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

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A highlight of west Sonoma County, Sebastopol offers an enchanting mix of rural charm, culinary delights and artistic flair. Whether you’re savoring farm-fresh foods, exploring quirky public art or winding through scenic vineyards, this peaceful town offers something for every traveler. Follow this itinerary for a perfect day of local flavors, outdoor adventures and unforgettable experiences in Sebastopol.

Where to go

Begin the morning with a croissant at Sarmentine (6760 McKinley St., Suite 150), a favorite French bakery with a relatively new location at The Barlow. The popular, strollable outdoor marketplace includes shops, restaurants, tasting rooms and a terrific natural wine bar, The Punchdown (6770 McKinley St., Suite 130). Hop in the car for a quick tour down Florence Avenue to take in the whimsical public art pieces (382 Florence Ave.) made from recycled metal and other castoffs by Brigitte Laurent and her husband, Patrick Amiot.

Next, head to Ragle Ranch Regional Park (500 Ragle Road), best known as the setting for the signature Gravenstein Apple Fair each August. The park’s Veterans Memorial Grove is a sheltered cluster of redwoods atop a beautiful knoll, and the Peace Garden is a good spot to pause and come back to center, especially after tackling 3 miles of rolling backcountry trails.

Outside of town, wind along the Bohemian Highway to reach the solar-powered, biodynamically farmed Marimar Estate Vineyards & Winery (11400 Graton Road), run by Marimar Torres and her daughter Cristina Torres, whose family’s winemaking history stretches back to the 1600s in Spain. Settle into the welcoming tasting room for a glass of Albariño or Godello, with housemade tapas inspired by Marimar Torres’s native Barcelona.

From there, stop at Gold Ridge Organic Farms (3387 Canfield Road), whose name celebrates the town’s rich Goldridge soils, which helped put this agricultural region on the map. Farmer Brooke Hazen risked everything to transform this 88-acre cattle ranch into an award-winning olive operation with 13,000 olive trees as well as hundreds of apples and other fruits. Now through March marks the brief season for olio nuovo, the new release of freshly milled olive oil, which you can taste at the farmstand.

Back downtown, stroll past the shops before seeking out playful vibes at neighborhood standout Third Pig Bar (116 S Main St.), where craft cocktails come served in vintage glassware or — our favorite — a pink pig tiki mug.

Nearby at Handline Coastal California (935 Gravenstein Highway S.), a family- friendly dinner spot, you’ll be faced with a difficult decision: linger over a bowl of cioppino or excellent fish tacos, or pay tribute to the eatery’s humble beginnings as a Foster’s Freeze with a burger topped with St. Jorge Fonduta cheese and a side of hand-cut French fries. It’s all delicious, especially when you finish up with a root beer float, made with local Strauss soft serve.

For more tasty, farm-to-table eats in Sebastopol, find our favorite restaurants here.

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A blend of historic charm and modern creativity, this riverside town invites exploration at every turn. Its walkable downtown is packed with eclectic boutiques, vintage treasures, and a thriving food scene that highlights local and global flavors. Whether you’re savoring fresh pastries, wandering through indie record stores or hiking rolling green hills, Petaluma offers a perfect balance of easygoing charm and unexpected delights.

Where to go

With eclectic small boutiques, antique shops and tons of great restaurants, Petaluma’s downtown is charismatic and intimate. Jumpstart the day at the grab-and-go counter at legendary bakery Della Fattoria (143 Petaluma Blvd. N.). The cinnamon twist is a harmony of savory and sweet — odds are you’ll be covered in some highly coveted crumbs before you make it out the door.

Browse sustainable clothes and apothecary goods at Estuary (120 Petaluma Blvd. N.); get lost among stacks of vinyl at Paradise Found Records & Music (316 B St.); stock up on heirloom seeds at Petaluma Seed Bank (110 Petaluma Blvd. N.); or lose an hour or two at Copperfield’s Underground (140 Kentucky St.), a treasure trove of rare and used books.

