyserville Ave., Geyserville, diavolapizzeria.com

Sonoma Coast

Fishetarian

This is as about as close as it gets to eating on the water. Though it’s less than fancy and you’ll get a snoot full of low tide from time to time, the casual picnic tables and chill vibe make it a fave. Shade score 3/10. 599 Highway 1 S. at Lucas Wharf, Bodega Bay, 707-875-9092, fishetarianfishmarket.com

Fisherman’s Cove

This no-nonsense family-owned seafood shack and fishing-marine supply store specializes in fresh local oysters harvested from Tomales Bay. The crab sandwich rivals nearby Spud Point. Shade score: 4/10. 1850 Bay Flat Road, Bodega Bay, 707-377-4238, fishermanscovebodegabay.com

Rocker’s Roadhouse

There’s often live music and dancing on the large back patio of this funky eatery and saloon in the historic Valley Ford Hotel. A mix of local oysters and Southern-influenced comfort foods using local ingredients make this a top stop. Shade score: 8/10. 14415 Highway 1, Valley Ford, rockeroysterfellers.com

You can reach Dining Editor Heather Irwin at heather.irwin@pressdemocrat.com. Follow Heather on Instagram @biteclubeats.

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Of the hundreds of amazing restaurants in Sonoma County, around 20 stand out as the best-of-the-best destinations for newcomers. Some are fancy, some are decidedly not, but they all share a focus on local ingredients, friendly service and sense-of-place dining that define what it is to eat in this mecca of taste.

Dry Creek General Store

Smack dab in the heart of the Dry Creek Valley, this historic general store surrounded by vineyards is pure Sonoma County. Head in for upscale picnic provisions, ridiculously good sandwiches, fresh-from-the-garden fruit and take-home treats. 3495 Dry Creek Road, Healdsburg, 707-433-4171, drycreekgeneralstore1881.com

Roof 106/The Matheson

This multi-concept eatery from stellar chef Dustin Valette is Healdsburg in a nutshell. Downstairs, head to the wine wall, where you can serve yourself some of the best juice in Wine Country. The upscale Matheson features creative California cuisine, while the casual Roof 106 offers a terrific indoor-outdoor patio, views of the downtown plaza and excellent pizza. 106 Matheson St., Healdsburg, 707-723-1106, thematheson.com

Catelli’s

This Italian trattoria has served up swoon-worthy lasagna, ravioli and spaghetti for generations. Chef Domenica Catelli has kicked up the classic recipes with fresh flavors, farm-to-table ingredients and a whole lot of love. The outdoor patio is stunning, and you won’t go home hungry. 21047 Geyserville Ave., Geyserville, 707-857-3471, mycatellis.com

Geyserville Gun Club

A favorite among off-duty chefs and in-the-know locals, this former gun club is actually a full service bar with ridiculously good food. It is a sister to the critically-acclaimed Diavola Pizzeria and Salumeria (also in Geyserville). The menu is snacky and delicious and the drinks are no joke. Don’t miss the pink bathroom. 21025 Geyserville Ave., Geyserville, 707-814-0036, geyservillegunclub.com

El Molino Central

Homemade tortillas — not just from prepared masa, but from their own soaked and milled corn — showcase the passion for authenticity at this Sonoma-adjacent taqueria. Best bets include beer-battered fish tacos and take-home salsas. 11 Central Ave., Sonoma, 707-939-1010, elmolinocentral.com

Girl and the Fig

This Sonoma Plaza bistro has been a required stop for travelers for more than 30 years. French with a California twist, it’s never stuffy and always a treat. We’re fans of the signature fig and arugula salad, steak frites and steamed mussels. A full bar includes “sorbet sippers” like the In Ernest with lemon-lime and orange sorbet, rum, Luxardo and brandied cherries. Plus a stunning wine list. 110 West Spain St., Sonoma, 707-938-3634, thegirlandthefig.com

Glen Ellen Star

A wood-fired oven is the beating heart of this Sonoma Valley restaurant that’s a favorite among locals and savvy visitors, who make their way to the tiny hamlet. Whole roasted fish, wood roasted seasonal vegetables, pizzas and brick chicken are classics. 13648 Arnold Drive, Glen Ellen, 707-343-1384, glenellenstar.com

Americana

Farm-to-table breakfasts from the owners of Valley Ford’s Estero Cafe (which you should also check out). Favorites include fried chicken with country gravy, omelets, a lovely breakfast sandwich with Estero Gold cheese on a fresh ciabatta, yogurt parfait and pancakes with tasty fresh strawberry mimosas. 205 Fifth St., Santa Rosa, 707-755-1548, americanasr.com

Mitote Food Park

This food park in the heart of Roseland showcases best-in-class taco trucks along with churros and a full bar. Celebrating Latino heritage and culture, it’s a delicious way to experience an oft-overlooked but vibrant part of Sonoma County. 100 Sebastopol Road, Santa Rosa, mitotefoodpark.com

Willi’s Wine Bar

Perhaps the most Wine Country restaurant of them all, this international small-plates wine bar is a required pilgrimage. One of seven Sonoma County restaurants owned by Chef Mark Stark and his wife, Terri, you can’t go wrong with anything on the menu, but the curried crab tacos are a favorite. 1415 Town and Country Drive, Santa Rosa, 707-526-3096, williswinebar.net

The Shuckery

The Lalicker sisters, aka the Oyster Girls, are the brains (and brawn) behind this Petaluma seafood restaurant. You’re here for the oysters (raw, Rockefeller, barbecue, Bingo or chef’s special) or tender clams with grilled Della Fattoria bread to sop up the sauce. 100 Washington St., Petaluma, 707-981-7891, theshuckeryca.com

Stockhome

This couple-owned cafe focuses on Swedish comfort foods like pickled herring and meatballs with gravy an lingonberry jam, along with kebab plates, a popular late night snack in Sweden, and small meze plates (fried Halloumi cheese is amazing). 220 Western Ave., Petaluma, 707-981-8511, stockhomepetaluma.com

The Barlow

This outdoor marketplace is a hub for Sonoma County makers, wineries, restaurants, craft brewers and taste innovators. From pizza, tacos and grilled cheese to upscale Southern dining and a distillery, it’s an eater’s paradise. Region wine bar offers more than 50 small-production wines from self-serve vending machines and you can order food from nearby restaurants to eat on their patio. 6770 McKinley St., 707-824-5600, thebarlow.net

Handline

Pairing sustainably sourced seafood with locally grown produce (much of it from the restaurant’s own backyard), Handline is a locals’ favorite. The large patio is perfect for chowing down on rockfish tacos, best-of-class burgers, and soft serve ice cream. Make sure to try any of their vegetarian plates because they’re always unbelievably good. 935 Gravenstein Highway S., Sebastopol, 707-827-3744, handline.com

Ramen Gaijin

This casual izakaya, from chefs Matthew Williams and Moishe Hahn-Schuman, grew from a tiny pop-up restaurant to one of the most celebrated ramen shops in Sonoma County. Handmade noodles are top notch. 6948 Sebastopol Ave., Sebastopol, 707-827-3609, ramengaijin.com

Boon Eat + Drink

West Sonoma County isn’t always on the itinerary. But the drive through vineyards, redwood groves and along the Russian River offers a whole other side of Wine Country. Downtown Guerneville has plenty to offer, too, but Chef Crista Luedke’s casual bistro gets directly to the heart of Sonoma County’s farm-to-table ethos. 16248 Main St., Guerneville, 707-869-0780, eatatboon.com

Rocker’s Roadhouse

Southern comfort food meets California coastal cuisine means next-level, Cajun-seasoned Dungeness crab cakes with a remoulade sauce, beer-battered rock cod fish tacos and barbecued Tomales Bay oysters (get the Louisiana hot oysters for a tantalizing taste of southern heat). Also look for Rocker Oysterfeller’s location in Bodega Bay (595 Highway 1), which has taken over the former Fisherman’s Wharf restaurant space. 14415 Highway 1, Valley Ford, 707-876-1983, rockeroysterfellers.com 

Spud Point Crab Company

You may have to wait in line, but it’s worth it for the piled-high crab sandwich with their signature sauce and the garlicky clam chowder is second-to-none. Throw in an order of crab cakes with roasted red pepper sauce before they sell out (only available on weekends). 1910 Westshore Road, Bodega Bay, 707-875-9472, spudpointcrabco.com

Fisherman’s Cove

When a seafood shack doubles as a bait and tackle shop, you know the restaurant means business with its locally sourced seafood dishes. Go for the grilled oysters with garlic butter and wasabi cocktail sauce and crab sandwich with loads of fresh Dungeness crab on toasted ciabatta bread. 1850 Bay Flat Road, Bodega Bay, 707-377-4238, fishermanscovebodegabay.com

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If you’ve noticed a rising tide of steak frites, Coquilles Saint-Jacques, beurre blanc and people pronouncing “cassoulet” with alarming accuracy, it’s not by accident — Sonoma County is having a French moment.

Like tasty forest mushrooms, restaurants and bakeries à la française are popping up everywhere, embracing the zest for good food, good wine and good butter that defines Gallic cuisine.

French techniques and a flair for local ingredients have always been at the heart of Wine Country’s unique style of cooking, but classic white-tablecloth French restaurants have been few and far between in these parts since the 1980s.

Now, a new generation of Francophiles are adopting the time-honored flavors of the birthplace of modern cuisine, along with a wave of French newcomers bringing recipes and traditions from their homeland.

Bon appétit, mes amis.

The newcomers

Bistro Lagniappe

When chef Jacob Harth first captured local attention last September with a pop-up preview of Winnie’s, a restaurant centered around responsibly sourced West Coast seafood, I took note. Anyone who can make gooseneck barnacles appetizing (they resemble turtle toes) is a kitchen wizard.

While Winnie’s is still in development, Harth’s new Healdsburg bistro is a stunning debut. He describes the menu as California countryside cooking inspired by French rural routiers (roadside restaurants) and bistros, using the best ingredients Sonoma County has to offer.

The concise menu belies the awe-inspiring dishes. I nearly skipped the “Plate of Summer Vegetables,” which sounded like a ho-hum plate of crudités. But when it arrived, we gasped at the rainbow of colors, textures and preparations — raw, roasted and pickled — on the plate.

A large wood-fired oven, which can reach temperatures of 1,200 degrees, has its own section on the menu, featuring roasted oysters with smoked garlic butter and comforting cassoulet with duck confit. Sweet, caramelized onions and Comté cheese with a Parmesan foam is one of the best dishes I’ve ever eaten.

Perfectly cooked trout, a roasted chicken with morels and a crisp mille-feuille with passion fruit round out the meal.

