Page 15 – Sonoma Magazine

The Best Burgers in Sonoma County

May 2025

By Heather Irwin

Burger at The Sea Ranch Lodge. (Stephanie Russo/The Sea Ranch Lodge)

At Sonoma Magazine, we’re always ready to celebrate great bun-patty-bun combos. So it’s a good thing we’re not exactly picky about what’s between the buns — be it Wagyu beef, chuck, turkey or even a plant-based burger. Because here’s the thing: A great burger is really all about the whole package, with melted cheese, a soft bun, crisp veggies and a moist and chewy patty in the middle.

Scroll on below to discover some of our favorite burgers in Sonoma County, and click through the above gallery for a peek at the meaty deliciousness.

Don’t see your favorite? Let me know at heather.irwin@pressdemocrat.com.

Dining Editor’s Picks

Burger Harn, Lunch Box: The signature Burger Harn is the kind of messy, smushy, everything-that’s-good-about-beef masterpiece you rarely find. It’s a third pound of Oak Ridge Angus topped with cheddar, tomato, red onion, shredded iceberg, dill pickle, onion butter and fancy sauce on a Costeaux brioche bun. Pair with “dirty fries” — a pile of crispy fries, chèvre ranch dressing, house-cured and smoked bacon, green onion, roasted garlic and pepperoncini. You’ll need a handful of napkins and a stout appetite. 128 N. Main St., Sebastopol, 707-347-9881, lunchboxsonomacounty.com

Burger from Lunch Box. (Courtesy of Lunch Box)

The Iggy, Iggy’s Organic Burger: A tasty organic patty cooked in beef tallow is topped with Clover cheddar cheese, pickles, pickled onions, ketchup and mustard on buttery Hawaiian buns. A delicious take on a classic smash burger. 109 Plaza St., Healdsburg, 707-473-8636, angelasicecream.com

Bacon Cheeseburger, Machado Burgers: Is this bacon cheeseburger the most perfect burger in Sonoma County? Quite possibly. Don’t miss the Piggy Tots, tater tots topped with housemade chili, pulled pork, cheese, onions, jalapeños and mustard sauce. 406 Larkfield Center, Santa Rosa, 707-546-6835, machadoburgers.com
(Coming soon to Bell Village Business Center, 9240 Old Redwood Highway, Windsor.)

Weinburger Patty Melt, Grossman’s: This is the best patty melt in our lineup of amazing patty melts (Mac’s Deli has a great one, too!) Start with a perfect beef patty, then top with pastrami, gooey Gruyere cheese and caramelized onions on rye. If you’re on the go, it stands up to a car ride like a boss. 309 ½ Wilson St., Santa Rosa, 707-595-7707, grossmanssr.com

Best of Sonoma County: Burger, Superburger in Santa Rosa. The St. Helena Ave. Burger. (photo by John Burgess/The Press Democrat) — Best of Sonoma County: Burger, Superburger in Santa Rosa. The St. Helena Ave. Burger.
(photo by John Burgess/The Press Democrat)

St. Helena Ave. Burger, Superburger: You just know a burger’s gonna be good when the counter sports rolls of paper towels rather than napkins. The St. Helena has onion rings, bacon, cheddar and barbecue sauce. Locations in Santa Rosa, Cotati, Petaluma and Windsor, originalsuperburger.com

Sonoma Beef Burger, Acme Burger: This is the place for tried-and-true burgers on a budget. The Sonoma Mountain Beef Burger remains a great value. Pair it with onion rings, chili cheese fries or Cajun fries. 1007 W. College Ave., Santa Rosa, 707-615-7306; 550 E. Cotati Ave., Cotati, 707-665-5620; 330 Western Ave., Petaluma, 707-559-3820, acmeburgerco.com

The Mac Daddy burger with a 7-ounce Oak Ridge patty and the secret sauce from Road Trip Monday, May 20, 2024, in Guerneville. (John Burgess/The Press Democrat) — The Mac Daddy burger with a 7-ounce Oak Ridge patty and the secret sauce from Road Trip Monday, May 20, 2024 in Guerneville. (Photo by John Burgess/The Press Democrat)

The Mac Daddy, Road Trip: A 7-ounce Oak Ridge patty topped with cheese, pickles, onions, shredded lettuce and secret sauce on a sesame milk bun. A top-notch burger from chef Crista Luedtke — someone who knows her burgers and isn’t afraid to reinvent the McDonald’s classic. 16218 Main St., Guerneville, 707-604-6102, eatatroadtrip.com

Shack Burger, Shake Shack: Two all beef patties, special sauce, lettuce and cheese on a sweet bun. I keep coming back to this favorite again and again. Don’t miss a side of frozen custard. 2424 Magowan Dr. at Montgomery Village, Santa Rosa, shakeshack.com.

