Vintners David Drummond and Sam Bilbro of Overshine Wine Co. in Healdsburg. (Joshua Harding/Courtesy Overshine Wine Co.)
“It was serendipitous,” says Sam Bilbro of the first time he met David Drummond back in 2018. Drummond, the retired chief legal officer of Google and a former football wide receiver at Santa Clara University, had recently realized a lifelong dream by purchasing a 550-acre ranch in Sonoma. But there was a problem.
“It was 2019 and the grape glut had set in,” says Drummond. “I didn’t have any long-term contracts, so it was a very lean year for me.”
Bilbro, who specializes in Italian-style winemaking, convinced Drummond to take a leap into the Italian wines they both loved. They regrafted the entire vineyard over to 46 different types of Italian grapes, many of which are quite rare in California. Six years later, and the vines are thriving. Now, the two partners are diving headlong into a new venture called Overshine Wine Co., showcasing a trio of distinct brands.
In June, Drummond purchased Idlewild from Bilbro, who has stayed on as managing partner and winemaker. Drummond also bought Armida Winery, reimagining it as Overshine, a name inspired by the hip-hop band Onyx, and their newest label, Comunità, recently made its debut.
Vintners David Drummond and Sam Bilbro of Overshine Wine Co. in Healdsburg. (Joshua Harding/Courtesy Overshine Wine Co.)
If wine brands were musical bands
“Overshine might be Sly and the Family Stone, maybe updated with a hip-hop beat,” says Drummond, whose brother Ray Drummond is a well-known jazz drummer. “And Comunità would be more of a blend of what formed me musically, something like Robert Glasper, a jazz guy who leans heavily on soul and hip-hop.”
At the other end of the spectrum, “Idlewild would be the Clash,” says Bilbro.
Everybody under the tent
“The ethos of Overshine as a company is about openness, diversity and welcoming folks,” Drummond says. “Fine wine is sometimes exalted in a way that makes it seem not accessible to lots of people. So, we talk about doing that differently, using cultural signposts, whether it’s music, or the way we talk about wine, or the way we talk about our place, to make it clear that everybody is welcome…We’ll talk about how it feels to drink the wine, how it feels to be out there on the patio on a sunny day, listening to Grover Washington Jr.”
Introducing Overshine
“In reworking the tasting room, and fully remodeling the interior, we want it to be a spot where you want to come and spend your afternoon,” Bilbro says. “You’re not here for a transactional experience, standing at the bar, and then you get out of here. It’s more about: you come sit on the couch and lounge and enjoy your time and listen to some music, and have some great wines, and really enjoy that slice of the good life.”
Beet and Butter Bean Hummus garnished with pickled carrot, toasted pistachios and mint, served with grilled ciabatta from chef Barney McGrath’s Meatless Monday meals at Muir’s Tea Room. (photo by John Burgess/The Press Democrat)
Sonoma County is a foodie’s mecca. From farm-to-table fare to international cuisine to comfort classics, you can satisfy pretty much any craving here. But, until recently, you might have struggled to find vegan and vegetarian dishes that reached the level of the area’s carnivorous meals. That, along with our food preferences, is changing.
Meat and dairy alternatives have been steadily popping up on grocery store shelves and restaurant menus across the United States in the last few years following a shift in attitudes toward vegan foods. Local restaurants have taken note, adding more vegetarian and vegan options to their menus while some have gone fully plant-based.
Last year, Santa Rosa got its own meatless soul food and barbecue spot when celebrity-favorite Vegan Mob parked its lime-green food truck on West Third Street. Meanwhile, Santa Rosa’s popular plant-based restaurant Cozy Plum opened a second location in Sebastopol, in the former Slice of Life space. (The original Cozy Plum closed, and there have been no updates yet on a possible new Santa Rosa location.)
And while Sebastopol’s all-vegan Goatlandia Kitchen was short-lived — opening in August only for the restaurant to take a pause earlier this month — the animal-friendly establishment will start offering catering, special events and takeaway dinners.
As more local restaurants update their menus with vegans, vegetarians and the plant-based curious in mind, here are excellent restaurants to try on World Vegan Day (Nov. 1) or any day of the year. Click through the above gallery for a peek at some of our favorite dishes.
