Food + Drink Archives - Sonoma Magazine https://www.sonomamag.com/category/eat-and-drink/ Things to do in Sonoma County Wed, 13 Aug 2025 23:02:39 +0000 en-US hourly 1 https://wordpress.org/?v=6.8.1 https://d1sve9khgp0cw0.cloudfront.net/wp-content/uploads/2023/06/smagicon-150x150.png Food + Drink Archives - Sonoma Magazine https://www.sonomamag.com/category/eat-and-drink/ 32 32 Deep Dive Into Dry Creek Kitchen’s Delicious Pasta Tasting Menu in Healdsburg https://www.sonomamag.com/deep-dive-into-dry-creek-kitchens-delicious-pasta-tasting-menu-in-healdsburg/ Wed, 13 Aug 2025 14:59:45 +0000 https://www.sonomamag.com/?p=128174

Chef Shane McAnelly of Dry Creek Kitchen pays tribute to his favorites on the restaurant’s new six-course pasta tasting menu.

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There are more than 300 identified pasta shapes in Italy, each with a unique history, birthplace and use — from cheese-filled tubes to ruffled ribbons that grip sauce.

Chef Shane McAnelly of Dry Creek Kitchen pays a delicious tribute to his favorites on the restaurant’s new six-course pasta tasting menu, including the street corn agnolotti that stole my heart in the summer of 2020.

It was one of my favorite dishes of that challenging year. The pillows of pasta with roasted sweet corn, shishito peppers, lime, cotija and cilantro were the essence of summer on a plate. I’ve long wondered if it was as good as I remembered. It is.

The Dry Creek Kitchen pasta tasting menu ($119 per person, $85 supplemental wine pairing) is a departure from the restaurant’s progressive American cuisine, allowing McAnelly to showcase his pasta prowess.

 

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The former chef of Healdsburg’s Chalkboard and Brass Rabbit, McAnelly was celebrated for his handmade pasta and lush, seasonal sauces. He later reintroduced many of those dishes at Bricoleur Vineyards in Windsor, where he was executive chef for three years.

Shane McAnelly created pasta tasting menu at Dry Creek Kitchen
Shane McAnelly is the executive chef of Charlie Palmer’s Dry Creek Kitchen in Healdsburg. (Paige Green, 2023)

More than macaroni

What sets this tasting menu apart is the joyful celebration of Sonoma County produce, made magical at this time of year.

The opening salvo is a single slice of Russian River Organics heirloom tomato atop creamy stracciatella with fresh basil leaves, Rochioli olive oil and a drip of aged balsamic. It’s almost comical in its simplicity, but a talented chef knows when to step back and let the ingredients shine.

Bellwether Farms ricotta gnudi wrapped in squash blossoms and bathed in a clear broth of tomato water and Parmesan is breathtaking. I have no idea what sorcery it takes to make umami tomato water, but bathing in it would not be out of the question.

Dry Creek Kitchen pasta
Cocoa Trifoglio on the Dry Creek Kitchen pasta tasting menu from chef Shane McAnelly. The clover-shaped tubes of pasta are infused with cocoa and topped with crunchy hazelnut praline. (Heather Irwin/The Press Democrat)

The showstopper is a sweet-savory Cocao Trifoglio, which McAnelly has revived from the Chalkboard menu. The clover-shaped tubes of pasta are infused with cocoa, lending an earthy foundation for a nest of Liberty duck confit. The lily is gilded with rich Madeira cream sauce and crunchy hazelnut praline. This will absolutely be one of my “Best Dishes of the Year.”

Beet Gigli with short rib sugo in a zesty horseradish gremolata is the heartiest course and had me crying for mercy and a doggy bag. It was just as amazing the next day for lunch, overlooking the fact that I microwaved it. Sorry, chef Shane.

Strawberry nuvole, a dessert pasta, on the Dry Creek Kitchen pasta tasting menu from chef Shane McAnelly. (Heather Irwin/The Press Democrat)
Strawberry nuvole, a dessert pasta, on the Dry Creek Kitchen pasta tasting menu from chef Shane McAnelly. The pasta is made with strawberry powder and accented by white chocolate shavings and mascarpone mousse. (Heather Irwin/The Press Democrat)

Pastry chef Taylor Kelley gets into the pasta spirit with a strawberry nuvole pasta (made with flour and strawberry powder). Shavings of white chocolate and a quenelle of mascarpone mousse add glam to this clever dessert.

While I’m all about a good plate of macaroni or a messy plate of spaghetti and meatballs, Dry Creek Kitchen’s pasta tasting menu does a deep dive into the ocean of what pasta can be in the hands of a master.

Reservations are highly recommended.

Dry Creek Kitchen, 317 Healdsburg Ave., Healdsburg. 707-431-0330, drycreekkitchen.com

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

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Montagne Russe Boosts Petaluma’s Downtown Wine Scene https://www.sonomamag.com/montagne-russe-boosts-petalumas-downtown-wine-scene/ Tue, 12 Aug 2025 19:36:31 +0000 https://www.sonomamag.com/?p=128147

Doubling as a record shop, the newly opened venue pours excellent wines and hosts trivia events, movie nights and live music.

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The bar for downtown Petaluma’s tasting room scene just got a little higher with the addition of Montagne Russe. Doubling as a record shop, the newly opened venue pours cool-climate Pinot Noir, Syrah and Chardonnay, plus Rhône-style selections under the winery’s Le Pöet-Laval side label.

The story

Kevin Bersofsky might still be a garage winemaker today if his neighbor hadn’t ratted him out to the feds. While working for Sutter Home Winery in 2006, Bersofsky started making his own wine at home in St. Helena. He started with a few barrels and gradually expanded production to more than a dozen. Then, in 2013, somebody squealed.

The Alcohol and Tobacco Tax and Trade Bureau quickly shut down Bersofsky’s illicit operation, forcing him to dump four precious barrels down the drain. (In my mind, the feds shoot the barrels with 1920s machine guns as red wine spurts from the bullet holes. It may or may not have actually gone down that way.) Bersofsky learned his lesson and went legit, officially founding Montagne Russe in 2015.

Montagne Russe tasting room at Bacchus Landing in Healdsburg
The Montagne Russe tasting room at Bacchus Landing in Healdsburg featured a mural of a roller coaster that winemaker and owner Kevin Bersofsky designed as a senior engineering project while in college. As of Memorial Day this year, Montagne Russe shut down its Healdsburg tasting room, reopening it in Petaluma last month. (Brian Welsh)

Taking its name from the French term for roller coaster — Bersofsky helped design one as an engineering undergraduate — Montagne Russe specializes in single-vineyard wines from the Petaluma Gap and other cool-climate regions. The winery buys fruit from local growers and makes the wines at Brooks Note just down the street. Chardonnay, Pinot Noir and Syrah are flagships.

The vibe

After closing its Healdsburg tasting room at Bacchus Landing, Montagne Russe took over the Black Knight Vineyards space in Petaluma last month.

Montagne Russe in Petaluma
The grand opening of Montagne Russe in Petaluma, Saturday, July 12, 2025. (Kent Porter / The Press Democrat)
Records sit for sale at the Montagne Russe Winery and Record Lounge in Petaluma Thursday, July 31, 2025. (Beth Schlanker / The Press Democrat)
Records sit for sale at the Montagne Russe Winery and Record Lounge in Petaluma Thursday, July 31, 2025. (Beth Schlanker / The Press Democrat)

Walking into the sunny, open room, visitors are greeted with a giant roller coaster graphic that twists its way across the entire left-hand wall. Weeeee!

Tasters can settle into window seating facing Petaluma Boulevard, perch at high-top tables or grab stools at the white quartz tasting bar. The atmosphere is relaxed for both humans and pups; there’s even a basket of dog toys so furry ones can chew while their humans sip.

A small alcove at the back of the venue serves as a record emporium with thousands of albums for sale. (Bersofsky’s personal vinyl collection lives behind the bar — and yes, he does take requests.)

On the palate

Montagne Russe wine
The Montagne Russe 2022 Petaluma Gap Pinot Noir at the Montagne Russe Winery and Record Lounge in Petaluma Thursday, July 31, 2025. (Beth Schlanker / The Press Democrat)

Bersofsky is the chief financial officer at Folio Fine Wine Partners in his weekday gig, but he says he’s not a numbers guy in the vineyard. Grape-picking decisions are made according to taste, when the fruit achieves the right balance between flavor, sugar and acidity.