In-N-Out, Cheeseburger: Add grilled onions. ‘Nuff said. You know where to find one.

More Great Burgers

Burger Bar, Stark’s Steak and Seafood: Start with the Stark Standard, a half-pounder with smoked bacon, peppercorn salsa verde and Cambozola. Then choose add-ons like onion rings, a truffled sunny-side-up egg, mushrooms and steak sauce make it yours. 521 Adams St., Santa Rosa, 707-546-5100, starkrestaurants.com

best burger from Jackson’s Bar and Oven — A burger from Jackson’s Bar and Oven in Santa Rosa. (Jackson’s Bar and Oven)

The Burger, Jackson’s Bar and Oven: Perfectly cooked and always flavorful, Jackson’s burger is a solid go-to, just as good plain as it is smarted-up with Point Reyes Blue, caramelized onions, jalapeños and mushrooms. 135 Fourth St., Santa Rosa, 707-545-6900, jacksonsbarandoven.com

Basic Burger, Americana: A third pound of Stemple Creek Ranch beef is dressed with housemade aioli and a choice of organic Clover cheddar, pepper jack or swiss (with an option to upgrade to Estero Gold or Gorgonzola) on a freshly baked bun. Served with lettuce, onion, pickle spear and choice of fries, onion rings, coleslaw, cup of soup or a side salad. 205 Fifth St., Suite A, Santa Rosa, 707-755-1548; 162 N. Main St., Sebastopol, 707-827-3309, americanasonomacounty.com

Orange Marinated Chicken Pupusa Burger with choice of two stuffed pupusa's filled with pico de gallo, guacamole, lettuce, cheese and chipotle cream from Don Julio's Latin Grill & Pupusas in Rohnert Park. (John Burgess / The Press Democrat) — Orange Marinated Chicken Pupusa Burger with choice of two stuffed pupusa’s filled with pico de gallo, guacamole, lettuce, cheese and chipotle cream from Don Julio’s Latin Grill & Pupusas in Rohnert Park. (John Burgess / The Press Democrat)

Pupusa Burger, Don Julio’s: Now for something completely different: an orange-marinated chicken pupusa burger with a choice of two stuffed pupusas filled with pico de gallo, guacamole, lettuce, cheese and chipotle cream. 217 Southwest Blvd., Rohnert Park, 707-242-3160, donjulioslatingrill.com

Organic Burger, Amy’s Drive-Thru: The best nonmeat burger. Period. Best with a dairy-free chocolate shake. 58 Golf Course Drive W., Rohnert Park, 707-755-3629, amysdrivethru.com

The Smashburger and a side of fries from Jilly’s Real Food Roadhouse Friday, April 4, 2025, overlooking the Russia River on Highway 1 near Jenner. (John Burgess / The Press Democrat)

Smashburger, Jilly’s Real Food Roadhouse: On sunny days, sitting on the rustic patio outside Jilly’s Real Food Roadhouse in Jenner is a Zen moment, but the burgers are high-energy fun. Go for the double with caramelized onion jam and special sauce. 9960 Highway 1, Jenner, 707-756-0119.

Moo-Ben, Mike’s at the Crossroads: In the annals of Sonoma County hamburger history, Mike’s holds a special place in almost everyone’s heart. Original owner Mike Condrin’s take on a Reuben has got all the usual fixings: corned beef, Swiss cheese, sauerkraut and thousand island dressing, piled on a burger between marbled rye. 7665 Old Redwood Highway, Cotati, 707-665-9999, mikesatthecrossroads.com

Farm Burger, Brewsters Beer Garden: Simple and delicious, this meaty sandwich features white cheddar, aioli, pickles, onion and romaine lettuce. Served with shoestring duck fat fries. 229 Water St. N., Petaluma, 707-981-8330, brewstersbeergarden.com

Farm Beef Burger with Fries and a beer for a casual meal at sunset on the back deck of the Sea Ranch Lodge Restaurant Friday, February 21, 2025, on the northern Sonoma coast. (John Burgess / The Press Democrat) — Farm Beef Burger with Fries and a beer for a casual meal at sunset on the back deck of the Sea Ranch Lodge Restaurant Friday, Feb. 21, 2025, on the northern Sonoma coast. (John Burgess / The Press Democrat)

Inglewood Burger, Handline: The Inglewood Burger features organic beef, St. Jorge fonduta, local lettuces, spicy pickle relish and thousand island on a toasted bun. 935 Gravenstein Ave. S., Sebastopol, 707-827-3744, handline.com