A short walk away, everyone loves the Swedish meatballs (with extra lingonberries, please) and falafel kebabs at family-owned Stockhome restaurant (220 Western Ave.). Don’t leave without a bag of colorful candies from the glass jars that line the counter for your own version of the Swedish custom of lördagsgodis, or Saturday morning sweets. From there, a quick stop at Cottage Gardens of Petaluma (3995 Emerald Drive) provides inspiration for future flowery goodness, with paths lined with roses, succulents and bubbling fountains.

Lush and green, the hillsides at Helen Putnam Regional Park (411 Chileno Valley Road), a short drive from town, shine this time of year. If it’s been a rainy week, the paved Ridge Trail is a go-to. When the ground is firm, the park’s 6-mile looped trail system weaves together quiet spaces for reflection with panoramic views of the city and rolling pasturelands.

Back in town, celebrate all those steps from a comfy seat near the window at Barber Lee Spirits (120 Washington St.). Whiskey drinkers will certainly feel at home here, but the family-owned distillery is also well-known for crafting spirits that aren’t widely produced in the United States, including anise-flavored absinthe and lambanog, a traditional 100-proof liquor from the Philippines with an alluring slight sweetness.

From the tasting room at Barber Lee, it’s less than a 15-minute walk to a memorable dinner at Table Culture Provisions (312 Petaluma Blvd. S.). What started as a fried chicken pop-up during the pandemic has blossomed into an ambitious, multicourse tasting menu that reminds us of the bounty in our backyard.

For more things to do in the vibey town of Petaluma, check out some favorite date ideas, outdoor art and best destination restaurants. 

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Boasting dozens of historic restaurants and iconic vineyards throughout the land, Sonoma County harbors many classic gems we couldn’t fathom living without. From favorite watering holes only locals know about to legendary experiences you have to try at least once, here is just a handful of our favorite Sonoma classics.

Ernie’s Tin Bar, Petaluma

Since 1923, this watering hole on Lakeville Highway has offered respite from the bustling world outside its door. Snack on all the shelled peanuts you want, but keep your cellphone tucked away — their use is frowned upon. Instead, strike up a chat with your neighbor. “If you sit down, you’re going to end up in a conversation with somebody,” says third-generation proprietor Ernie Altenreuther. 5100 Lakeville Highway, Petaluma, 707-762-2075, facebook.com/erniestinbar

Friday Pie Day at Hazel, Occidental

Michele Wimborough’s Friday pie day is legendary, with picks ranging from peanut butter and blackberry to Dutch apple and lemon meringue. You never know what she’ll be making, which is half the fun of your pie adventure. 3782 Bohemian Hwy., Occidental, 707-874-6003, restauranthazel.com

Pliny the Younger, Santa Rosa and Windsor

Why is there a long line of folks standing out in the cold — even sometimes in the spring rain — along Fourth Street in Santa Rosa? It’s a rite of passage that goes back over two decades: the annual release of the Pliny the Younger beer. The triple IPA packs a punch at over 10% alcohol and is available at Russian River Brewing Co.’s pubs in Santa Rosa and Windsor for only two weeks, starting in late March. Waiting in line for a pint of Pliny is a classic, only-in-Sonoma experience that you’ve got to try at least once. 725 Fourth St., Santa Rosa; 700 Mitchell Lane, Windsor, 707-545-2337, russianriverbrewing.com

Geyserville Gun Club, Geyserville

This former Masonic lodge masquerades as the most next-level bar in the county. Though their craft cocktails would spit in your eye if you called them that, selections like the She Devil, with mezcal, cherry liqueur, a squeeze of citrus and a dusting of ghost pepper are certainly creative. The bar menu is a munchie fantasy: fat Korean tacos with Kewpie mayo and bonito flakes, for example, and some of the tastiest burgers around. 21025 Geyserville Ave., Geyserville, 707-814-0036, geyservillegunclub.com

