Romanesco’s sweet, nutty and earthy flavors shine in a comforting pasta dish. (UliAb / Shutterstock)
Romanesco: Is it broccoli? Is it cauliflower? Both?
Whatever its exact classification – and most experts agree it is a cousin of both broccoli and cauliflower, but a variety of neither – romanesco may be the most beautiful vegetable in the world. To be precise, it is a flower: Unharvested, it rises on tall stalks and opens into pale yellow blossoms. Its mesmerizing beauty is derived from fractals, identical repeating patterns, with the tiniest floret exactly the same as the largest and as the entire head itself. This mathematical precision is seen throughout nature in everything from snowflakes to seashells.
What this means to home cooks is that it is best to prepare this gorgeous vegetable in ways that highlight its appearance. Roast whole or separate the florets from the core and boil, braise or roast; they hold their shape well.
Romanesco is best from late fall to early spring, as its flavors sweeten and intensify in cold weather. Like broccoli, it has sweet, nutty and earthy flavors that shine in this easy, comforting pasta.
Romanesco’s sweet, nutty and earthy flavors shine in a comforting pasta dish. (UliAb / Shutterstock)
Roasted Romanesco Pasta with Celery, Green Olives and Feta
Makes 4 to 6 servings
1 head romanesco, individual florets separated
Olive oil
Kosher salt
2/3 cup celery vinaigrette (see below)
6 ounces gemelli or similarly shaped pasta
4 celery stalks, trimmed and cut into very thin diagonal slices
1/2 lemon
1 tbsp. capers, drained
3 ounces (3/4 cup) feta, crumbled
3/4 cup green olives, such as Picholine or Castelvetrano, pitted and halved
1 tablespoon freshly snipped chives
Heat the oven to 425 degrees. While the oven heats, make the celery vinaigrette (see below).
Put the romanesco florets on a small sheet pan, drizzle with olive oil, sprinkle with salt, and toss gently to coat each piece in the oil. Set on the middle rack of the oven and cook until the florets are slightly tender but not mushy, about 12-15 minutes. Remove from the heat, place in a large bowl, and cover with a towel.
While the romanesco roasts, cook the pasta in salted water according to package directions. Drain the pasta, add to the bowl of romanesco, and set aside.
Pour a little olive oil into a medium sauté pan, set over medium heat, add the thinly sliced celery, and sauté until it just begins to soften, about 5 minutes. Squeeze in the lemon juice, season with salt, and add to the bowl.
To finish the pasta, add the capers, feta, green olives and half the vinaigrette to the bowl and toss gently. Divide among individual soup plates or shallow bowls, spoon the remaining vinaigrette on top, and enjoy right away.
Celery Vinaigrette
Makes about 2/3 cup
1 small shallot, minced
2 inner celery stalks, finely diced
Kosher salt
1/2 tsp. celery seed
2 tbsp. lemon juice
2 tsp. Dijon mustard
5 tbsp. extra virgin olive oil
Put the shallot and celery into a small bowl or pint jar, season with salt, and add the celery seed. Pour in the lemon juice and set aside for about 15 minutes.
To finish, stir in the mustard and olive oil. Taste and add more salt if necessary.
The simple Margherita pizza at Stellina Pronto pizzeria and bakery in Petaluma. (Heather Irwin/The Press Democrat)
It’s hard to pick a favorite pizza spot when so many Sonoma County restaurants serve up excellent pies — whether hand-tossed, wood-fired or ooey-gooey Friday-night-style. To satisfy your pizza cravings, we’ve gone through some of our favorites from the past and picked out a few standout restaurants for tasty pies.
Scroll on below for details. Remember to check opening hours, dining options and menus, as these may vary.
Rosso, Santa Rosa
(Editor’s Note: Rosso Pizzeria announced its closure in late February, 2025.) Wood-fired pizzas with the “true Neapolitan style of crisp” featuring the kind of ingredients you’ve come to expect in Sonoma County: fresh, organic, locally-sourced and seasonal. The Funghi di Limone with oven roasted mixed mushrooms, taleggio and fontina cheese, shaved artichokes, finished with lemon oil and fresh thyme, is a favorite (pictured). 53 Montgomery Drive, Santa Rosa, 707-544-3221, rossopizzeria.com
Jackson’s Bar and Oven, Santa Rosa
Pizzas range from simple Margherita to prosciutto with mascarpone, pear and arugula, daily specials and even a gluten-free version. House favorite is the House Made Sausage (tomato sauce, provolone, olives, goat horn peppers and oregano). Feeling adventurous? Go for the Undecided and let the chef surprise you. 135 Fourth St., Santa Rosa, 707-545-6900, jacksonsbarandoven.com
NY Pie reopened in downtown Santa Rosa in 2024 with new owners, a new look and great new pizza. Purchase pizza by the slice or pie. (Chad Surmick / The Press Democrat)
NY Pie, Santa Rosa
The go-to spot for desperate, late-night pizza fixes. Try the “Godfather” with sausage, artichoke hearts and garlic, or the lighter “Neapolitan” with fresh garden tomatoes and basil. NY Pie pizzas require the Manhattan-style fold to cram a slice into your face, and they’re uniquely Italian-American. The local pizza staple closed in late 2023 and reopened in the summer of 2024. 65 Brookwood Ave., Santa Rosa, 707 526-9743, nypie.pizza
Mary’s Pizza Shack, Multiple Locations
Among the best local options for pizza with kids, who can create their own pizza here. Crayons and activity sheets are brought to the table, and the restaurant also has “sensory-friendly kits” for children with autism and other special support needs. Locations in Petaluma, Rohnert Park, Santa Rosa, Sonoma and Windsor, maryspizzashack.com