Lodge Burger, Sea Ranch Lodge: A perfect coastal burger with a perfect coastal view. The ground beef and lamb patty is topped with aioli and smoked Gouda, served with fries. 60 Sea Walk Drive, The Sea Ranch, 707-579-9777, thesearanchlodge.com

Hangover Cheeseburger, Healdsburger: This mostly-locals spot does all kinds of burgers, but we especially appreciate the Hangover Cheeseburger with sriracha hot sauce, a fried egg, bacon, pepper jack cheese and lettuce on an Italian bun. After a day of wine tasting, you’ll need this protein and carbo-load. 48 Healdsburg Ave., Healdsburg, 707-473-9604, healdsburger.com

Iggy’s Organic Burgers with duck fat and beef patty, buttery brioche, organic American cheese, ketchup, mustard, onions caramelized with a secret sauce, and pickles are served on the plaza, Friday in Downtown Healdsburg June 30, 2023. (Chad Surmick / The Press Democrat) — Iggy’s Organic Burgers with duck fat and beef patty, buttery brioche, organic American cheese, ketchup, mustard, onions caramelized with a secret sauce, and pickles are served on the plaza, in downtown Healdsburg, June 30, 2023. (Chad Surmick / The Press Democrat)

Kin Burger, Kin Restaurant: The Kin Burger features certified Angus beef, smoked white cheddar cheese, applewood smoked bacon, housemade barbecue sauce, lettuce, tomato and onion on a toasted brioche bun. 740 McClelland Drive, Windsor, 707-837-7546, kinwindsor.com

Classic Burger, Palooza Brewery and Gastropub: An excellent burger featuring a half pound of your choice of chuck or brisket, topped with lettuce, tomato, pickle, red onion and garlic aioli. Go for add-ons like avocado, grilled onions and Brie cheese. 8910 Sonoma Highway, Kenwood, 707-833-4000, paloozafresh.com

Happy Hour Burger, Salt and Stone: This lil’ darling of a burger is just right for a nosh with your martini. A quarter pound of house-ground beef with cheddar and aioli on a brioche bun. 9900 Sonoma Highway, Kenwood, 707-833-6326, saltstonekenwood.com

The Western Burger, Carmen’s Bistro & Bar: Featuring onion rings, cheddar cheese, applewood bacon and barbecue sauce, this burger will require your jaw to unhinge for a bite. 619 Fourth St., Santa Rosa, 707-843-5186

HopMonk Cheeseburger, HopMonk: Modern pub dining with a focus on great beer and beer-friendly dishes, like the house burger topped with aioli, tomato chutney, white cheddar and crispy shallot on brioche. 230 Petaluma Ave., Sebastopol, 707-829-7300; and 691 Broadway, Sonoma, 707-935-9100, hopmonk.com

Old-World Charm Meets Sonoma Flavor at Preston Farm & Winery

May 2025

By Tina Caputo

Preston is the kind of place that invites you to bring family and friends. Play some bocce. Sit underneath a shady tree and chat with your neighbor. And, of course, enjoy some really good wine. (Airyka Rockefeller)

This is how “Old World” the feeling is at Preston Farm & Winery: When I brought my Italian-born dad there for a visit years ago, he wandered into the vegetable gardens and returned with a handful of peppers, excitedly urging me to take them back to my apartment for later. The property reminded him so much of our family’s farm in Southern Italy that he made himself right at home. Preston is the kind of place that invites you to bring the family along and play some bocce. Sit underneath a shady tree and chat with your neighbor. And, of course, enjoy some really good wine.

The story

Lou Preston studied chemical engineering at Stanford before realizing that he wanted to take an entirely different path. His family had owned a dairy farm near Windsor, and he liked the idea of working the land and getting his hands dirty. In 1973, after earning a business degree and then spending a year studying viticulture and enology at UC Davis, he bought an old ranch in Dry Creek Valley.

The site already had a few acres of vines — the Guadagni family first planted it to Zinfandel in 1895 — plus lots of prunes. Preston got to know his Italian neighbors, including his mentor Jim Guadagni, and they generously shared their knowledge of the land and advised him on what to plant. Sauvignon Blanc was first to go into the ground, followed by Syrah, Mourvèdre, Cinsault, Grenache, Viognier, and other Rhône varieties. Preston cobbled together his first winery in 1975 and grew production to 30,000 cases in a little over a decade.