The Swiss Hotel, Sonoma

There’s no better place to take in the scene on the Sonoma Plaza than from one of these outdoor tables, a well-mixed Negroni in your hand. This historic hotel and restaurant has been around for well over a century, and the sense of history shows. A collection of beer steins hang above the bar, black-and-white photos of sportsmen and Hollywood actors cover the walls, and the menu is filled with classic Italian, family-style favorites like pastas and chops. There’s an epic wall of wine bottles, many rare and historic, in the main dining room. 18 W. Spain St., Sonoma, 707-938-2884, swisshotelsonoma.com

Fishetarian, Bodega Bay

This easy-going seafood shack right on the Bodega Harbor boasts fresh-caught fish daily and picnic table seating just steps from the water. You can’t go wrong with the menu here, with picks like platters of fat oysters served raw or barbecue-style, Boston-style clam chowder, fish tacos and crab cakes. Stock up for the fridge back at home at the fresh seafood counter. 599 Highway 1, Bodega Bay, 707-875-9092, fishetarianfishmarket.com

The Casino Bar & Grill, Bodega

Oh, Casino, how we love you — and we hope you never change. This classic waystation in the town of Bodega was overseen by the legendary Evelyn Casini for 75 years. Evelyn passed away last September at age 97, but Casino keeps going, fueling ranchers, fishermen and lucky visitors to this tight-knit town of 200. The Casino hosts rotating popups from various local chefs. 17000 Bodega Hwy, Bodega, 707-876-3185, facebook.com/thecasinobarandgrill

Jack’s Filling Station, Sonoma

It’s the only place we know where you can both fill up your gas tank and walk away with a vintage vinyl record and a six-pack of craft beer or a bottle of natural wine from an up-and-coming producer. The Little Lou’s food truck is parked at the side most mornings, with gigantic breakfast burritos and some of the best burgers in town. 899 Broadway, Sonoma, 707-343-7203, jacksfillingstation.com

Washoe House, Petaluma

This fun roadhouse on the rural outskirts of Petaluma and Cotati is one of the oldest buildings in the county, dating back to 1859. Over the decades, it’s been a stagecoach station, a dance hall and a locals’ watering hole, with pinned-up dollar bills and handwritten messages absolutely plastering the ceiling. The food is good, from barbecue oysters and steaks to Henhouse fried chicken and fried cheese curds. 2840 Roblar Road, Petaluma, 707-795-4544, washoehouse.feastbuffet.site

Dry Creek General Store, Healdsburg

This distinctive green-and-white clapboard 1881 general store and restaurant is the place to stop on a wine-tasting tour through rural Dry Creek Valley west of Healdsburg, near the Lambert Bridge. It’s the heart of this small rural crossroads, with cellar staff stopping in for takeout deli sandwiches during harvest and mixing it up with dressed-up visitors having a glass of wine on the porch. The adjoining bar is back with its distinctive saddle barstools, and everyone’s having a good time. 3495 Dry Creek Road, Healdsburg, 707-433-4171, drycreekgeneralstore1881.com

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These are the essential places and experiences that define living in Sonoma County — comfort food for the soul, as we like to say. Think Dungeness crab sandwiches wolfed down just steps from the water, a quiet walk under a thick canopy of redwoods, a barstool calling your name at a decades-old watering hole where the owner insists you put away your phone. Settle down, take a deep breath and ease into the new year right.

Winding Weekend Drives

Head northeast from Healdsburg on Highway 128 past the wineries of Alexander Valley to rural Knights Valley, where you’ll take in views of a historic 1,200-acre cattle ranch (that donates some of its beef to people in need), a trout farm, and distant hills layered upon mountains. Time seems to stop in this hidden corner of the county.

Curvy Coleman Valley Road begins in Occidental and leads west, emerging from a series of redwood groves onto a hilltop plateau of prairie-like pasturelands. From the very top, before the road takes a curvy, jaw-dropping descent to join Highway 1, you can often watch the sun sink into banks of pillowy fog.

Ramble westward through the agricultural valleys outside Petaluma, starting on Western Avenue to Chileno Valley Road for the seasonal spectacle at Helen Putnam Regional Park. From there, take Chileno Valley Road west and then north, before looping back to town via Tomales Road and Bodega Avenue. Especially stunning when the skies clear just after a storm.