PizzaLeah, Windsor
Leah Scurto puts every bit of her soul into making dough, sauce and cheese as perfect as possible. Her pizzas come in two styles, thin-crust round pies that are 12 or 16 inches or square-pan pies, which are made in limited quantities. Pizza names are usually references to friends or family. 9240 Old Redwood Highway, Suite 116, Windsor, 707-620-0551, pizzaleah.com
Tony’s of North Beach, Rohnert Park
Hit the jackpot with a pizza from the pie master himself, Tony Gemignani, a 13-time World Pizza Champion. Gemignani’s pizzas — from a simple Margherita to progressive thin-crusted Roman pizzas (savory to sweet slices) — have just the right amount of crisp and gentle char to make you swear off Friday night pizza delivery forever. Graton Casino, 288 Golf Course Drive W., Rohnert Park, 707-588-7741, gratonresortcasino.com
Acre Pizza, Multiple Locations
Detroit-style pizza is a winner, with a deep, crispy crust and melted cheese, along with seasonal favorite pies and slices. Locations in Cotati, Petaluma and Sebastopol, acrepizza.com
Slow Co. Pizza, Cotati
Cotati’s Slow Co. Pizza opened in November of 2024 with a focus on a “slow” mindset of sustainability, cooking and eating. The pizzeria uses long-fermented dough, sourcing seasonal ingredients from local family farms. The sourdough fermentation lends a nutty, slightly sour taste to the dough and creates air pockets for a crisp crust. From simple cheese pizzas to a fully loaded veggie pie, the dough and fresh ingredients are the stars of the show. 8197 La Plaza, Cotati, 707-796-5124, slowcopizza.com
Clockwise from top left, Hogwarts Express, Pep in Your Step, The Bird, Living on the Veg and the Pretty Fly for a Fungi pizza from Slow Co. Pizza, Dec. 20, 2024, in Cotati. (John Burgess / The Press Democrat)The New Haven clam pie at Stellina Pronto pizzeria and bakery in Petaluma. (Heather Irwin/The Press Democrat)
Stellina Pronto, Petaluma
Last year, the custom-built Italian pizza oven at Stellina Pronto sprung to life, allowing the Petaluma bakery and cafe to churn out some great pies. You’ll find 11 kinds of pizza at Stellina, ranging from a simple Margherita to one of the best New Haven-style pizzas around. 23 Kentucky St., Petaluma, 707-789-9556, stellinapronto.com
Wild Goat Bistro, Petaluma
Thin and crispy pizzas lead the charge at this hidden gem in Petaluma. The stone and wood interior of the historic Great Petaluma Mill lends an Italian feel to the restaurant and fresh local ingredients elevate the Neapolitan style pies – there’s even an “In Season” pizza. 6 Petaluma Blvd. N., Petaluma, 707-658-1156, wildgoatbistro.com
Old Chicago, Petaluma
This 40-plus-year-old Petaluma staple serves up seriously deep-dish pizza that even a Chicago native can appreciate. You’ll find an array of pies here, from double crust to thin crust, and toppings galore. Get a seat by the window for second-floor views of downtown Petaluma. 41 Petaluma Blvd. N., Petaluma, 707-763-3897; 1390 N McDowell Blvd. Suite H, Petaluma, 707-732-8008, oldchgo.com
Braised Short Rib Pizza at The Red Grape in Sonoma. (Alvin Jornada/The Press Democrat)
Red Grape, Sonoma
Brick-oven pies with an impossibly thin cracker crust that’s just sturdy enough for a few toppings, but shatters and crackles as soon as you stuff it into your mouth. Toppings range from classic clam, Margherita and cheese to California-influences like pear, gorgonzola, hazelnut and smoked bacon, or chipotle chicken with caramelized onions and cilantro. 529 First St. W., Sonoma, 707-996-4103, theredgrape.com
Mary’s Slice Shack, Sonoma
The best place in Sonoma to get a honking big slice on the go. It’s a favorite spot for kids hanging out after the Tuesday’s farmers market on the plaza. You can pick your toppings. 14 W. Spain St., Sonoma, 707-938-9290, maryssliceshack.com
Il Fuoco, Sonoma
Chef Rob Larman isn’t afraid to get creative with his wood-fired pizzas. Specialty pies include a massive Dungeness crab pizza, vegan pizza with dairy-free mozzarella or duck confit pizza. If you’re in the mood for something more traditional, say, pepperoni or plain cheese, he’s got that too. 18350 Sonoma Hwy., Sonoma, 707-522-7778, ilfuocopizza.com
Glen Ellen Star, Glen Ellen
Chef Weiswasser’s 650-degree custom-built wood oven perfumes the entire block with its smoke. Pizzas steal the show at this Wine Country classic, with a simple Margherita or White Pizza with guanciale and arugula easily feeding two. Try the tomato cream pie with espelette chili. 13648 Arnold Drive, Glen Ellen, 707-343-1384, glenellenstar.com
The Salsiccia Pizza, containing house sausage, red onions, and pecorino, at Diavola Pizzeria & Salumeria, in Geyserville. (Christopher Chung/The Press Democrat)
Diavola Pizzeria & Salumeria, Geyserville
Fresh slices of house-cured lardo on top of a wood-fired pizza. Toss on a few tomatoes and you’ll never look at another piece of mushroom and pepperoni quite the same way again. And it’s just one of the devilish pizzas at Dino Bugica’s rustic pizzeria. 21021 Geyserville Ave., Geyserville, 707-814-0111, diavolapizzeria.com
Journeyman Meat Co., Healdsburg
Peter Seghesio’s warm yet minimalist salumeria showcases several hand-operated Berkel meat slicers, hanging salumi, extensive wine racks and a wood-fired pizza oven. Choose between the Bianco, the Rosso and the Verde, all featuring top-notch ingredients. 404 Center St., Healdsburg, 707-395-6328, journeymanmeat.com
Papa’s Pizza Cafe, Cloverdale