I could happily quaff the 2023 Le Pöet-Laval White Rhone Blend from Mendocino County ($35) all summer long. It’s crisp and lean, with appealing peachy aromas and flavors. The 2022 Montagne Russe Dragon’s Back Sonoma Coast Pinot Noir ($58) is a pretty, floral wine with aromas of raspberries and spice. The 2021 Alder Springs Syrah from Mendocino County ($55) is like sipping blackberry pancakes with a side of bacon. The wine is savory and structured, with a lush, long finish.

Tastings cost $35 (choose between Montagne Russe and Le Pöet-Laval flights). Mad scientist types can also book a “winemaker for a day” blending session for $100. Stay tuned in the coming months for “Vinyls & Vino” trivia events, movie nights and live music.

Beyond the bottle

Stellina Alimentari sandwich
A meaty sandwich from Stellina Alimentari in Petaluma. (Emma K Creative)

Just across the street from Montagne Russe, Stellina Alimentari is the place to savor an Italian-style focaccia sandwich or made-to-order arancini. Italian house wines are typically just 10 bucks a glass, and there are lots of yummy pantry items and take-home bottles for sale.

Montagne Russe is open from noon to 6 p.m. Sunday through Monday and from noon to 8 p.m. Thursday through Saturday. 155 Petaluma Blvd. N., Petaluma, ​1-855-GO-RUSSE (1-855-467-8773), russewines.com

Tina Caputo is a wine, food, and travel journalist who contributes to Sonoma magazine, SevenFifty Daily, Visit California, Northern California Public Media, KQED, and more. Follow her on Bluesky at @winebroad.bsky.social, view her website at tinacaputo.com, and email her story ideas at tina@caputocontent.com.

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Guy Fieri’s Favorite Sonoma County Restaurants https://www.sonomamag.com/all-the-sonoma-county-restaurants-guy-fieri-has-visited-on-diners-drive-ins-dives/ https://www.sonomamag.com/all-the-sonoma-county-restaurants-guy-fieri-has-visited-on-diners-drive-ins-dives/#disqus_thread Tue, 12 Aug 2025 16:30:59 +0000 https://www.sonomamag.com/biteclub/?p=40157

Guy Fieri loves giving extra props to his fellow restaurateurs. Check out the local restaurants he featured on “Diners, Drive-Ins & Dives.”

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Guy Fieri may be a household name across the country, but he’ll always be Santa Rosa’s native son. Sonoma County is where he launched his first restaurants and where his philanthropic spirit continues to shine. Still living and working in the area, Fieri is known for supporting fellow local restaurateurs — and giving them a national spotlight on his hit Food Network show “Diners, Drive-Ins & Dives.”

For many, that kind of exposure brings a major boost in business and lasting recognition. If you’re visiting one of these featured spots, keep an eye out — Fieri’s flashy signature is often hidden somewhere inside, a fun little Easter egg for fans to discover.

La Texanita Restaurant, Santa Rosa

Craving an authentic taste for his “Global Grub” episode in season seven, Fieri went to La Texanita Restaurant in Santa Rosa. “So simple, but so good,” he said of the carne asada tacos. “I’m telling you something, there’s just nothing that can beat that handmade tortilla.” Some other Fieri favorites include the posole, sopes and huaraches. 1667 Sebastopol Road, Santa Rosa, 707-525-1905, latexanita.com

A molcajete and margarita from Taqueria Molcajetes, a Mexican taqueria in Santa Rosa that was featured on Guy Fieri's Food Network series "Diners, Drive-ins and Dives" for its smoking-hot Molcajete Mixto. (Alvin Jornada / The Press Democrat, file)
A molcajete and margarita from Taqueria Molcajetes, a Mexican taqueria in Santa Rosa that was featured on Guy Fieri’s Food Network series “Diners, Drive-ins and Dives” for its smoking-hot Molcajete Mixto. (Alvin Jornada / The Press Democrat, file)

Taqueria Molcajetes, Santa Rosa

Fieri highlighted numerous dishes at Santa Rosa’s Taqueria Molcajetes for his “Regional Recipes” episode in season 29, including its signature Molcajete Mixto as well as the taquitos, burritos, tacos pastor and chile verde. He called this Mexican restaurant off West College Avenue “without question, one of the best Mexican food experiences I have ever had.” 1195 W College Ave., Santa Rosa, 707-544-8280

Guy Fieri tries blueberry pancakes at Hank's Creekside in Santa Rosa. (John Burgess/The Press Democrat)
Guy Fieri tries blueberry pancakes at Hank’s Creekside in Santa Rosa. (John Burgess/The Press Democrat)

Hank’s Creekside Restaurant, Santa Rosa

The traditional breakfast and brunch spot Hank’s Creekside Restaurant in Santa Rosa was featured in the “House Specials” episode in season one. Fieri tried the blueberry pancakes with corn beef hash. “It’s basic, it’s simple, but it’s money,” he said. He also mentions the eggs Benedict and cinnamon-walnut French toast. 2800 Fourth St., Santa Rosa, 707-575-8839, hanks-creekside.com

Simply Vietnam Express, Santa Rosa

Serving up the unique flavors of Vietnam, Santa Rosa’s Simply Vietnam Express was featured in the “Meaty Mashup” episode in season 29, where Fieri praised its combination pho. “Oh my goodness. It’s light, refreshing, but the depth of flavors is outstanding,” he said. “It’s everything I wanted it to be.” 3381 Cleveland Ave., Santa Rosa, 707-544-4585, simplyvietnamexpress.com

Bo Kho, Spicy Vietnamese Beef Stew, by chef Be Nguyen of Simply Vietnam in Santa Rosa in 2018. (John Burgess/The Press Democrat)
Bo Kho, Spicy Vietnamese Beef Stew, by chef Be Nguyen of Simply Vietnam in Santa Rosa. (John Burgess/The Press Democrat)
Korean Burrito with Marin sun Farms ground beef marinated with soy, brown sugar, garlic and ginger, Korean BBQ sauce, avocado, mint cilantro, pickled daikon and carrot, organic brown rice, and kimchi at Zoftig in Santa Rosa. (Chris Hardy/For Sonoma Magazine)
Korean Burrito with ground beef marinated with soy, brown sugar, garlic and ginger, Korean barbecue sauce, avocado, mint cilantro, pickled daikon and carrot, organic brown rice, and house kimchi at Zoftig in Santa Rosa. (Chris Hardy/For Sonoma Magazine)

Zoftig Eatery, Santa Rosa

Featured on the “From Big Burgers to Little Italy” episode in season 29, Zoftig Eatery is a contemporary restaurant serving up healthy fare. Fieri tried the Korean burrito, stuffed with marinated Stemple Creek Ranch beef, house kimchi, brown rice and veggies. “I’m going to drown in my own drool,” he said before chomping down on the burrito. 57 Montgomery Drive, Santa Rosa, 707-521-9554, zoftigeatery.com

Tiramisu at Cafe Citti in Santa Rosa. (Heather Irwin/The Press Democrat)
Tiramisu at Cafe Citti in Santa Rosa. (Heather Irwin/The Press Democrat)

Cafe Citti, Santa Rosa

Before it moved locations from Kenwood to Santa Rosa, Fieri featured Cafe Citti in the “Bringin’ It Home” episode in season nine as well as the “Amazing Italian” episode in season 21. Fieri enjoyed the Italian trattoria’s classic Polenta ai Funghi Porcini, and he called the ravioli an “orchestra of flavors.” 2792 Fourth St., Santa Rosa, 707-523-2690, cafecitti.com

Sunflower Caffe, Sonoma

Sonoma’s Sunflower Caffe, a popular breakfast destination, was featured in the “From Mozz to Matzo Balls” episode in season 11. Fieri sampled the borscht and feta lamb burger. “That’s like the [most] luscious lamb burger,” he said. “Seriously, one of the best I’ve tried.” 421 First St. W., Sonoma, 707-996-6645, sonomasunflower.com

Avocado toast from Sunflower Caffe in Sonoma. (Sunflower Caffe)
Avocado toast from Sunflower Caffe in Sonoma. (Sunflower Caffe)
The outdoor seating area at Russian River Pub in Forestville. (Russian River Pub)
The outdoor seating area at Russian River Pub in Forestville. (Russian River Pub)

Russian River Pub, Forestville

Russian River Pub is a regular go-to for Fieri, who first featured the restaurant in the “American Cookin’” episode in season one. Fieri’s favorite dishes include the pub burger, seared ahi tuna salad and beef tri-tip sandwich. But it’s the crispy, juicy chicken wings that he calls “some of the best-tasting wings in the nation.” Fieri featured the pub again in the “Takeout: Bold Bites Brought Home” episode in season 32, and a third time in the Triple D Nation spinoff in the “California Comfort” episode. 11829 River Road, Forestville, 707-887-7932, russianriverpub.com