Live Music

Little Saint, Healdsburg

Every show feels like an intimate house concert at this music club and gathering space on the second floor of a well-known plant-based restaurant. The owners and concert programmer are well plugged into the folk/Americana scene, and free concerts happen most Thursday nights, along with occasional ticketed shows. Superstar trio boygenius played a surprise under-the-radar show here in 2023. 25 North St., littlesainthealdsburg.com/liveatlittlesaint

The Mystic Theatre, Petaluma

A 1911 vaudeville theater-turned-club with a landmark marquee anchors the North Bay music scene, booking national touring acts, tribute bands, comedy shows, and more. Seeing a show here is a true step back in time, the intimate kind of venue that real music fans love. 23 Petaluma Blvd. N., mystictheatre.com

The 222, Healdsburg

Jazz trios, choral music and opera are just some of what’s heard at this community-minded art gallery and performance space just off the Healdsburg Plaza. Also poetry readings and film nights. Always thoughtful, always welcoming. 222 Healdsburg Ave., the222.org

Wander the Redwoods

Armstrong Redwoods State Natural Reserve, Guerneville

The classic 805-acre reserve has both strenuous hikes and paved, accessible strolls along gorgeous Fife Creek. The Colonel Armstrong Tree, the oldest in the grove at an estimated 1,400 years, honors the Civil War Union officer who first preserved this special place. 17000 Armstrong Woods Road, parks.ca.gov

Riverfront Regional Park, Healdsburg

Along the banks of the Russian River just steps from vineyards, this pretty grove connects to easy riverside trails and access to the water for kayakers and paddleboarders. 7821 Eastside Road, parks.sonomacounty.ca.gov

Red Hill, Near Jenner

In Sonoma Coast State Park, the Red Hill and Pomo Canyon trails loop through coastal grasslands and very pretty stands of coast redwoods fed by nearby springs. 8901 Highway 1, parks.ca.gov

Neighborhood Crossroads

The Starling, Sonoma

In Sonoma, this locals bar has quite the scene, with live music as a mainstay two to three nights a week, plus plenty of cold beers and interesting craft cocktails. They’ve recently added comedy nights and line dancing, plus meatball sandwiches (YES!) and hot pizza from an oven out back. Feeling brave? The open mic night is one of the best around. 19380 Highway 12, 707-938-7442, starlingsonoma.com

Underwood Bar and Bistro, Graton

In rural Graton, take a seat at the big, loud, nickel-topped bar to rub shoulders with west county winemakers, farmers and other cool kids. All around, folks indulge in French onion soup laden with molten Gruyère, duck confit with lentils, flatiron steaks and, interestingly, some mighty fine Thai dishes. 9113 Graton Road, 707-823-7023, underwoodgraton.com

The Goose & Fern, Santa Rosa

This British-style pub in Railroad Square has deep green walls covered in horseracing prints and a big TV tuned to Premier League soccer (football!). The menu has hearty pub favorites like Guinness pie, bangers and mash, and local rock cod fish and chips — they’ll even give you the crispy bits from the deep fryer to nibble on for free. Such a chill addition to the nightlife scene in Santa Rosa. 116 Fifth St., 707-843-4235, thegooseandfern.com

Public Gardens

Glen Ellen’s Sonoma Botanical Garden has a focus on library specimens of rare Asian trees and ornamental plants, including Japanese maples, obscure magnolias and dogwoods, and lilies. A section of the garden focused on California native plants offers inspiration for their use in local landscapes, helping visitors become smarter, more water-wise gardeners. 12841 Highway 12, Glen Ellen, 707-996-3166, sonomabg.org 

Self-taught horticulturalist Luther Burbank laid down roots in Sonoma County in 1875 and called our landscape “the chosen spot” in all the world. He bred and propagated more than 800 varieties of plants, including plums, potatoes, lilies and spineless cactus. Learn about his legacy on a self-guided visit to his home and gardens in Santa Rosa or tour the remaining 3 acres of his experimental farm in Sebastopol. 204 Santa Rosa Ave., Santa Rosa, 707-524-5445, lutherburbank.org