The 170-acre estate now includes 65 acres of grapes and an equal amount of other crops — all certified organic. This year, Preston celebrates his 50th harvest. (Maggie Preston)

Preston reached a turning point in 2000 when he met “Amigo Bob” Cantisano, a pioneer in California’s organic farming scene. He convinced Preston to stop spraying and start composting. Around the same time, Preston scaled back wine production to 8,000 cases and fully devoted himself to farming. Over the years, he added livestock, fruits and vegetables, and grain. The 170-acre estate now includes 65 acres of grapes and an equal amount of other crops — all certified organic. This year, Preston celebrates his 50th harvest.

The winery’s 2023 Vin Gris (), a Mourvedre-based rosé, has soft berry aromas and strawberry flavor. (Airyka Rockefeller) — The winery’s 2023 Vin Gris ($34), a Mourvedre-based rosé, has soft berry aromas and strawberry flavor. (Airyka Rockefeller)

Preston winery — Find hidden spots like scenes from The Secret Garden at Preston Farm & Winery in Healdsburg. (Airyka Rockefeller)

In spring and summer, the farm is alive with the buzz of pollinating bees and the purr of hummingbird wings. (Maggie Preston)

The vibe

Tastings take place inside the sweet yellow farmhouse, on the front porch, or at one of the outdoor tables. In spring and summer, the farm is alive with the buzz of pollinating bees and the purr of hummingbird wings. A grouping of picnic tables beneath a pergola, next to the bocce court, provides an ideal spot for sipping between games. (Feel free to adopt Caputo family rules: The losing team is only allowed to drink wine during the next match if the winners grant permission. That’s what we consider punishment.) The overall effect is pretty, peaceful and casual.

On the palate

Though I’ve long been a Preston fan, I have to admit I’d fallen behind in keeping up with the latest vintages. That is, until I stumbled on a tasting at my local wine shop a couple months ago. Mind? Blown. These wines were lighter on their feet than the ones I remembered — fresh and lively. Clearly, I had missed something important. That something, it turned out, was the hiring of Grayson Hartley as Preston’s winemaker and viticulturist in 2018. Hartley’s mission, he told me, is to make Dry Creek Valley wines that transparently express the place where they’re grown without uber-ripeness or prominent oak getting in the way. As a bonus, all of the wines are priced under $50.

The 2024 Dry Creek Valley Sauvignon Blanc ($36) is fresh and crisp, with grassy notes and a citrus zing. The winery’s 2023 Vin Gris ($34), a Mourvedre-based rosé, has soft berry aromas and strawberry flavor. I was an instant fan of the 2023 Cinsaut ($42), with its cherry pie profile and savory notes. If you’re lucky, you might get a taste of Schiopettino, a heat-tolerant Italian red planted in an experimental block. Tastings cost $35 and include five to six wines.

Beyond the bottle

On “Jug Sundays,” the first Sunday of each month, Preston regales visitors with stories while filling 3-liter growlers of “Jim’s Jug” (formerly called Guadagni), the winery’s Zinfandel-based red blend. The wine costs $10 for a refillable jug plus $65 for the wine. While you’re there, peruse the farm store for seasonal produce, estate olive oil and Lou’s freshly baked breads.

Tina Caputo is a wine, food, and travel journalist who contributes to Sonoma magazine, SevenFifty Daily, Visit California, Northern California Public Media, KQED, and more. Follow her on Bluesky at @winebroad.bsky.social, view her website at tinacaputo.com, and email her story ideas at tina@caputocontent.com.

Eichler-Inspired Midcentury Gem on 2.6 Lush Acres Hits the Market in Sebastopol

May 2025

By Karen Kizer

Dining are off the kitchen. (Brian McCloud) — Dining area off the kitchen. (Brian McCloud)

A home on 2.6 secluded acres in Sebastopol is currently listed for sale. The Eichler-inspired midcentury home with two bedrooms and three bathrooms is currently listed for $1,599,00.

An open floor plan and floor-to-ceiling trim-less windows give a view to the remarkably lush outdoor setting that includes oaks, manzanitas pines, bamboo and Japanese maples. The great room and main bedroom have terrazzo floors with radiant heat.

Great room in midcentury Sonoma home — Great room. (Brian McCloud)

The 2.6-acre property includes a permitted casita for guest quarters, a studio or home office. There’s also an octagonal workshop space with lots of practical shelving and, to pass the time pleasantly, views into the garden.