Ten-layer lasagna at Catelli's in Geyserville. (Chris Hardy/for Sonoma Magazine)
Ten-layer lasagna at Catelli’s in Geyserville. (Chris Hardy/for Sonoma Magazine)

Catelli’s, Geyserville

Catelli’s was featured in the “Bar Food and Bon Bons” episode in season 12. Fieri said the ravioli, made in-house from scratch, was “memorably great” and he couldn’t get enough of the beef meatball sliders. Fieri featured the California-inspired Italian restaurant in three other episodes of “Diners, Drive-Ins & Dives” and its spinoff show “Triple D Nation.” 21047 Geyserville Ave., Geyserville, 707-857-3471, mycatellis.com

Changed concepts and/or management

Cochon Volant BBQ Smoke House (now Il Fuoco Pizza), Sonoma

Also featured in the “Meaty Mashup” episode was Sonoma’s former Cochon Volant BBQ Smoke House (now Il Fuoco Pizza). Fieri praised the spicy fried chicken, calling it “a chef’s fried chicken.” He also has a namesake dish on the menu — the WTF (What The Fieri) Burger — a seared beef patty topped with 14-hour smoked brisket, smoked pork shoulder, house-cured maple bacon, a fried chipotle pork cake, cheddar cheese and housemade barbecue sauce. While Cochon Volant switched to pizza-focused Il Fuoco in 2021, chef Rob Larman still offers catering and serves barbecue during weekend pop-ups at the restaurant. 18350 Sonoma Highway, Sonoma, 707-509-5480, cochonvolantbbq.com, ilfuocopizza.com

Cochon Volant BBQ is a Guy Fieri favorite
Customers order baby back ribs, sausage, pork shoulder, short ribs and beef brisket by the pound to create their mixed platter at the Cochon Volant BBQ Smoke House in Sonoma. (John Burgess / The Press Democrat)
Turkey Scallopini at The Bird in Santa Rosa. (Heather Irwin/Press Democrat)
Turkey Scallopini at The Bird in Santa Rosa. (Heather Irwin/Press Democrat)

Willie Bird’s Restaurant (now The Bird), Santa Rosa

Known for serving up turkey in a wide variety of ways, Willie Bird’s (now The Bird) was featured on the “Talkin’ Turkey” episode in season two. Fieri was impressed with the turkey stroganoff served in a creamy sauce with sautéed mushrooms.

The Santa Rosa Avenue restaurant closed in 2021, sold to new owners and was then reborn as The Bird in Rincon Valley, featuring a revamped yet still turkey-centric menu. The original location is now a Mountain Mike’s Pizza4776 Sonoma Highway, Santa Rosa, 707-542-0861, thebirdrestaurant.com

Jimtown and Then Sum
Shrimp and pork shumai from dim sum specialist Michelle Wood, the new owner of Jimtown Store, at her home in Santa Rosa, Friday, Jan. 24, 2025. (John Burgess / The Press Democrat)

Jimtown Store (now Jimtown and Then Sum), Healdsburg

In the “Porktastic” episode in season 11, Fieri featured Healdsburg’s historic Jimtown Store, a quaint café in a rustic country store tucked away in the vineyards of Alexander Valley. “Big, deep flavor in the brisket,” Fieri said of the smoked brisket sandwich. “Sauce is no joke, you get that little back kick of the bourbon.”

Jimtown Store closed at the end of 2019 and reopened as Jimtown and Then Sum in June 2025 under chef Michelle Wood. The reimagined Jimtown now focuses on dim sum as well as spring rolls, poke bowls, banh mi and traditional deli sandwiches. Jimtown remains a fitting eatery for the “Poktastic” episode, as our dining editor loves the pork shumai and barbecue pork bao buns on the current menu. 6706 Highway 128, Healdsburg, 707-756-5022, jimtown.com

Closed

Worth Our Weight (Now Closed), Santa Rosa

The nonprofit Worth Our Weight culinary training program and bistro (located on Hahman Drive where Pascaline French Bistro is now) was featured in the “Funky Finds” episode in season 11. Fieri noted it as a “one-of-a-kind experience,” and the Guy Fieri Foundation donated a pretzel cart to the culinary program/restaurant. Worth Our Weight executive director Evelyn Cheatham announced the closing of the culinary training program for at-risk young adults in 2018 after struggling to find funding. Cheatham died in November 2019.

Worth Our Weight executive director Evelyn Cheatham announced the culinary training program for at-rish young adults will close after struggling to find funding. Cheatham plans to travel the world and sleep in more. (photo by John Burgess/The Press Democrat)
Worth Our Weight executive director Evelyn Cheatham announced in 2018 the culinary training program and bistro for at-risk young adults will close after struggling to find funding. Cheatham died in November 2019. (John Burgess/The Press Democrat)
Guy Fieri's Johnny Garlic’s
Before Johnny Garlic’s closed in 2018, Fieri featured his own restaurant chain on “Diners, Drive-Ins and Dives.” At the restaurant’s Santa Rosa location in 2012, he showed viewers how the restaurant makes Sashimi Won Tacos and Garlic-Onion Tortilla Stack. (Kent Porter/ The Press Democrat, file)

Johnny Garlic’s (Now Closed), Santa Rosa

Before it closed in 2018, Fieri featured his own restaurant in the “Unexpected Eats” episode in season 14. The restaurant had a fusion of Mexican, Italian, Asian and Cajun dishes on the menu, and on his show Fieri highlighted the eatery’s Sashimi Won Tacos dressed in eel sauce, which won gold at the Sonoma County Harvest Fair.

Zazu Kitchen + Farm (Now Closed), Sebastopol

Farm-to-table establishment Zazu Kitchen + Farm was featured on the “From Sandwiches to Stroganoff” episode in season 29. Fieri loved the Bacon-in-the-Batter Waffle along with the quality, freshness and portion sizes of the restaurant’s dishes. Zazu closed in 2019 after a flood damaged the restaurant and surrounding businesses in Sebastopol’s The Barlow. Owners Duskie Estes and John Stewart continue to operate their Black Pig Meat Co. food truck and catering business.

The now-closed Zazu Kitchen + Farm in Sebastopol. (Chris Hardy)
The now-closed Zazu Kitchen + Farm in Sebastopol. (Chris Hardy)
Schellville Grill on Broadway at Highway 121. (Photo by Robbi Pengelly/Index-Tribune)
The now-closed Schellville Grill on Broadway at Highway 121 in Sonoma. (Robbi Pengelly/Index-Tribune)

Schellville Grill (Now Closed), Sonoma

Sonoma’s Schellville Grill was featured on the “Grilled, Smoked and Sauced” episode in season nine. Fieri tried the buckaroo sandwich with Mexican Achoté chicken on a brioche roll and the tri-tip sandwich smothered in a special barbecue sauce. It had “the right amount of smoke,” he said. Schellville Grill owner Matthew Nagan sold the restaurant in 2020.

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Psychic Pie Is Having a Tomato Moment With a Summer-Only Pizza https://www.sonomamag.com/psychic-pie-is-having-a-tomato-moment-with-a-summer-only-pizza/ Thu, 07 Aug 2025 21:48:24 +0000 https://www.sonomamag.com/?p=127993

The seasonal bruschetta pizza at Psychic Pie adds first-of-the-season local tomatoes atop an award-winning sourdough crust.

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Sure, tomatoes are available year-round, but is there anything more delicious than red, ripe cherry tomatoes or super-sweet Sungolds right off the vine?

The summer-only bruschetta pizza at Psychic Pie pairs first-of-the-season local tomatoes with their herbal bestie, basil, atop an award-winning Roman-style sourdough pizza crust.

Tomato Bruschetta Pizza, with seasonal tomatoes, from Psychic Pie
The Tomato Bruschetta Pizza from Psychic Pie Thursday, May 12, 2025, in Sebastopol. The pizza includes summer tomatoes, a drizzle of golden balsamic vinegar and a sprinkle of aged Estero Gold Reserve cheese. (John Burgess / The Press Democrat)

“Sungolds have become super-popular. That’s my favorite variety I always try to mix in there,” says Leith Leiser-Miller, Psychic Pie’s co-owner along with her husband, Nicholi Ludlow. “The bruschetta pizza makes me think of something simple that’s refreshing and filling and delicious that I can eat outside.”

A glistening drizzle of golden balsamic vinegar and a sprinkle of aged Estero Gold Reserve cheese connect the dots on this tasty seasonal slice.

980 Gravenstein Highway S., Sebastopol. 707-827-6032, psychicpie.com

Want to get your own summer tomatoes? Find them at one of our favorite local farmstands. Find more of the best pizza spots in Sonoma County here.