Clockwise from left: yebeg key we’t, yebeg tibs, miser we’t, and tikel gomen, from Abyssinia restaurant in Santa Rosa. (Christopher Chung/The Press Democrat)Cacao Avocado Pudding with cacao nibs from Kim Bourdet, creative director of Branch Line in Santa Rosa, on Thursday, Feb. 4, 2022. (John Burgess/The Press Democrat)
Santa Rosa
Abyssinia
This Ethiopian/Eritrean restaurant in Santa Rosa has a wide selection of plant-based offerings. The veggie combo is a generous sampler of all the vegetarian dishes on the menu — Shiro We’t (spiced Ethiopian hummus), Miser We’t (lentils stewed in Berbere sauce), Miser Alecha (lentil stew with garlic, ginger and turmeric), Tikel Gomen (cabbage, carrots and potatoes cooked with ginger), Yabesha Gomen (collard greens cooked in tomato, garlic and rosemary) and Yater Kik Alecha (split peas with garlic, ginger and green pepper), all served on injera (a spongy Ethiopian flat bread). The veggie sambusa is a great starter.
Kim Bourdet, owner of Santa Rosa’s organic cafe and caterer The Pharmacy, opened this plant-based eatery and mercantile in the former Flying Goat Coffee space in Old Railroad Square in early 2022, with meat alternatives, housemade nut milks and vegan cheeses.
Start your day with a seasonal latte, paired with fluffy focaccia, fresh muffins and other pastries. Or go for the bagels with avocado or vegan cream cheese. For lunch on the go, there are salads, sandwiches and grain bowls. Locally made goods to take home include syrups, jams, sauces and dry pasta.
The Thai Tofu Salad from East West Cafe in Santa Rosa. (Charlie Gesell/The Press Democrat)
East West Cafe
A Mediterranean staple for over 30 years, East West Cafe has a dedicated vegetarian section on its menu. The Mediterranean Platter is a fan favorite meatless sampler, with hummus, falafel, tabbouleh and baba ganoush.
The Macro Plate is a filling vegan dish, served with braised tofu or a veggie patty along with steamed vegetables, hummus, brown rice, oil-free black beans and blue corn tortillas. The Thai Tofu Salad is bright and colorful with marinated tofu on a bed of mixed greens and red cabbage, as well as onion, avocado, beets, carrots, toasted almonds, mandarin orange slices and housemade citrus dressing.
Last October, Bay Area-based cult favorite Vegan Mob opened a barbecue and soul food truck on West Third Street in Santa Rosa, at the new Culture Experience Center.
The Mob Meals are a great way to sample the various 100% vegan offerings, such as plant-based fried chicken, brisket, hot links or rib tips with classic Southern-inspired sides like collard greens, candied yams and “Smackaroni,” a creamy baked mac and cheese.
The fully loaded Mob fries are a crowd-pleaser. Crispy crinkle-cut fries are topped with a heap of smoked vegan brisket or barbecued links, all smothered in signature Mob Sauce, nacho cheese, guacamole and sour cream. And the Da’ Renz shrimp po’boy — with “like the real thing” fried vegan shrimp, coleslaw, vegan mayo and Cajun sauce in a French roll — gets the seal of approval from our dining editor.
The Vegan Mob food truck is open 11 a.m. to 8 p.m., Wednesday through Sunday.
An Amy’s cheeseburger and fries at Amy’s Drive Thru on Wednesday, June 29, 2016, in Rohnert Park. (Beth Schlanker/ The Press Democrat)
Amy’s Drive Thru
When Sonoma County’s nationally-renowned, plant-based Amy’s Kitchen opened its first drive-thru in Rohnert Park in 2015, it redefined what fast food could be. Amy’s Drive Thru specializes in guilt-free veggie burgers with its own secret sauce and vegan cheese.
But Amy’s offers more than your typical burger drive-thru. The fully-loaded vegetarian or vegan burritos are popular menu items. The Broccoli Cheddar Mac ’n’ Cheese (which can be made vegan) will please grown-ups and kids alike. And the Margherita pizza has a crunchy crust and is topped with fresh basil, diced tomatoes and dairy or vegan cheese — a delicious pie to share with friends or devour by yourself. Plus, non-dairy shakes and cinnamon rolls!