Looking for pizza and some financial advice? At Papa’s Pizza in Cloverdale, you can get both. Owner Mike Nixon, a longtime financial planner and pie-spinner, operates a pizza parlor and financial services business under the same roof. The financial office is in the back of the pizzeria (most business is conducted online or over the phone). The Bear (pepperoni, pineapple, jalapenos, garlic and sausage) is a locals’ favorite. 105 N. Cloverdale Blvd., Cloverdale, 707-894-4453, papaspizzacafe.com
Mombo’s Pizza, Multiple locations
There’s a reason this classic pizzeria is standing room only all weekend. It’s just darn good pizza. It’s our go-to on Friday nights, and we’re willing to wait the hour or two it takes for delivery during peak hours. Locations in Cotati, Healdsburg, Santa Rosa and Sebastopol, mombospizza.com
Bora Bora pizza at Sonoma Pizza Co. in Forestville. (Heather Irwin / The Press Democrat)
Sonoma Pizza Co., Forestville
Five days after opening in 2022, Sonoma Pizza Co. was already one of the most popular spots in west Sonoma County. The hype has yet to die down, as evidenced from being spotlighted in the fall by Yelp Elites as one of the 100 best places to eat in the Bay Area. The signature pizzas are made with long-fermented dough and cooked in pizza ovens for a puffy crust and thin bottom. 6615 Front St., Forestville, 707-820-1031, sonomapizzaco.com
Hazel, Occidental
Don’t be fooled by the small, nondescript building in the heart of Occidental that is Hazel. It’s full of life and great Mediterranean style food, including five kinds of wood-fired pizza. West county cheese takes these pizzas to the next level; try the Pt. Reyes Blue with caramelized onions, Marcona almonds, fig balsamic and arugula. 3782 Bohemian Highway, Occidental, 707-874-6003, restauranthazel.com
Gold Coast Coffee, Duncans Mills
On your way to the coast, stop by this cozy coffee shop for a cup of house roasted java and a wood-fired pizza on the deck. Homemade pastry is also baked in the wood-fired oven. 25377 Steelhead Blvd., Duncans Mills, 707-865-1441, goldcoastcoffeebakery.com
Raymond’s Bakery, Cazadero
Hidden among the redwood groves in Cazadero is your diet’s downfall. Award-winning baker Mark Raymond and his wife Elizabeth know how to knead the dough, serving up fresh racks of breads in all shapes and sizes along with pastries and awesome pizzas. 5400 Cazadero Highway, Cazadero, 707-632-5335, cazbakery.com
Huria’s, Bodega Bay
Best known for their wood-fired Napoletana pizzas that come in flavors so dreamy you’ll have a hard time choosing. Try the Bodega, with Bechamel sauce, clams, mozzarella and garlic. Or the Chateau Rouge with Havarti, fresh mozzarella, smoked and caramelized onions, cremini mushrooms, Parmesan and dried herbs with garlic oil. Takeout only. 1400 N. Highway 1, Bodega Bay, 707-377-4721, hurias.com
Each representing different teams, friends (from left) Ernie Garnica, Marcell Nesmith, Mark Chavez and Jimmy Garnica toasted to an exciting Superbowl match up at Ausiello’s sports bar in Santa Rosa, Sunday February 4th, 2018. (Photos Will Bucquoy/for the Press democrat)
Super Bowl LIX kicks off at 3:30 p.m. (PST) Sunday, with the Philadelphia Eagles facing the two-time reigning champion Kansas City Chiefs. This exciting rematch of Super Bowl LVII will be held at the Caesars Superdome in New Orleans, Louisiana.
If you’re not planning on attending the game in person, there are plenty of great local sports bars where you can catch all the action — and enjoy a cold mug of the recently released Pliny the Younger while you watch. Be sure to check out the full event information at nfl.com/super-bowl/event-info.
Poppy Bank Epicenter and Victory House, Santa Rosa
If you’re worried that your TV screen at home may not be big enough to catch all the action, Epicenter’s Victory House has you covered with “massive true HD laser and HD LED TV screens” on two 40-foot walls, plus multi-zone surround sound to satisfy your senses. Seating is available on a first come, first served basis, and the event is free to the public. Additional seating will be available in Chuck’s Bowling, with the game shown on screens throughout Poppy Bank Epicenter. 3215 Coffey Lane, Santa Rosa, 707-708-3742, visitvictoryhouse.com,visitepicenter.com
Ausiello’s Bar and Grill, Santa Rosa
With 24 TV screens, cold beer, juicy burgers and one of the best Bloody Marys in Sonoma County, Ausiello’s is a go-to spot for sports fans. Enjoy $5 pints of Modelo while you watch the game. 609 Fifth St., Santa Rosa, 707-579-9408,ausiellos5thstreetgrill.com
Chili and deviled eggs are a great pairing on Super Bowl Sunday. (Beth Schlanker / The Press Democrat)
Flagship Taproom, Santa Rosa
This friendly taproom is the perfect spot to catch the game, with 10 TVs, an all-day Sunday happy hour and a rotating selection of craft beers on tap. Enjoy brunch, sandos and tacos while you watch every play. 446 B St., Santa Rosa, 707-541-6716,flagshiptaproom.com
Beyond the Glory, Petaluma
For the ultimate viewing experience, watch the game on 19 TVs and two massive 100-inch projection screens. Walk-ins are welcome, but this spot fills up fast, so call ahead to reserve your seat. 1371 N. McDowell Blvd., Suite 130, Petaluma, 707-971-8366,btgpetaluma.com
McNear’s Saloon & Dining House, Petaluma
This lively pub, located next to Petaluma’s Mystic Theatre, is pulling out all the stops for Super Bowl Sunday. Catch the game on 13 screens while enjoying “Diablo Wings,” burgers and drink specials — including a shot with a beer. Every food item you order earns you a raffle ticket for a chance to win prizes throughout the game, with a grand prize drawing at the end for two tickets to a select show at the Mystic. The upstairs room will also be open for extra seating. 23 Petaluma Blvd. N., Petaluma, 707-765-2121,mcnears.com
