Page 126 – Sonoma Magazine

Rohnert Park’s Sally Tomatoes Ends Restaurant Service

November 2022

By Heather Irwin

An event area at Sally Tomatoes Catering and Events. (Courtesy Sally Tomatoes)

Heirloom Cucina Italiana at the Sally Tomatoes space in the sprawling SOMO Village business center ended its restaurant service on Oct. 28.

Sally Tomatoes will transform into a full-service event center and catering company. Special community nights will be offered for the public on Wednesdays with a fireside buffet of homemade soups and pizza, salads and pasta for kids and adults. There also will be drinks and games, including corn hole and Wednesday paint nights.

Watch the Sally Tomatoes website (sallytomatoes.com) for more details on upcoming music shows and events at the space, located at 1100 Valley House Drive, in Rohnert Park. Call 707-665-9472.

Explore the Charming Town of Petaluma with an Outdoor Art Tour

November 2022

By Maci Martell

The River Arch, a metal sculpture by renowned local artist David Best stands at Lynch Creek Trail alongside the Petaluma River. (Crissy Pascual/Petaluma Argus-Courier)

In Sonoma County, public art is easily accessible, in every town. Petaluma, especially, has loads of public art, and to help you explore it, we’re offering a guide of the highlights.

There are more than 30 outdoor public art pieces scattered around the city, including murals, sculptures, arches and a community-built fountain.

‘River Arch’

In August, Petaluma-based artist David Best unveiled his new public art piece, “River Arch,” an intricate, rust-colored steel archway that greets passersby on Lynch Creek Trail off Lakeville Street. The 25-foot metal arch — with decorative curves, natural motifs and a chandelier-like detail — enhances the industrial look of the area while serving as a gateway between downtown Petaluma and the surrounding natural landscape.

Best is known for the large, elaborate temples and sculptures he creates for the Burning Man festival. The Petaluma Public Art Committee commissioned Best in 2017 to create the River Arch to improve the site for residents and visitors, welcoming them to Petaluma’s downtown. Lynch Creek Trail is located at 88 Lakeville St. in Petaluma.

‘Wrist Wrestling Champions’

Wrist wrestling transformed from a playful test of machismo to a nationally recognized sport when local legend and Argus-Courier columnist Bill Soberanes arranged a match at “Diamond Mike” Gilardi’s bar in 1955. The thrilling contest, which ended in a draw, generated so much attention that a committee was formed to organize a tournament. The tournament grew over the years, and, in 1962, the first World Wristwrestling Championship was held in Petaluma’s Hermann Sons Hall.

By 1988, the city of Petaluma erected a statue downtown — made by prominent Cuban artist Rosa Estebañez — in Soberanes’ honor, depicting him and another man locked in a strenuous battle of the forearms. The bronze sculpture includes a plaque commemorating Soberanes as “the World’s Number One People Meeter” for his knack for making fast friends. Find the statue near the corner of East Washington Street and Petaluma Boulevard North, next to Lemongrass Thai Noodle and across the street from the Petaluma Heritage Mural

On Feb. 12, 1952, Petaluma's first wrist wrestling championship was held at Gilardi's bar, with a match between Oliver Kullberg, a Lakeville rancher, and Jack Homel, a major league baseball trainer. The competition grew to international proportions attracting celebrities and politicians from near and wide. In this photo then-Gov. Ronald Reagan wrestles Bill Soberanes at a later competition. (PETALUMA MUSEUM) — On Feb. 12, 1952, Petaluma’s first wrist wrestling championship was held at Gilardi’s bar. The competition grew to international proportions attracting celebrities and politicians from near and wide. In this photo then-Gov. Ronald Reagan wrestles Bill Soberanes at a later competition. (Petaluma Museum)

Arnold Schwarzenegger made a special guest appearance at the 1978 World Wrist Wrestling Championship tournament. (Petaluma Museum)

‘Reared In Steel’

Get a taste of Burning Man at the corner of Copeland and East Washington streets, where Petaluma artist Kevin Clark set up his private art studio Reared In Steel. The massive metal sculptures out front are a fixture in downtown Petaluma, when they’re not at the annual Burning Man festival or rented out to various other events.

The steampunk-like artworks that can be spotted on Copeland Street include a 70-foot “Flower Tower,” a metal-winged guardian lion (“Guardino Leone”), a fully motorized “Rhino Redemption” art car and an intimidating “Medusa Madness” sculpture. Then there’s the giant squawking metal raven perched atop the studio.

While the working art studio is private, visitors are welcome to view it from the street and snap photos of the huge, unusual art sculptures in the studio yard, at 100 Copeland St., in Petaluma.

‘Outlet, Plug & Cord’

In Petaluma’s Theatre District, it’s hard to miss the giant wall outlet and plug protruding from the PG&E Substation on the corner of First and D streets. The comically large sculpture made of steel, wood and fiberglass seems to fit right in with its surroundings while adding levity to the industrial look of the area.

The cord of the plug appears to be coming out of the ground, suggesting it’s drawing power from the nearby electrical towers to supply energy to the PG&E building. The utility company commissioned artist Joel Jones, of Basal Ganglia Studio, and fabricator Shawn Thorsson to create the art piece, which they unveiled in 2015.