I can’t wait to see what’s next. 330 Healdsburg Ave., Healdsburg, 707-473-8181, lagniappehealdsburg.com

Poppy

This Glen Ellen restaurant has the soul of France with the heart of Sonoma County. The newest branch on The Girl & The Fig’s family tree, it’s the culmination of founders Sondra Bernstein and John Toulze’s 25 years of travels through rural France.

A handful of dishes already define it as a restaurant to watch — a perfect summer salad, a crave-worthy roast chicken and a standout bread service. Don’t miss the Choux au Craquelin ($10), a baseball-sized puff pastry filled nearly to bursting with velvety espresso mousse. On Wednesdays and Thursdays, three-course family-style dinners are $65, with wine included. 13690 Arnold Drive, Glen Ellen, 707-938-2130, poppyglenellen.com

Bijou

Petaluma’s Bijou — a more casual cousin to Table Culture Provisions’ fine dining experience — is the latest from acclaimed chef Stéphane Saint Louis. From its prime downtown location to its constantly evolving menu, the restaurant reflects his personal vision. As a young chef working across the street at The Shuckery, Saint Louis often eyed the expansive modern space, imagining that it would one day be his.

Ever-changing dishes reflect Saint Louis’ creativity and changing seasons, making it worth repeated visits. Some staples, however, will remain on the menu — a fish entrée, steak frites, housemade pasta and several starters. Reservations are available on OpenTable and are highly recommended. 190 Kentucky St., Petaluma

New wave, old school

Augie’s French

Paying homage to Auguste Escoffier, the father of modern French cuisine, restaurateurs Mark and Terri Stark’s classic French bistro serves classic-yet-approachable fare, including dishes like steak frites, mussels, escargots, Salade Lyonnaise and steak tartare. Chef Quincey Sanders, formerly of Portland’s Le Pigeon, heads the kitchen, and the tender, homey beef cheek bourguignon could make a grown man cry. Open daily. 535 Fourth St., Santa Rosa, 707-531-4400, augiesfrench.com

Brigitte Bistro

Chef/owner Nick Ronan’s bistro-style cooking is the real deal. Raised between Paris and the south of France, he has created a menu that is a reflection of the food he loves best — beef bourguignon, duck confit, cheese souffle, onion soup gratinée, tableside beef tartare and the requisite steak frites (desserts are also stunning).

But it’s Ronan’s warm, bear-hug style approach to welcoming guests like family, encouraging evening sing-alongs at the dining room’s baby grand piano, that really defines his restaurant. For Ronan, Brigitte Bistro isn’t a quest for Michelin stars; it’s a neighborhood gathering spot for a meal in the French tradition — feeding family and friends with love and passion. 841 Petaluma Blvd. N., Petaluma, 707-981-8381, brigittebistropetaluma.com

Le Diner

This daytime boulangerie and gourmet sandwich shop magically transforms into Sonoma County’s tip-topiest French café Wednesday through Sunday evenings. Limited seating offers an intimate six-course dining experience from chef Sean McGaughery, who MacGyvers the tiny kitchen into a Michelin-noted force of nature. The menu features seasonal, locally sourced dishes like duck a l’orange, Wagyu steak tartare and petite escargot served in a Limoges tea cup. Requires a prepaid reservation, so plan ahead.

381 Healdsburg Ave., Healdsburg, 707-756-3972, troubadourhbg.com

The classics

Walter Hansel Bistro

When’s the last time you had Chicken Cordon Bleu? The chicken breast stuffed with Prosciutto and molten Gruyere disappeared with mall bangs and mixtapes, but it’s back at this rural bistro, along with French staples like steak frites, escargot and duck confit. 3535 Guerneville Road, Santa Rosa, 707- 546-6462, walterhanselbistro.com

La Gare

A longtime locals’ favorite (45 years and counting) for Old World French cuisine, La Gare offers well-established white-tablecloth standards, including coq au vin, Chateaubriand, frog legs and garlicky escargots. The Railroad Square staple was featured on KQED’s “Check, Please! Bay Area” last year. Open 5-9 p.m. daily for dinner. 208 Wilson St., Santa Rosa, 707-528-4355, lagarerestaurant.com 

Boulangeries and patisseries

Goguette Bread

Long-fermented loaves are the bread and butter of this family-run French boulangerie, sold still warm if you time your pickup right (preorders are recommended). The expanded footprint of the bakery means even more to love, including creamy French custard ice cream (try their espresso and ice cream affogato), sandwiches and buttery cookies. Open 1:30-9 p.m. Wednesday through Saturday. 59 Montgomery Drive, Santa Rosa, goguettebread.com

Pascaline Bistro and Patisserie

Doing double duty as a bakery and café, this French-owned carb-loading destination is the place to go for flaky croissants, kouign-amann and sweet pastries for breakfast (or lunch), along with hearty sandwiches, quiche and salads after 10:30 a.m. Pascaline also serves bistro-style dinners from 5:30-9 p.m. Thursday through Saturday, with offerings like boeuf bourguignon, veal viennoise and mushroom farrotto, plus a wine list with selections from France to Wine Country. 1021 Hahman Drive, Santa Rosa, 707-303-7151, pascalinebistro.com

Sarmentine

French expat Alexandra Zandvliet turned a pandemic pop-up into a multi-location patisserie phenomenon. The original, popular shop in Santa Rosa expanded to The Barlow in Sebastopol in 2023, taking over the former Red Bird Bakery location. Just last year, Sarmentine opened its third location in Petaluma. Don’t miss the baguettes, chocolate tarts, cream-filled mille-feuille and seasonal cakes like bûche de Noël. Plus, lunch sandwiches, cheeses, terrines and other French goodies. 52 Mission Circle, Suite 112, Santa Rosa; 6760 McKinley St., Suite 150, Sebastopol; 840 Petaluma Blvd. North, Petaluma, 707-623-9595, sarmentine.com 

Costeaux Bakery

This Healdsburg bakery has been a favorite for sourdough baguettes, croissants and addictive French onion soup since 1973 (the original bakery was built in 1923, right next to the current location). Their deep dish quiche, with ham, bacon, mushrooms, cheese and a few veggies just for good measure, never fails to impress. A go-to for great cakes, as well. 417 Healdsburg Ave., Healdsburg, 707-433-1913, costeaux.com

Les Pascals

This bright butter-yellow café is impossible to miss and a cyclist favorite for its pastries and coffee. Classic croissants, brioche and breads, the hard-to-find Paris-Brest (a doughnut-shaped éclair), sandwiches, quiche and the required French onion soup are on the menu. Open every day except Wednesday. 13758 Arnold Drive, Glen Ellen, 707-934-8378, lespascalspatisserie.com 

The post The Best French Restaurants, Cafes and Bakeries in Sonoma County appeared first on Sonoma Magazine.

The famed Michelin Guide has long been affirming what locals have known for years — the Bay Area is a food mecca. Residents and national publications alike rave about the area’s acclaimed chefs and their award-winning restaurants.

Sonoma County alone has an abundance of excellent restaurants, from fine dining bistros to casual community hubs. Some of our favorites earned stars in the recent 2025 Michelin Guide awards ceremony, including two stars for the new Enclos in Sonoma. It’s the first and only Michelin-starred restaurant in the city.

Below are all the Michelin-starred restaurants in Sonoma and Napa counties, as well as the rest of the Bay Area.

Sonoma County

New Two Stars

Enclos, Sonoma

Enclos has been eyeing a Michelin star since it opened late last year. Last week, the Michelin Guide awarded it two stars for its “opulent tasting menu,” featuring locally sourced contemporary cuisine. Enclos also received a green star, Michelin’s sustainability award. 139 E. Napa St, Sonoma, 707-387-1724, enclos-sonoma.com

Three Stars

SingleThread, Healdsburg

Repeatedly named among the world’s best restaurants, SingleThread retained its three Michelin stars for “exceptional cuisine.” It’s the only restaurant in Sonoma County with three stars. The farm-to-table restaurant also has a green star. Additionally, SingleThread’s five-room inn has three Michelin keys representing an extraordinary stay. 131 North St., Healdsburg, 707-723-4646, singlethreadfarms.com

One Star

Cyrus, Geyserville

Chef and author Douglas Keane reopened his Cyrus restaurant (formerly of Healdsburg) in Geyserville in 2022, and it promptly earned a Michelin star. 275 Highway 128, Geyserville, 707-723-5999, cyrusrestaurant.com

Napa County

Three Stars

The French Laundry, Yountville

Despite recent lukewarm reviews, The French Laundry’s three Michelin stars, as well as its green star, were safe from the chopping block. It remains the only restaurant in Napa County with three stars. 6640 Washington St., Yountville, 707-944-2380, thomaskeller.com/tfl

One Star

Auberge du Soleil, Rutherford

Credited as Napa Valley’s first fine dining establishment, Auberge du Soleil has maintained its one Michelin star for 18 consecutive years, since the coveted guide was established in 2007. The restaurant’s hotel of the same name, part of the Auberge Resorts Collection, holds three Michelin keys. 180 Rutherford Hill Road, Rutherford, 800-348-5406, aubergeresorts.com/aubergedusoleil

Auro, Calistoga

Auro earned its one Michelin star in 2023, just eight months after opening. It’s located in Napa Valley’s Four Seasons Resort, which also has one Michelin key. 400 Silverado Trail N., Calistoga, 707-709-2160, auronapavalley.com

Kenzo, Napa

Kenzo and Natsuko Tsujimoto’s serene Japanese restaurant in Napa Valley holds one star for its traditional, high-quality cuisine. 1339 Pearl St., Napa, 707-294-2049, kenzonapa.com

Press, St. Helena

Napa Valley’s Press restaurant earned its Michelin star in 2022 for its contemporary, Californian dishes. 587 St. Helena Highway, St. Helena, 707-967-0550, pressnapavalley.com

Greater Bay Area

Three Stars

Atelier Crenn, three stars. 3127 Fillmore St., San Francisco, 415-440-0460, ateliercrenn.com

Benu, three stars. 22 Hawthorne St., San Francisco, 415-685-4860, benusf.com

Quince, three stars. 470 Pacific Ave., San Francisco, 415-775-8500, quincerestaurant.com

Two Stars

Acquerello, two stars. 1722 Sacramento St., San Francisco, 415-567-5432, acquerellosf.com

Birdsong, two stars. 1085 Mission St., San Francisco, 415-369-9161, birdsongsf.com

Californios, two stars. 355 11th St., San Francisco, 415-757-0994, californiossf.com

Commis, two stars. 3859 Piedmont Ave., Oakland, 510-653-3902, commisrestaurant.com