3 Badge Firehouse, Sonoma
Gehricke Wines is hosting a Super Bowl viewing party with the game on a giant screen, plus delicious sandwiches and sides from The Spot Food Truck. Reservations are encouraged through Tock, but note that food and wine are sold separately. 32 Patten St., Sonoma, 707-732-9590,gehrickewines.com, 3badge.com
Murphy’s Irish Pub, Sonoma
This longtime favorite watering hole has 10 high-definition TVs showing the game all day and night. Whether you’re cheering on your team or celebrating with a pint of Guinness and a juicy leg of lamb, Murphy’s is the place to be. 464 First St. East, Sonoma, 707-935-0660,sonomapub.com
Televisions for sports viewers is one of the fun perks at Murphy’s Irish Pub, on First Street East in Sonoma. (Robbi Pengelly/Index-Tribune)Steiner’s Tavern, a sports bar and pub on First Street West in Sonoma, on Monday, Feb. 27, 2023. (Robbi Pengelly/Index-Tribune)
Steiner’s Tavern, Sonoma
This Sonoma institution offers 16 TVs, pool tables and a full bar, serving up beer, wine and delicious pub grub like tater tots, sandwiches and hot links. They’re also offering a pulled pork slider special and catering for anyone looking to preorder wings. 465 First St. W., Suite 100, Sonoma, 707-996-3812,steinerstavern.com
Olde Sonoma Public House, Sonoma
This local favorite is a sports lover’s paradise with large TVs, dartboards, pool tables and 32 beers on tap. Plus, enjoy pinball, table games and free popcorn while watching the big game. Happy hour runs from 4-6 p.m. with $2 off all draft beers and $1 off 10.5-ounce glasses. 18615 Sonoma Highway, Sonoma, 707-938-7587,oldesonomapub.com
HopMonk Tavern, Sonoma
Watch the game at HopMonk Tavern, where you can catch the action on three TVs by the bar and one big screen in the restaurant. Enjoy a delicious playoff platter for $26, featuring onion rings, artichoke hearts, mozzarella sticks, wings, veggie spring rolls and chicken quesadillas. A perfect spot for food, drinks and game day fun. 691 Broadway, Sonoma, 707-935-9100,hopmonk.com
Healdsburg Bar & Grill, Healdsburg
This popular Healdsburg restaurant serves classic American fare with classic American sports — a perfect pairing. Watch the game with a burger and cold beer at the bar, or chill on the patio. 245 Healdsburg Ave., Healdsburg, 707-433-3333, healdsburgbarandgrill.com
Napa Palisades Saloon, Napa
This local brewpub is the perfect spot to watch the Super Bowl with 16 TVs, 1,000 chicken wings served throughout the day and plenty of great eats like the Saloon burger and crunchy fish tacos. The bar fills up quickly by 2 p.m., so be sure to reserve a table if you’re a group of six or more. With 150 seats available and only 15 at the bar, it’s best to plan ahead. 1000 Main St., Suite 100, Napa, 707-492-3399,napapalisades.com
Carneros Resort, Napa
Just outside the city of Napa, Carneros Resort is ready to host the ultimate Big Game experience. Enjoy the game at both the POST Tasting Room and FARM Pavilion, where you can watch on large-screen HDTVs while sipping local draft beers and craft cocktails. Relax in lounge-style seating and snack on tasty bites for the perfect game day atmosphere. 4048 Sonoma Highway, Napa, 866-860-2328, carnerosresort.com
Calistoga Depot, Calistoga
Get ready for an epic Big Game celebration at the Calistoga Depot. Watch the game on TVs around the distillery bar, or take your experience to the next level with a VIP viewing on the Jumbotron in the Depot Mezzanine. Enjoy great food, drinks and the excitement on the big screen while cheering on your team in style. Purchase ticketson Tock. 1458 Lincoln Ave., Calistoga, 707-963-6925, calistogadepot.com
Assorted chocolate truffles from Eye Candy chocolatiers in Sebastopol, Tuesday, Oct.18, 2022. (John Burgess/The Press Democrat)
As Valentine’s Day approaches, many partnered people scramble to find the perfect gift to illustrate their love. Roses, jewelry and dinner dates are all well and good — and Sonoma County certainly has a number of romantic dining options — but nothing quite says “I love you” like a box of luscious, hand-crafted chocolate.
Sonoma County is home to a group of artisan chocolatiers who are making small-batch chocolates with a Wine Country flair. Many of them are housed in an industrial area of Windsor, which they call “The Windsor Chocolate Block.” More than just candy bars, their creations are delicious works of art that are as lovely to look at as they are to eat.
Scroll on below for the sweet deets, and click through the gallery for a peek at some of the lovely local chocolates.
You’ll find most Sonoma County chocolates in specialty grocers like Oliver’s, Fircrest or Pacific Market unless otherwise noted.
Our Dining Editor’s Top Picks
Assorted bonbons from pastry chef Robert Nieto, owner of Fleur Sauvage Chocolates in Windsor, Sept. 18, 2023. (John Burgess / The Press Democrat)
Fleur Sauvage
Fleur Sauvage, run by husband-and-wife team Robert and Tara Nieto, specializes in artistic artisan chocolates. The couple opened a storefront in Windsor in 2021. Robert, who previously worked as pastry chef at Madrona Manor, Thomas Keller’s Bouchon Bistro and Jackson Family Wines, crafts the chocolates while Tara runs the front of the store, where you can order espressos, lattes and hot chocolate to warm up on cold winter days.