Daya Ceglia checking out the Plug during the unveiling reception of a sculpture by fabricator Shawn Thorsson and artist Joel Jones at the1st and D Street PG&E substation in Petaluma on Friday, July 10, 2015. (Jim Johnson/For the Argus-Courier) — Daya Ceglia checking out the Plug during the unveiling reception of a sculpture by fabricator Shawn Thorsson and artist Joel Jones at the First and D Street PG&E substation in Petaluma on Friday, July 10, 2015. (Jim Johnson/For the Argus-Courier)

‘Faces of Petaluma Fountain’

In the middle of Petaluma’s Theatre District is a water fountain covered in more than 800 unique faces made of clay and set in colorful mosaic tile. Ceramic artist and community organizer Donna Billick designed and led the public art project, which welcomed Petalumans of all ages to sculpt self-portraits from clay.

Billick took the finished clay faces back to her art studio in Davis to fire and prepare them for installation, and Heath Ceramics in Sausalito provided the mosaic tile panels. The project was completed in 2007 and presents an artistic link with the Petaluma community’s past and future. See the colorful, whimsical fountain in Theatre Square, surrounded by local businesses such as Trattoria Roma, Sol Food and La Dolce Vita Wine Lounge. It’s located at Theatre Square, 140 Second St., in Petaluma.

‘Cherry Soda’

Patrons of Petaluma’s Boulevard Cinemas can’t miss this whimsical abstract statue of a yellow-and-blue cup spilling over with pink cherry soda. Sculptor Robert Ellison created the painted-steel statue in 2003, originally installed at Lucchesi Park.

The Petaluma Public Art Committee purchased “Cherry Soda” from the Voigt Family Sculpture Foundation after Ellison’s death in 2012, and the two groups worked with the city of Petaluma to facilitate the installation at the cinema. “Cherry Soda” resides at the corner of Second and C streets in front of the theater, and the statue remains a popular hangout spot for young people waiting to see a movie. Boulevard 14 Cinema is located at 200 C St. in Petaluma.

Patrons of Petaluma’s Boulevard Cinemas can’t miss this whimsical abstract statue, “Cherry Soda,” by sculptor Robert Ellison. (The Press Democrat, file)

‘A Whale of a Good Time’

A life-size whale tail made from scrap metal stands 15 feet tall in the Deer Creek Village shopping center, where it dives into the pavement between Sourdough & Co. and Habit Burger Grill. Sacramento artist Terrence Martin created the sculpture in 2014 after gaining inspiration from a whale-watching trip. The statue seats nine people inside and is surrounded by a ring of fluorescent blue lighting that glows at night.

The aquatic sculpture was the first piece in a series of art installations at the shopping center, including a 20-foot steel and glass abstract tree sculpture (also made by Martin) next to Mary’s Pizza Shack and decorative benches created by Martin and local artist David Duskin

Hands & Balls, Petaluma

Meant to represent balance — of the rational and spiritual, terrestrial and celestial — a pair of giant concrete hands rest on red marbled balls in front of Lagunitas Brewing Co., coaxing in curious onlookers. The position of the hands evokes Buddhist iconography of symbolic hand gestures (known as mudras). The right hand appears to be in the Abhaya position, with the palm facing forward, representing fearlessness and protection. The left hand is in the Dhyana position (the meditation mudra), with the hand resting and palm facing up, symbolizing compassion for all living beings.

The husband-and-wife team Peter Crompton and Robyn Spencer-Crompton built the sculpture, with Peter focusing on the form of the concrete hands and Robyn on the mosaic surface design. The “Hands & Balls” sculpture has been a part of the Sculpture Trail in Cloverdale and Geyserville and was installed in front of Lagunitas in Petaluma in 2012. Lagunitas Brewing Co. is located at 1280 N. McDowell Blvd. in Petaluma.

‘Fred J. Wiseman Monument’

In 1911, local pilot Fred J. Wiseman embarked on a short flight, in a biplane he designed and built, to deliver mail and newspapers from Petaluma to Santa Rosa. It was the world’s earliest “air mail” flight. A park in Petaluma was named after the pilot (Wiseman Park), and local Cuban artist Rosa Estebañez created a monument in his honor in August 1968.

The monument, a bas-relief of Wiseman’s bust and plane mounted on a wall of stone and concrete, was originally located in Kenilworth Park, where Wiseman began his first air mail flight. Now it resides in Wiseman Park on the east side of Petaluma, near the Petaluma Municipal Airport.

‘Home Stretch’

Standing at the corner of Lakeville Highway and Frates Road, an 18-foot totem sculpture seems to defy physics. Made by Donna Billick in 2007 and covered in vibrant mosaic tiles, it has an inverted cone perched on what appears to be a miniature house, which balances atop five colorful spheres descending in size.