Kiln, two new stars. 149 Fell St., San Francisco, 415-982-9722, kilnsf.com

Lazy Bear, two stars. 3416 19th St., San Francisco, 415-874-9921, lazybearsf.com

Saison, two stars. 178 Townsend St., San Francisco, 415-828-7990, saisonsf.com

Sons & Daughters, two stars. 708 Bush St., San Francisco, 415-391-8311, sonsanddaughterssf.com

One Star

7 Adams, one star. 1963 Sutter St., San Francisco, 415-655-9154, 7adamsrestaurant.com

Angler SF, one star. 132 The Embarcadero, San Francisco, 415-872-9442, anglerrestaurants.com

Hilda and Jesse, one star. 701 Union St., San Francisco, 415-872-7023, hildaandjessesf.com

Kin Khao, one star. 55 Cyril Magnin St., San Francisco, 415-362-7456, kinkhao.com

Le Comptoir at Bar Crenn, one star. 3131 Fillmore St., San Francisco, 415-440-0460, barcrenn.com

Mister Jiu’s, one star. 28 Waverly Place, San Francisco, 415-857-9688, misterjius.com

Nari, one star. 1625 Post St., San Francisco, 415-868-6274, narisf.com

Niku Steakhouse, one star. 61 Division St., San Francisco, 415-829-7817, nikusteakhouse.com

Nisei, one star. 2316 Polk St., San Francisco, 415-827-6898, restaurantnisei.com

O’ by Claude Le Tohic, one star. 165 O’Farrell St., San Francisco, 415-814-8888, one65sf.com

Protégé, one star. 250 California Ave., Palo Alto, 707-312-0931, protegepaloalto.com

San Ho Won, one star. 2170 Bryant St., San Francisco, 415-868-4479, sanhowon.com

Sorrel, one star. 3228 Sacramento St., San Francisco, 415-525-3765, sorrelrestaurant.com

Ssal, one star. 2226 Polk St., San Francisco, 415-814-2704, ssalsf.com

State Bird Provisions, one star. 1529 Fillmore St., San Francisco, 415-795-1272, statebirdsf.com

Sun Moon Studio, one new star. 1940 Union St., Suite 21, Oakland. sunmoonstudio.com

The Progress, one star. 1525 Fillmore St., San Francisco, 415-673-1294, theprogress-sf.com

The Shota, one star. 115 Sansome St., San Francisco, 628-224-2074, theshotasf.com *Temporarily closed

The post Michelin-Starred Restaurants in the Bay Area appeared first on Sonoma Magazine.

In a time of change and uncertainty, extolling the virtues of a perfect ball of burrata or a 10-course tasting menu may seem out of touch. But when you look at the bigger picture, it’s food that brings us all to the table. This year, we’ve chosen 25 Sonoma County restaurants that each bring a strong reason to be in our community and in our lives, whether a stunning plate of pasta, a sublime slice of lemon cream pie, or a singular point of view on the restaurant industry, it’s all important. Food is connection, food is love — and Sonoma County’s singular connection to land and sea creates a common ground we can all appreciate.

Enclos

Because it’s time for a Michelin star in the town of Sonoma.

Not every restaurant has that singular ambition of worldwide recognition woven into its DNA. But Enclos is a rising star destination that’s about to change all that. In March, Michelin inspectors dangled a tasty carrot by including it as one of 15 “recommended” California restaurants that could be on the shortlist for 2025 stars. It happened just three months after the opening, a rare feat for a fledgling.

Chef Brian Limoges, who was on the opening teams of San Francisco’s Quince and Birdsong, has the experience, drive and financial backing to reach for those stars. In January, he hit the ground running with an 11-course tasting menu that pays homage to the flora and fauna of Sonoma Valley, his new home. Instagram collectively swooned at tiny bites of venison and tree lichen perched on a found deer antler and Lilliputian ice cream sandwiches atop a honeycomb frame. Dining at this level is as much about over-the-top artful presentation as it is about pristine sourcing and complicated technique.

With a $325 price tag and just 30 seats spread over two elegantly appointed rooms, this is a bespoke luxury experience for a niche audience. But Limoges is raising the fine dining bar to a new level in Sonoma County, giving us a renewed pride of place and another chance at stardom. 139 E Napa St., Sonoma. 707-387-1724, enclos-sonoma.com

Acorn Cafe

Because French toast should always come piled this high.

There’s something gleeful about a breakfast standard gussied up with brioche and tall whipped mascarpone, cacao nibs, and a hearty scoop of coffee ice cream. No doubt this is an adult version of French toast, but it’s one that speaks to the kid in all of us.

Acorn is the breakfast and brunch spot that Healdsburg needs, with sunny lemon ricotta pancakes with lemon curd, whipped ricotta, and lavender ice cream and a riff on Dr. Seuss’s green eggs and ham, made with herby yogurt, poached eggs, and grilled ham seasoned with dukkah spices.

Everything about the place radiates joy, with orange pops of color throughout the interior, a bright and open floor plan that floods the space with light, and owner Beryl Adler’s obvious enthusiasm for adding a little wonder to your brunch. 124 Matheson St., Healdsburg. 707-955-7001, acornhealdsburg.com

Diavola Pizzeria & Salumeria

Because deep roots matter.

When Chefs Franco Dunn and Thom as Oden opened Santi restaurant in 2000, Geyserville was a tiny community. Their Italian restaurant honored what Press Democrat food writer Diane Peterson described as cucina povera, the soulful and frugal genius of Italian peasants with dishes like trippa alla Fiorentina and spaghettini Calabrese. Dunn and Oden’s passion ignited a generation of Sonoma County chefs eager to learn Old World ways of making pasta, salumi and bread from scratch.

Among the young recruits were three important chefs who later opened their own restaurants — Ari Rosen of Scopa and Campo Fina, Liza Hinman of Spinster Sisters, and Dino Bugica, who founded Diavola in Geyserville in 2008.

There’s a clear line that carries through from Dunn and Oden’s ideals to Bugica’s Geyserville restaurant today. Ingredients are local, the pizzas and pasta pay homage to Italian home cooking, and the delicious charcuterie is made in-house. The brick oven inside the restaurant glows — and trippa alla Fiorentina is still on the menu. 21021 Geyserville Ave., Geyserville. 707-814-0111, diavolapizzeria.com

The Goose & Fern

Because mate is just another word for friend.

If a British pub could be transported lock, stock and barrel to Santa Rosa, this would be it. Darts, pints and football — the kind with a soccer ball — are on tap, along with stellar pub food, including top-notch fish and chips, Guinness pie, and the world’s best sticky toffee pudding.

Clyde Hartwell, who speaks with a brogue as thick as his salt-and-pepper beard, runs the come-as-you-are establishment with his wife, Brittany, a trained pastry chef. He’s the guy behind the bar who’ll shout for you to grab yourself a table and refers to just about everyone as “mate,” because in his pub, you are. 116 Fifth St., Santa Rosa. 707-843-4235, thegooseandfern.com

Buck’s Place

Because these walls hold 119 years of stories.

A couple miles off Sonoma’s downtown Plaza, Buck’s Place has served as watering hole, polka hall, music venue and family-style restaurant since 1906. These days, its roadhouse charm shines brighter than ever thanks to owners Erika and Chad Harris, founders of Sonoma Valley’s popular Lou’s Luncheonette and Jack’s Filling Station, spots that, like Buck’s, feel heavy with the trappings of another era.

At Buck’s Place, the couple take a turn towards Italy, offering up red-tablecloth classics like chicken Parmesan, hoagies with all the gabagool, and crunchy-gooey mozzarella sticks. Pizza is the main event — Chicago deep-dish sometimes, or grandma-style Sicilian, crunch-edged Detroit, and the basic New York 16-inch round.

While the patio is dog- and family-friendly, we also like to head for the bar, a grown-up spot where you can grab a beer or one of their excellent daiquiris and chat with the locals. 401 Grove St., Sonoma. 707-231-1245, bucks-place.com

Marla Bakery & Cafe

Because summer suppers make us happy.

Marla is, of course, a bakery at heart, a year-round sanctuary of carbohydrates and sugar. Piles of impossibly large croissants, housemade bagels and breads, dark chocolate brownies, and slices of French apple pie peek from their glass case, along with the cult-favorite, croissant-muffin chimera, called the Crebble.

But Marla has a summer secret. From June to October, owners Amy Brown and Joe Wolf host a series of monthly dinners with similarly sustainability-minded local farmers, cheesemakers and winemakers. Tickets are announced by email and social media, so you need to be a follower to grab a seat.

Once you’ve experienced Amy Brown’s talents outside the pastry realm, it’s easy to see why the intimate dinners frequently sell out. Yes, she knows her way around a boule, but the former Nopa chef also knows how to tease the of-the-moment flavors from heirloom tomatoes, fresh goat cheese and sweet corn. This summer, the team is planning monthly pair-ups with Mt. Eitan Cheese, Lani Chan and Nathan Bender of Occidental’s Big Spoon Sauce Co., and a whole hog roast with Eric Sussman of Eye Cyder and County Line Vineyards. 208 Davis St., Santa Rosa. 707-852-4091, marlabakery.com

Quiote

Because blue tortillas just taste better.

Maybe it’s all in our mind, but the heirloom blue corn masa that this Petaluma restaurant uses for its tortillas just tastes, well, corn-ier. Or maybe it’s just because they use the buzzy Masienda masa that chefs line up for, sourced from small, traditional farmers across Mexico. (Food writers tend to get excited about that kind of thing.)

After hitting the comal, the tortillas turn nearly black, framing the brilliant colors of pink pickled onions, green avocado and citrusy cochinita pibil. This isn’t your usual taqueria fare, but family history following a line from Jalisco, Mexico to Sonoma County. The chile-marinated barbacoa (short rib), al pastor with ayocate beans, and fish tacos always make our best-of lists. Don’t miss the enchiladas smothered with mole and stuffed with chicken and braised Rancho Gordo pinto beans in broth. 121 Kentucky St., Petaluma. 707-774-6130, quiotemx.com

Bazaar Sonoma

Because compromise isn’t a word in their vocabulary.

Sean Quan and Jenny Phan of Bazaar Sonoma take a rigorous approach to classic regional Chinese dishes and refuse to Americanize their food to appeal to a broader audience. There’s no General Tso chicken, sweet and sour pork, or fortune cookies — instead, the seasonal menu leans into comforting, family-style dishes like whole sizzling fish, Hainan chicken, clay pot rice, and Hong Kong-style noodle soup.