Jeff and Susan Mall, of Volo Chocolate, discovered their passion for chocolate while living and working as chefs in Mexico. They started experimenting with flavors, created a “bean-to-bar” craft chocolate recipe and, when they returned to Sonoma County, launched their own chocolate business. They use sustainable chocolate from farmers in Guatemala and Haiti for their handmade chocolate bars. Find their chocolates in a variety of local stores and online.
European drinking chocolate from Sonoma Chocolatiers. This isn’t even in the same universe as Swiss Miss. Made with chocolate shavings and hot milk (plus optional chile or almond milk), it’s a liquid candy bar made for sipping slowly and paging through Proust on a rainy day. $6.95. They also have a huge selection of chocolate bars from artisan makers using small batch cacao. For Valentine’s Day, they have special heart-shaped truffles made with chocolate from Ecuador and intriguing flavors like rose, lemon and lavender.
Chocolate hearts with rose essence from Sonoma Chocolatiers in Sebastopol. (Courtesy of Sonoma Chocolatiers)Assorted chocolate truffles from Eye Candy chocolatiers in Sebastopol, Tuesday, Oct.18, 2022. (John Burgess/The Press Democrat)
Eye Candy Chocolatier
Eye Candy’s chocolates are made by local ophthalmologist and master chocolatier Sonja Schluter, who is particularly passionate about truffles. Schluter launched her chocolate business in 2016, after years of making chocolate for friends and colleagues. She received her culinary training from the Cambridge School of Culinary Arts, Ecole Chocolate in San Francisco and Callebaut Chocolate Academy. Find her caramels and assorted truffles online or at her Sebastopol store, plus at the self-serve kiosk outside the shop, open daily.
Eric Dewit was a contractor for over two decades after working at the Côte d’Or chocolate factory in Brussels as a teen. He eventually manifested his chocolate passion into a shop in Mendocino, specializing in locally made truffles and imported morsels from Belgium. Now, Dewit sells his famous Belgian chocolate and other candies in a quirky, European-inspired shop in downtown Santa Rosa. In addition to chocolate, find an odd yet charming assortment of pantry items, from French jams and Napa Valley honey to unique, vintage-looking beer steins.
French mocha and cappuccino chocolates from Wine Country Chocolates in Glen Ellen. (Chris Hardy/Sonoma Magazine)
Wine Country Chocolates
Wine Country Chocolates, run by mother-and-daughter team Betty and Caroline Kelly, create truffles and other chocolates made with local wines (Zinfandel, Cabernet Sauvignon and Port) and local fruit. Fan favorites include Cappuccino-Tiramisu, Fresh Orange and Dulce de Leche.
Ora Cacao (formerly Firefly Chocolate) sources cacao from farmers around the world to create ceremonial cacao (or drinking chocolate) based on ancient traditions. The company, based in Graton, offers a variety of 100% cacao, with names like Boundless Belize and Glowing Guatemala, and cacao enhanced with spices and mushrooms such as reishi, chaga, cordyceps, maitake and shiitake. The drinks can be mixed with nut milks and consumed as part of a ritualized community gathering.
Another artisan chocolate business based in Windsor, BACI Kitchen (formerly BACI Chocolatier) crafts truffles, chocolate bars and chocolate sauces in small batches made fresh to order. The company has won several awards, including the Good Food Award, and has been a finalist in The Press Democrat’s Best of Sonoma County competition.
399 Business Park Court, Suite 306, Windsor, 707-687-5253, bacikitchen.com
Truffles in the shape of cows at The Chocolate Cow in Sonoma on Wednesday, August 3, 2022. (Christopher Chung/The Press Democrat)
The Chocolate Cow
The Chocolate Cow, a family-run business in the town of Sonoma, has served housemade truffles, fudge, ice cream and other sweet treats for more than 30 years. Located in the Mercato shopping center.
Rainy Day Chocolate in Santa Rosa makes award-winning nib-to-bar chocolate. Available at select local farmers markets and for delivery in Sonoma County and shipping across the country. Stay tuned for updates on a new retail shop set to open in Sonoma County.
See’s Candies has been a Bay Area favorite for chocolate lovers for over 100 years. Find local stores at Montgomery Village and Coddingtown Mall in Santa Rosa, Lakewood Village in Windsor, Mountain Shadows Plaza in Rohnert Park and Washington Square Center in Petaluma. sees.com
Heather Irwin and Maci Martell contributed to this article.
Armstrong Redwoods State Natural Reserve in Guerneville. (Mariah Harkey / Sonoma County Tourism)
Coast Redwoods love the water — the more, the better, it seems. They love soupy fog so thick it hangs like mist. They love rain that rushes off ridgelines in seasonal rivulets. And they especially love creeks and rivers that overrun their banks to flood flat valley floors, submerging the feet of the world’s tallest trees.
Foggy weather, plenty of rain, a broad-banked river that regularly floods? Check, check and check — Sonoma has a place like that.
“The Russian River was once coated with beautiful virgin redwood stands,” says Brendan O’Neil, an environmental scientist and Chief of Natural Resources for California State Parks’ Sonoma-Mendocino District. “The most famous of all was called the Big Bottom stands, in Guerneville. That area, because it’s so prone to flooding, ended up growing some of the finest redwoods in all of California.”
The name Big Bottom stuck (it refers to the alluvial floodplain upon which the town sits), but most of the massive trees are long gone, having been logged in the late 1800s and early 1900s, many destined for cigar boxes.
