During winter in Sonoma County, you'll find smaller crowds, perfect weather, and plenty of special events to choose from. But any time of year is ideal for exploring this wine country's out-of-this-world culinary scene. There are too many great restaurants in this region to fit into one article, but we’ve put together a quick hit list to help you begin filling out your Sonoma County dining itinerary.
Jeffrey’s Hillside Café has been a Santa Rosa institution since 2009, when veteran chef Jeffrey Madura brought his passion for cooking to a perfect location tucked away at the Hillside Inn. There he created a cozy little spot for breakfast and lunch, placing an emphasis on local ingredients.
In downtown Santa Rosa, the hip-yet-family-friendly spot Jackson’s Bar and Oven specializes in comfort food with a seasonal, sophisticated twist. Nearby, pair wines with international small plates at Willi's Wine Bar, taste comfort food classics at KC's American Kitchen in Windsor, or try the flavorful pho at Mai Vietnamese in Cotati.
Here are some more top-flight Sonoma County dining establishments that would truly welcome you on your next visit.
Café La Haye, Sonoma—Located just off Sonoma Plaza, the intimate and minimal space of this restaurant matches its expertly prepared, highly selective menu, including a standout Duroc heritage pork chop.
Seared Steak and Seafood, Petaluma—Its menu incorporates farm fresh vegetables, grains, seafood, beef, and fowl to capture the essence of the seasonal lands around it.
Stockhome, Petaluma—Sample a mashup of the couple-owners' Swedish and Middle Eastern favorites from this 2019 Michelin Bib Gourmand winner.
River’s End, Jenner—Located near Goat Rock, where the Russian River spills into the Pacific Ocean, this restaurant features an eclectic menu and breathtaking views.
Bravas Bar de Tapas, Healdsburg—Helmed by James Beard finalists Mark and Terry Stark, the indoor/outdoor Bravas serves up traditional and modern-style tapas, including large plates such as paella.
Fern Bar, Sebastopol–this airy, plant-filled restaurant offers small plates and an exciting cocktail list designed the former bar manager at the three-Michelin-starred Restaurant at Meadowood in Napa Valley.
The Farmer's Wife, Sebastopol–with a focus on supporting local farmers, this former San Francisco Ferry Building stand now serves simple, delicious dishes from its first brick-and-mortar location.
Handline, Sebastopol—Fresh, sustainable seafood and backyard-grown produce in an airy, order-at-the-counter space defines the appeal of Handline. Don’t miss the oysters and fish tacos.
Brot, Guerneville–a Bavarian beer hall serving German classics—spaetzle, pretzels, currywurst—with a modern spin.