Bazaar Sonoma is like going to a friend’s house, if that friend cooked like a Chinese mother who had also happened to work at a three-Michelin-starred restaurant (which Quan did). But the young couple are also hoping you’ll find a sense of community in their shared dishes and linger over a cup of tea.

BaSo is a natural extension of the couple’s outsider pop-ups — Second Staff’s spicy fried chicken, the high-low FNCY + PNTS, and the late night Matriarch that targeted off-duty hospitality workers and curious foodies. Quan and Phan are certainly ones to watch as they continue to evolve, one dumpling at a time — and on their own terms. 6566 Front St., Forestville. 707-614-8056, bazaar-sonoma.com

Augie’s French

Because we could live on warm baguettes.

“Are the baguettes still warm?” is a silly question to ask at Augie’s because, of course, they are still warm. These long batons of crackly crust and airy crumb are a signature of Mark and Terri Stark’s downtown Santa Rosa ode to French bistro culture, along with boeuf bourguignon and escargots floating in Pernod and garlic butter — two things that happen to go nicely with baguettes.

The French 75, a cocktail made with Cognac, gin and sparkling wine, also pairs nicely with baguettes, especially while relaxing on the streetside patio. Any further questions? 535 Fourth St., Santa Rosa. 707-531-4400, augiesfrench.com

Psychic Pie

Because pizza comes in all shapes and sizes.

At Psychic Pie, it’s hip to be square. Or sometimes round. Either way, it’s definitely Roman. Cut by the square or by the slice, owners Nicholi Ludlow and Leith Leiser-Miller are enthusiastic proponents of pizza al taglio or “by the cut,” as it’s done in Rome. Portions are measured by one, two or three fingers, as big or small as you’d like, and topped with rotating seasonal ingredients such as mushroom and chèvre, roasted leek cream and veggies, or pork ‘nduja sauce with pepperoncini, roasted peppers and aged Estero Gold cheese.

Occasionally, this pint-size pizzeria surprises with 16-inch tonda pizzas, the thin and crispy circular cousin of the al taglio , and they’ve even been known to serve up a hoagie or two. Ludlow and Leiser are natural collaborators, floating all boats with their rising tide of popularity, introducing us to pizza-friendly local products like Big Spoon Sauce Company’s chili crisp, Mad Marvlus’ fizzy natural wines and chef Preeti Mistry’s limited edition Hawt Sauce. 980 Gravenstein Hwy. S., Sebastopol. 707-827-6032, psychicpie.com

Cyrus

Because Douglas Keane has a lot to say.

Beneath the caviar carts, rare wine collections and shaved truffles, fine dining restaurants are in trouble. Inequity is widespread, with cooks often earning less than half of what a server makes. Health insurance is a rare benefit, vacations often nonexistent, flexible schedules unworkable and burnout rampant.

Chef Douglas Keane has a solution, and he’s just written a book about it. “Culinary Leverage: A Journey Through the Heat” recounts his years-long journey from clueless line cook to executive chef of a Michelin-starred restaurant. It’s got plenty of dirty secrets, juicy tidbits, and names named, but most importantly, it gets to the heart of how the restaurant industry can fix itself. The answer: Less staff, more training, and higher salaries.

It took a 10-year hiatus, a pandemic, a divorce, and some serious soul-searching to get there, but Keane’s “everyone does everything” mindset at Cyrus is living proof that the idea works.

His luxurious multi-course menu has guests sipping Champagne and wandering through the restaurant’s manicured vineyard — but his egalitarian ethos strikes a chord for restaurant workers struggling to pay rent and the restaurateurs struggling to stay afloat. 275 Highway 128, Geyserville. 707-723-5999, cyrusrestaurant.com

A&M BBQ

Because Texas brisket is what’s up.

Fellow Californians keep trying to convince me that tri-tip makes for great barbecue. It does not. The lean cut can make for a lovely fajita, but it is fundamentally unsuited for low and slow cooking — the very definition of barbecue.

Brisket, of course, is the king of ’que, and veteran pitmaster Kris Austin knows his way around this well-marbled piece of meat. A well-cooked brisket is the most primal of foods, smoky and charred, with soft bits of melted fat and yielding meat. With slaw and beans and thick slices of bread to sop up the juices, it’s a meal worth an amen any day.

Mississippi-born Austin has barbecue in his soul. He learned the craft from his mother, aunts and uncles, finally taking the tongs after years of apprenticeship. And like so many things in life, barbecue is a skill that’s never truly mastered. You just keep working at it. 495 S. Main St., Sebastopol. 707-8881315, ambbqllc.com

The Beet

Because Friday nights are for turning up the beat.

Cloverdale is usually a pretty sleepy town after dark, but on Friday nights from 9 p.m. to midnight, everyone’s dancing to the beat (beet?). Though this spot remains a mild-mannered restaurant and wine lounge by day, the owners realized there was a serious lack of hip-swaying and busting sweet moves in the north Sonoma County ’burg. As night falls, the weekly jump and jive comes to life. Just remember your dancing shoes. 116 E. First St., Cloverdale. 707669-5080, cloverdalebeet.com

Lightwave Coffee & Kitchen

Because where else does a skate park come with such delicious treats?

The Russian River town of Monte Rio is known for three things: its proximity to the secretive gatherings at Bohemian Grove, the Pink Elephant Bar, and Lightwave Coffee & Kitchen. Only one of those places right now is open to the public — and it has cake.

Follow the signs for the Monte Rio skatepark to Lightwave, a curious indoor-outdoor cafe bedazzled by a garage-sale decor, rooted in vibey California skateboard culture, and entirely west county wonderful. A short distance from the river, you’ll join both locals and in-the-know beachgoers at this secret garden of delights. The scraping sound of skateboards (and the occasional wipeout) are the soundtrack to your meal, along with spicy Monte Rio gossip and the occasional whimper of a dog begging its owner for a snack.

The menu ranges from simple bagels and smoothies to North African shakshuka with red peppers and eggs, Middle Eastern flatbread with eggplant and tahini, and fat slices of lox and beets on challah bread on the weekends.

But before all of that, order dessert. Co-owner Gal Ginzberg’s Instagram is a billion-calorie ode to adventurous cheesecakes and pies flavored with halva, lemon cream, pistachio, and strawberry. They can sell out quickly, so be sure to get there early. 9725 Main St., Monte Rio. 707-865-5169, lightwavecafe.square.site

The Redwood

Because you don’t have to love pet-nat to join the party.

The vibe at The Redwood, a wine bar, bottle shop, and cafe from chef/wine geeks Geneva Melby and Ryan Miller is decidedly New School, with a staff that’s obsessively well versed in anything skin-contacted, unfiltered or wild-yeasted.

You’ll find eager advocates of low-intervention wines on both sides of the bar here. But even if you’re not entirely convinced, it’s worth spending time with the wine list for two reasons: One, this is the next generation of wine, a sector of the industry that continues to be on the upswing. And two, tasting notes like “spring air” and “garrigue” (the forest floor of scrubland) are wonderfully weird and entertaining.

Yes, there is a whole section of the menu devoted to tinned fish, because every cool wine bar has tinned fish for some reason. But move past the sardines to Melby’s more intriguing bites, including Liberty Duck mousse with grilled bread, yellowtail crudo with pickled rose petals, and the trip-worthy Route 1 pita-and-dip array with homemade hummus, smoky baba ghanoush and labneh with dates.

Melby has a knack for Mediterranean and North African cuisine, with savory braised lamb shank with couscous, sole tagine, or roasted squash with Calabrian chile on the dinner menu. On Sunday, don’t miss the outstanding Turkish-style breakfast with jammy eggs, feta, tahina, pickled vegetables and grilled bread. 234 S. Main St., Sebastopol. 707-861-9730, theredwoodwine.com

Casino Bar & Grill

Because Saint Evelyn’s spirit lives on.

Evelyn Casini was the heart and soul of the Casino. Even at 97, she was the ever- present, no-nonsense matriarch who could stare down a man twice her size and then grab a beer with him. When she passed away last year, Bodega locals mourned and wondered what would become of the 100-year-old bar, with its creaky wood floors, herd of stuffed deer heads and ancient jukebox — a place that has served as a gathering space and watering hole for generations.

Fortunately, Evelyn’s granddaughter-in-law, Brandi Mack, has recently taken over, ushering the Casino into a new era. Recent renovations to the bar have expanded the kitchen and fancied-up the cozy dining room, though there’s still plenty of character — and characters — to be found inside.

Mack is also carrying on Evelyn’s support of up-and-coming guest chefs, who take over the tiny kitchen at the end of the bar a few nights a week and spread their wings. This spring, chef Amelia Telc of Half Hitch, whose resume includes buzzy restaurants you’ve definitely heard of in New York and San Francisco, pops up for dinner Friday through Sunday, with globally inspired dishes like pot au feu and Cantonese fish with ginger. Her weekly lineup is driven by trips to farmers markets and what’s just come in at the dock, meaning you never quite know what you’ll get. And that’s the fun of it.

On Tuesday and Wednesday nights, Alyssum Revallo of Alyssum’s Kitchen makes her mark with comforting soups, salads, and flatbread along with smokey kalua pork and flourless chocolate cake. For updates on guest chef pop-ups, check Instagram @casinobarandgrill. 17000 Bodega Hwy., Bodega. 707-876-3185

Valette

Because Dustin isn’t the only Valette who is a Healdsburg icon.

When chef Dustin Valette opened his namesake plaza restaurant 10 years ago, his dad took up residency in the dining room — and we are all better for it. Bob Valette, now 84 years old, spent 45 years with Cal Fire flying specialized tanker planes on critical operations that ranged from the Mexican border up to Oregon. Only a handful of pilots can fly these converted military planes, known for dropping thousands of gallons of all-too-familiar reddish-pink fire retardant. Bob Valette’s dangerous job often meant leaving Dustin and his siblings in the care of family members at a moment’s notice, with little idea of when (or if) he’d return.

For most of that time, the family’s hometown was a quiet, dusty, Alexander Valley hamlet with only a handful of restaurants frequented by winemakers and ranchers. Now, Healdsburg has blossomed into an international dining destination with a growing constellation of stars and nods and regular celebrity sightings.

“Pops,” as the senior Valette is best known, spends his evenings at his son’s fine dining restaurants as unofficial greeter and full-time storyteller. He’s easily picked out amidst a sea of well-heeled visitors and Healdsburg regulars, in his jeans and black T-shirt with the Valette logo. With a glass of wine in hand, he constantly circulates, proudly letting everyone know he’s Dustin’s dad. 344 Center St., Healdsburg. 707-473-0946, valettehealdsburg.com

Valley

Because food connects neighbors.