Western Hills Garden outside Occidental was bought by a new generation of owners in 2021 and has been relaunched as a nonprofit for the community. New seasonal collaborations and public events include concerts, botanical craft workshops, and, recently, a reading from artist and author Obi Kaufmann of “The California Field Atlas.” The gardens encompass three lushly planted acres with five ponds and 34 bridges — and while it remains rather under the radar, it’s a must-see. 16250 Coleman Valley Road, Occidental, 707-872-5463, westernhillsgarden.com

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With its rugged coastline, historic charm and some of the freshest seafood on the West Coast, Bodega Bay is a must-visit for anyone craving a classic Northern California escape. Whether you’re savoring a warm bowl of chowder with harbor views, exploring scenic coastal trails, or indulging in fresh-baked treats along the way, a day here is as breathtaking as it is delicious.

Where to go

There will be a line. There is always a line. But it moves fast, and after your first bite of a scone laced with Meyer lemon and blackberry or butternut squash, Gouda and onions, you’ll vow to return to Freestone’s Wild Flour Bread (140 Bohemian Highway). The landmark bakery is just off the winding highway that many travel to reach the two sister communities, Bodega and Bodega Bay, that are such a draw in winter seafood season.

There’s something about that first glimpse of the white steeple of St. Teresa of Avila Church (17242 Bodega Highway) in the distance that captures the spirit of Bodega’s serene surroundings. The simple façade was made famous by two great artists, photographer Ansel Adams and film director Alfred Hitchcock, and its beauty still resonates today. You don’t want to just blow through the small town that surrounds the church — after all, the ocean isn’t going anywhere.

If you’re questioning whether you should have brought that extra hoodie, now’s your chance to pick one up at neighboring Northern Light Surf Shop (17191 Bodega Highway). Also in the town of Bodega, the Dodrill Gallery (17175 Bodega Highway), located in a former butcher shop, showcases the work of adventure photographer Jerry Dodrill, who shoots climbers and adventurers around the world. His rich photographs of Sonoma County landscapes remind us to seek out special experiences close to home.

The drive from Bodega out to Bodega Head adds to the magic of the day’s journey. Take the time to notice the windswept hues and fluttering kites of the shops along the coastal highway, and stop in at Patrick’s of Bodega Bay (915 Highway 1), a sweets shop with a sweet, pink-and-white striped paint job. Later in the week, when you’re wishing you were at the coast, a stash of saltwater taffy can ease the sting.

Continue around the small bay to Spud Point Crab Co. (1910 Westshore Road), where you can take in views of a resilient fleet of fishing boats harbored in Spud Point Marina and warm up with a cup of clam chowder. Nearby, Bodega Head promises striking views with little effort. It may be a bit early for migrating whales, but there are crashing waves and many other types of coastal life, including seals and birds. If the tide is cooperating, save a few moments to pull into Campbell Cove, the too-often overlooked stretch of sand at the base of Bodega Head. At low tide, the tidepools here sparkle with sea stars and anemones.

A swell way to cap a day on the coast is from a table by the window at the new Southern-style fish house, Rocker Oysterfeller’s at Lucas Wharf (595 Highway 1), which has brought even more fun to the waterfront scene here, already a standout with fresh fish from the counter next door at Fishetarian. As the sun sets, watch for harbor seals at play from a table topped with local barbecue oysters and the giant Captain’s Platter, with seafood and hand-cut fries.

Find more of the best places to eat, drink and stay on the Sonoma Coast here.

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Small-town charm meets big-time flavor in this Sonoma County gem, where vibrant downtown streets, world-class wineries and a thriving food scene await. Whether you’re exploring unique boutiques, savoring farm-to-table meals or taking in stunning landscapes, this town offers the perfect mix of relaxation and adventure. From scenic hiking trails to delicious dishes at every corner, we’ve curated a guide to the best spots for an unforgettable day in Healdsburg.

Ah, Kouign-amann, with your layers upon layers of flaky dough and sugary bliss. Don’t worry if you can’t pronounce it — the friendly weirdoughs (their term!) at Quail & Condor bakery (149 Healdsburg Ave.) know the drill.