Like Billick’s Faces of Petaluma Fountain, the mosaic tiles on “Home Stretch” are from Heath Ceramics in Sausalito. The totem may be in an odd place — on the corner of Lakeville Highway and Frates Road, across from Petaluma Poultry Processors — but it’s encircled by four benches, where people can relax and admire its details

Honorable Mentions

Petaluma Friends: A sculpture made of Corten steel depicting a dog with a cat standing on its back, and a small bird perched on the end of the cat’s tail. The dog has a bone-shaped hole across its body, revealing the green tin of the Adobe Animal Hospital building behind it. The animal sculpture was created by Dale Rogers Studio in 2015. Adobe Animal Hospital, 408 Madison St., Petaluma

Heron & Reeds Wall Relief Sculpture: A large wall relief sculpture depicting a heron flying low among reeds, made of copper and established in 2009. Raley’s Grocery Store, 157 N McDowell Blvd., Petaluma

Lucchesi Park Tower Sculpture: An abstract, green metal tower sitting in front of the Petaluma Community Center. 320 N. McDowell Blvd., Petaluma

Millennium Arch: A black-painted, steel archway in McNear Park commemorating the local Rotary Club’s commitment to the city. Made by sculptor Nicolas van Krijdt and established in 2003. McNear Park, 1008 G St., Petaluma

Dubull Eagull: Unsurprisingly, Petaluma’s art and visitor centers have a number of sculptures outside, including the “Dubull Eagull” (also known as the Double Eagle). The rust-colored steel sculpture is an abstract, minimalist depiction of two eagles flying between two tall columns. It was made by Peter Forakis in 2001. Petaluma Arts Center, 230 Lakeville St., Petaluma

20 Great Restaurants to Try in Cotati

November 2022

By Heather Irwin

The Charlie Hustle fried chicken sandwich from Jam’s Joy Bungalow in Cotati and Sebastopol. (Courtesy of Jamilah Nixon-Mathis)

Cotati often gets short shrift when it comes to dining. With its blurred borders between Rohnert Park directly to the north and Penngrove to the southeast, outsiders may only notice a blink-and-its-gone exit along Highway 101.

But if you take a closer look, there’s plenty of great food to be found — not just at the main business district but at busy shopping centers and quiet office districts around town. That’s all the better for locals and intrepid wanderers, because this quaint community has something for just about everyone, from notable to unnoticed, middling to mind-blowing.

Ready to get a taste of Cotati? Click through the above gallery for our top picks and don’t miss more great choices listed below.

More Great Choices

Cafe Salsa: Find all the Mexican and American staples here, from tacos and burritos to burgers and breakfast favorites. There’s something for everyone. 8230 Old Redwood Highway, Cotati, 707-795-7068, cafesalsacotati.com.

Cape Cod Fish and Chips: Douse their first-rate fried cod and fries with malt vinegar for best results. 7530 Commerce Blvd., Suite C, Cotati, 707-792-0982.

China Chef: Here is where you go when you’re hungry for straightforward Chinese-American food. Phone orders only, 707-664-1088. 7991 Old Redwood Highway, Suite 2B.

Jaded Toad: Barbecue and smoked meats are their best-known dishes, but burgers, teriyaki and sweet potato fries topped with pork belly are good bets, too. (Plus, Loco Moco and Chicken Katsu with macaroni salad if you’re craving Hawaiian fare). 500 E. Cotati Ave., Cotati, jadedtoad.com.

Mai Vietnamese: Solid Vietnamese pho, barbecue rice plates and noodle bowls. 8492 Gravenstein Highway, Suite J, Cotati, 707-665-9628, maivietnamesecotati.com.

Marvin’s of Cotati: This old-school diner has a huge menu for breakfast and lunch, from omelets to burgers to patty melts. 7991 Old Redwood Highway, 707-664-1720, marvinsofcotati.com.

Mi Ranchito: With an epic menu of Mexican classics, Mi Ranchito is great for families and celebrations. 7600 Commerce Blvd., Cotati, 707-795-7600, miranchitocotati.com.

Saigon Café: Find Vietnamese and Japanese favorites on this short but sweet menu. 548 E. Cotati Ave., Cotati, 707-664-5925 (left of Oliver’s Market).

Twins Restaurant: If you’re in Cotati early in the day, this place has you covered, with breakfast classics and comfort food lunches. 572 E. Cotati Ave., 707-242-3075, bit.ly/3lH44Vd.

Zaina’s Bellini Cafe: Bottomless mimosas and brunchy fare, plus Middle Eastern-style shawarma, gyros and falafel. 7981 Old Redwood Highway, Cotati, 707-664-5956, bit.ly/315Z1nN.

Sonoma Hillside Retreat Hits the Market for $3.7 Million

November 2022

By Karen Kizer

A modern home with a breezy open-concept layout is for sale in the hills above Sonoma. Located just 10 minutes from the downtown plaza, the 4-bedroom, 4-bathroom property was built in 2019 by Sonoma-based Salt Shed Design. It is listed for $3,695,000.

White walls and large windows let plenty of light into the home and allow residents to take in the outdoor scenery from each room. The home has two great rooms: one comprising the kitchen, living room and dining area; another a lounging area that continues outdoors via a wall of sliding floor-to-ceiling windows. A tranquil palette that includes blue textiles creates a cool color scheme that complements the views of outside greenery.

The home’s finishes also come in subtle colors, including white oak floors, wood barn accents and white tiles. Glass and nickel fixtures add a lightweight finish and sparkle to the space. Lounging sectionals encourage easy living, and modern art pieces add interest and a bit of color contrast.