Not only do they appreciate a good soaking, but creekside groves also benefit from the loads of nutrient-rich sediment deposited by floodwaters. “If you look at the trunks of a lot of the giants in Mendocino and Humboldt counties, you see that they lack that taper that you generally see,” O’Neil says. “That’s because they have been buried so many times.”
Armstrong Redwoods State Natural Reserve in Guerneville. (Mariah Harkey/Sonoma County Tourism)
Redwoods respond by sending out a whole new root system to tap into the fresh topsoil and, even more critically, by producing seeds: a relatively rare occurrence for the species, with fire being the only other trigger.
All redwoods, no matter where, react positively and immediately to water availability in the winter. “You can see trees start to swell when it rains. They store a lot of water in their bark and canopy. They’re essentially huge water pumps,” O’Neil says.
But these botanical marvels don’t only take; they also give. Their gravity-defying canopies are home to an entire ecosystem of living things, including other plants, fairy shrimp, salamanders and flying squirrels. In death, redwoods offer valuable habitat as well, and if they are so fortunate as to fall into a nearby waterway, they can provide hiding spots for spawning salmon.
Survivors of the logging boom face a new set of threats today, and predictably many relate to fog levels, rainfall patterns and river flows — natural factors that humans have interrupted through climate change, dams and other alterations to hydrologic regimes, O’Neil says.
“Not to sign off with a story of woe, but it’s something to think about: all the beautiful things we have in this world, and the challenges we face in how we manage them.”
Server Cerra Modar carries a tray of Russian River Brewing Co. 20th anniversary Pliny the Younger triple IPA for guest on the first day of the limited release at the brewpub in Santa Rosa, Friday, March 22, 2024. (John Burgess / The Press Democrat)
Officially available at the brewery’s Santa Rosa and Windsor pubs from March 21 to April 3, the highly anticipated brew is already quietly on tap (or coming soon) to around 30 bars and restaurants in Sonoma and Napa counties.
As the brewery’s team is busy kegging the 2025 Pliny release to ship to select cities throughout the country, locals will have early access to the triple IPA this month, the brewing company stated in a recent Facebook post.
The Russian River Brewing Co. 20th anniversary 2024 Pliny the Younger triple IPA is filtered and ready for bottles and kegs in Windsor, Monday, March 18, 2024. (John Burgess / The Press Democrat)
Once Pliny the Younger is released this spring, the Santa Rosa and Windsor pubs will be open from 11 a.m. to 10 p.m. daily, with lines usually starting as early as 5 a.m. Guests will be limited to three 10-ounce pours and up to three bottles of Pliny the Younger.
The release of Pliny the Younger is usually shrouded in secrecy, adding to its allure. Russian River Brewing Co. has not posted a public list of locations where the beer will be available before its official release but shared a list with The Press Democrat of “most” of the places in Sonoma and Napa counties where the triple IPA will be available.
Natalie Cilurzo, co-owner of Russian River Brewing Co., said over email to The Press Democrat Thursday that while kegs of Pliny the Younger are being distributed around the country, the “lion’s share remains within California, with the heaviest concentration of accounts in the Bay Area.”
Kegs of Russian River Brewing Co.’s coveted, limited-release Pliny the Younger in 2025. (Courtesy Russian River Brewing Co.)
Some local bars and restaurants, such as Santa Rosa’s The Goose & Fern (116 Fifth St.), Trail House Cafe (4036 Montgomery Drive, Suite C) and Sonoma’s HopMonk Tavern (691 Broadway), have announced on social media that they will have Pliny the Younger on tap.
On Thursday, The Goose & Fern owner Clyde Hartwell said the pub will “definitely” have Pliny on tap in the next few days, shooting to have it available for Super Bowl Sunday. Other local bars and restaurants also are aiming to pour Pliny this Sunday.
Below is a list of local places where Pliny the Younger will be on tap. For more information on when they’ll be pouring, call or check the establishments’ social media.
Sonoma County locations for Pliny
The Goose & Fern, 116 Fifth St., Santa Rosa, 707-843-4235, thegooseandfern.com
Bird & The Bottle, 1055 Fourth St., Santa Rosa, 707-568-4000, birdandthebottle.com
Phoenix hosted Guy Fieri’s Flavortown Super Bowl Tailgate in 2023. This year’s event will be in Las Vegas. (Courtesy photo)
Celebrity chef and longtime Sonoma County resident Guy Fieri is bringing his signature high-energy tailgate party back for Big Game Weekend, this time taking over Mardi Gras World in New Orleans.
The third annual “Guy’s Flavortown Tailgate” kicks off at noon Sunday, offering football fans a mix of food, music and entertainment ahead of the biggest game of the year. The best part: general admission is $0. (But hurry up; tickets are going fast.)
“We’re talking a free event for over 10,000 fans, a real deal celebration of food, football and fun, right in the heart of the action,” Fieri said.
Since launching in Arizona in 2023 and taking over Las Vegas in 2024, the tailgate has cemented itself as a can’t-miss pre-game event. Each year, it draws thousands of fans and features appearances from sports and entertainment stars. Past editions have welcomed athletes like Eli Manning and Chad Johnson, alongside performances from Diplo, Flavor Flav and Dustin Lynch — some of whom are returning this year.
Phoenix hosted Guy Fieri’s Flavortown Super Bowl Tailgate in 2023. This year’s event will be in New Orleans. (Guy’s Flavortown Tailgate)Phoenix hosted Guy Fieri’s Flavortown Super Bowl Tailgate in 2023. This year’s event will be in New Orleans. (Guy’s Flavortown Tailgate)
This year’s lineup keeps the tradition alive, with Diplo back for his third consecutive set, blending country-inspired beats with his signature electronic sound. He’ll be joined by hype-man icon Flavor Flav and New Orleans rock legends Cowboy Mouth, ensuring nonstop energy throughout the event.