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Russian River and More: Best Sonoma County Breweries for First-Time Visitors https://www.sonomamag.com/best-sonoma-county-breweries/ Thu, 07 Aug 2025 17:45:39 +0000 http://www.sonomamag.com/?p=31147

Aug. 7 is National IPA Day! With a number of first-class beer venues to choose from, here are some of our favorite spots in Sonoma County.

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Beer has come a long way from the days when the only choices available were light or regular. In the past two decades, the flavors and styles on tap have grown into a booming industry that now satisfies patrons thirsty for fruity saisons, triple IPAs and barrel-aged sours. 

Craft beer, once a niche market for a community of homebrewers and beer aficionados, has spilled out across the nation in record numbers. As of 2024, there are over 9,700 breweries in the country creating unique and flavorful concoctions of hops, malt and yeast. 

Sonoma County, and Santa Rosa in particular, reigns supreme in this golden age of beer with riches in the form of world-renowned craft breweries. With an ever-growing number of first-class beer venues to choose from, it can be hard for beer-lovers to plan their Sonoma suds adventures. For first-time visitors wondering where to start, we present a sampling of our favorite local breweries below. Cheers! 

Will Poole, right, and his son Russ Poole enjoy some craft brews at HenHouse Brewing Company's tasting room in Santa Rosa. (Alvin Jornada / The Press Democrat)
Will Poole, right, and his son Russ Poole enjoy some craft brews at HenHouse Brewing Company’s tasting room in Santa Rosa. (Alvin Jornada / The Press Democrat)

HenHouse Brewing Company, Santa Rosa/Petaluma

For beer aficionados, a handful of craft breweries make Sonoma County stand out – among them is HenHouse. HenHouse co-founders Collin McDonnell and Scott Goyne founded the brewery in 2012, and sold bottled beers exclusively at the Petaluma brewery. Four years later, they opened a Santa Rosa taproom; an industrial space featuring free popcorn and the Red Horse Pizza food truck out front.

Now in its 13th year, HenHouse continues to churn out the kind of ales, sours and stouts that attract beer snobs from near and far. Their HenHouse IPA and Chemtrails IPA are two of the best IPAs we’ve tried and the limited-release Big Chicken DIPA is one of the most sought after brews made in Sonoma County.

322 Bellevue Ave., Santa Rosa; 1333 N. McDowell Blvd., Petaluma, henhousebrewing.com

Randall Behrens, front left, of Windsor, with Aaron Carpenter of Healdsburg, front right, toast with friends at Cooperage Brewing’s new location in downtown Santa Rosa, Friday, December 20, 2024. (Darryl Bush / For The Press Democrat)
Randall Behrens, front left, of Windsor, with Aaron Carpenter of Healdsburg, front right, toast with friends at Cooperage Brewing’s new location in downtown Santa Rosa, Friday, Dec. 20, 2024. (Darryl Bush / For The Press Democrat)

Cooperage Brewing Company, Santa Rosa 

Cooperage founder, head brewer and Orange County transplant, Tyler Smith has turned a decade of brewing in a garage into one of the premier craft breweries in one of the premier craft brewery locations in the world.

The brewery, located in an industrial warehouse, has become a favorite destination for beer enthusiasts looking for unique and well crafted pale ales — The Wyatt Terp is a must-try for IPA lovers. Cooperage also features food trucks for the hungry, a giant projector screen for sports fans and an arcade machine with joystick classics for those looking for some old-school fun. Just last year, Cooperage opened a second location in downtown Santa Rosa.

981 Airway Court, Suite G, and 575 Ross St., Santa Rosa, 707-293-9787, cooperagebrewing.com

Fraser Ross pours a beer for the Friday crowd at Fogbelt Brewing Company in Santa Rosa. (Conner Jay/The Press Democrat)
Fraser Ross pours a beer for the Friday crowd at Fogbelt Brewing Company in Santa Rosa. (Conner Jay/The Press Democrat)

Fogbelt Brewing Company, Santa Rosa/Healdsburg

Founded in 2013 by Paul Hawley and Remy Martin, Fogbelt Brewing Company is another reason why Santa Rosa is repeatedly named a top of craft beer destination. Like the name of the brewery, Fogbelt’s brews pay tribute to the North Coast — each flagship beer is named after a coastal redwood tree.

From the crisp Atlas Blonde Ale to the robust Armstrong Stout, beer flights connoisseurs will not be disappointed with what’s on tap. The brewery is also host to one of the best brewery kitchens we’ve encountered: try the fish tacos with pickled radish and chipotle crema. In 2022, the brewery opened Fogbelt Station in Healdsburg.

1305 Cleveland Ave., Santa Rosa, 707-978-3400; 410 Hudson St., Healdsburg, 707-473-8532, fogbeltbrewing.com

Customers enjoy craft brews, conversation and live music at Moonlight Brewing Company in Santa Rosa on Thursday, July 18, 2019. (Alvin Jornada / The Press Democrat)
Customers enjoy craft brews, conversation and live music at Moonlight Brewing Company in Santa Rosa on Thursday, July 18, 2019. (Alvin Jornada / The Press Democrat)

Moonlight Brewing Company, Santa Rosa

Moonlight head brewer Brian Hunt is old school. Hunt was crafting brews before there was even a craft beer industry, and his Moonlight Brewing became the first microbrewery in Santa Rosa when it opened in 1992.

The Moonlight brewery process relies on a no-frills approach: sight, smell and taste determine when a beer is ready and barley, grains and herbs make up the main ingredients. A sip on a Moonlight beer will bring you back to a time when the beer world was not dominated by hoppy IPAs; and the San Francisco-style, black lager “Death and Taxes” will make the previously pure join the dark side, for sure.

3350 Coffey Lane, Santa Rosa, 707-755-4951, moonlightbrewing.com

Southern California residents Daniel and Erin Anne Wegman at the Russian River Brewing Company in Santa Rosa. (John Burgess/The Press Democrat)
Southern California residents Daniel and Erin Anne Wegman at the Russian River Brewing Company in Santa Rosa. (John Burgess/The Press Democrat)

Russian River Brewing Company, Santa Rosa/Windsor

What is there to say that has not already been said about this Santa Rosa brewing behemoth? Russian River has won just about every beer award you can win, garnered worldwide fame and sent beer lovers into a February frenzy for the past 20 years with limited-release Pliny the Younger.

While the brewery’s hoppy Plinys (Younger and Elder) are definitely worth a try, the less intense, well-balanced and flavorful Blind Pig IPA should also be included on your beer bucket list. An added, and sometimes overlooked, bonus is the family-friendly atmosphere at the brewery (including a kids menu). But leave junior at home for the annual Pliny pilgrimage, no kid (and few adults) want to wait in line for hours.

725 Fourth St., Santa Rosa; 700 Mitchell Lane, Windsor, 707-545-2337, russianriverbrewing.com

Iron Ox beer
Santa Rosa brewery Plow Brewing Co., changed its name to Iron Ox Brewing Co. (John Burgess/The Press Democrat)

Iron Ox Brewing Company, Santa Rosa

Founder Kevin Robinson spent 10 years plowing through the beer and wine industry before he opened his own Santa Rosa brewery in 2015, originally called Plow Brewing Co. until changing the name to Iron Ox in 2020. While Iron Ox may not enjoy the kind of ballyhoo other breweries on this list do, that’s no loss to Robinson; as the brewery website states: “We are not ones to follow the trend or make beer for the masses. We make beer for us.”

Iron Ox brews without chemicals, extracts or finings (a compound agent added to beer to improve clarity or adjust flavor/aroma), making every beer vegan-friendly. The taproom is small and the intimate atmosphere makes this an ideal spot for escaping the crowds while relaxing with a cold one. Order the Sonoma Coast Pils and Steel Share IPA.

3334 Industrial Drive, Santa Rosa, 707-843-4583, ironoxbeer.com

The Shady Oak Barrel House in Santa Rosa on Friday, October 22, 2021. (John Burgess/The Press Democrat)
The Shady Oak Barrel House in Santa Rosa on Friday, Oct. 22, 2021. (John Burgess/The Press Democrat)

Shady Oak Barrel House, Santa Rosa

Calling themselves the “The Shady Bunch,” the team at Shady Oak is committed to fostering a family-like vibe at its taproom and beer garden while supporting the community. The brewery plays host to a variety of North Bay vendors, musicians and artists in its large indoor venue. Find an assortment of changing brews on tap, from hard seltzers to classic West Coast IPAs.

420 First St., Santa Rosa, 707-575-7687, shadyoakbrewing.com

Old Possum Brewing Co., Santa Rosa

Old Possum sources hops from Sonoma County farmers, so guests know they’re supporting local when they dine on barbecue from the kitchen and wash the meal down with a crushable IPA. Standout beers include the Interstellar Stout, Disturbance Pale Ale and Fresh Sonoma IPA.