For more information on 1450 Tilton Road in Sebastopol, contact listing agent Kimiko Ages, Hive Real Estate, 510-689-6896, 708 Gravenstein Highway N., Suite 1007, Sebastopol, HiveRealEstateCA.com

Chef Stéphane Saint Louis’s Dining Journey Comes Full Circle With Upcoming Petaluma Restaurant

May 2025

By Nate Seltenrich

Table Culture Provisions’ co-owner/chef Stéphane Saint Louis inside the construction zone of his new casual dining, full-bar Bijou restaurant Friday, April 4, 2025, in downtown Petaluma. (John Burgess / The Press Democrat)

Stéphane Saint Louis has already made his mark on the Sonoma County dining scene, from cheffing at Petaluma favorite Della Fattoria and The Shuckery to launching his first restaurant, the recently Michelin-recommended Table Culture Provisions.

But with two young boys in tow, Saint Louis and his wife and business partner Marta Saint Louis are just getting started. Together with co-owner Steven Vargas, who also worked at Della, they open their second Petaluma eatery, Bijou, this month.

Saint Louis promises “bistronomy,” a blend of French cooking technique and Sonoma County seasonal farm-to-table. Bijou’s opening will draw attention for more than just its menu or its pedigree. The restaurant occupies a prime downtown location previously housing Whisper Sisters and then Easy Rider. With Saint Louis moving in, the corner — and Petaluma’s culinary reputation — appear to be in good hands.

Petaluma restaurant Table Culture Provisions’ co-owner/chef Stéphane Saint Louis — Table Culture Provisions’ co-owner/chef Stéphane Saint Louis inside the construction zone of his new casual dining, full-bar Bijou restaurant Friday, April 4, 2025, in downtown Petaluma. (John Burgess / The Press Democrat)

Petaluma Roots

I’ve always felt welcome here. When I worked for Kathleen [Weber] at Della, she would introduce me to all of these local purveyors, whether it was the owners of Cowgirl Creamery, or Straus, or Liberty Duck. Even as a sous chef, I had already developed these farmer-to-chef relationships. I continued on, and built a name for myself, a reputation in the community. And Petaluma always felt like home to me.

Full-Circle Moment

I used to come here all the time. I used to hold my kitchen team meetings in this space. During Covid, I would leave The Shuckery, and I would look at this building right across the street, and I’d think, “Man, one day, I think I’m going to get this place.” Six months ago, when I saw the ad come up [for Easy Rider], I didn’t even think twice. I called the broker and I said, “I want it. Take the ad down.”

A Family Affair

We live next to TCP, so my oldest will jump the fence and come to the restaurant and say, “Daddy, can I get some fries,” or “Can I get some steak,” “Can I get some scallops?” My youngest, every time he comes in, he tastes every single sauce I have going, and he gets so excited about it. Marta is taking care of the kids and running the business. And then we can go to the farm, and the boys can play outside and harvest strawberries, or whatever it is. It’s a lifestyle.

Facing the Unknown

Bijou is much more casual, faster-paced, higher-volume. It’s going to be a whole different ballgame. We’re going to have a lot more staff, more variety of guests coming in, a more affordable price point. I am just looking forward to the challenge, and I’m not afraid of it. Whatever challenges that are going to come with this, I’m ready to face them. I live for this.

What Is Stir-Fried Ice Cream and Why Do Santa Rosa Teens Love It?

May 2025

By Heather Irwin

A Strawberry Cheesecake Premium Roll at Pink Sugar Creamery in Santa Rosa Tuesday, May 20, 2025. (Beth Schlanker / The Press Democrat)

Furry pink swings, a wall of shimmering pink mermaid scales, retro-style pink pay phones and pink velvet barstools make for an oh-so-Instagrammable moment at Pink Sugar, Santa Rosa’s first Thai rolled ice cream shop.

A steady stream of teens files into the former Yogurt Farms space (1224 Mendocino Ave.), mostly checking out each other but also sneaking videos of the mesmerizing ice cream-making process.

Here’s how it works: Straus organic ice cream mix is poured onto chilled steel plates that almost instantly freeze it. Dual spatulas then chop, pulverize and blend in candy, cookies, fruit or cake before the mixture is spread into a thin layer and scraped into tight, frozen curls. Also known as “stir-fried” ice cream, this Southeast Asian invention mimics the chopping and scraping motion of a stir fry.

Co-owner Julia Cochran makes a Rainbow Signature Roll with vanilla ice cream and Fruity Pebbles cereal at Pink Sugar Creamery in Santa Rosa Tuesday, May 20, 2025. (Beth Schlanker / The Press Democrat)

Pink Sugar rolled ice cream — A Rainbow Signature Roll topped with candy and Fruity Pebbles at Pink Sugar Creamery in Santa Rosa Tuesday, May 20, 2025. (Beth Schlanker / The Press Democrat)

While the whole thing is more theater than practicality, the selling point is an inexhaustible number of mix-and-match flavor combinations.