58 Golf Course Drive West, Rohnert Park, 707-755-3629, amysdrivethru.com
Cotati
Lady Blume Microbakery + Coffee
Opened earlier this past spring, Lady Blume bakery is entirely gluten- and dairy-free. Plant-based pastries include walnut banana bread, chocolate pound cake, cinnamon rolls (weekends only), cornmeal berry muffins and walnut chocolate chip cookies. Keep an eye on the rotating flavors of dairy-free doughnuts.
The humble cafe at Foundry Wharf offers an assortment of vegan-alternative dishes. Start the day with a Veganrito, a breakfast burrito filled with rice, potato, avocado, cilantro, black beans, red peppers and vegan mozzarella. For lunch or dinner, you can’t go wrong with one of the vegan/vegetarian wraps, paninis and sandwiches. The Veggie Friday panini is stacked with roasted asparagus, eggplant, sweet peppers, portobello mushrooms, goat cheese (or vegan alternative) and sundried tomato spread. There’s also a tempeh reuben, garden burgers, vegetarian lasagna and a tempeh teriyaki bowl with rice and veggies.
The Mediterranean-California fusion menu at Luma features creative plant-based dishes, like a mezza board, sweet tahini salad and hand-cut fries with harissa aioli. Larger standout vegan dishes include a quinoa and chickpea veggie burger, a creamy pesto gnocchi, and a Margherita flatbread pizza with an option of cashew cheese.
For dessert, try the olive oil cake with lemon curd or the coconut milk-based rose panna cotta. The drink menu includes local ales and wines, innovative cocktails and low- or no-alcoholic drinks. The vibrant Lumanade is made with lemon, butterfly pea tisane and FloraLuna Apothecary wildflower syrup.
50 E. Washington St., Petaluma, 707-772-5037, lumaeatery.com
Gnocchi with roasted suchlike and mushrooms with a housemade Pickle Plate from Luma Bar and Eatery in Petaluma. (John Burgess/The Press Democrat)Some of the many locally-sourced dishes at Lunchette in Petaluma. (Houston Porter / Petaluma Argus-Courier)
Lunchette
Lunchette specializes in nourishing, flavor-packed salads and grain bowls for a satisfying lunch to go, and also offers soup and pizza by the slice. Seasonal specials include a silky, green vegetable soup and an early fall heirloom bean salad.
For a warm vegan meal with heaps of flavor, try the tahini grain bowl. A base of organic brown rice is topped with spinach, cucumber, spiced chickpeas, pickled cauliflower, pickled rainbow carrots, roasted sweet potato, date molasses, zaatar seasoning and a generous drizzle of rich tahini dressing.
Sweet plant-based treats include moist chocolate brownies, tahini miso cookies and a seasonal golden mylk chia pudding, made with coconut milk and yogurt, orange juice, honey, fall spices and topped with poached berries.
This cozy, European-style bistro inside the historic Great Petaluma Mill serves Cal-American cuisine and wood-fired pizzas, with plenty of vegan and gluten-free options on its menu.
The vegan Quinoa Sweet Potato Cakes are a mock-crab cake favorite. They come topped with Brussels sprouts slaw and lemon tahini and served with roasted red pepper and creamy cashew sauces. The Shepherd’s Pie is also vegan, with roasted Italian fennel pollen sausage to accompany the traditional English peas, carrots and mushrooms and the dreamy mashed potato whip.
Pizza fans should opt for The Pearl, topped with vegan mozzarella, basil, pepperoncini, beech mushrooms, caramelized pearl onions and savory fennel pollen sausage.
The Helen Putnam is one of The Local’s most popular sandwiches. (Crissy Pascual/Petaluma Argus-Courier)
The Local
This sandwich shop, in the Active Wellness Center, can be hard to find, but it’s absolutely worth seeking out. Opened to the public in October of 2022, The Local offers a modest assortment of locally sourced, and expertly crafted, sandwiches. The colorful, vegan Helen Putnam includes artichoke hearts, carrots, avocado, pickles, red onion, pickled ginger, roasted beet hummus and mustard greens. The griddled Forestville sandwich is stacked with portobello mushroom, artichoke heart, red pepper, Danish havarti, avocado, house pesto and chili lime aioli.
This Vietnamese restaurant’s vegan menu offers a variety of seasonal plates that even devout meat-eaters can get behind. If you’re seeking a classic vegetarian pho, look no further than the spicy vegan lemongrass noodle soup, with mixed veggies, rice noodles and soft, fried tofu in a spicy lemongrass broth.