357 Sutton Place, Santa Rosa, 707-303-7177, oldpossumbrewing.com

Lagunitas beer garden
Maryana Bustamonte serves up a round of samplers at the popular Lagunitas Taproom in Petaluma. (John Burgess / Sonoma Magazine)

Lagunitas Brewing Company, Petaluma

A North Bay staple for the past three decades, Lagunitas continues to impress beer aficionados by producing one-of-a-kind, boundary-pushing interpretations of traditional brews with heavy hitting flavor. Flagship classics include Little Sumpin’, Lagunitas Pils, Aunt Sally, Hop Stoopid and Brown Shugga. Lagunitas’ Petaluma location provides one of the best atmospheres to enjoy a beer with a live music venue, inviting outdoor patio, full kitchen, photo booth and gift shop.

1280 N. McDowell Blvd., Petaluma, 707-284-1020, lagunitas.com

Old Caz Beer
Canned beers from Old Caz Beer in Rohnert Park. (Old Caz Beer)

Old Caz Beer, Rohnert Park

Just four months after opening a new brewpub in Rohnert Park’s SOMO Village, Old Caz Beer’s One Way IPA took second place at the prestigious Great American Beer Festival. If that isn’t enough reason to visit Old Caz, then its rotating lineup of stellar food trucks are sure to entice. The food trucks that frequent the brewpub include the Japanese-style Shokakko, pizza pop-up Gabacool Provisions and local brothers-owned Galvan’s Eatery. There’s nothing quite like washing down birria tacos with a crisp IPA.

1500 Valley House Drive, Suite 110, Rohnert Park, 707-665-6668, oldcaz.com

Fans of beer and trivia fill the seats on a Wednesday night at Parliament Brewing Company in Rohnert Park on February, 15, 2022. (John Burgess/The Press Democrat)
Fans of beer and trivia fill the seats on a Wednesday night at Parliament Brewing Company in Rohnert Park on Feb., 15, 2022. (John Burgess/The Press Democrat)

Parliament Brewing Company, Rohnert Park

This family-owned brewery, with beer master Justin Bosch at the helm, has a healthy mix of drafts on tap to match any taste. Some favorites include the crisp Mexican-style lager “Los Tecolotes,” the hazy IPA “Kaleidoscope” and the fruity sour “Berry Pie.” Find coveted local food trucks parked at Parliament every day, such as Shokkako, API Hot Chicken and War Pigs Craft Kitchen.

5865 Labath Ave., Suite 9, Rohnert Park, 707-776-6779, parliamentbrewing.com

Barrel Brothers Brewing Co. in Windsor have diversified their portfolio to include seltzer, non-alcohol beers, canned cocktails and a slushy beer named T.R.E.N.D.S. Photo taken on Wednesday, September 15, 2021. (John Burgess/The Press Democrat)
Barrel Brothers Brewing Co. in Windsor have diversified their portfolio to include seltzer, nonalcohol beers, canned cocktails and a slushy beer named T.R.E.N.D.S. (John Burgess/The Press Democrat, 2021)

Barrel Brothers Brewing Company, Windsor

Barrel Brothers, like the name implies, is a family affair. The brewery was founded by brothers-in-law, Wesley Deal and Daniel Weber, and their father-in-law, Tom Sather in 2015. Considering themselves akin to alchemists, the family concocts magical potions from water, grain, hops and yeast. Their beers run the spectrum from light to dark. The “Blonde Voyage” Belgian ale makes for an ideal barbecue beverage, while the “Dark Sarcasm” porter is packed with chocolate, mocha and vanilla. Their “Naughty Hops” IPA is brewed with their revolutionary, ‘Hop Spanker’ technology. The Windsor tap room may be on the small side for some, but there are plenty of fresh beers on tap to enjoy.

9238 Old Redwood Highway, Suite 128, Windsor, barrelbrothersbrewing.com

CUVER Belgian Brewers, Windsor

Kids and pets are welcome at this Windsor brewery’s spacious patio while the adults sip citrusy lagers and rich ales. Among the top picks of brews here is the signature Pepperwood, a saison ale that won a gold medal in the 2024 California State Fair’s Commercial Craft Beer competition. Food trucks pull up to the taproom from 4-7 p.m. most Fridays.

7704 Bell Road, Suite A, Windsor, 707-687-0577, cuverbrewing.com

The beer menu is written on a large chalkboard behind the bar at Crooked Goat Brewing, in Sebastopol, on Wednesday, October 12, 2016. (Christopher Chung/ The Press Democrat)
The beer menu is written on a large chalkboard behind the bar at Crooked Goat Brewing, in Sebastopol, on Wednesday, Oct. 12, 2016. (Christopher Chung/ The Press Democrat)

Crooked Goat Brewing, Sebastopol/Petaluma

If you like to wet your whistle with some wheat brew, then Crooked Goat is the place for you. This Sebastopol brewery crafts unique wheat ales infused with flavors from honey, blackberries, raspberries — even bubblegum (featured in the aptly named “Bazooka Joe”). Crooked Goat also boasts a selection of hoppy, high ABV percentage IPAs, such as the West Coast-style “Ibex” and the apricot- and vanilla-infused “Foggy Notion” DIPA. Brewmaster Will Erickson and crew took Crooked Goat from a garage to the 10-barrel system taproom at The Barlow, winning The People’s Choice Award at the Santa Rosa Battle of the Brews in 2015. Crooked Goat opened a second taproom in Petaluma in 2022. This summer through Sept. 13, the Sebastopol location is hosting a free summer concert series every Saturday.

120 Morris St., Suite 120, Sebastopol, 707-827-3893; 110 Howard St., Petaluma, 707-559-5691, crookedgoatbrewing.com

Sonoma Spring Brewing Company, Sonoma

At Sonoma Springs Brewing Company, the only brewery located in the city of Sonoma, there’s an expansive lineup of California and German-style beers. In keeping with the craft beer trend, all Sonoma Springs brews have fun, catchy names: “Pacific Coast Hopway,” “Dreaming Out Loud,” and “Subliminal Gold IPA” are a few examples. With over 20 fresh beers on tap, there’s plenty to choose from at the taproom.

19449 Riverside Drive, Suite 101, Sonoma, 707-938-7422, sonomaspringsbrewing.com

Maci Martell contributed to this article.

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Salt & Sea Poke Shop Opens at The Barlow https://www.sonomamag.com/salt-sea-poke-shop-opens-at-the-barlow/ Tue, 05 Aug 2025 22:59:37 +0000 https://www.sonomamag.com/?p=127921

The fast-casual poke spot from chef Jake Rand is the newest addition to the Sebastopol marketplace’s outdoor food court.

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Chef Jake Rand of Sushi Kosho has opened Salt & Sea, a fast-casual poke shop at The Barlow just steps from his longtime sushi restaurant. It’s the newest addition to the Sebastopol marketplace’s outdoor food court that also includes Osito Style Tacos, The Farmer’s Wife and Two Dog Night Creamery.

The menu is focused on hearty Hawaiian-style poke bowls filled with warm seasoned rice, raw fish marinated in soy sauce and sesame oil, seaweed, avocado and Maui onions.

Rand riffs on the classic, adding grilled pineapple and Macadamia nuts to the Maui Wowie ($24), and kimchi and gochujang sauce to the K-Pop ($21). He also creates more unique combos like the Jalapeño Jack ($22) with amberjack, yuzu soy sauce, cucumber, jalapeño and avocado. Spicy Tuna Nachos ($14) swap fried wontons for tortilla chips with fresh ahi tuna, yuzu crema, Korean chili sauce and avocado.

Salt & Sea poke nachos
Poke nachos at Salt & Sea at The Barlow in Sebastopol. (Heather Irwin / The Press Democrat)
Salt & Sea finger sandwich
The strawberry Japanese fruit sandwich at Salt & Sea at The Barlow in Sebastopol. (Heather Irwin / The Press Democrat)

Don’t miss the grab-and-go case with Japanese sandwiches. Similar to finger sandwiches, these trendy treats are made with soft, crustless white bread and are filled with either fruit or savory ingredients. At Salt & Sea, they come with clouds of cream and sliced strawberries or kiwi.