Healdsburg’s chic downtown packs a punch and is best navigated on foot. Pop into Harmon Guest House (227 Healdsburg Ave.) to see the latest installation of its rotating artist series, then head to Levin & Company Community Booksellers (306 Center St.). For 30-plus years, this family-owned bookstore and its upstairs art gallery has offered a snug space for contemplation and escape.

Nearby, the popularity of downtown newcomer Acorn Cafe (124 Matheson St.) is no surprise, with dishes like shakshuka and lemon ricotta hotcakes, topped with lemon lavender ice cream from local favorite Noble Folk. At Acorn, settle in on the patio by the plaza, or opt for a grab-and-go sandwich and hit nearby Fitch Mountain for heart-pumping hiking trails with a view.

For a more serene outdoor adventure, set your sights on Aesthete Farm & Winery (5610 Dry Creek Road), a short drive away in Dry Creek Valley. Home to more than just vineyards, guests are encouraged to roam the 24-acre property, meet the social herd of rescue sheep and goats, and taste wines from rockstar winemaker Jesse Katz. If Dry Creek is flowing at a mellow pace, the winery has Adirondack chairs by the water that are the place to be.

Back in town for drinks and dinner, start at Lo & Behold (214 Healdsburg Ave.) for a Happy Trails gin cocktail or the World’s Best Vodka Soda, crafted with local Young & Yonder vodka, and maybe a pre-dinner snack of kimchi noodles, made fresh daily. Then finish at the casual Tisza Bistro (165 Healdsburg Ave.), a warm, neighborhood-y spot for crispy potato latkes with smoked salmon, dumplings and schnitzel — a dinner date that’s hard to break.

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When Noah Jeppson showed his husband Corey Rawdon a listing for a historic, Gothic-style Victorian in downtown Healdsburg near the plaza, Corey’s response was immediate, but not in the way that Noah had hoped.

“Oh, it was a hard pass,” Corey remembers, laughing. This was in September 2020, and the couple, who were living in Tahoe, wanted to move closer to San Francisco for work — and to put down some small-town roots in the hope of starting a family together.

“I knew Noah was going to fall in love with it though,” says Corey. “It had the walkability, it had the charm. It was a project we could put our own imagination into, to create something.”

Corey, a marketing executive, and Noah, an experiential graphic designer, had renovated several homes together in the past and knew the draw of bringing an older home into the present.

“When you’re in an old house, you realize you’re the caretaker of the house and you want to do what you can to preserve it, to understand the stories and put together the story of the house,” says Noah.

The home had been built in 1884 by one of Healdsburg’s earliest residents, a German immigrant who owned a bar and later served the town as fire chief and mayor. After the owner raised his family, the home had been used as a boarding house and apartments. Though it was in good structural condition, much of the Victorian character had been lost over time.

“Every family that had lived in this house had done something different and made it their own, so we weren’t afraid to do that as well… We wanted to bring back the warmth and the color and the joy,” says Noah.

The couple kept the floor plan intact with separate formal rooms for dining and socializing, but wanted to layer in color and functionality, including a laundry room, a full-size bath downstairs and a new wall of cabinets in the kitchen.

“We drew inspiration from the house itself and what would’ve occurred during the time it was built — having a drawing room, a formal front parlor. But then we wanted to create space for the future, first and foremost for family,” says Corey.

As they restored the home, the couple uncovered traces of the past that helped them understand its history. Behind an existing section of wall, Noah found a school slate used by an early resident who became the town’s first high school graduate. Elsewhere, he found the written signatures of the builders scrawled on walls, old newspapers used as insulation, hand-forged nails — and best of all, a previously boarded-up hidden passageway.

“Noah cannot resist the opportunity to explore,” says Corey. “I was on the phone with him, and he was showing me a section of the wall in the dining room, pushing and tapping on it, and then he said, ‘I’ll call you back. I’m going to get a sledgehammer.’ So he goes and gets the sledgehammer and knocks a hole in the wall, and it just keeps going back into a void.”