The vegan spring rolls are a refreshing starter, made with tofu, lettuce, beansprouts, vermicelli noodles and mint wrapped in rice paper and served with peanut sauce. Curry tofu with mixed veggies is a spicy winner. The simmer-fried eggplant and green beans with Thai basil in vegan oyster sauce brims with garlicky, umami flavor.
140 Second St., Suite 120, Petaluma, 707-762-6888
Healdsburg
Plant-based dishes from Little Saint in Healdsburg. (Emma K Creative/Courtesy Little Saint)
Little Saint
Healdsburg’s upscale, farm-to-table Little Saint offers creative vegan takes on favorite dishes, like the grilled cheese with a miso chili crunch. For brunch, try the lion’s mane quiche or breakfast tacos with scrambled tofu and serrano cashew crema.
Dinners at Little Saint are meant to be shared. Start with an eggplant and caramelized onion flatbread and trio of dips (carrot, beet and cashew). The shepherd’s pie gets a plant-based spin with tofu, truffle and rutabaga. For dessert, go for the chocolate mousse or from-the-farm strawberry cheesecake.
For the best vegetarian breakfast and lunch in north county, Plank Coffee has you covered with plant-based sandwiches and milk alternatives (oat, soy, almond or coconut) for your mochas and seasonal lattes.
Try a breakfast sandwich on a croissant, housemade biscuit or bagel with egg, cheese (dairy or vegan) and smoky tempeh “bacon” or a Beyond Meat “sausage” patty. The mushroom sandwich is an umami bundle of braised greens, melted provolone (or vegan alternative) and cremini mushrooms sautéed in garlic, onion, tamari, thyme and Bragg’s liquid aminos, all on a toasted Village Bakery roll.
Don’t forget to leave with a morning pastry, like the vegan apricot pecan bran muffin or the moist vegan orange cake with a zesty orange glaze.
175 Dry Creek Road, Healdsburg, 707-395-0572, and 227 N. Cloverdale Blvd., Cloverdale, 707-894-6187, plankcoffee.com
Green tea mochi at Taste of Tea in Healdsburg. (Heather Irwin/Sonoma Magazine)
The Taste of Tea
This family-owned tea room serves Japanese tea and comfort food, including some of the most satisfying vegetarian dishes in Healdsburg. The Miso Ramen, ideal for chilly autumn days, is a signature dish. The vegan version offers depths of flavor and varied textures from the light miso kombu broth, soft tofu, chewy noodles, bamboo shoots, green onions and sprouts.
Not in the mood for noodle soups? Try the shoyu tofu skewers or hijiki don rice bowl — white rice topped with hijiki (a wild seaweed) salad and half a shoyu marinated egg. Matcha ice cream and the dairy-free tapioca pudding are refreshing desserts. Pair your meal with a selection from the over 80 teas served here, excellently prepared by the accommodating tea docents.
From burgers and burritos to loaded nachos and mac and cheese, there’s something for everyone here, including die-hard meat-eaters. Try the Pesto Tenderloin sandwich, with soy/gluten-based “white meat,” housemade pesto and veggies on a soft herb focaccia. The Philly Cheesesteak is a delicious plant-based version of the East Coast classic, made with gluten-based steak strips, bell peppers, onions and a smoky cheddar sauce on fresh baked sourdough.
Don’t miss the plant-based burger, featuring a “chef’s blend protein patty” (soy, pea and rice) with cozy sauce, pickle, tomato, onion and lettuce on a fresh-baked sourdough bun. It is one of the best burgers in Sonoma County.
Vegan Frittata with a Cozy Plum Salad with strawberries and blueberries from Cozy Plum in Sebastopol. (John Burgess/The Press Democrat)Beet and Butter Bean Hummus garnished with pickled carrot, toasted pistachios and mint, served with grilled ciabatta from chef Barney McGrath’s Meatless Monday meals at Muir’s Tea Room. (John Burgess/The Press Democrat)
Muir’s Tea Room
This English/Scottish tea house probably has the largest assortment of vegan baked goods in the county, along with fully plant-based plates on its tea service menus.
The seasonal and year-round pies, tarts, cakes, cookies, muffins, scones, brownies and cupcakes are all vegan. Yes, even the mocha chocolate cake and apple spice cupcakes with “cream cheese” frosting. Savory plant-based goods are available, too, such as finger sandwiches, mushroom tarts, “sausage” rolls and seasonal savory pasties.