In January, Valley chefs Emma Lipp and Stephanie Reagor hosted a trip to Oaxaca, Mexico for a deep dive into culinary history. They brought back not just recipes, but an ongoing connection to farmers and producers, resulting in a special Oaxacan menu at the restaurant. It’s just another way the Valley team, which also includes Lauren Feldman and Tanner Walle, has always made a point to marry food and culture in a way that feels intentional.

Over the past year, that’s included a series of dinners dedicated to the legacy of Chinese culture in Sonoma, a dinner celebrating the Jewish and Hungarian cuisine of Jeremy Salamon of Agi’s Counter in New York City, and an event to honor local critic Elaine Chukan Brown’s groundbreaking new book on the history of California wine, which recognizes the oft-ignored contributions of Indigenous peoples and Mexican immigrants within the industry. At Valley, you’ll always find good food — and food for thought. 487 First St. W., Sonoma. 707-934-8403, valleybarandbottle.com

Rocker Oysterfeller’s at the Wharf

Because of heaping mounds of fried seafood.

Dining at the coast is a coin toss. Sometimes the fish is fresh and local, but other times, you’re probably eating frozen Alaskan cod and soggy French fries. Sonoma’s seafood fans demand better, which is why the Captain’s Platter at Brandon Guenther and Shona Campbell’s new restaurant is the catch we’ve been waiting for.

This is classic wharf-side dining with some Southern twists — not surprising, since the original Rocker Oysterfeller’s in Valley Ford highlights shrimp and grits and fried chicken. Here, however, the focus is on the “surf,” with blackened rockfish, clam chowder and Dungeness crab. The best bet, however, is the Captain’s Platter, the holy grail for those on a pilgrimage for fried seafood.

It’s a ridiculous amount of saltine-fried shrimp, beer-battered rock cod, salt and pepper calamari, a Dungeness crab cake and Kennebec fries, served with tartar, rémoulade and cocktail sauce for your dipping pleasure. I’ve looked for something as impressive as this on the coast for decades and never before found it. A tip of the captain’s hat to the kitchen. 595 Highway 1, Bodega Bay. 707-772-5670, rockeroysterfellers.com

Table Culture Provisions

Because everyone loves an underdog.

If you had to bet on the success of two guys who opened a fried chicken takeout restaurant during the pandemic, the odds would be long. But betting those same two guys would be in the running for a 2025 Michelin star? We’re talking multi-million-dollar lottery-level odds.

The long odds weren’t for lack of talent or tenacity — it’s just that chefs Stéphane Saint Louis and Steven Vargas didn’t have loads of wealthy backers or long culinary pedigrees before opening Table Culture Provisions. They had $1,000 and a vision of putting Petaluma back on the Michelin map.

In March, their passion and commitment led to TCP being tapped as a “recommended” restaurant (along with Enclos in the town of Sonoma) by Michelin inspectors. If the restaurant receives a star, Saint Louis will be the first black chef in California to be recognized. And that’s something all of Sonoma County is rooting for. 312 Petaluma Blvd. S., Petaluma. 707-559-5739, tcprovision.com

Underwood Bar & Bistro

Because a secret Thai menu at a French restaurant screams Sonoma County.

French onion soup, steak frites, cauliflower gratin, and pad grapao moo. Though one of these things is not like the others, at Underwood it all makes sense.

Chef Mark Miller’s Graton menu has always been focused on comforting bistro classics like croque madame, frisée salads with lardons, and duck leg confit with green French lentils. His real passion, though, is Thai food. After years of traveling to southeast Asia, he fell in love with the vibrant sweet, sour, salty, spicy flavors of Thailand and learned how to make curries, sauces, and complex dishes from a Thai cooking mentor. “Working in a Thai kitchen — it was amazing. It just changed me,” says Miller.

During the pandemic, Underwood shifted to an all-Thai menu to simplify takeout. Cheeseburgers just don’t travel as well as pad Thai does. And locals loved it. While the Underwood menu has mostly returned to fan favorites, Miller keeps a handful of his favorite dishes — hat yai fried chicken, Thai lettuce cups and spicy pork pad grapao moo — in the mix. Pad Thai, however, remains the top seller. “I’m not sure why, but we serve hundreds of them each week,” he says.

This year, Miller hopes to do a Thai pop-up featuring some of his favorite recipes, happy to have an excuse to fire up the wok and cook what he loves. 9113 Graton Road, Graton. 707-823-7023, underwoodgraton.com

Shokakko

Because Spam fries are what chefs really want on their days off.

Tired of fine dining foams and tweezers, a merry band of three fine-dining chefs drew inspiration from late-night Japanese yatai food stalls selling ramen, fish cakes and skewers of grilled chicken. The trio have used their highbrow culinary skills to create skyscraper-sized fried chicken sandwiches, Spam fries, husky crab and cheese-filled croquettes, and cult-favorite cream-filled fruit sandwiches.

“It’s the things we liked eating on our days off. The stuff we couldn’t find in Sonoma County,” says chef Elijah Trujillo of the food trailer he co-founded with his partner Kayla Hendrix and friend Kazuya “Kaz” Makishima in August 2024. You’ll find their kitchen trailer at various breweries and events around Sonoma County, and the weekly lineup of their stops is posted on Instagram @eat_shokakko.

Stella

Because pasta is the new kale.

I can’t quite remember when pasta became a bad word, but it’s time to welcome back a good plate of tagliatelle and step away from the lacinato and spaghetti squash. Like forever.

Stella takes a deep dive into the bottomless well of time-tested pasta – Roman tonnarelli (spaghetti’s chunkier cousin), lumache (snail-shaped) and creste di gallo (rooster’s crest) made daily. The dried stuff in your pantry has nothing on these silky ribbons and toothy tubes meant to grip every last drop of sauce. You will be ruined for anything else after eating a plate of Stella’s housemade rigatoncini with Bolognese.

The Kenwood restaurant is a much-anticipated new venture from Glen Ellen Star founder Ari Weiswasser, his wife Erin, and managing partners Spencer and Ashley Waite. Glen Ellen Star’s chef de cuisine, Bryant Minuche, leads the kitchen.

The wood-fired oven plays a leading role at Stella, but it isn’t used for pizzas. Here the oven is for roasting vegetables, meats, and even cheese, all to bring a kiss of smoke. You’ll also want to peruse the seasonal mozzarella selections — aka the mozzarella bar — including burrata with brown butter walnuts and 12-year aged balsamic vinegar and buffalo mozzarella with anchovy and a farm-fresh egg yolk. Save room for the Baked Gelaska, a riff on Baked Alaska with sponge cake, raspberry sorbet, and vanilla gelato topped with a swirl of torched marshmallow fluff. You can always go back to kale tomorrow. 9049 Sonoma Hwy., Kenwood. 707-801-8043, stellakenwood.com

Wild Poppy

Because the patio is everything, and so is the queso.

Warm days call for lazy mornings with mimosas and “cosmic queso” nachos on the rambling outdoor patio of this perfectly imperfect restaurant. It’s always been a magical place, full of nooks, crannies, and hidden spaces for adults and kids to explore. The remote location a few miles outside Sebastopol has been both blessing and curse, but the historic roadhouse finally seems to have hit its stride with an inclusive plant-forward menu that doesn’t exclude meat eaters.

This is west county, after all, and cosmic nachos with plant-based cheese sauce and cashew crema are not only normal, they’re expected. What’s unexpected is that the creamy cashew queso dip with a swirl of pepita chimichurri and a side of slaw is delightful, even if plant-based cheese isn’t your jam.

Sit by the babbling stream hidden by steep slopes covered in ivy and shaded by eucalyptus trees. The world slows for a moment or two while you enjoy heirloom beans and greens with polenta, fish tacos, or a fat grilled mushroom sandwich on focaccia. 9890 Bodega Hwy., Sebastopol. 707-503-6332, thewildpoppycafe.com

Troubadour

Because it’s been shouted from the rooftops.

Fine dining chefs-turned-entrepreneurs Melissa Yanc and Sean McGaughey are media darlings for a reason. Recognized by The New York Times, the James Beard Foundation and the Michelin Guide, the couple have created quite the following around their quirky food businesses around Healdsburg, which launched with beloved bakery Quail & Condor.

And when you have bread, you have sandwiches — the foundation of Troubadour, the second act in the ambitious couple’s culinary story. By day, Troubadour pairs freshly baked bread with a revolving lineup of fillings, including ham and brie with honey, fresh ricotta and roasted carrots, and creamy egg salad. Sounds simple, but these sandwiches are anything but.

Come nightfall, McGaughey and his small team shift gears for Le Diner, with seasonal French dishes like escargot, bouillabaisse, and duck breast stuffed with mushrooms and dates, either à la carte or as part of a seven-course tasting menu, and served on mix-and-match Limoges china. Troubadour’s kitchen lacks a proper hood or stove (it used to be a cupcake decorating room), so much of the cooking is done in simmer baths and low-temperature ovens, an even more incredulous feat. 381 Healdsburg Ave., Healdsburg. 707-756-3972, troubadourhbg.com

The post 25 Best Restaurants in Sonoma County in 2025 appeared first on Sonoma Magazine.

An influx of Italian settlers in the 19th century brought not only their winemaking skills but also their culinary traditions to Sonoma County. Unsurprisingly, some of our oldest restaurants (a few still in operation under second, third or even fourth generations) have kept family recipes as the backbone of their operations.

Newer takes on Italian cuisine often mix in California touches or focus on specific regions of Italy — from Milan to Sicily. With so much diversity in Italian cuisine alone, we’ve reached out to readers on our Facebook and Instagram to garner locals’ favorites in the county.

Scroll on below to find the best Italian restaurants in Sonoma County, starting with our dining editor’s top picks and followed by local faves. Mangia bene!

Our Dining Editor’s Top Picks

Grata Italian Eatery

This charming, chef-run restaurant offers modern takes on classic Italian dishes. Gnudi alla vodka, risotto and cacio e pepe are favorite dishes. Open for lunch, dinner and cocktails.

186 Windsor River Road, Windsor, 707-620-0508, gratawindsor.com

Stella

While pasta plays a starring role at Stella — which takes a deep dive into lesser-known Italian regional shapes like Roman tonnarelli (spaghetti’s chunkier cousin), Florentine creste di gallo (ruffled rooster’s crest) and rigatoncini (a tiny tube) — its wood-fired grill steals the show. Whole grilled dourade (sea bream fish), lamb ribs, mushrooms and soft Scamorza cheese get the smoky flavor and gentle char unique to live fire cooking.