To avoid decision fatigue (or ordering overwhelm), check out the menu in advance — it’s long and complicated. Or just take a seat on the swing and ponder options like the Brookie ($13), made with the standard vanilla base, fudge brownies, cookie dough and hot fudge; Cinnamon Toast Crunch ($12) with cinnamon toast cereal and caramel; or Banana Pudding ($13) with fresh bananas, caramel sauce and Nilla Wafers.

Dairy-free oat milk rolled ice cream is also available, along with fluffy mini pancakes (15 for $10) and soft-serve ice cream served in Taiyaki, a sweet fish-shaped cake. Don’t miss the Dubai strawberry cup with kadayif, pistachio, chocolate and fresh berries.

Open 3-10 p.m. Tuesday; 1-10 p.m. Wednesday to Thursday; 2 p.m. to midnight Friday to Saturday and 2-10 p.m. Sunday. 1224 Mendocino Ave., Santa Rosa, Instagram.com/pinksugarcreamery

You can reach Dining Editor Heather Irwin at heather.irwin@pressdemocrat.com. Follow Heather on Instagram @biteclubeats.

Acre Pasta Soft Opens in Sebastopol With Affordable, Family-Style Dishes

May 2025

By Heather Irwin

Lumache with porcini cream, Mycopia mushrooms and scallions at Acre Pasta at The Barlow in Sebastopol. (Heather Irwin / The Press Democrat)

Steve Decosse, owner of Acre Pizza and founder of Acre Coffee (now Avid Coffee), has soft opened a new, budget-friendly pasta spot at The Barlow.

Decosse, who previously ran several restaurants in San Francisco, has hired chef Ian Marks to create a simple menu of classic pasta dishes with optional add-ons like burrata, pancetta, Mycopia mushrooms and meatballs.

Pasta options includes spaghetti with “Sunday red sauce” ($12); housemade tagliatelle ($17); pappardelle with Bolognese ragu and burrata ($22); lumache with porcini cream ($24); and garganelli in arrabiata sauce ($20).

Several sauces are vegan, including a creamy cashew-based pesto (you’d never guess it’s dairy-free). Family-style dishes like lasagna are in the works as Sunday specials.

I’ll be doing an in-depth review soon, but an early visit left me impressed, and I spent most of the weekend eating the delicious leftovers. Acre Pasta is at 6770 McKinley St., Sebastopol (across from Sushi Kosho). Official opening May 21.

Current hours are 4-8 p.m. Wednesday, Thursday and Sunday; 4-9:30 p.m. Friday and Saturday. Future lunch and expanded dinner hours coming soon. Instagram.com/acrepasta

You can reach Dining Editor Heather Irwin at heather.irwin@pressdemocrat.com. Follow Heather on Instagram @biteclubeats.

Healdsburg Named Among Best Small Towns in the West by USA Today

May 2025

By Maci Martell

The Healdsburg Plaza. (Sonoma County Tourism)

Travel and lifestyle guide USA Today 10Best recently released a roundup of the “10 best small towns in the West.” From the mountain ranges of Utah to the Oregon coast, one Sonoma County locale shined as a must-visit for small-town luxe: Healdsburg.

The list, curated by a panel of editors and voted on by readers, highlights charming, scenic western towns with diverse offerings for locals and visitors. Clinching the No. 3 spot, Healdsburg ranked on the 10Best list for its “award-winning wineries, farm-to-table dining and a walkable town square.”

It’s not the first time (nor will it be the last) that the north county town of just over 11,000 people was lauded by national publications. Condé Nast Traveler ranked Healdsburg among the best cities in the United States (for the second time) in October 2024. A year prior, Travel + Leisure magazine called it “the jewel of California Wine Country.”

From foodies and wine lovers to outdoor enthusiasts, people can find plenty to do in the delightful town of Healdsburg. Here’s where to start:

Dining

Pistachio Financier’s from Quail & Condor bakery Monday, Jan. 6, 2025, in Healdsburg. (John Burgess / The Press Democrat)

Acorn Cafe in Healdsburg — Lemon Ricotta Hotcake with house lemon curd, ricotta, oat crumble and lemon lavender ice cream from Acorn Cafe owner Beryl Adler in Healdsburg. (John Burgess / The Press Democrat)

Healdsburg’s dining scene might be one of the biggest draws of this Sonoma County town. The three-Michelin-starred SingleThread restaurant consistently ranks among the World’s 50 Best Restaurants. And SingleThread alums Melissa Yanc and Sean McGaughey started their own wildly successful bakery, Quail & Condor, which The New York Times named among the best in the country.