A glass door encloses a wine storage room with minimal fixtures, which yields focus to the bottles that appear to almost float in space. Outdoors, a simply designed yard with low-water plants in fire-resistant islands and a pool surrounded by three lawn chairs complete the look.

Click through the above gallery for a peek inside the home.

For more information about the property at 17333 Gehricke Road, contact listing agents Avram Goldman, 707 934 2323, 925-323-8881, or Heather Hanlon, 707-529-2669 with Compass Real Estate, 135 West Napa St., Suite 200, Sonoma.

Industrial-Modern Vineyard Estate in Sonoma Wine Country Seeks $3.95 Million

November 2022

By Karen Kizer

Two matte black steel structures with low-sloop roofs and abundant windows for taking in the surrounding vineyard views make up a 1,600-square-foot, one-bedroom, one-bathroom Healdsburg residence with a guest studio currently listed for $3,950,000.

The industrial home on 150 Bailhache Ave. has been decorated with fine art pieces selected by San Francisco-based Dutch designer Martin Kobus. A modern floor-to-ceiling white marble relief with geometric shapes, for example, makes a strong statement in the living room, while a red pen shell bar on an adjacent wall contrasts with the black-and-white color scheme of the room.

The kitchen island is made from black marble with an unusual snakeskin pattern; the island itself is formed in an equally unusual wave shape. Laminate black cabinets add to the dramatic look, while lighted shelving brightens the room.

The main bedroom boasts a textured wall with a relief of thick leaves formed from plaster. Layers of textured white materials, like floor-to-ceiling alpaca drapes, keep this room light and airy.

The powder room has an artistic resin surface in an agate pattern by Los Angeles designer Alex Turco. The main bathroom features honed Pietra d’Avola tiles with geometric, textural grooves.

Hestan appliances in the kitchen, a retractable TV that emerges from the sofa, a programmable steam shower and more technological features add another modern touch to the artistic industrial home.

Outdoors, motorized pergolas cover the home’s patios and allow for lounging independent of weather. An Endless Pool, which provides resistance for lap swimming in place, is both a spot to exercise and a bright blue water feature in the yard.

An outdoor kitchen and two-sided fireplace adds to the entertainment possibilities, while a Jeff Koons balloon dog sculpture is a whimsical addition to the otherwise classic Wine Country landscape that surrounds the home.

For more information about this home at 150 Bailhache Ave., contact Sheri Morgensen 415-269-5634, 707-431-0777 or Jessica Wynne, 415-509-2611, 415-296-2223, with Sotheby’s International Realty, Healdsburgshowcase.com

Healdsburg Winery Named Among Top 50 in the World

October 2022

By Sonoma Magazine Staff

Healdsburg’s Jordan Vineyard and Winery has made this year’s World’s 50 Best Vineyards list, as announced Wednesday at an event in Mendoza, Argentina.

Coming in at No. 46, Jordan is the only Sonoma County winery to make the list this year. Napa Valley’s Robert Mondavi Winery, which took the No. 7 spot, was named the best vineyard in North America and Opus One in Oakville came in at No. 24. Antinori nel Chianti Classico in Italy’s Tuscany region topped the list for the first time.

The World’s 50 Best Vineyards ranking is organized by UK-based William Reed Media, which also releases the prestigious World’s 50 Best Restaurants and World’s 50 Best Bars lists.

“The World’s Best Vineyards highlights wine tourism destinations around the globe and now that travel is back on the cards, this year’s list is more important than ever for raising profiles with tourists and those looking for authentic and unique trips,” commented Andrew Reed, Managing Director Wine and Exhibitions at William Reed, from the event in Mendoza.

At Jordan Vineyard and Winery in Healdsburg. (Courtesy of Jordan Vineyard & Winery)

The World’s 50 Best Vineyards described the ethos of Jordan Vineyard and Winery as “the spirit of France in Sonoma” on its website and highlighted the winery’s commitment to protecting flora and fauna. Founders Tom and Sally Jordan designed the Bordeaux-inspired winery chateau 50 years ago. Today, the winery is focused on land preservation and sustainability, while providing guests unique culinary experiences, Russian River chardonnay and Alexander Valley cabernet sauvignon.

“We are honored to be included in this list of extraordinary wineries from across the globe. This year we celebrate our 50th anniversary so to be named alongside these world-renowned, legendary institutions is truly an incredible achievement,” said Kendall Busby, Director of Marketing and Communications at Jordan Vineyard and Winery.

Guests to Jordan Vineyard & Winery can choose from a variety of experiences, including a tour of the 1,200-acre estate aboard a Mercedes Sprinter. Members of the winery’s loyalty program, Jordan Estate Rewards, can stay overnight at the French-style chateau, which recently underwent a $1 million remodel.

The 2022 World’s 50 Best Vineyards list included wineries from 20 countries on six continents. Find the full list here. Click through the above gallery to see photos of Jordan Vineyard and Winery.

Jordan Vineyard & Winery, 1474 Alexander Valley Road Healdsburg, 707-431-5250, jordanwinery.com.

Secluded Wine Garden in Sonoma Is a Foodie Paradise

October 2022

By Heather Irwin

Mushroom Cubano with a pinot noir from Bloom Carneros, formerly Kivelstadt Cellars and Winegarten, in Sonoma. (John Burgess/The Press Democrat)

Wine tasting without food is an exercise in futility.