9049 Sonoma Highway, Kenwood, 707-801-8043, stellakenwood.com

Golden Bear Station

This restaurant from the owners of Sonoma’s Animo is an homage to Italy. Mostly. While the menu leans heavily on gourmet pizzas and pasta, it also includes dishes like tuna crudo, whole lamb saddle and Asian-inspired pork chop in dashi broth. Pizzas are a highlight, perfectly cooked without the bitter notes of char, and the pastas are equally impressive.

8445 Sonoma Highway, Kenwood, goldenbearstation.com

Campanella

An unapologetic “red sauce joint” that channels the red-and-white-checkered tablecloth, candles in the Chianti bottle, garlic-scented family trattorias that are the lifeblood of Italian American neighborhoods along the Atlantic Seaboard. The mix of old-world and new-world flavors speaks to the 19th-century migration of Italians (primarily from Southern Italy and Sicily) to New York. Garlic knots, chicken parm pizza, steamed clams with linguini and cheesecake are all standouts.

7365 Healdsburg Ave., Sebastopol, 707-910-3030, campanellasoco.com

Portico

Paolo Pedrinazzi and his wife, Kathleen Escamilla, are the pasta whisperers of  Sebastopol. Their homey cafe has all the charm of nonna’s kitchen as Escamilla scurries between tables, dropping plates of cacio e pepe, risotto and fresh pappardelle pasta with saffron cream to customers. And, of course, the 12-layer lasagna. Don’t miss the Bolognese and fresh tiramisu made daily.

110 N. Main St., Sebastopol, 707-888-9136, porticosocialfood.com

L’Oro Di Napoli

Italian chef, Italian ingredients, Italian oven, Italian pizza. The most authentic Neapolitan pizza in Sonoma County goes from dough to done in seconds thanks to a super-heated woodfired oven. The housemade lasagna is unbelievably good. L’Oro Di Napoli opened a second location in Petaluma in February 2025, offering an expanded menu but keeping its legendary lasagna a Santa Rosa-only specialty.

629 Fourth St., Santa Rosa, 707-541-6394; 208 Petaluma Blvd. N., Petaluma, 707-981-7175, lorodinapolisantarosa.com

Cafe Citti

This popular Kenwood restaurant relocated to Santa Rosa and continues to serve some of the best pizza, pasta and sauces around. We love their polenta with creamy porcini mushroom sauce. Dine on the restaurant’s covered and heated back patio, or pick up for an Italian meal at home.

2792 Fourth St., Santa Rosa, 707-523-2690, cafecitti.com

Ca’Bianca

A Victorian home sets the stage for pan-Italian cuisine (from Milan to Sicily). The food always impresses with its restrained simplicity (no gloopy sauces or overwrought pastas) and graceful presentation. Great for impressing parents, dates or coworkers.

835 Second St., Santa Rosa, 707-542-5800, cabianca.com

Canevari’s Deli

The tiny ravioli factory founded in 1929 still sells freshly made ravioli (the original recipe) but has expanded into a popular Italian deli under current owner Lou Chambrone (formerly of Sweet Lou’s in Cotati). Chambrone has upped Canevari’s game with fat Italian-style subs, his recipes for lasagna, creamy tiramisu, polenta and dozens of other dishes.

695 Lewis St., Santa Rosa, 707-545-6941, canevarisdeli.com

Cucina Paradiso

Every pasta is a winner at this classy longtime Petaluma restaurant, but our favorite is the housemade ravioli, filled with roasted duck in sun-dried tomato, pine nut and basil sauce.

114 Petaluma Blvd N., Petaluma, 707-782-1130, cucinaparadisopetaluma.com

Canneti Roadhouse Italiana

This under-the-radar trattoria serves hearty Tuscan dishes from Italian transplant Francesco Torre, who takes pride in the authenticity of his frequently changing dishes with local ingredients.

6675 Front St., Forestville, 707-887-2232, cannetiroadhouse.com

Catelli’s

Lasagna with paper-thin layers of pasta and a tried-and-true meat sauce is a signature dish worth the trip north. Chef Domenica Catelli is one of Sonoma County’s bright lights, committed to using the best local ingredients. Don’t miss the burger or chicken parm.

21047 Geyserville Ave., Geyserville, 707-857-7142, mycatellis.com

Diavola Pizzeria & Salumeria

You’ll swear you’re in Italy at this temple of charcuterie, woodfired pizza and classic Italian entrees, including oxtail ragu with pappardelle, braised beef tripe alla Fiorentina and spaghetti with pork cheek ragu. The cheeky hanging laundry lining the walkway to the back patio completes the experience.

21021 Geyserville Ave., Geyserville, 707-814-0111, diavolapizzeria.com

Reader Picks

Riviera Ristorante

Italian classics like spaghetti Puttanesca and veal piccata impress local diners at this neighborhood favorite. Creamy gnocchi Riviera never disappoints.

“Riviera is my favorite. Authentic, diverse and delicious menu,” said Jed Spencer on Facebook. “The lamb ravioli is outstanding. Fresh bread and olive tapenade is a real treat, even when you order to-go! It’s a family-run restaurant, so you know you’re getting great service. Everyone is very friendly and after chatting with the owner I felt like I had a better knowledge of Italy and its food. If you’re making a list, they MUST be on it!”

75 Montgomery Drive, Santa Rosa, 707- 579-2682, rivieraristorante.net

Volpi’s Ristorante & Bar

Volpi’s in Petaluma dates back nearly 100 years, existing as a grocer and speakeasy before becoming a restaurant in 1992. Find Italian-American classics like spaghetti and meatballs, eggplant parmigiana and veal marsala.

“Love the old speakeasy and great family style food,” said Amanda Bolla of Volpi’s on Facebook.

124 Washington St., Petaluma, 707-762-2371, volpisristorante.com

Baci Cafe & Wine Bar

Plenty of Healdsburg locals say this is a must-visit spot often overlooked by tourists, with elevated Italian dishes from chef-owner Shari Sarabi. The bolognese sauce is made with Kobe beef, veal and pork ribs for an extra luscious dish.

“Love the food, the vibe, the owners and staff, and the wine list,” said Paula Radell of Baci on Facebook. “We eat there so often we have a designated table for two. It never disappoints.”

336 Healdsburg Ave., Healdsburg, 707-433-8111, bacicafeandwinebar.com

Della Santina

This Sonoma restaurant serves authentic northern Italian cuisine with pastas, breads, soups and fish referred to as “Tuscan Soul Food.”

“Della Santinas in Sonoma (is) the very best,” said Lorraine Cheli on Facebook.

133 E. Napa St., Sonoma, 707-935-0576, dellasantinas.com

Cibo Rustico

This family-friendly cafe serves less frequently seen dishes, including roasted zucchini flowers and fava beans, along with two types of ravioli, cannelloni and spaghetti. It is one of the few places to get Nonna Zeppole (beignet-style doughnuts). The wine list includes some of the owners’ Italian-style D’Argenzio wines.

“Cibos, owner treats you amazingly and might even pour you a little complimentary glass of his favorite wine, which he bottles from his barrelhouse,” said Adam Turréy on Facebook.

1305 Cleveland Ave., Santa Rosa, 707-623-9906, ciborustico.com

LoCoco’s Cucina Rustica

This cozy Italian trattoria is always packed with fans of their traditional pasta dishes (pappardelle with wild boar sausage, linguine with clams), shrimp scampi and veal saltimbocca. Homemade cannoli is a must-try.

117 Fourth St., Santa Rosa, 707-523-2227, lococos.net

Dinucci’s Restaurant

This checkered-tablecloth, family-style Italian has been around for generations. Dinners include antipasti, sourdough bread, minestrone and salads. Choose from dishes like classic spaghetti, fettuccini, chicken Parmigiana and cannelloni crepes. It’s a good deal for a whole lot of food.

“@dinuccis for sure!! Everything is delicious. Especially the homemade minestrone 😋” said @alexis_starkey_ on Instagram.

14485 Valley Ford Road, Valley Ford, 707-876-3260, dinuccisrestaurantandbar.com

Caffe Giostra

This strip mall Italian spot impresses with dishes like crab ravioli, calamari dore, house gnocchi and a divine torta di cioccolata (chocolate cake) — plus an attentive waitstaff.

“Caffe Giostra in Petaluma because the food is consistently delicious and the owners and staff are so welcoming,” said David Hartranft about Caffe Giostra on Facebook.

1390 N. McDowell Blvd., Petaluma, 707-664-9441

Risibisi

Housemade gnocchi with braised wild boar is a specialty at this Petaluma restaurant. Risotto is also a favorite.

“Risibisi Restaurant in Petaluma,” Keller Estate nominated on Facebook. “Great food and service.”

154 Petaluma Blvd. N., Petaluma, 707-766-7600, risibisirestaurant.com

Mamma Taninos

This locals’ favorite has a brief but focused menu with weekly specials from Sicilian-born chef Gaetano Patrinostro.

“[Mamma] Taninos in Sonoma. The best! A close second is Della’s just off the Plaza,” said Leslie Leutbecher on Facebook.

500 W. Napa St., Suite 512, Sonoma, 707-933-8826, mammataninos.com

Negri’s Italian Dinners & Joe’s Bar

Family-run since 1943, this old-school Italian eatery is known for its homemade ravioli. The updated Joe’s Bar and Lounge features all the traditional Negri’s favorites Friday through Sunday, including their famous fried chicken, burgers, pizza and modern takes on classic cocktails.

“Gotta go with Negri’s Italian Dinners & Joe’s Bar in Occidental,” said Donna Jean Say on Facebook. “Authentic Italian food and great hometown people. Can’t get those raviolis anywhere else and the desserts, homemade by the Negri ladies, are to die for.”

3700 Bohemian Highway, Occidental, 707-874-0301, negrisrestaurant.com

Piacére Ristorante Italiano

Another local’s favorite and one of only a few restaurants in this charming north county town. You’ll find a long lineup of pasta, parmigiana, seafood, veal dishes and housemade tiramisu.

“Family-run, amazing steak specials, calamari dori, real Italian veal, fresh tiramisu made daily, good value prices,” said Tina Castelli of Piacére on Facebook.

504 N. Cloverdale Blvd., Cloverdale, 707-894-0885, piacereristorante.com

Art’s Place

Founded by the late Art Ibleto, Sonoma County’s “Pasta King,” Art’s Place remains family-owned and has affordable Italian classics. The chicken marsala, fettuccini Alfredo and shrimp scampi get top reviews.

“Never had a bad meal,” said Cheryl Cook about Art’s Place on Facebook. “Friendly staff, good bar.”