General admission is free, but requires registration. Premium ticket options offer an upgraded experience, with complimentary food or VIP access featuring exclusive perks. A special partnership ensures guaranteed entry for 2,000 military members and veterans.
Attendees can expect free food samples from “Guy’s partners,” such as Carnival Cruise Line and King’s Hawaiian, as well as Flavortown sauces, a variety of drinks and, of course, plenty of fried chicken.
In short, it’s got all the ingredients for a great pre-game party.
“Laissez les bons temps rouler,” said Fieri, meaning, “Let the good times roll,” in French.
Guy’s Flavortown Tailgate, 1380 Port of New Orleans Pl, New Orleans, Louisiana, guysflavortowntailgate.com
BlendCraft in downtown Petaluma serves date shakes which are famous in Palm Springs but rarely found outside of southern California. Photographed on Wednesday, November 13, 2024. (Crissy Pascual/Petaluma Argus-Courier)
David Ertmann, of downtown Petaluma’s BlendCraft, is a huge supporter of dates — both the fruit kind and the Valentine kind. His “The First Date” smoothie blends sweet dates with low-fat vanilla frozen yogurt, almond milk and fresh banana.
“We put our own twist on the classic Palm Springs date shake,” says Ertmann, who co-owns the cafe with his fiancée, Ashley Baker. “I think these might taste even better.”
The date shake, popular in southern California, can be enjoyed at BlendCraft in downtown Petaluma. Photographed on Wednesday, Dec. 4, 2024. (Crissy Pascual/Petaluma Argus-Courier)
In a nostalgic move, Ertmann, who grew up visiting the Hadley Date Gardens near Palm Springs with his brothers, sources Medjool dates from the original Hadley family orchards in the Morongo Valley. The cold, creamy shakes have proven popular.
“We imagine couples coming in and sharing a shake,” says Baker. “I don’t know for sure if any first dates have happened over a date shake here, but I keep hoping it will happen eventually.”
Mac and cheese at Kin Restaurant in Windsor. (Heather Irwin/The Press Democrat)
The holidays are past, and spring is months away, so why not snuggle in with the most comforting food on earth? As kids, we may start with the blue box and bright orange powdered cheese, but the real thing — made with creamy cheese sauce, hearty pasta and all the add-ins you can imagine — is a dish for the kid in all of us.
Cozy Comfort
Underwood Bar and Bistro
Head to this Graton hideaway for bubbling elbow mac topped with toasted bread crumbs. Simple as that. Add pancetta to signal to everyone that you’re a gourmand to be reckoned with.9113 Graton Rd., Graton. 707-823-7023, underwoodgraton.com
Fancy Pants
Stark’s Steak & Seafood
Who knew mac and cheese needed black truffles? But once you know, you know it works perfectly with this elevated version of the classic. It’s like wearing sweats with a bow tie—comfy and classy.521 Adams St., Santa Rosa. 707-546-5100, starkrestaurants.com
Three-way Smoker Combo with ribs, chicken, brisket and sides of Mac N’ Cheese and Okra/Corn/Cherry Tomato Saute from Sweet T’s Restaurant + Bar in Windsor. (John Burgess/The Press Democrat)
Loaded
Sweet T’s
House-smoked BBQ brisket, jalapeños, bacon, breadcrumbs, and cheesy mac drizzled with sweet barbecue sauce is a yeehaw for your face. More patriotic than a bald eagle.9098 Brooks Rd. S., Windsor. 707-687-5185, sweettssouthern.com
Something Completely Different
Kin
The Mac Daddy pizza is as ridiculous as it sounds: a pizza topped with an absurd amount of gooey mac and cheese. Unforgettable — but whether that’s in a good way or a bad way is up to you.740 McClelland Dr., Windsor. 707-837-7546, kinwindsor.com
Mac and cheese at Kin Restaurant in Windsor. (Heather Irwin/The Press Democrat)Portuguese Mac & Cheese at Tasca Tasca Portuguese Tapas Restaurant & Wine Bar in Sonoma. (Erik Castro/for Sonoma Magazine)
The Spicy One
Tasca Tasca
Hidden among the many tapas choices — fried piri-piri potatoes, steak tartare, empanadas — you’ll find Portuguese-style mac and cheese. Linguiça, a spicy pork sausage, is the secret ingredient that gives this small plate a smoky bump.122 West Napa St., Sonoma. 707-996-8272, tascatasca.com
Nuggets of Lobster
Speakeasy
Cheese and crustaceans are usually a no-go in my book, this version blends sweet lobster with cheddar, fontina, herby breadcrumbs, and crumbled bacon clinging to every surface of the bowl-like orecchiette pasta.139 Petaluma Blvd. N., Petaluma. 707-776-4631, speakeasypetaluma.com
In the need for more cheese? Here are more favorite places for mac and cheese in Sonoma County.
Robert Nieto, owners of Fleur Sauvage Chocolate, makes a chocolate box for his Valentines Day bonbon assortment Tuesday, January 16, 2024 in Windsor. (Photo John Burgess/The Press Democrat)
No holiday strikes fear into the hearts of men like Valentine’s Day (Friday, Feb. 14). In truth, all the Hallmark card expectations of romance, roses and chocolate can confound any couple. But fear not, because even at the eleventh hour, there are great food and dining options throughout Sonoma County for you and your sweet thing, your best gal pals, or even your little cherubs.
Just don’t wait too long to snap up these ideas, and may Cupid’s arrow find its mark.