The restaurant also offers boba tea, strawberry milk, taro matcha lattes, açai bowls and Rand’s fresh Hawaiian POG, made with passionfruit, orange and guava juice.
Open from noon to 5 p.m. daily. 6570 McKinley St., Sebastopol, Instagram.com/saltandseapoke

Also on my radar
The Shady Oak Barrel House in Santa Rosa on Friday, October 22, 2021. (John Burgess/The Press Democrat)
Shady Oak Barrel House in Santa Rosa will host a Smash Burger Battle on Aug. 16. (John Burgess / The Press Democrat, 2021)

Shady Oak Barrel House will host a Smash Burger Battle on Aug. 16 with Benny’s Smash Burgers, Thanks for the Invite, The Spot and Bayou on the Bay competing for the burger bragging rights. The event will also feature live music and DJs, house-brewed beers and plenty of trash-talking bun-patty-bun action. 420 First St., Santa Rosa, 707-575-7687, shadyoakbrewing.com

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

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Napa Valley Spots Named in Travel + Leisure’s World’s Best Awards 2025 https://www.sonomamag.com/napa-valley-spots-named-in-travel-leisures-worlds-best-awards-2025/ Tue, 05 Aug 2025 22:38:27 +0000 https://www.sonomamag.com/?p=127837

In Travel + Leisure's 30th annual World's Best Awards, two Wine Country destinations were ranked among readers' all-time favorites.

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Two Napa Valley destinations earned national recognition in Travel + Leisure’s 30th annual World’s Best Awards for 2025. The annual roundup, selected by readers, highlights the top-rated hotels, spas, cities, transportation and more around the globe. The awards reflect travelers’ favorite national and international spots and, this year, two Wine Country locations won three awards.

Solage, Auberge Resorts Collections, Calistoga

Solage named among world's best by Travel + Leisure
A poolside cabana at Solage, Auberge Resorts Collection in Calistoga. (Auberge Resorts Collection)

This luxury wellness retreat in Calistoga landed the No. 9 spot in the “Readers’ 15 Favorite Resorts in the Continental U.S.” category and also earned a spot in “Readers’ 100 Favorite Hotels in the World.”

The resort features 100 studio-style rooms and spacious suites with private patios, outdoor showers and sleek interiors inspired by the surrounding landscape. Guests are welcome to a 130-foot heated pool and the 20,000-square-foot wellness center with geothermal soaking pools, steam rooms, saunas and various spa treatments.

The Picobar at Solage, Auberge Resorts Collection in Calistoga is an outdoor, poolside cafe. Photo taken on Thursday, September 23, 2021. (John Burgess/The Press Democrat)
Picobar at Solage, Auberge Resorts Collection in Calistoga is an outdoor, poolside cafe. (John Burgess/The Press Democrat)
Fresas con Crema with poached strawberries, meringue, vanilla whipped Chantilly served with chocolate and caramel from Picobar at Solage, Auberge Resorts Collection in Calistoga on Thursday, September 23, 2021. (John Burgess/The Press Democrat)
Fresas con Crema with poached strawberries, meringue, vanilla whipped Chantilly served with chocolate and caramel from Picobar at the Augerge Solage Resorts in Calistoga on Thursday, Sept. 23, 2021. (John Burgess/The Press Democrat)

Solage, Auberge Resorts Collections has two places to dine: Solbar, which offers local, seasonal fare with indoor and al fresco dining areas; and Picobar, the poolside eatery serving contemporary Mexican cuisine.

A stay at Solage includes complimentary yoga and fitness classes, cruiser bikes, pickleball courts and curated outdoor experiences. The resort is a family- and pet-friendly space with thoughtful amenities, views of the Mayacamas and plenty of Wine Country charm.

Rates start at $765 per night. 755 Silverado Trail N., Calistoga, 866-942-7442, aubergeresorts.com/solage

Napa Valley Wine Train

Napa Valley Wine Train named among world's best by Travel + Leisure
The Napa Valley Wine Train offers a number of excursions around lush Wine Country. (Napa Valley Wine Train)

The Napa Valley Wine Train rolled in at No. 3 in the “Readers’ 5 Favorite Trains in the World” category.

This Wine Country leisure transit staple delivers an elegant regional journey that blends gourmet dining, vineyard views and vintage luxury aboard restored 1915 Pullman railcars.

Afternoon tea on the Napa Valley Wine Train. (Napa Valley Wine Train)
The Napa Valley Wine Train partnered with Yountville’s Chandon winery for an afternoon tea experience aboard the train. (Napa Valley Wine Train)

Guests are welcomed aboard then treated to multicourse meals prepared by executive chef Rodrigo Cuadra, with optional curated wine parings from Napa Valley’s top wineries. The six-hour Legacy Experience includes three winery stops with onboard narration about the region’s history. Other trips last up to three hours and include a variety of immersive, seasonal experiences.

A trip on the Napa Valley Wine Train starts at $202, depending on the experience and date selected. 1275 McKinstry St., Napa, 707-253-2111, winetrain.com

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New Vietnamese Restaurant VN Flavor in Rohnert Park Is Pho-Nominal https://www.sonomamag.com/new-vietnamese-restaurant-vn-flavor-in-rohnert-park-is-pho-nominal/ Tue, 05 Aug 2025 16:32:07 +0000 https://www.sonomamag.com/?p=127844

A decade-long dream becomes reality at this family-owned restaurant in Rohnert Park.

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Sovandy Kien and her husband, Nouly Chhem, fell in love over food — pork fried rice, to be specific.

As young sweethearts in Cambodia, Chhem won over Kien with his repertoire of recipes. A self-taught cook, he had a knack for making friends through food, but it was a simple stir-fry of rice, soy sauce, vegetables and pork that stole Kien’s heart.

Her dream of opening a restaurant and his love of cooking aligned like stars. But when her family moved to Northern California eight years ago, he continued a cooking career in Thailand, Vietnam, Cambodia and Korea.

It would be nearly a decade before the couple opened their first American restaurant with the help of Kien’s sister, Kanha.

Drinks at VN Flavor restaurant in Rohnert Park
One of Sovandy Kien’s sisters, Maliza Kien, adds wise sayings to her Paradise Lime drink and other tea drinks because “I’m wise like that,” said the future social media star Wednesday, Aug. 3, 2025, in Rohnert Park. (John Burgess / The Press Democrat)

A dream realized

In late May, Kien and Chhem opened VN Flavor in a quiet corner of Raley’s Towne Center in Rohnert Park. A rotating cast of restaurants have occupied the space over the last five years, including an Asian bistro, a burger café and a bagel bakery.

VN Flavor might have escaped my notice if Press Democrat business reporter Melanie Nguyen hadn’t discovered that Kien’s sister Khana owns popular Savor Vietnamese Bistro in Santa Rosa and Windsor.

That led to more questions. Why would the Kien sisters open competing restaurants with similar menus?

The answer is simple, said Kien with a broad smile. After several years working at Savor, Kanha encouraged the couple to open their own restaurant in Rohnert Park, even helping fund the dream.

“I kept saying we weren’t ready,” said Kien. “But my husband said, ‘Trust me. I want to show people what I have.’”

VN Flavor restaurant in Rohnert Park
VN Flavor restaurant married co-owners Sovandy Kien, right, and Nouly Chhem Wednesday, Aug. 3, 2025, in Rohnert Park. (John Burgess / The Press Democrat)

A place of their own

The restaurant kitchen, with its noise and heat, is tucked away in the back, where Chhem reigns over pots of broth and a fiery grill. His garde manger is stocked with crushed peanuts, fragrant basil, limes, pickled carrots, cilantro and bean sprouts that garnish his flavor-packed dishes.

“When I’m cooking, I’m always thinking about my customers. I need to make it beautiful,” Chhem said. And it is.

House combo at VN Flavor restaurant in Rohnert Park
House Special Combo with barbecue lemongrass pork, egg roll and crispy shrimp over rice noodles and a Monkey Strawberry Smoothie. From VN Flavor restaurant Wednesday, Aug. 3, 2025, in Rohnert Park. (John Burgess / The Press Democrat)

But the L-shaped dining room has always been at odds with its function. The narrow seating area and spacious foyer work well for takeout, but previously felt disjointed for dining in. Kien has bridged that gap by personally bringing the steaming bowls of pho, crisp banh mi and sizzling short ribs to each table — creating a more connected experience.

“I just want to see this keep growing,” she said. “I hope we can open another (restaurant), maybe some day in Petaluma. But for us, it isn’t about the money. We really care about every customer.”

Best bets

Beef Combination Pho Soup with steak, flank, brisket trip & meatball from VN Flavor restaurant Wednesday, August 3, 2025 in Rohnert Park. (John Burgess / The Press Democrat)
Beef Combination Pho Soup with steak, flank, brisket trip & meatball from VN Flavor restaurant Wednesday, Aug. 3, 2025, in Rohnert Park. (John Burgess / The Press Democrat)

Beef Combination Pho, $18: A long-simmered beef bone broth makes up the base for this hearty pho, filled with rice noodles, flank steak, brisket, meatballs and tripe. I’ve always shied away from beef pho due to its sometimes overpowering “cow” flavor, but Chhem’s clear, clean broth is soul-satisfying with its gentle fragrance and warm spices. The meat isn’t overly fatty, and the tripe has a satisfying chew without off flavors. I’m also a massive fan of the Wonton Egg Noodle Soup ($17), made with an 8-hour simmered chicken broth, pork-filled wontons and soft egg noodles.