Casual, rustic dining meets gourmet plant-based/vegetarian cuisine at Sebastopol’s completely meat-free La Bodega Kitchen.
The Saffron & Rose Petal Arancini is a standout appetizer — three fried Carnaroli rice balls made with Miyoko’s mozzarella and Forager Project parmesan, resting in La Bodega marinara. Meat won’t be missed after trying the Lasagna “Bolognese,” made with Beyond Meat spicy Italian sausage, Impossible Foods beef, mushroom ragu, sofrito, house marinara, Vella jack cheese and Bellwether Farms carmody. The vegetable root shepherd’s pie is a fabulous and filling plant-based entree.
Don’t skip the sweet treats here. The dessert menu boasts some “I can’t believe it’s vegan” dishes like lava cake ala mode, cherry clafoutis and quince compote tart.
The Umami Bomb from the Fern Bar includes mushrooms, shiitake cream, broccoli, sticky rice, balsamic and nutritional yeast. (John Burgess/The Press Democrat)
Fern Bar
Sebastopol’s chic Fern Bar has an assortment of vegan and vegetarian dishes on its menu, as well as gluten-free or celiac-safe options. A great dish to share is the falafel plate, a handful of dukkah-seasoned falafel patties served with cucumber and tahina.
The tangled-looking Umami Bomb (vegan and celiac safe) is bursting with flavor. A bed of crispy rice is topped with broccoli, mushrooms, shiitake ‘cream,’ balsamic and nutritional yeast. Finish your meal with the warm, vegetarian-friendly churros, coated in cinnamon sugar and served with apple butter.
6780 Depot St., Suite 120, Sebastopol, 707-861-9603, fernbar.com
Soft Medicine Sanctuary
Opened in September of 2023, Soft Medicine Sanctuary is a combined farm-to-table cafe, tea lounge, yoga studio, art gallery and event space — all wrapped up into one inclusive community hub that focuses on wellness and connection.
The menu has plenty of nourishing, plant-based dishes, including the “always vegan friendly” soup of the day, the Nori Wrap filled with quinoa, veggies, kimchi and vegan spicy mayo, and the Ayurvedic Grain Bowl — a mix of local rice, greens, mung beans, seasonal veggies, kraut, pesto and Ayurvedic spices to aid digestion and metabolism. Desserts include vegan cheesecakes and ice cream. Tea and coffee drinks can be served with oat, coconut or housemade almond milk.
Avocado toast at Sunflower Caffe in Sonoma. (Sunflower Caffe)
Sunflower Caffe
Over half the menu at Sunflower Caffé is vegetarian-friendly, with meat-free brunch classics such as breakfast burritos and avocado toast — one of the best in the county. The avocado toast includes shaved Brussels sprouts, toasted hazelnuts, sunflower spread and black truffle pecorino on multigrain bread.
For a naturally sweet start to the day, try the coconut chia seed pudding topped with granola, raspberries and passionfruit sauce. The roasted squash wrap is packed with squash, quinoa, arugula, kale, goat cheese, candied pecans and spiced-orange vinaigrette. The tofu banh mi has a mushroom pate and sriracha “aioli” for a vegan spin on the classic Vietnamese sandwich.
Formerly known as Valley Bar + Bottle, this Sonoma restaurant offers seasonal California fare, with a healthy selection of plant-based dishes. For weekend brunch, try the bagel platter or fresh melon with mint and pickled chiles. The Valley breakfast includes flatbread, feta, tomatoes, zucchini dip, soft cooked egg and pickled red onion.
Lunch includes a Hippie Salad with tahini vinaigrette, fried green tomato sandwich, and sesame noodles with tofu and tomatoes. For dinner, try the Romano beans with tomato confit or the crispy rice with ginger-scallion sauce.
Flash-fried Brussels sprouts at Boon Eat + Drink in Guerneville. (Courtesy of Boon Eat + Drink)
Boon Eat + Drink
Featured in several local and national publications, chef Crista Luedtke’s Boon Eat + Drink is a Russian River gem. One of the modern bistro’s most popular dishes is the vegetarian and exceptionally flavorful Polenta Lasagna. The creamy polenta is balanced with sautéed vegetables, ricotta and spicy marinara sauce atop a bed of tender rainbow chard. All of the starters and shared plates are vegetarian and simple-but-delicious, including the pillowy clouds of burrata topped with pesto and fresh heirloom tomatoes, and the tri-colored beet salad with goat cheese and a citrus vinaigrette.