Last minute
Say it with bacon: Order a bacon box from Sonoma County Meat Co. filled with four glorious pounds of piggy pleasure. Flavors include black pepper, applewood smoked, honey lavender salt and thyme, $89 (order online or in-store). 35 Sebastopol Ave., Santa Rosa, sonomacountymeatco.com
Chocolate creations, including a life-sized chocolate wine bottle, from Fleur Sauvage in Windsor. (Chris Hardy/Sonoma Magazine)
Chocolate: Sonoma County has plenty of amazing chocolate makers, including Fleur Sauvage, Volo Chocolates, Eye Candy and Sonoma Chocolatiers (you can find a complete list here). But if you want to go a little off-script, Santa Rosa’s quirky Steinhouse offers Belgian chocolate and a whole lot of other goodies. 631 Fourth St., Suite 18, Santa Rosa, steinhousechocolates.com
Bread baking classes: Central Milling’s Artisan Baking Center is the place to train your budding sourdough baker or pastry fanatic. Classes are taught by some of the best bakers in the biz, and you’ll reap the rewards with something hot from the oven after a single class. Register online. 1120 Holm Road, Petaluma, centralmilling.com/artisan-baking-center
OpenTable it: For you lazy Lotharios, OpenTable has a handy listing of local restaurants that still have Valentine reservations available. pdne.ws/3EpRHKL
Plan ahead (with some last-minute alternatives)
Macaron flavors by Patisserie Angelica include rose, pistachio, salted caramel, Meyer lemon, and blackberry in Sebastopol, on Thursday, May 1, 2014. (Beth Schlanker / The Press Democrat)
Patisserie Angelica Valentine’s desserts: Satisfy your sweetie’s sweet tooth with an eye-popping selection of treats, including chocolate truffles, macarons, chocolate-covered strawberries, a heart-shaped almond cake with praline buttercream and Valentine sugar cookies. You’ll also find single-serve desserts, party cakes and brownies in the pastry case from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m., Tuesday through Sunday. 6821 Laguna Park Way, Sebastopol, patisserieangelica.com/valentinesmenu
Last-minute option: Patisserie Angelica also offers a cozy high tea with savory and sweet pastries, specialty teas and espresso drinks. It’s a charming, pinkies-up adventure, but not so fancy you can’t have a little fun. Reserve by phone at 707-827-7998.
Flamingo Resort & Spa:Three-course prix fixe dinner with lots of choices — steamed blue crab, grilled bavette steak, seared scallops, confit of trumpet mushrooms or a chocolate ganache tart. $132 per person; reservations required. Reserve on OpenTable. 2777 Fourth St., Santa Rosa, flamingoresort.com
Last-minute option: Grab tickets for the Flamingo’s live “Don’t Tell Comedy” shows every Thursday. Comedians are a secret until they take the stage — and you never know who will show up. Tickets at flamingoresort.com
Sushi By Scratch: A few reservations remain for the 17-course sushi omakase menu at this intimate dining destination in Healdsburg. Valentine’s experiences, Feb. 14-16, are $265 per person. Reserve on Tock. Located in The Matheson, 106 Matheson St., Healdsburg
Last minute option: Prebook a future date at this 10-seat experience for $185 per person. You’re thoughtful and thrifty.
Advance planning required
Sea Ranch Lodge: Head north for dinner or a weekend retreat at this wind-swept North Coast destination. Dinner overlooking the ocean includes Dungeness crab Louie, beef Wellington for two and molten chocolate cake for two. Reservations required. 60 Sea Walk Drive, The Sea Ranch, thesearanchlodge.com
Owners Marc-Henri and Maud Jean-Baptiste of Windsor’s Maison Porcella. (Kim Carroll/for Sonoma Magazine)
Maison Porcella: The French are experts in food, wine and love. Celebrate all three at Maison Porcella’s special Valentine’s prix fixe dinner featuring scalloped fish terrine with roasted cauliflower, duck with braised radicchio and white chocolate cake. $125 per person; reservations required. Tickets on Tock. 8499 Old Redwood Highway, Windsor, maisonporcella.com
Pascaline Bistro: There’s no choice but to get cozy at this intimate bistro. Four-course dinner includes Dungeness crab cakes, Mount Lassen trout and caramel passion fruitcake. Tickets are $137.19 per person; reservations required. Call 707-303-7151 or book on OpenTable. 1021 Hahman Drive, Santa Rosa, pascalinebistro.com
Farmhouse Inn: On Sunday, Feb. 16, bid adieu to Valentine’s weekend with a four-course dinner from executive chef Craig Wilmer and executive pastry chef Amanda Hoang. Each course will be paired with spirits from Foley Spirits. $185 per person, by reservation only. Reserve on Tock. 7871 River Road, Forestville, farmhouseinn.com
A dish at Farmhouse Inn restaurant in Forestville. (Joanne Chen/Courtesy Farmhouse Inn)
Jilly’s Roadhouse: Venture to the coast for a casual couple’s night at this new Route 1 roadhouse. Prix fixe menu includes crab soup, lemon-zest Brussels sprouts, creamy mashed potatoes, caper-crusted salmon or filet mignon and choice of tiramisu or strawberry cheesecake. $68 per person, wine pairing available. Call 707-756-0119 for reservations. 9960 Highway 1, Jenner
Valentine’s Momo Tasting: Learn to make Nepalese momo dumplings with chef Sonam Sherpa at Meadowcroft Wines tasting room in Sonoma. The class includes momo tasting with Meadowcroft wines. 2-4 p.m., Saturday, Feb. 15., $75 per person. Reservations required; reserve online. 23574 Arnold Drive, Sonoma, meadowcroftwines.com
Love and Peanuts Holiday Workshop: Kids (grades 1-6) can make Valentine crafts and treats from 1 to 3 p.m. Saturday, Feb. 16, at the Charles M. Schulz Museum in Santa Rosa. $40 per child; advance registration required. Tickets are available online or by calling 707- 284-1272. 2301 Hardies Lane, Santa Rosa, schulzmuseum.org