563 Rohnert Park Expressway, Rohnert Park, 707-588-2787, artsplacerp.weebly.com

Honorable Mentions

Sugo Trattoria

This intimate Italian spot in Petaluma’s theater district offers an impressive lineup of bruschetta along with fan favorites like butternut squash risotto, pistachio-crusted salmon and a creamy pesto verdura.

5 Petaluma Blvd. S., Suite B, Petaluma, 707-782-9298, sugotrattoria.com

Trattoria Roma

This longtime family restaurant features an extensive menu of traditional Italian fare with hearty pastas, piccata, scallopini and saltimbocca.

140 Second St., Petaluma, 707-981-7807, trattoriaromapetaluma.com

Alfredo’s Italian Restaurant

Tucked away in east Petaluma’s Washington Square shopping center, Alfredo’s offers traditional Italian dishes at reasonable prices for lunch and dinner. Spaghetti Bolognese and housemade mushroom ravioli are standout dinner entrees. Get the tiramisu or chocolate gelato for dessert.

1426 E. Washington St., Petaluma, 707-782-0500, alfredoitlaliantogo.com

Tony’s of North Beach

Graton Casino trattoria fronted by world-famous pizzaiolo Tony Gemignani offers five styles of pizza: woodfired Neapolitan and California-style; brick-oven Italian and American standards, as well as thick-crust Sicilian; and stone-oven New York and New Haven-style pizzas.

288 Golf Course Drive W., Rohnert Park, 707-588-7741, gratonresortcasino.com

Pizzando

This little pizzeria in downtown Healdsburg specializes in Napolitana and Romana-style pizzas, and also offers seasonal bites, paninis, housemade pastas and organic soft-serve ice cream.

301 Healdsburg Ave., Healdsburg, 707-922-5233, pizzandohealdsburg.com

Rustic

Francis Ford Coppola’s winery-based Italian restaurant features the film director’s favorite dishes in an airy, open dining room and offers sweeping views from the patio.

300 Via Archimedes, Geyserville, 707-857-1445, francisfordcoppolawinery.com

Maci Martell contributed to this story.

The post The Best Italian Restaurants in Sonoma County appeared first on Sonoma Magazine.

They might not stand out as much as a Michelin-starred spot or a multi-story eatery on Healdsburg Square, but overlooked spots can be found all around Sonoma County.

When talking about the Sonoma County dining scene, there are the famous restaurants we brag about to fancy out-of-town friends. Then there are the treasured little spots we like to keep secret: the diners, delis, convenience stores and under-the-radar eateries that rarely get the accolades they deserve but somehow still remain popular with neighborhood regulars.

We call them our “townie” spots: places you can walk to and share a meal with friends, where they have that one dish you just can’t live without. Everyone has their own list of these not-so-secret places, but here are some of our favorites.

Santa Rosa

Canevari’s Deli: A Santa Rosa Junior College neighborhood classic that’s been around since, well, as long as anyone can remember. They have a tri-tip BBQ sandwich, meatball sub and homemade raviolis, and where else can you get a good gabagool? 695 Lewis Road, canevarisdeli.com

Lita’s Cafe: We know where the cops go for hearty, gut-filling breakfasts. Really, what better recommendation can you get than that? 1973 Mendocino Ave., 707-575-1628

Tambayan Filipino Eatery: You’ll find authentic Filipino cuisine here, like banana sauce, pork belly and pork sisig that make it worth the trip. 600 Larkfield Center, tambayanfilipinocuisine.com

Taqueria Molcajetes: This strip-mall Mexican restaurant has a local following who live for their carne asada and fiery molcajetes. 1195 W. College Ave., 707-544-8280

Walter Hansel Bistro: An excellent French bistro without all the hoity-toity. Lobster bisque, boeuf Bourguignon, Coquille St. Jacques — bon appetit! 3535 Guerneville Road, walterhanselbistro.com

Sebastopol

Lunchbox: Lunch Box burgers are the kind of messy, smushy, everything-good-about-beef burgers paired with “dirty fries,” a pile of crispy fries, chevre ranch dressing, bacon, green onion, roasted garlic and pepperoncini. You’ll need a handful of napkins and a stout appetite. 128 N. Main St., lunchboxsonomacounty.com

Cotati

Shige: Along with Hana Japanese in Rohnert Park, this is one of the few Japanese-run restaurants in Sonoma County with Tokyo-worthy nigiri and udon. (There’s also a second location in Sonoma.) 8235 Old Redwood Highway, shige-sushi.com

Windsor

PizzaLeah: Leah Scurto is an award-winning pizzaiolo who puts every bit of her soul into making the best pies in Sonoma County. We’re obsessed with the Old Grey Beard with mozzarella, fontina, sausage and hot honey. 9240 Old Redwood Highway, Suite 116, pizzaleah.com

Healdsburg

Guiso Latin Fusion: Named one of the best restaurants in America by Open Table, this tiny cafe mixes Latin and Caribbean flavors with panache. 117 North St., guisolatinfusion.com

Journeyman Meat Co.: Stop in for a salumi tasting or order one of their daily sandwiches or meaty sausages. 404 Center St., journeymanmeat.com

Taste of Tea: Healdsburg gets plenty of play for its chef-driven cuisine, but we like the homey Japanese flavors of this tea shop. 109 North St., thetasteoftea.com

Geyserville

Geyserville Gun Club: This Fellini-esque watering hole is almost too absurdly wonderful to be true. Brought to life by chef Dino Bugica, it’s the flip side of his more tourist-friendly Diavola Pizzeria and Salumeria. 21025 Geyserville Ave., geyservillegunclub.com

Cloverdale

Dahlia & Sage Community Market: A charming gourmet grocer with lots of locally sourced goodies, including a full deli, hot bar, salad bar and bakery. 115 E. Second St., dahliasagemarket.com

Penngrove

Twin Oaks Roadhouse: Fried chicken sandwiches are the best bet. Come also for the live music, fresh beer, good friends and bread pudding with whiskey cream. 5745 Old Redwood Highway, hopmonk.com/twin-oaks

Penngrove Market: An adorable gourmet grocer and kitchen. Try the pizza or piandine. 10070 Main St., penngrovemarket.com

Petaluma

Pearl: Mediterranean cuisine spot tucked away in a surprising place. We recommend it for a brunch with someone special. 500 First St., pearlpetaluma.com

Sax’s Joint: You’ll find plenty of people waiting to get in on the weekend, but outside of Petaluma, Sax’s is pretty much unknown. All the usual diner fare is done deliciously. 317 Petaluma Blvd. S., saxsjoint.com

Rohnert Park

Smokin’ Bowls: French fries topped with so much yum. 295 Southwest Blvd., smokinbowls.com

Azalo!: Charbroiled kabobs, burgers and dogs. Conchinita pibil is a best bet. 5979 Commerce Blvd., Suite 8, 707-303-7702

Graton

Willow Wood Market Cafe: Though this breakfast and brunch spot has been around since 1995, it’s often overlooked in the one-stop-sign town of Graton. Try their homey-yet-impressive menus. 9020 Graton Road, willowwoodgraton.com

Kenwood

Palooza Brewery and Gastropub: Patio dining with burgers, wood-fired pizza and more. A permanent outdoor space has towering heaters and plenty of coverage to keep you warm during chilly evenings. 8910 Sonoma Highway, paloozafresh.com

Glen Ellen

Glen Ellen Village Market and Deli: You’ll be amazed at the deli case, prepared foods and gourmet goodies hidden in this unassuming grocery store. It’s possibly one of Wine Country’s best-kept secrets. 13751 Arnold Drive, glenellenvillagemarket.org

Sonoma

Spread Kitchen: Chef Cristina Topham (known for her catering and farm market food) has opened a humble Lebanese-style cafe with fresh pita with hummus, beef and chicken shawarma, chickpea and black bean falafel and beef and lamb kofta. 18375 Sonoma Highway, spreadkitchensonoma.com

Occidental

Altamont General Store: A lunch favorite in Occidental, the Altamont General Store is a breath of fresh air, with an Instagram-worthy interior and plenty of grab-and-go dishes. 3703 Main St., altamontgeneralstore.com

Guerneville

Koala’s Fine Food: Sushi restaurants aren’t exactly a dime a dozen in far west Sonoma County, but then again, neither are cheese steaks. This casual family-run eatery brings together fish and chips, Korean bulgogi, Chinese won ton soup, Japanese ramen, cheese steak, nigiri and Hawaiian poke for a true something-for-everyone experience. 16380 Mill St., Suite A, koalasfinefood.com

Monte Rio

Lightwave Coffee and Kitchen: Located by the Creekside Skatepark, this curious little cafe is a mix of smoothies, bagels, pies and Middle Eastern cuisine. 9725 Main St., lightwavecafe.square.site

Northwood Bistro at the Northwood Golf Club: This hidden gem golf club has its own cafe with a lovely outdoor patio overlooking the course. The menu is simple, but the standard pancakes, omelettes and Benedicts just off the green start the day in style. 19400 Highway 116, northwoodbistro.com

Duncans Mills

Cape Fear Cafe: This tasty cafe in a tiny, quaint town features bacon chowder, a regional lineup of egg Benedicts (from grits to crab cakes) and ginger teriyaki chicken. 25191 Main St., capefearcafe.com

Cazadero

Raymond’s Bakery at Elim Grove Cottages: A cute, family-owned bed-and-breakfast with freshly made pastries, focaccia pizza and bread. 5400 Cazadero Highway, cazbakery.com

Bodega Bay

Ginochio’s Kitchen: Home to our favorite Dungeness crab sandwich. Ginochio’s buttery, griddled slices of white bread hold huge chunks of freshly picked crab and a slice of melted cheese. 1410 Bay Flat Road, ginochioskitchen.com

Casino Bar and Grill: This is a place to discover accidentally and then love unconditionally. A lineup of pop-up chefs steal the show including the Holly & Tali Show, Hunter Supper Club and more. 17000 Bodega Highway, facebook.com/thecasinobarandgrill

Jenner

Cafe Aquatica: We always, always stop here on trips up the coast for coffee, soup and whatever else sounds delish. 10439 Highway 1, cafeaquatica.com

Stewarts Point

Twofish Baking Company: Freshly made pastries, sandwiches, bread, salads, pizza and soup worthy of a drive up the coast. 32000 Highway 1, twofishbaking.com

Sea Ranch

The Sea Ranch Lodge: The 1960s-era Sea Ranch Lodge reopened in 2021 with new public spaces, including a redesigned restaurant, a new café and expansions to the bar, lounge and general store. 60 Sea Walk Drive, thesearanchlodge.com

The post The Best Hidden Gem Restaurants in Every Sonoma County Town appeared first on Sonoma Magazine.