16248 Main St., Guerneville, 707-869-0780, eatatboon.com
Green Grill
The Rancho Cordova-based vegetarian restaurant opened a location in Guerneville last year, in the former Subway location on Main Street. Fast favorites include the Mushroom Chana Burger, made with a sprouted chickpea patty and garlic herb sauce, and the Tikka Masala Bowl — veggie meatballs smothered in tikka masala sauce over basmati rice and served with a side salad. Seasoned fries and cauliflower tempura with chipotle sauce are essential appetizers. The raw Raspberry Chocolate Cheesecake is as delicious as it is guilt-free.
Bartender Ashleigh Grace prepares the cocktails at Easy Rider in Petaluma on Tuesday, March 1, 2022. (John Burgess/The Press Democrat)
Yes, we live in Wine Country, but sometimes you just want a cocktail. If you’re not sure where to go when you’re craving something boozy, Petaluma’s got you covered.
Lorraine Barber, co-owner of Barber Lee Spirits, is organizing the first ever Petaluma Craft Cocktail Week, taking place Nov. 8 – 17. Ten local businesses will join in on the fun and mix up their take on a classic cocktail.
“The craft cocktail scene in town has really evolved over the last few years and there are so many great places that are doing cool things,” said Barber. “I really wanted to shine a spotlight on everyone, for both locals and visitors to explore all the great spots we have in town.”
The weeklong event will focus on the Whiskey Sour cocktail. Expect everything from traditional recipes to innovative twists.
Barber Lee Spirits’ take on the Whiskey Sour. Lorraine Barber, co-owner of Barber Lee Spirits, has organized Petaluma’s first Craft Cocktail Week. The event will focus on the Whiskey Sour cocktail, with 10 businesses participating. (Courtesy of Barber Lee Spirits)
“[The Whiskey Sour] has such a rich and luxurious texture and you can really take it in so many directions that it seemed like a great cocktail to start cocktail week off with,” Barber said.
“Petaluma has long been a hidden gem for culinary enthusiasts, and I am excited that we are elevating our town’s reputation with a focus on craft cocktails,” said Jazmine Lalicker, owner of Luma Bar & Eatery and Shuckery.
A Pumpkin Spice Whiskey Sour from Luma Bar & Eatery in Petaluma. (Courtesy Luma Bar & Eatery)
Drink prices will vary from one location to the next. Cocktail enthusiasts committed to being thorough can pick up a stamp card at any of the participating locations. Anyone who makes it to all 10 participating businesses by the end of the week will have a commemorative sticker waiting for them at Barber Lee Spirits.
“I’ve been wanting to do a collaborative project for a while with the other spots in town,” said Barber. “This, I hope, will help introduce people to some places that they weren’t familiar with previously and showcase some of the cool craft cocktail work that everyone is doing that might be under the radar right now.”
The idea is to hold more craft cocktail weeks in the future. Depending on how November shakes out, a Christmas craft cocktail week is a possibility.
“We’re really just at the beginning of this idea, and I know that it will evolve with time,” said Barber.
Since all of the participating businesses are in downtown Petaluma, it’s easy to walk from one location to another. Rideshares, LumaGo (Petaluma’s free, on-demand rideshare service) and designated drivers are all highly encouraged. Check out @petaluma_cocktail_society on Instagram for the latest updates.
Sushi Kosho restaurant chef/owner Jake Rand has announced that his second Barlow restaurant, Oyster, will simplify its menu and be renamed Oyster Bar at Kosho.
The Parisian-style bistro, located across the street from the sushi restaurant, will continue to offer raw oysters, ceviche, tuna carpaccio, salads, baked oysters and octopus à la plancha as well as Champagne. Larger seafood entrées, including burgers, fish sandwiches, fish and chips and po’boys, will no longer be offered. The Sushi Kosho (6750 McKinley St.) menu will remain unchanged.