Sure that boozy, jammy zinfandel tastes great swirling around in a glass, but it’s going to taste like a wet wool blanket with your sheet-pan chicken. It’s not going to even be that great with pizza.

Kivelstadt Cellars & Winegarten is the anti-tasting-room experience, offering not just food-friendly wines, but mix-and-match tasting experiences that pair perfectly with the chef-driven menu at the Sonoma winery’s casual restaurant and wine garden.

Think of it more like a brewery, where you can sit with kids, friends and dogs (there’s a menu just for Fido) and taste the latest releases with comforting food like an earthy mushroom Cubano, fish taco or light ahi tuna poke salad. No high-pressure sales, just high-impact wines, from experimental red wines made with carbonic fermentation (more on that later) and a very drinkable white Rhone blend to a juicy Charbono that uses one of the region’s most underappreciated (and nearly extinct) grapes.

Sushi Grade Ahi Tuna with avocado, kewpie and served with chips from served with ÒTwice RemovedÓ Ros from the taps at Kivelstadt Cellars and WineGarten at the corner of Hwy 12 and Hwy 121 in Sonoma Thursday, October 20, 2022. (John Burgess/The Press Democrat) — Sushi Grade Ahi Tuna with avocado, kewpie and served with chips from served with Twice Removed Rosé from the taps at Kivelstadt Cellars and Winegarten in Sonoma. (John Burgess/The Press Democrat)

Hidden in plain sight just south of the town of Sonoma, the sprawling wine garden is an all-season destination with of-the-moment seasonal dishes that speak to the region’s bounty without feeling precious.

Chef Jennifer McMurry, formerly of Dillon Beach Coastal Kitchen and Viola Restaurant, has taken over the kitchen, pumping up the menu with her extraordinary talents both in savory and sweet dishes.

She took over the restaurant in May following a three-month closure for renovations and the departure of Chef Oscar Bendeck who was opening chef at the tasting room and restaurant. Bendeck now runs a catering business called Wine Country Collective.

The sprawling wine garden has umbrella-shaded outdoor seats as well as a covered patio, making it a perfect place for brunch or an afternoon nibble. “Hidden gem” is definitely apropos for this secret Sonoma County experience where kids can roam, dogs have their own menu.

You may find fish tacos if there’s good local halibut, fried chicken bites with whipped ricotta or a S’more in a Jar ($12) with freshly baked graham crackers, chocolate cream and toasted meringue. Each item has a suggested wine pairing, if you’re so inclined. A by-the-glass menu ranges from $9 to $14 (local beer and nonalcoholic drinks are also available).

It’s worth exploring these playful wines, like the Family Secret sauvignon blanc, red Rhone blend and carbonic wines offered on tap. Owner Jordan Kivelstadt works with winemaker Sam Baron to create wines that are serious enough to impress pinkies-up wine bullies but playful enough for a pool party.

Mushroom Cubano with a pinot noir from Kivelstadt Cellars and WineGarten at the corner of Hwy 12 and Hwy 121 in Sonoma Thursday, October 20, 2022. (John Burgess/The Press Democrat) — Mushroom Cubano with a pinot noir from Kivelstadt Cellars and Winegarten in Sonoma. (John Burgess/The Press Democrat)

Carbonic wines, from the experimental division of Kivelstadt Wineries, are super-light, low-tannin, low-alcohol wines made using carbonic fermentation, a winemaking process in which whole clusters of grapes are blanketed with carbon dioxide and held at cool temperatures before being pressed and finished in barrels. All you really need to understand is that these bright, fruity wines are the equivalent of a light saison versus a stout.

So go for brunch, lunch or just an afternoon break from all that serious wine tasting to this place where no one cares if you drink orange wine with a burger.

“We’re all about meeting you where you are in your wine journey,” according to the tasting menu. We couldn’t agree more.

Best Bets

McMurry’s menu is hyperseasonal, so ingredients like corn and tomatoes may fall off the list soon. Don’t worry, there’s always something new to try.

Sushi Grade Ahi Tuna, $24: Each dish at Kivelstadt is a small work of art, but this mound of ruby tuna atop fresh avocado puree is especially so. Dots of kewpie mayo add a creamy element to the deep umami of shoyu sesame vinaigrette.

Elote, $14: Smoked corn is a revelation, but this helping is punctuated by tart lime vinaigrette and mildly spicy jalapeño aioli. It’s one of the best versions of this street food we’ve ever had.

Watermelon and Tomato Salad, $16: Fresh bites of juicy watermelon wouldn’t seem to match with a honey-viognier vinaigrette, but the sweet-sour pairing is a revelation.

Chef Jennifer McMurry plates Sushi Grade Ahi Tuna over avocado from Kivelstadt Cellars and WineGarten at the corner of Hwy 12 and Hwy 121 in Sonoma Thursday, October 20, 2022. (John Burgess/The Press Democrat) — Chef Jennifer McMurry plates Sushi Grade Ahi Tuna over avocado from Kivelstadt Cellars and Winegarten in Sonoma. (John Burgess/The Press Democrat)

Mushroom Cubano, $18: This is the Cubano we’ve searched for, with a twist. Smoked cremini mushrooms take the place of meat and are accented by spicy pickles, cabbage, Jack cheese and mustard aioli. Sandwiched between two thick slices of airy, toasted focaccia, it’s a hearty, messy handful, but perfectly balanced — not too much bread, not too much filling. Just right.