Aside from the highly publicized eateries, other Healdsburg restaurants are worth their share of praise. For breakfast, it’s hard to go wrong with the new Acorn Cafe, which boasts an inspired tiramisu French toast, a Seussian green eggs and ham, and the fattest pancakes ever. Lunchtime is a breeze — head to Iggy’s Organic Burger for a solid burger (and side of Angela’s Organic ice cream), or The Parish Cafe for Louisiana-inspired po’boys on Costeaux French bread.

Pizza and cocktails at Roof 106 at The Matheson in Healdsburg. (The Matheson)

For dinner, bring a partner to the hidden gem Guiso Latin Fusion for Salvadoran pupusas and Caribbean paella. In search of great cocktails to enjoy with dinner and friends? Chef Dustin Valette’s epic three-story restaurant and cocktail bar, The Matheson and Roof 106, has you covered with an ever-changing menu and a rooftop cocktail lounge.

Wine

Healdsburg is awash with tasting rooms pouring Wine Country’s finest, but that doesn’t mean you have to spend an arm and a leg to get a taste of the good life. The unassuming Arnot-Roberts tasting room, hidden in an industrial setting off Healdsburg Avenue, pours uncommon wine varieties (like Trousseau and Falanghina) at a shaded, rustic tasting bar. Tastings are $45 per person.

For last-minute weekends plans, J Vineyards & Winery offers its Signature Tasting flight ($35 per person) daily, no reservations necessary (except for groups of six or more). This summer, the winery will host its Bubbles & Beignets event (July 6), serving up fresh beignets paired with estate wines — a great primer for Bastille Day (July 14).

Recreation

With premium access to the Russian River, Healdsburg’s Veterans Memorial Beach gets tons of action as the weather heats up. Beachgoers can partake in sunbathing, swimming and paddling — made even more accessible via the nearby Rivers Edge Kayak & Canoe Trips, offering watercraft rentals as well as guided paddle trips.

Clockwise from left, Jen Heskett, Aaron Gonzales, Jim Ship and Brittany Ship float around in the Russian River to beat the hot weather at Veterans Memorial Beach in Healdsburg. (Alvin Jornada / The Press Democrat)

People can enjoy the area’s classic redwoods at Riverfront Regional Park, which features hiking, biking and horseback riding trails around a scenic lake. It’s also a great place for a large group picnic — grab all the provisions you need at Big John’s Market.

With the town’s vast assortment of eateries, wineries, art galleries and more, there are endless possibilities for a perfect day in Healdsburg.

Sonoma County’s Strawberry Stands Carry a Surprising Story

May 2025

By Jennifer Graue

The Stony Point Strawberry stand in north Petaluma Wednesday, May 15, 2024. (John Burgess/The Press Democrat)

On a late May weekend, the lines routinely stretch several customers deep at farmer Lao Saetern’s strawberry stand, along a busy stretch of Highway 12 at the border of Santa Rosa and Sebastopol. It’s the same story 25 miles away at popular Watmaugh Strawberries, just outside the town of Sonoma, where Torn Saetern helps run the 10-acre farm his parents started in 2001.

Torn and Lao are cousins. Their families are from Laos, but they are ethnically Mien, a clan from China that moved into Southeast Asia a few centuries ago. During the Vietnam War, the CIA was engaged in a shadow war in Laos to stop the spread of communism. Thousands of Mien people who helped the U.S. effort were forced to flee with their families to refugee camps in Thailand or risk being killed.

During the 1970s and 1980s, many Mien people, including several members of the Saetern family, relocated to the Central Valley, where they learned to grow strawberries. Today, there are at least five strawberry stands in Sonoma County run by Mien families.

“We all learned the same method … A gentleman in Fresno taught one guy, and it spread from there,” explains Torn Saetern. “It’s why our buildings all look the same.”

Sonoma County’ strawberry stand — Torn Saetern loads up on flats of strawberries between rushes of customer at the strawberry stand on Watmaugh Road at Arnold Drive in Sonoma Wednesday, May 15, 2024. (John Burgess/The Press Democrat)

Muoang Saetern and her husband Ryan make the long drive from Visalia to run the sales from the Highway 12 strawberry stand near Sebastopol for their father Lao so he can spend the weekend caring for the equipment in the fields. (John Burgess/The Press Democrat)

Koy Saichow, who owns Stony Point Strawberry Farm in Petaluma, is also Mien but was born in Thailand. Her Petaluma stand is arguably the most charming of the local berry stands. A mint-chip ice-cream-colored building on a country road, it’s flanked by a cheery flower garden. According to Saichow, hers is the only certified organic operation out of the Mien-owned local stands. Her parents, who are still the backbone of the farm, started farming organically in 2008, keeping pests at bay through companion planting.