Bahn mi at VN Flavor in Rohnert Park
BBQ Lemongrass Pork Bahn Mi Sandwich and Taro Milk Tea from VN Flavor restaurant Wednesday, Aug. 3, 2025, in Rohnert Park. (John Burgess / The Press Democrat)

Banh Mi, $13: The defining element of a great banh mi is the perfect baguette. Commercial soft rolls are too soft and crusty French baguettes are too hard. Kien bakes fresh mini baguettes every morning, with a gentle crisp crust and a pillow-soft interior that hits that Goldilocks zone. VN Flavor skips the traditional pâté on the baguette (which is a bummer, but not a deal-breaker), replacing it with a more American-friendly garlic mayo. The barbecue lemongrass pork is my favorite, but tofu, spicy pork, braised pork belly, crispy chicken and five-spice chicken are also available. Pickled carrots and daikon elevate this from a simple sando to a top-notch Vietnamese banh mi. Watch out for the sneaky jalapeños.

Korean BBQ Short Ribs, $22: At first, I ignored this entrée, but it turns out to be one of Chhem’s signature dishes. Thin flanken-style short ribs, cut across the bone, are marinated in a sweet-savory soy sauce and quickly flame-grilled. Crispy char and tender meat make this a finger-licking must-try.

Short ribs at VN Flavor in Rohnert Park
Korean BBQ Short Ribs from VN Flavor restaurant Wednesday, Aug. 3, 2025, in Rohnert Park. (John Burgess / The Press Democrat)

Spicy Basil Fried Rice, $20: Spicy, wonderful fried rice that’s even better the next day. Like all fried rice.

House Special Vermicelli Noodle, $20: Cold rice noodles, shredded lettuce, barbecue pork, shrimp and a sliced egg roll doused in nuoc mam cham (a sweet, citrusy fish sauce) is my desert island meal. I could eat it every day and never tire of the sweet, sour, fatty, crispy, noodly wonder that is bún.

A Vietnamese dessert at VN Flavor in Rohnert Park
A Vietnamese dessert parfait with coconut cream, lychee, brown sugar, daong, grass jelly, red peals, red bean and garbanzos. From VN Flavor restaurant Wednesday, Aug. 3, 2025, in Rohnert Park. (John Burgess / The Press Democrat)

Vietnamese Desert, $9.95: Many Southeast Asian countries have a version of Chè Ba Màu, a refreshing drink made with crushed ice, coconut cream, lychee, brown sugar, daong, grass jelly, red beans and garbanzos. It’s not for everyone, but I love it (without the garbanzos).

VN Flavor is at 90 Raley’s Towne Center, Rohnert Park, 707-843-7585. No website; go to bit.ly/4laGOfq for online orders.

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

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6 Unique Cool Treats to Try This Summer in Sonoma County https://www.sonomamag.com/6-unique-cool-treats-to-try-this-summer-in-sonoma-county/ Mon, 04 Aug 2025 21:56:04 +0000 https://www.sonomamag.com/?p=127802

Here are some new and unexpected spots to quench your sweet cravings in Sonoma County.

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Summer is the perfect excuse for eating ice cream, drinking slushies, and not giving a hoot about the calories because you’ll certainly sweat them off, right? And while there are more than a dozen usual suspects when it comes to favorite summer sweets, this list goes a little deeper, featuring new and unexpected spots to quench your cravings.

Best Boozy
Cool beer at Cooperage
A bartender fills a mug with beer from one of many taps at Cooperage Brewing in downtown Santa Rosa, Friday, Dec. 20, 2024. (Darryl Bush / For The Press Democrat)

Cooperage Brewing

On a hot day, nothing beats a cold beer — unless it’s a hard seltzer slushy. This Santa Rosa brewery’s seasonal Sparklepants seltzer releases are spun into icy, dangerously delicious drinks that beat the summer heat with a sneaky kick. A tropical moment on sweltering days. 981 Airway Court and 575 Ross St., Santa Rosa. 707-293-9787, cooperagebrewing.com

Best Seasonal Selection

Darling Ice Cream Shop

The always-changing flavors at this charming Sonoma ice cream shop mean you’ll have plenty of reasons to return. A sister shop to Sweet Scoops on the Sonoma Plaza, this neighborhood fave is known for its Watmaugh strawberry, salted caramel and, if you want to go the soft-serve route, a sunny Pineapple Dole Whip. 201 W. Napa St., Suite 6, Sonoma. 707-343-1482, darlingsonoma.com

Darling ice cream shop
Mila, 9, and her brother Caden, 10, enjoy an ice cream cone at their parents Joe and Ramie Hencmann’s ice cream shop, Darling, located in the Sonoma Marketplace shopping center on West Napa Street. (Robbi Pengelly/Sonoma Index-Tribune)
Once Upon a Slush
Flights of soft serve and slush at Once Upon a Slush in downtown Petaluma. (Houston Porter/for the Petaluma Argus-Courier)
Best Pickle Slush

Once Upon a Slush

More like Italian ice than a Slurpee, these Boston-style slushes need a spoon — at least to start. And yes, they have a pickle slush that tastes precisely like a pickle. Not feeling that adventurous? Go for fruit flavors like cherry or orange creamsicle and add sprinkles, drizzles and layers of soft-serve ice cream for the full experience. 122 B American Alley, Petaluma. 707-763-9253, onceuponaslush.com

Best Halo-Halo
Halo-halo, a cool summer treat similar to ice cream
Halo-halo at Tambayan Filipino restaurant in Santa Rosa’s Larkfield neighborhood. (Heather Irwin / The Press Democrat)

Tambayan Filipino Eatery

The name of this traditional Filipino dessert means “mix-mix” in Tagalog, and what a mix it is. This colorful combination of crushed ice, evaporated milk, coconut strips, sweet beans, fruit jellies and a scoop of purple yam ice cream is — trust me on this — the most surprisingly delicious dessert you’ve probably never had before. 600 Larkfield Center, Larkfield-Wikiup. 707-843-3824, tambayaneatery.com

Best Rolled
Pink Sugar rolled ice cream
A Rainbow Signature Roll topped with candy and Fruity Pebbles at Pink Sugar Creamery in Santa Rosa Tuesday, May 20, 2025. (Beth Schlanker / The Press Democrat)

Pink Sugar Creamery

Ice cream is a treat in any form — it just seems more delicious in scroll-like rolls. At the former Yogurt Farms, wall-to-wall pink decor (including swings with fuzzy pink seats) sets the stage for rolled ice cream, a street-food treat from Thailand. Here’s how it works: A cream mixture is poured onto chilled steel plates that almost instantly freezes it. Dual spatulas then chop, pulverize and blend in candy, cookies, fruit or cake before the mixture is spread into a thin layer and finally scraped into tight, frozen curls. Fun for the whole family. 1224 Mendocino Ave., Santa Rosa. 707-368-3200, Instagram.com/pinksugarcreamery

Best Ice Cream Sando

Sebastopol Cookie Company

It’s all about the cookies at this hole-in-the-wall bakery. Fresh chocolate chip cookies are outstanding on their own, but in the summer, they add an ice cream middle. Just like milk and cookies, but better. 168 N. Main St., Sebastopol. 707-824-4040, sebastopolcookiecompany.com

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16 Favorite Restaurants and Bars with Live Music in Sonoma County https://www.sonomamag.com/best-restaurants-and-bars-with-live-music-in-sonoma-county/ Mon, 04 Aug 2025 16:30:49 +0000 https://www.sonomamag.com/?p=106225

For some summertime fun, pair some (mostly free) live music with excellent food and drinks at these local restaurants and bars.

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Locally made craft beer and seasonal cuisine are already a perfect match. Throw in some live (mostly free) music, and you’re in store for a great night out.

From brewpubs and beer gardens to roadside diners and artsy cafes, check out our list of over a dozen places in Sonoma County to eat local cuisine while listening to live music.

Brewsters Beer Garden

With fire pits, heat lamps and ample room for dancing, this open-air restaurant and beer garden is a great venue to enjoy free, weekly live music and Southern-style barbecue. Bands play from 5-8 p.m. on Thursday and Friday; from 1-4 p.m. and 5-8 p.m. on Saturday; and from noon to 3 p.m. and 4-7 p.m. on Sunday. The family-friendly restaurant also has a kids play area and welcomes dogs on the outdoor patio. 229 Water St., Petaluma, 707-981-8330, brewstersbeergarden.com

Lagunitas Brewing Co.