“Of course that was just like another invitation to keep exploring some more,” laughs Noah. Later, the couple enlarged the hole and turned it into a passageway connecting the formal front parlor to the dining room, which they use for guests.

Painting and decorating the space was an opportunity to layer in more historical perspective. Corey chose a bold trio of colors — wall, trim, ceiling — to define each room, a look that he and Noah call “Victorian Pop.” Each room is meant to pop on its own, explains Corey, but some colors become touchpoints that echo throughout the home for continuity. The warm rose-tan in the living room is repeated on the ceiling of the upstairs hall, for example, and the slate-brown window trim reappears in a bedroom. It’s a vivid, design-forward approach to color.

“‘Fortune favors the bold’ is a saying I’ve always lived my life by,” says Corey. “It’s only color. If it doesn’t work, you can always paint over it.”

Noah focused on the home’s decor, sourcing historic furniture, art, and architectural details on Craigslist and at local antique stores. They each had a veto authority over the other’s choices.

“But we didn’t allow each other to say, ‘I kind of like it but I wish it were something different,’” explains Corey. “It was either ‘that’s a no’ — or you had to let the other person run with it. But in allowing ourselves that freedom, we were able to work together almost without trying to. It just naturally happened.”

For the past few years, all of the couple’s energy and time has been poured into the house and its many needs. “So it’s like, OK, this year for Christmas, we’re giving each other an antique mantel and tile for the kitchen,” says Noah.

Corey, who grew up in Tennessee, contributed some family heirlooms — his grandmother’s bell, which sits on the table in the formal parlor, a sprig of cotton he picked in Tennessee on the mantle, and a wagon-wheel light in the small outbuilding that the couple use as a shared office.

Neighbors and friends often remark that the home the couple has created together feels a bit like a museum. “And we’re like, sure, it is. But it’s the everyday museum,” says Corey. “The look is highly curated and feels special, but it’s still approachable, and you can go up and touch everything. You can live in it. You can use it. It’s not just for looks.”

Corey and Noah are now turning their attention to deepening their roots in the community. They’ve built a little free library on the corner of their lot and are currently finishing a renovation of their front garden, creating a space where they can chat with neighbors and their dog, Bash, can play. They both volunteer with the Healdsburg Museum & Historical Society, and Corey now serves on the board of the group. And last summer, they were the host family for a college baseball player who was spending the summer in Sonoma County as a member of the Healdsburg Prune Packers baseball team.

They say they are looking forward to becoming even more a part of the fabric of the town and their neighborhood in their next chapter of life. “Raising kids takes a village,” says Corey. “Part of moving here was to find and build our own community, to have that village so that when we have kids, we have that support system.”

They’ve named their home the Heartwood House, a name they picked in honor of the prime local redwood used in its construction back in the 1880s. But beyond that, the couple say that the name Heartwood House has come to embody a spirit of warmth and community.

“We do just have a lot of heart put into our home,” says Corey. “We’ve found new meaning in this old house.”

The post As Local Couple Restored Their Historic Healdsburg Home, They Uncovered Traces of Its Colorful Past appeared first on Sonoma Magazine.

Sonoma, with its rich history, scenic landscapes, and renowned food and wine culture, offers a wealth of experiences for all types of visitors. Whether you’re drawn to its picturesque plaza, surrounding vineyards or delightful dining scene, there’s no shortage of things to see, do and taste. To make the most of your time in this charming town, we’ve rounded up a few of the must-visit spots that will make for a perfect, laid-back day in Sonoma.

Sonoma Plaza makes everyone feel as if it’s their place. Designed by General Mariano Vallejo in 1835, it’s home to City Hall, a duck pond, rose garden and plenty of benches for prime people-watching. Start the day with espresso, waffles and mimosas at Sunflower Caffè (421 First St. W.), a sunny gathering spot right on the park that understands breakfast is the most important meal of the day. After, wander past the plaza’s Sebastiani Theatre (476 First St. E.) to check out what’s playing — the venue hosts both independent movies and occasional live shows.