Caramel, Corn and Blackberry, $15: Creamy corn panna cotta is the base for this refreshing dessert, topped by fresh figs, blackberry curd and tiny nibbles of almond nougat and caramel corn.

Tasting flights (we love the Off the Beaten Path Flight) $35: These flights consist of four pours. Side-by-side tastings of varietals are $20 and a vertical tasting of the Father’s Watch Rhone Blend is $30. For small bites, an abbreviated share-and-pair menu is available for the tasting. You also can pair tastings with items from the full menu.

Kivelstadt Cellars & Winegarten is located at 22900 Broadway in Sonoma and is open from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. Sunday and Monday, and 11 a.m. to 6 p.m. Thursday to Saturday. Call 707-938-7001, or visit kivelstadtcellars.com.

Where to Eat Out on Thanksgiving in Sonoma County

October 2022

By Lonnie Hayes

The Dry Creek Kitchen in Healdsburg on Tuesday, November 17, 2021. (Photo by John Burgess/The Press Democrat)

Don’t feel like doing all that cooking for Thanksgiving this year? Restaurants, cafes and grocers in Sonoma County are taking the work out of the holiday by offering Thanksgiving meals for dining in or takeout. Here are a handful across the county, with their specials.

Santa Rosa

John Ash & Co: For dining in. The menu isn’t finalized yet, but it will include a three-course prix fixe meal with six choices for starters, seven choices for entrees and four choices for desserts. $90 for adults, $45 for children 12 and under. Reserve a table by calling 707-527-7687. 4350 Barnes Road.

Glen Ellen

The Fig Cafe: Dine in for a three-course prix fixe meal from 1 to 6 p.m. Nov. 24. Start with Acme bread for the table and choose from fig and arugula salad, crispy Brussels sprouts salad or celery root bisque to start. Main course choices are roast turkey breast, pan-seared flounder, pot roast or roasted mushroom risotto. Dessert choices are poached pear or roasted pumpkin crisp. $60 for adults, $45 for children 10 and under. Add a wine pairing for $15; other beverages not included in the price. Make a reservation by calling 707-933-3000 or on resy.com. For more information, visit thefigcafe.com. 13690 Arnold Drive.

Glen Ellen Star: Order a meal for eight people for takeout. Available to pick up 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. Nov. 24. The package includes a whole spatchcock Diestel Ranch turkey with gravy; chicory salad with honey crisp apple, pecans and Roquefort dressing; buttermilk mashed potatoes; sourdough-mushroom stuffing; caramelized Brussels sprouts; fresh baked rolls; maple-glazed cranberry-orange sauce; and pumpkin pie. $75 per person. Pre-order on glenellenstar.com and call 707-343-1384 for more information. 13648 Arnold Drive.

Healdsburg

Dry Creek Kitchen: Three-course prix fixe dinner with optional wine pairing. The first course is a choice of sweet potato sformato, baby lettuce salad, chicory and squash, braised pheasant tortellini or kanpachi crudo. For the second course, choose from turkey breast roulade, delicata squash casarecce, pork chop, New York strip steak or bay salmon. Dessert options are pumpkin cheesecake, chocolate peanut butter bar or apple tart. For an additional $16 per side dish, choose from pomme puree, herb-roasted sweet potatoes and Blue Lake bean casserole. 2 to 7 p.m. $110 for adults, $55 for children under 12. Reserve a table at drycreekkitchen.com. 317 Healdsburg Ave.

Spoonbar: From 2 to 7 p.m. on Nov. 24, dine in and choose from options on a prix fixe three-course menu. For the first course, choose from roasted cauliflower soup, Preston Vineyard radicchio salad, Belgian endive and beet salad, or tuna sashimi. For the main, choose from a turkey, Mendocino Petrale Sole, brined Niman Ranch pork chop, 10 oz. prime New York, or curried cauliflower steak. Lastly, dessert options include pumpkin pie or chocolate pot de creme. Children 12 and under can choose from a turkey dinner, cheeseburger and fries, or rigatoni with marinara. $79 for adults, $35 for children under 12. Reserve a table at spoonbar.com. 219 Healdsburg Ave.

Kenwood

Salt and Stone: A three-courses prix fixe menu with five to six choices for each course. For the first course, choose from two soups and three salads, including pumpkin and apple soup and Little Gem Caesar salad. For the second course, choose from Diestel Ranch turkey, prime rib, salmon, porchetta or roasted squash. Dessert choices include pumpkin cheesecake, butterscotch bread pudding, apple galette and other options. Prices vary from $45 to $70, depending on your choice of entree. Children under 10 dine for $20. Additional items such as a charcuterie and cheese board or truffle macaroni and cheese are available for purchase. Make a reservation at saltstonekenwood.com or call 707-833-6326. 9900 Sonoma Highway.