This local brewhouse has over a dozen house beers on tap and a simple menu of classic American cuisine, all best enjoyed outdoors while taking in the annual Live at Lagunitas summer concert series, with shows happening every weekend from June to September. Most shows are free but require tickets to reserve a spot; tickets can be purchased on Eventbrite. There’s also music bingo from 6-8 p.m. every Thursday. 1280 N. McDowell Blvd., Petaluma, 707-778-8776, lagunitas.com

Visitors lounge on the amphitheatre lawn before the evening's concert at Lagunitas Brewing Company in Petaluma on Tuesday, August 9, 2016. (Alvin Jornada / The Press Democrat)
Visitors lounge on the amphitheater lawn before the evening’s concert at Lagunitas Brewing Company in Petaluma. (Alvin Jornada / The Press Democrat)
live music at The Big Easy
Enjoy a variety of live music every night at The Big Easy while snacking on late night food from its sister restaurant, Speakeasy. (Alvin Jornada/The Press Democrat)

The Big Easy/Speakeasy

Enjoy a variety of live music every night at The Big Easy while snacking on late night food from its sister restaurant, Speakeasy. The nightly live bands at The Big Easy typically start around 7-8 p.m. and the cover charge ranges from free to $20. Speakeasy’s full dinner menu, including a selection of local wines and craft beers, is available from opening to 10 p.m. Sunday through Thursday, and until midnight Friday and Saturday. 128 American Alley, Petaluma, 707-776-7163, bigeasypetaluma.com; 139 Petaluma Blvd. N., Suite B, Petaluma, 707-776-4631, speakeasypetaluma.com

The Block

Petaluma’s food truck hub and beer garden also serves as an event venue featuring regular live music in addition to open mics and DJ nights. Bands typically perform from 6-9 p.m. Fridays and Saturdays. 20 Grey St., Petaluma. 707-775-6003, theblockpetaluma.com

The Block Petaluma beer garden and live music venue
Sharing the summertime vibe at The Block in Petaluma. (Beth Schlanker/The Press Democrat)

HenHouse Brewing Co.

In addition to trivia and DJ nights, HenHouse throws rocking shows to enjoy with a pale ale in one of its colorful taprooms. The Santa Rosa location is hosting a release party to celebrate the return of its Avian Surveillance Division IPA — featuring a lineup of Sonoma County punk rock bands — from 6-10 p.m. Friday, Aug. 8. Later this month, HenHouse’s Palace of Barrels taproom in Petaluma will host the Howling Coyote Tour during its Northern California stop, from 2-5 p.m., Aug. 31. Make a trip to the Novato location (1301 Grant Ave.) for its monthly music showcase featuring local musicians, held 5-8 p.m. on the first Tuesday of every month. 1333 N. McDowell Blvd., Petaluma, 322 Bellevue Ave., Santa Rosa, henhousebrewing.com

At HenHouse Brewing's Palace of Barrels taproom in Petaluma. (Sonoma County Tourism)
A live music event at HenHouse Brewing’s Palace of Barrels taproom in Petaluma. (Sonoma County Tourism)
Ricky Ray performs at Hopmonk Tavern in Sebastopol on Wednesday, March 24, 2021. (Christopher Chung/ The Press Democrat)
Ricky Ray performs at Hopmonk Tavern in Sebastopol on Wednesday, March 24, 2021. (Christopher Chung/ The Press Democrat)

HopMonk Taverns and Twins Oaks

Come for the craft beer and elevated pub grub, stay for the lively concerts held every week. Most of HopMonk’s live music can be enjoyed in the charming beer garden, enhanced with stringed lights, fire pits and space heaters, while some other shows are played inside the cozy, rustic tavern. Twin Oaks Roadhouse, owned by HopMonk, also hosts live music concerts as well as free karaoke nights every Wednesday. HopMonk Sebastopol: 230 Petaluma Ave., Sebastopol, 707-829-7300; HopMonk Sonoma: 691 Broadway, Sonoma, 707-935-9100; Twin Oaks Roadhouse: 5745 Old Redwood Highway, Penngrove, 707-795-5118, hopmonk.com

Brew Coffee and Beer House

Aside from some occasional live music pop-ups (keep an eye on the cafe’s Facebook for upcoming events), Brew hosts weekly open mic nights featuring local musicians, comedians and poets. Open mics are from 5-8 p.m. every Tuesday. 555 Healdsburg Ave., Santa Rosa, 707-303-7372, brewcoffeeandbeer.com

Shady Oak Barrel House

Live music, comedy shows, trivia and paint nights are in store at this taproom, which also includes a rotating roundup of food trucks to match local cuisine with craft brews. Upcoming events can be found online. Most live concerts are free and happen from 7-10 p.m. 420 First St., Santa Rosa, 707-575-7687, shadyoakbarrelhouse.com

The Shady Oak Barrel House in Santa Rosa on Friday, October 22, 2021. (John Burgess/The Press Democrat)
The Shady Oak Barrel House in Santa Rosa. (John Burgess/The Press Democrat)

Flagship Taproom

For good times with friends and family, Flagship’s Santa Rosa location is the spot to enjoy craft beers, barbecue, Wednesday trivia nights and live bands on weekends. 446 B St., Santa Rosa, 707-541-6716, flagshiptaproom.com

Belly Left Coast Kitchen & Taproom

The popular downtown Santa Rosa taproom hosts free live music on the outside patio on select nights. Check for upcoming events online. 523 Fourth St., Santa Rosa, 707-526-5787, bellyleftcoastkitchenandtaproom.com

At Crooked Goat Brewing's taproom in Petaluma. (Sonoma County Tourism)
At Crooked Goat Brewing’s taproom in Petaluma. (Sonoma County Tourism)

Crooked Goat Brewing

Locally sourced food, brews and tunes are on tap at Crooked Goat. The Sebastopol location is hosting a free summer concert series, with bands playing from 5-8 p.m. every Saturday, Aug. 2 through Sept. 13. There are also a number of events held at both Petaluma and Sebastopol locations each month, including bingo, open mics, speed dating and trivia nights. 120 Morris St., Sebastopol, 707-827-3893; 110 Howard St., Petaluma, 707-559-5691, crookedgoatbrewing.com

Altamont General Store

The Altamont Yard, Altamont General Store’s outdoor lounge area, is a bohemian space to snack, sip and enjoy live music from 6-8 p.m. every Friday. Learn about upcoming acts from Altamont’s event calendar3703 Main St., Occidental, 707-874-6053, altamontgeneralstore.com

Little Saint

Healdsburg’s premier plant-based restaurant hosts free live music starting at 7 p.m. every Thursday at its upstairs event venue, The Second Story. Guests can enjoy cocktails and vegan bites while watching a show, curated by music director Jonny Fritz. While most shows are free, some bigger-name acts are ticketed, such as the upcoming Beck solo show (Aug. 10) and Rufus Wainwright solo show (Sept. 9). Find Little Saint’s music lineup here25 North St., Healdsburg, 707-433-8207, littlesainthealdsburg.com

Live music event at Little Saint
Boygenius fans line up before a sold-out show at Little Saint in Healdsburg. (Emma K Creative)
Boygenius plays at Little Saint in Healdsburg. (Emma K Creative)
Boygenius plays at Little Saint in Healdsburg. (Emma K Creative)

The Elephant In the Room

This 21-and-over-only watering hole in Healdsburg is known for its speakeasy vibe, long beer list and weekly live music shows. The August music roster is filled with Bay Area bands spanning genres from rock and blues to hip-hop and psychedelic funk. Shows typically start between 6-8 p.m. and tickets range from free to $20. 177 Healdsburg Ave., Healdsburg, elephantintheroompub.com

La Tequila Mexican Restaurant

For the past three years, local Latin jazz quartet The Rice & Bean Project has been performing fan-favorite jazz, reggae and oldies from 5:30-8:30 p.m. every Friday at Cloverdale’s La Tequila. Savor Mexican eats while enjoying the band’s easy listening sounds either on the outdoor patio or inside by the fireplace on colder evenings. 134 N. Cloverdale Blvd., Cloverdale, 707-669-2363, mexicanrestaurantcloverdale.com

Geyserville Gun Club

Enjoy bar bites and seasonal cocktails while taking in free, local live music, starting at 8 p.m. on Saturdays. No cover charge. 21025 Geyserville Ave., Geyserville, 707-814-0036, geyservillegunclub.com

The post 16 Favorite Restaurants and Bars with Live Music in Sonoma County appeared first on Sonoma Magazine.

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