A short drive away, raise a glass to Wine Country history at Buena Vista Winery (18000 Old Winery Road), in a tasting room that dates to 1857. The theatrical light-and-sound show at the winery’s Wine Tool Museum details early local history and stories of Buena Vista’s eccentric founder, Agoston Haraszthy.

Haraszthy’s historical tales continue at nearby Bartholomew Estate Winery (1000 Vineyard Lane). This was originally part of the same estate as Buena Vista, and guests are encouraged to wander the property just as the self-proclaimed “Count of Buena Vista” might have done. At Bartholomew Estate, you can opt for a guided forest bathing experience or escape solo on more than three miles of trail before sitting down to taste wines and nibble on marinated olives, pickled veggies, baba ganoush and more from Sonoma’s Spread Kitchen.

Flavors of the season aren’t limited to wine. In their smart tasting room a short drive from downtown, Hanson of Sonoma (22985 Burndale Road) mixes warm boozy delights like hot chocolate made with organic espresso vodka. It’s hard not to love, especially on a chilly afternoon. For a decadent splurge, pair vodka martinis with Thomas Keller’s Regiis Ova caviar.

Back at the plaza, reserve ahead at Valley (487 First St. W.) for a locally inspired, farm-to-table dinner and thoughtful, low-intervention wines. The crispy rice with ginger and scallions, and a custardy boiled egg with spicy, umami-laden XO sauce are standouts among an ever-changing lineup. Interesting visiting chef collaborations and special events happen throughout the year.

With so much to see and do in the city of Sonoma, it’s no surprise national outlets often sing its praises. Sonoma has been ranked the No. 1 U.S. city for luxury on a budget, the top place to elope in the country and one of the most timeless towns in California.

The post How to Spend A Perfect Day in Sonoma appeared first on Sonoma Magazine.

On the 10th anniversary of the day they started dating, Heather Delman and Dylan Price celebrated their love with a wedding that perfectly blended their story with the natural beauty of Sonoma County. The couple, who met at Sonoma State University and both work in the wine industry, exchanged vows last May at Olive Oaks in Sebastopol, a private home that hosts events.

“The vineyards in the background were a nod to what we both do,” Heather explains. “And we wanted a place where we could bring our own wine.”

The couple planned a heartfelt, outdoorsy celebration that showcased the friends and family who had shared in their journey.

“I didn’t meet one new person on my wedding day. Everyone was a part of our story,” says Heather. “It’s a big reason why we decided even to have a wedding. This is the only time we can get all of these people in one place together.”

With many guests flying in from the East Coast, where Dylan’s family is from, the couple hoped to share what they love about living in Sonoma County. “We wanted to make an awesome experience and show everyone why we love it so much,” says Heather.

Details reflected the couple’s deep connection to the region. The flowers came from a local farm, and the final look was a bit of a surprise. Heather chose the color palette in advance but allowed the team at the farm to arrange what was freshest and in season. “I was already in my dress when the flowers arrived, and I loved them,” she says.

Instead of a traditional tiered cake, the couple opted for seasonal fruit pies as well as cake jars decorated with stickers of their dog, Odin, who also put in an appearance at the wedding.

“He’s essentially our child. We are so obsessed with him. But we were scared to let him loose with that pool,” laughs Heather. The sweets decorated with Odin’s face proved very popular with their guests. “We barely got to taste the desserts,” she says. “They were gone in minutes!”

Resources

Venue: Olive Oaks, Sebastopol

Photography: Stephanie Klotz Photography

Month-Of Coordination: Detailed Dreams Events

Catering: Sacramento Catering Collective

Florals: Longer Table Farm

Desserts: A Little Luster

DJ: Carl Jay Entertainment

Hair and Makeup: Contour Bridal

Dress Alterations: Carole Kenney Design

Rentals: Encore Events Rentals

Restrooms: The Posh Privy

Transportation: Sonoma Sterling Limousines

Wine: Marine Layer Wines

The post Local Wine Industry Couple’s Wedding Showcases What They Love About Sonoma County appeared first on Sonoma Magazine.