“Onions and garlic are companion plants for the strawberries. Growing it goes together. It helps with bugs, but it’s harder, a lot harder than other growers,” Saichow says.

Back at Lao’s, as fresh supplies dwindle, Lao calls to his wife Nai, who’s been out in the field, and, three minutes later, a truck skids to a stop outside. Nai hops out and begins offloading bucket after bucket into the back room to be sorted — 18 gallons in all.

“We don’t keep track of how many,” Saetern says, as he hurries back and forth taking customers’ orders, while gently dumping berries into plastic baskets. “We’re too busy to count.”

This story — which won second place in the Food Writing/Reporting category at the CNPA’s California Journalism Awards — was originally published in The Press Democrat. Read the full story here.

Food and Wine Is Expensive at BottleRock. Here’s How to Get the Best Bang for Your Buck

May 2025

By Carey Sweet

Sushi from Morimoto at BottleRock Napa Valley. (Courtesy of BottleRock Napa Valley)

I vividly remember the first-ever BottleRock Napa Valley, held in May 2013. A friend flew in all the way from New York to join me for what sounded like an exciting extravaganza — but after an hour of wandering through the dusty, bare dirt lot that was the Napa Valley Expo grounds, we left.

At that point, we had already spent a good amount of money on mediocre sandwiches from what looked like shipping container booths, along with warm, grocery-store-quality wine served in plastic cups. (I recall shelling out $20 for skimpy pours.)

That first BottleRock was nearly a Fyre Festival. Today, the music, culinary, wine and nightclub-style celebration feels more like posh Pebble Beach. I’ve gone every year since the inaugural event and it just keeps getting better — especially for general admission attendees, who don’t have access to the fancy Skydeck, Suites or Platinum Lounge, where top-shelf food and drinks are served to those willing to pay up to $8,995 for a three-day pass.

It’s still pricey for us everyday folks — one-day general admission tickets are $233 and parking isn’t cheap, either. Last year, food and wine prices remained firmly in the double digits — even a warm pretzel required an extra charge for cheese sauce.

Expect to pay around $16 for two average chicken tenders and a handful of fries, $13 for a mainstream Cabernet Sauvignon, $12 for a 12-ounce can of beer and $18 for a cucumber lemonade gin cocktail.

Best bets at BottleRock

So here’s my tip: before diving into the eats and drinks, take a stroll around the sprawling property. Scope out what really appeals to you and plan your budget carefully — there’s some excellent fare to be found amid the more state fair-style offerings.

Keep your eyes peeled for sure bets like Morimoto Asia, Chispa, Loveski Deli, Ristorante Allegria, Boon Fly Café, Sarmentine Artisan Boulanger, Gerard’s Paella and Compline.

There’s also Sumo Dog, which serves up head-scratching but delicious creations — like their signature Angus beef frank topped with wasabi relish, pickled peppers, spicy mayo, teriyaki sauce, furikake, minced onion and nori (they offer pork sausage or Beyond Meat dogs, too).

Don’t be shy about hovering near the picnic tables in the culinary gardens and asking guests how they liked their meal. Over the years, I’ve never had anyone be offended when I asked for advice — like whether last year’s birria grilled cheese from El Garage was worth the $20 price tag (a resounding “yes,” even at $20).

An improved wine lineup

On the wine side, the lineup has seriously improved, now reflecting the prestige of BottleRock’s location in one of the world’s finest wine regions.

This year’s festival will feature over 100 vintages and varietals, including premium brands like Duckhorn Vineyards Sauvignon Blanc at the main concession stands. Wine cabanas on the General Admission lawns will offer selections from Clif Family Winery, Schramsberg Vineyards, Beaulieu Vineyards, Venge Vineyards, Mumm Sparkling, Silverado Vineyards and Bennett Lane Winery.

Be sure to swing by the wine garden to check out new additions like Bella Union by Far Niente and Cliff Lede Vineyards — labels typically reserved for the Skydeck, Suites and Platinum Lounge.

Like nearly all large-scale Wine Country events, participation is expensive for vendors — it can cost thousands just to get on BottleRock’s approved list. So it’s understandable that many smaller, boutique restaurants and wineries have been priced out in the past.

But now, at least, our hard-earned money is delivering much better bang for the buck.

2025 BottleRock Napa Valley

Where: 575 Third St., Napa (at Napa Valley Expo)

When: May 23-25

Tickets: bottlerocknapavalley.com