Tips Roadside: To-go meals available for pre-order, serving four people for a total of $240. The meal package includes the following: garlic and rosemary brined smoked turkey, slow braised smoke kissed ham shanks, baby kale and sweet spinach caesar salad, sauteed Blue Lake green beans, candied yams, house mashed potatoes, toasted corn bread stuffing, classic turkey giblet gravy, a basket of brioche butter-top rolls, and burnt whiskey laced orange-cranberry compote. A “Just the Sides” option is available for $140, serving four people. Add-ons include a slow roasted prime rib, traditional pumpkin pie, classic molasses pecan pie, or Disaronno carmel apple turnovers for an additional cost. The pickup is on Wednesday, Nov. 23 between 3 and 6 p.m. Order on tipsroadside.com. 8445 Sonoma Highway.

Sebastopol and west county

Pascaline Patisserie & Cafe: Takeout menu for the holiday coming soon on pascalinepatisserieandcafe.com. Executive chef and owner Didier Ageorges says, “You roast the turkey, we offer the sides and sweets options.” 707-823-3122, 4552 Gravenstein Highway N.

Agriculture Public House at Dawn Ranch: Dawn Ranch’s onsite restaurant will serve a three-course prix fixe Thanksgiving dinner. The menu will include dishes like Pumpkin Safe Arancini, Warm Butternut Squash Soup, Arugula Fig Salad, Honey Mustard Slow Braised Turkey and Grilled Portabello. The dinner experience ($65) can be booked by emailing dining@dawnranch.com. 16467 California 116, Guerneville, 707-869-0656, dawnranch.com

Sonoma

the girl & the fig: Offering a three-course prix fixe menu of Thanksgiving dishes with a twist. Choose from starters of fall squash salad, celery root and parsnip bisque or pear salad. For an entree, choose roast turkey breast, smoked short ribs, sauteed flounder or butternut squash risotto. Dessert choices are a chocolate nut tart, caramel baked apple or profiteroles. $72 for adults, $60 for children. $18 to add a wine pairing. Beverages not included. Make a reservation by calling 707-938-3634 or online at thegirlandthefig.com. 110 W. Spain St.

Layla Restaurant, MacArthur Place Hotel & Spa: Dine in from noon to 7 p.m. Browse a three-course prix fixe menu, with first-course options of tuna tartare with roasted squash, Swiss chard and feta phyllo pie or chop salad. Entree choices are Mediterranean Branzino, beef tenderloin, roasted turkey breast or butternut squash ragout. Shared side dishes for the table are buttered mashed potatoes, roasted acorn squash and smoked sweet potatoes. For dessert, there will be a variety of choices from the pastry chef. $110 for adults, $35 for children and $45 for wine pairings. Make a reservation at macarthurplace.com or call 707-938-2929. 29 E. MacArthur St.

Wit & Wisdom: For dining in, indulge in a three-course prix fixe dinner. For the first course, choose from cioppino, crab and endive salad, mixed greens or sweet potato agnolotti. For the entree, choose from turkey breast, Wagyu beef, sea bass or lobster pot pie. For dessert, choose from a chocolate bar, pumpkin sundae or cheesecake. Includes sides of Brussels sprouts, green bean casserole and pomme puree. $109 per guest. 1 to 7 p.m. on Nov. 24. Call 707-931-3405 or visit witandwisdomsonoma.com to make reservations.

Wit & Wisdom is also offering a takeout package for $225, which serves four to six people. The meal includes a wedge salad and sweet potato soup for starters; a whole Mary’s turkey (brined and ready to cook); side dishes of whipped potatoes, cornbread stuffing, Brussels sprouts and green bean casserole; and apple pie for dessert. For an additional cost, purchase premade cocktails ($35 for one bottle, which makes three cocktails) or a bottle of wine for serving. Order by emailing info@witandwisdomsonoma.com by 8 p.m. Nov. 20. 1325 Broadway, Sonoma.

El Dorado Kitchen: “Thanksgiving Takeaway Feast” available for pre-order by Nov. 17. The dinner includes the following: mixed greens with apples, beets, cojita cheese, pickled red onion, pepitas, and sherry vinaigrette; roasted free-range turkey with potato puree, brioche stuffing, brussels sprouts, sage gravy, and cranberry compote; and individual pumpkin pies. $65 a person before tax. Place orders online here: bit.ly/3WQ938y. 405 1st St.

On the coast

Drakes: Dine in for a prix fixe seasonally inspired menu created by Chef Damon Jones from 2:30 to 6:45 p.m. Nov. 24. For the first course, choose from kabocha squash bisque, organic field greens, or warm foraged mushroom bread pudding. For the second course, choose from rosemary-juniper berry brined and roasted turkey, honey-bourbon glazed Caggiano ham, cast iron skillet seared Creative King salmon, or roasted spaghetti squash and vegan nut Bolognese. For dessert, options include pumpkin pie, pecan pie, and chocolate Budino. $75 per adult.

Children’s offerings are available from 2 to 6 p.m. This is a three-course prix fixe meal, as well. Choose from crudite or kabocha squash bisque to start. For “The Main Event,” choose from roasted local turkey breast, a burger with cheddar, or chicken tenders. Ice cream sundae for dessert. $30 per child. Call 707-377-5010 or visit drakesbodegabay.com/menus to make a reservation. 103 Coast Highway 1, Bodega Bay.