Petaluma is awash with great restaurants, from simple sandwiches to luxurious farm-to-table experiences. It’s never easy to pick favorites, but there are some menus that stand head and shoulders above the rest.

Read on below for our favorite Petaluma restaurants of the moment. Check out the gallery for a peek.

Table Culture Provisions

Table Culture Provisions started quietly, popping up a night or two a week at Petaluma’s Wishbone restaurant. It’s become one of the hottest dining tickets in Sonoma County as owners Stephane Saint Louis and Steven Vargas upped the ante with a Michelin-worthy multi-course tasting menu. From 4 to 6 p.m., TCP offers an a la carte menu of snacks and larger dishes. Reservations recommended. 312 Petaluma Blvd. S., Petaluma, 707-559-5739, tcprovision.com

Street Social

With just six tables and 300 feet of dining space, Street Social feels like the most logical extension of the buzzy underground pop-ups that owners Jevon Martin and Marjorie Pier have hosted up and down the California coast for years. With just over a dozen diners in the restaurant at its busiest, it’s unavoidably intimate and makes you feel like you’ve stumbled across a secret culinary hideout. You have. But with a reservation, anyone’s welcome. 29F Petaluma Blvd. N., Petaluma, 707-774-6185, streetsocial.social 

Quiote

This family-owned taqueria is worth a special trip. Their handmade blue corn tortillas — topped with fresh rock cod, cochinita pibil with pickled onions, or al pastor and salsa verde — always make my “best tacos” list. Add a side of guacamole with serrano chiles and crispy raspadas or brothy Rancho Gordo beans to get the full experience.  While you’re there, I highly recommend the Jalisco-style mole and braised chicken enchiladas. 121 Kentucky St., Petaluma. 707-774-6130, quiotemx.com

Stellina Pronto

Stellina Alimentari

Part sandwich shop, part Italian grocer, part deli, part bottle shop — Stellina Alimentari defies easy explanation. Owner Christian Caiazzo aptly describes the narrow, brick-lined, mosaic-tiled eatery as having a New York Attitude with Italian Soul. Don’t miss the Il Michelangelo porchetta sandwich, fried risotto balls, panzarotti potato cakes and antipasti. 160 Petaluma Blvd. N., Petaluma, stellinaalimentari.com

Brigitte Bistro

Chef/owner Nick Ronan serves the kind of food he loves best: hearty bistro-style dishes like beef bourguignon and duck confit, along with tableside beef tartare and the requisite steak frites. But instead of pandering to us, he brings the flavors of French homeland directly to the table. Ronan’s favorite motto, “Love. Food. Wine. Passion. Life. People” comes through in his comforting, homey cuisine. 841 Petaluma Blvd. North, Petaluma, brigittebistropetaluma.com

Soban

Routinely recognized as the best “true” Korean cuisine in Sonoma County, Soban serves up an array of hard-to-find dishes like savory pancakes with kimchi, Japchae (glass noodles), Tteokbokki (chewy rice cake that’s a popular street food), spicy pork Bulgogi, sizzling rice bibimbap and soft tofu soup. 255 N. McDowell Blvd., Petaluma, 707-769-3112, sobanpetaluma.com

Sarmentine

The third location of this Santa Rosa French bakery favorite opened in 2024, offering a drool-worthy collection of bakery cases piled with cream-filled desserts like Paris Brest (pate a choux filled with praline cream) and Mille-Feuille, chocolate croissants, brioche buns, fruit tarts (the passion fruit is a favorite) and Madeleines. Tiny caneles have a sticky, crunchy crust and custardy center that buckle my knees with happiness. Bonus: The bakery and cafe now serves brunch. 840 Petaluma Blvd. N., Petaluma, sarmentine.com

Central Market

Dressed in his chef’s coat, Tony Najiola looms large over the dining room — watching every dish go out, visiting every table to ensure his patrons are happy — but he never imposes. The open kitchen, dining room and bar feel airy, with full views of the wood-fired oven and the line. But it’s the food, frequently sourced from Najiiola’s Muleheart Farm, that really does the talking here. Instead of foams and potions and powders, the food is just, well, food. 42 Petaluma Blvd. N., Petaluma, 707-778-9900, centralmarketpetaluma.com

Pearl

Inspired by the flavors of the Eastern Mediterranean and North Africa (with a little Southern French and Spanish thrown in for good measure), chef/owners Brian Leitner and Annette Yang continue to impress with their sunny interpretations of shakshuka, fresh pita, fattoush salad and braised meats, including brisket and lamb. 500 First St., Petaluma, 707-559-5187, pearlpetaluma.com

Stockhome

A neighborhood hub for unfussy family-friendly Turkish and Mediterranean street food found in the larger cities of Sweden with homey classics like Swedish meatballs, pickled herring and Swedish pancakes on the menu — all of it with a few nods to California as well. Consider it the United Nations of local dining. 220 Western Ave., Petaluma, 707-981-8511, stockhomerestaurant.com

Lunchette

We love the carefully-sourced, healthy and delicious lunch options at this tiny downtown walk-up. The smoked trout salad with preserved lemon vinaigrette, roasted beets, pickled raisins and cashews is our favorite, along with a warm grain bowl with roasted sweet potatoes and chickpeas. Slices of fresh pizza are also available to pair with your salad. 25 Fourth St., Petaluma, 707-241-7443, lunchettepetaluma.com

The Shuckery

Raw oysters are a Sonoma County staple, and I always forget how much I love the small, unassuming Kumamotos at The Shuckery. Dedicated to the humbler oyster, this cozy cafe is a shucker’s dream. Try the Bingos, grilled oysters with Cognac, mayonnaise, Parmesan and garlic. Plus a full bar and outdoor seating. 100 Washington St., Petaluma, 707-981-7891, theshuckeryca.com

Sake 107

Chef Eiji Ando, a Hana Japanese alum, has dedicated his life to the craft. It’s awe-inspiring to watch the flicking of his hands as he shapes the seasoned rice and fish into a single perfect bite, and perfect isn’t a word we use lightly when it comes to nigiri. This is seriously awesome sushi and izayaki in downtown Petaluma that reminds us of what great Japanese food can really taste like. 107 Petaluma Blvd. N., Petaluma, 707-241-7580, sake107.com

Brewsters Beer Garden

This 350-seat outdoor beer garden in the heart of downtown Petaluma would be packed no matter what the menu looked like — it’s a great place to have a beer. But the food continues to impress, with smoked brisket, my favorite buttermilk fried chicken sando (it’s the goat cheddar) and seasonal salads. Great for a night out with friends or family. 229 Water St. N., Petaluma, 707-981-8330, brewstersbeergarden.com

Wild Goat Bistro

A waterfront classic with insanely good Neapolitan pizzas (like the four cheese fig and pig with prosciutto and fig spread), polenta fries, Early Girl Dip with heirloom tomatoes and pancetta and dinner entrees including Shepherd’s pie, and wild salmon with roasted artichokes. 6 Petaluma Blvd. N., Suite A5, Petaluma, 707-658-1156, wildgoatbistro.com

The post 16 Favorite Restaurants in Petaluma appeared first on Sonoma Magazine.

It’s no secret that Sonoma County is a hotbed of divine cuisine. From world-renowned, Michelin-starred restaurants to hidden gem favorites, one could throw a rock in any direction and stumble upon a worthy eatery. With a vast culinary pool to pull from, our dining editor was tasked with finding the best, must-try local dishes — and these eats do not disappoint.

Barbecue

A&M BBQ

Barbecue powerhouses Kris Austin and Marvin McKinzy teamed up last year for the ultimate Texas ‘cue in Sebastopol. The line can snake out the door, and sometimes they sell out, so it’s good to get there early. “We don’t try to cover up the meat with sauce, so you can taste the time we put into it,” says Austin. 495 S. Main St.,
Sebastopol, 707-888-1315, ambbqllc.com

Ten-Layer Lasagna

Catelli’s

You can literally read a newspaper through each layer of super-thin pasta going into the dish. A family recipe that’s been refined over the years, it has a three-cheese filling of creamy Bellwether Farms ricotta, goat cheese and aged Parmesan. 21047 Geyserville Ave., Geyserville, 707-857-3471, mycatellis.com

Whole Roasted Branzino

Glen Ellen Star

Just about anything from chef Ari Weiswasser’s wood-fired oven is pretty magical, but the flaky, crispy whole roasted fish rises above, especially when served with shaved fennel, preserved lemon and tomato-y romesco sauce. 13648 Arnold Drive, Glen Ellen, 707-343-1384, glenellenstar.com

Perfect Breakfasts

Willow Wood Market Café

Since 1995, this charming spot has welcomed west county neighbors for excellent French folded eggs with fontina and basil, or golden polenta crowned with exquisite poached eggs and crispy prosciutto. 9020 Graton Road, Graton, 707-823-0233, willowwoodgraton.com

Lamb Chops

Willi’s Wine Bar

This Santa Rosa institution is a not-so-secret clubhouse for many of the county’s movers and shakers, an office away from home. Lamb chops are just one of the many small-plates favorites here, along with curried crab tacos and roasted carrots. 1415 Town and Country Drive, Santa Rosa, 707-526-3096, starkrestaurants.com

Jok Porridge

Jam’s Joy Bungalow

We’re special fans of this morning hangover helper: a tummy filling rice porridge with spicy ginger, herbs, fried shallots, a custardy 6-minute egg, and khao man gai sauce, a traditional Thai street-food favorite. You’ll never look at oatmeal the same way again. While the storefronts have closed, Jam’s Joy Bungalow offers catering for all types of events, as well as occasional pop-ups around the county. Reach out on Instagram for more details. 707-843-9001, jamsjoybungalow.com

Blue corn tacos

Quiote

Handmade blue corn tortillas topped with fresh rock cod, cochinita pibil with pickled onions, or al pastor and salsa verde, always make our “best tacos” list. Add a side of guacamole with serrano chiles and crispy raspadas or brothy Rancho Gordo beans to get the full experience. 121 Kentucky St., Petaluma, 707-774 -6130, quiotemx.com

Pizza

Psychic Pie

Rectangular, Roman-style pizza with a fermented sourdough crust is served by the inch (you tell them how much you want) at this casual slice house in Sebastopol. The picks switch up weekly, and there are always veggie and vegan types in addition to meatier options. New this winter? They’re trying out round pies every once in a while — what a concept! 980 Gravenstein Highway S., Sebastopol, 707-827-6032, psychicpie.com

The post 8 Must-Try Dishes in Sonoma County appeared first on Sonoma Magazine.