Grab your darkest movie-star shades, your wide-brimmed hat and your SPF30, it’s time to dine al fresco in Wine Country. Whether you’re out for a little lunchtime sun, a poolside happy hour or an evening under the stars, BiteClub has some of Wine Country’s top picks for dining out.
Best spot to see and be seen: Flavor Bistro
Whether it’s Wednesday night market or Saturday supper, Flavor’s prime spot on the square makes for some prime people watching day and night. The Santa Rosa bistro’s spinach salad and extensive by-the-glass wine list makes for a light, refreshing dine. Flavor Bistro, 96 Old Courthouse Square. Santa Rosa, 573.9600.
Secret Garden
Sneak away for a lunchtime rendezvous at the girl and the fig’s cozy enclosed patio. Intimate, relaxing and charmingly decorated, it’s a romantic favorite. Don’t miss the cheese bar, where owner Sondra Bernstein has stocked a mind-boggling collection of artisinal cheeses. 110 West Spain Street, Sonoma, 707.938.3634
Ladie’s Luncheon
A tuna-egg-mayo foccaccia sandwich and iced tea on the patio of Café Citti is something of a lunchtime tradition for gal pals in Wine Country. Casual dining, a relaxed atmosphere (that’s kid-friendly without being a free-for-all) and some of the best-looking waiters in Wine Country. No wonder the ladies love it here. 9049 Sonoma Highway, Kenwood
707.833.2690.
Cozy getaway
You don’t have to be a guest to eat at the Glen Ellen Inn. This little jewel box of a hide-away has a bubbling fountain and plenty of spots for gazing longingly into your sweetie’s eyes. Before diving into a few oysters. Don’t miss the Dirty Dozen–12 raw oysters with a Bloody Mary mignonette–by candlelight. 13670 Arnold Drive, Glen Ellen, 707.996.6409
Small plates under the sun
At Willi’s Wine Bar, you never know might be sharing a small plate next to you–a local winemaker, a touring author, a local luminary, or perhaps your neighbor. Willi’s patio is a favorite gathering spot for power-lunchers, tourists and everyday diners looking for a little dining inspiration. 4404 Old Redwood Hwy., Santa Rosa, 707.526.3096
Dining under the stars
El Dorado Kitchen is BiteClub’s absolute favorite spot for dining under the stars. Grab a quiet table by the pool, order up some of EDK’s killer cocktails and wait for the sky show. 405 First St. West Sonoma
Riverside dining
Casual French fair is the plat du jour at Petaluma’s Water Street Bistro, where outdoor diners have a view of the nearby Petaluma River and pedestrian bridge. 100 Petaluma Blvd N Ste 106, Petaluma,707.763.9563
What’s your favorite spot for outdoor dining?