Coast Kitchen: Three-course prix fixe menu for dining in. Start with roasted squash soup, beets carpaccio salad, or fresh local dressed oysters. For the entree, choose from Willie Bird turkey, homemade cavatelli, or California halibut. Family style sides include mashed potatoes, green beans, and wild rice and mushroom stuffing. For dessert, choose from a dessert duo of pecan apple pie and pumpkin cheesecake, or seasonal gelato or sorbet. $85 for adults, $40 for children 12 and under. Reservations required on coastkitchensonoma.com. 21780 Highway 1, Jenner.

Markets and more

Oliver’s Market: A complete holiday meal serving six to eight people. Allow two hours to heat the meal, which includes Diestel Ranch turkey, traditional holiday stuffing, mashed potatoes with chives, vegetable medley and dinner rolls. Add a pie for an additional cost. Order from oliversmarket.com.

Suncraft Fine Foods: Delivery. Order a takeout Thanksgiving-themed dinner package to be delivered within Sonoma Valley, Petaluma, Rohnert Park, east Santa Rosa or Oakmont. For more details including prices and menus, call 707-343-6016 or email feast@suncraftfinefoods.com.

Whole Foods: Order from a variety of Thanksgiving dishes and ready-to-cook meals and sides. Ready-made meals range in price from $49.99 for a vegan meal for two people to $569.99 for a Thanksgiving Extravaganza for 12 people, with a whole turkey, maple bourbon ham, stuffing, squash soup, empanadas, a shrimp platter, mashed potatoes and more. Other options include a surf and turf meal for four people ($199.99) and a whole roast turkey meal for four people with three side dishes and cranberry sauce ($109.99). Choose a store near you on wholefoodsmarket.com to place your order. Orders must be placed at least 48 hours before pickup date and time.

You can reach intern Lonnie Hayes at lonnie.hayes@pressdemocrat.com.

Grilled Cheese and Perfect Burgers at Lunch Box in Sebastopol

October 2022

By Heather Irwin

House-ground patty with Sonoma County Meat Co. bacon and brisket and chuck, chèvre ranch, Joe Matos cheese, crispy shallots, tomato, and shredded iceberg on Costeaux French Bakery brioche. (Lunch Box)

The recent, much-anticipated opening of Sebastopol’s new burger and hoagie cafe went so well the restaurant had to close briefly during its first week to catch up with demand.

Lunch Box officially opened Thursday, Oct. 20, with classic burgers, fries, grilled cheese melts and hoagies. We grabbed a quick bite on opening day.

The Burger Harn ($18), with cheddar, “fancy sauce,” onion butter, red onion and shredded iceberg, gets our nod for the ultimate bun-and-meat combination. (We like our burgers with all the fixings, a squishy bun, shredded lettuce and plenty of juicy goodness.)

Meatball sub from Lunch Box in Sebastopol. (Lunch Box)

Kimchee Grilled Cheese ($16) is a proper bit of sandwichery, with melted Highway 1 Fontina, jack and cheddar cheese and toppings of homemade kimchee and garlic-chile aioli on two slices of Red Bird sourdough Pullman loaf.

As the weather cools, a thick tomato soup is a perfect side dish. Stay tuned for more tastiness as the menu continues to roll out.

128 N. Main St., Sebastopol, lunchboxsonomacounty.com

More openings and closings

After being closed for nearly three months, Healdsburg’s favorite hot dog and sausage cafe, The Wurst, has reopened. Water damage closed the restaurant in late summer, but now the space has dried out, been spiffed up and is ready to welcome diners again. 22 Matheson St., Healdsburg, 707-395-0214, thewurst.com

Meanwhile, the William Tell House in Tomales has closed for the winter. Its owners decided to let staff take a break and recharge after a busy summer season.

“We based our decision on many factors, most important of which is to give our staff a much-needed break during the holiday season,” read a statement about the temporary closure on the restaurant’s Instagram page.

A Sneak Peek at the Forthcoming Goldfinch Restaurant in Sebastopol

October 2022

By Heather Irwin

The former K&L Bistro in Sebastopol. (Courtesy of K&L Bistro)

The closure of K&L Bistro earlier this year left a hole in the heart of Sebastopol. But the new occupants of the restaurant space at 119 S. Main St. are making progress on the forthcoming Goldfinch.

The new restaurant will be part of the in-progress Livery on Main project, a food hall and event and co-working space operated by Farm to Coast Collective, a subsidiary of local development company the Beale Group.

Though Goldfinch is still very much under construction, it’s slated for an early 2023 opening. Nick Izzarelli (food and beverage director at Stark Reality Restaurants) will be the food and beverage director, and Rodrigo Mendoza (Charro Negro chef) will head the kitchen.

The new co-working space inside the Livery on Main:

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A post shared by The Livery on Main (@livery135)

The adjacent food hall inside Livery on Main is taking a bit longer than expected to complete, according to Greg Beale, CEO of the Beale Group. But construction is underway. The food hall will include several 300- to 500-square-foot kitchen spaces for budding restaurants and food businesses. Other levels of the building will host a lounge, restaurant, event space and co-working areas. The 22,000-square-foot, mixed-use project was announced in 2021. Beale hopes to open the food hall in late 2023.

Find more details at livery135.com.