Spanish Octopus a-la-plancha with Shitake dressing, crispy fingerlings and black garlic aioli at Oyster in The Barlow, Monday, Nov. 7, 2022, in Sebastopol. (Darryl Bush / for The Press Democrat)
Meanwhile, the much-anticipated Cock Robin, a fast-casual burger and milkshake restaurant replacing Seismic Brewing at the 12-acre outdoor marketplace, is slated for a possible November opening.
Chef Jared Rogers of Petaluma’s Easy Rider is working with Barlow owner Barney Aldridge on the menu. It will include burgers, sandwiches, plant-based dishes and old-school classics with a modern spin.
Fundraiser for J & M’s Midtown Café
Louisiana Hash with onions, bell peppers, bacon, potatoes, cheddar, eggs, mushrooms and spicy seasoning from J & M’s Midtown Cafe, Jan. 18, 2024, in Santa Rosa. (John Burgess / The Press Democrat)
The need for extra staff after emergency surgery and a long road to recovery for J & M Midtown Café chef/owner Joel Shaw has created serious financial hardships for one of Santa Rosa’s favorite breakfast and brunch spots.
In order to keep the restaurant afloat, Shaw and his wife have created a $6,000 fundraising goal to bridge the temporary gap in finances. If you’re interested in helping, go to pdne.ws/3NH9UVp or stop by the café for a Benedict. 1422 Fourth St., Santa Rosa, 707-545-2233, jm-midtowncafe.com.
Fish and butter beans at Monti’s in the renovated Montgomery Village space in Santa Rosa. (Courtesy of Monti’s)
By now, word has spread that Monti’s restaurant in Montgomery Village has reopened after a summer remodel and menu update. Gone is the rotisserie; many dishes have been reimagined or sent to the great menu in the sky. But change is good, and many new Mediterranean-inspired dishes are excellent.
Starters like Spreads & Bread ($19) are a dipper’s delight with creamy hummus, whipped beet feta, sweet and spicy eggplant and warm, zaatar-seasoned flatbread. Terri’s Favorite Little Neck Clams ($18) has been one of the most talked about dishes, infused with garlic butter and charred lemon. Spring for the Smoked Lamb Ribs ($18) with sticky pomegranate barbecue sauce that’s finger-licking good.
Regulars will recognize the Monti’s Cristo ($18) and Lamb Burger ($19). There’s also a new take on the roasted salmon, now served with lemon couscous and pomegranate vinaigrette ($32).
Breads & Spreads at Monti’s in the renovated Montgomery Village space in Santa Rosa. (Courtesy of Monti’s)Butter Beans at Monti’s restaurant in Montgomery Village. The beans are soft-as-silk and infused with garlic, tomato and herbs, as well as a crispy garlic crust on top. (Heather Irwin/The Press Democrat)
Though the Braised Butter Beans ($12) are quietly listed as a side, the soft-as-silk white beans are infused with plenty of garlic, tomato and herbs with a crispy garlic crust on top. Plan to fight with your tablemates over these.
A broader selection of made-to-order pizzas is a great addition, and you can see the dough being stretched (as well as all the kitchen action) through a new peek-a-boo window in the dining room. It’s entertainment for the whole family or a conversation starter on awkward dates. I loved the sweet-savory combination of Black Mission fig, ham and Cambozola cheese ($24). Housemade pasta is another terrific menu addition. We were especially taken with Short Rib Agnolotti with a kick of fresh horseradish ($28).
Save room for (or just go for dessert first) the Warm Bourbon Toffee Date Cake ($14). A former pastry chef friend at the table said it was one of the best desserts she’d had, infused with cozy autumn spices, sticky toffee, sweet dates and creamy gelato melting into the whole mess.
Warm Bourbon Toffee Date Cake at Monti’s restaurant in Montgomery Village. (Heather Irwin/The Press Democrat)The newly renovated dining room at Monti’s Restaurant in Montgomery Village. The space, according to co-owner Terri Stark, is lighter and more modern with Mediterranean blue and rattan accents. (Courtesy of Monti’s)
Well-made (and not stingy on the booze) cocktails are a Stark restaurant staple, and Monti’s has added a few newcomers. Greece Is The Word ($14) isn’t for everyone, but if you like Ouzo, the anise-flavored Greek libation known to take down the strongest of tipplers, you’ll be on board. The tongue-tingling liqueur is cut with lemon, honey and mint — intense flavors that temper the Ouzo.
Removing the dark shutters has brightened the interior, vibing with the rattan lighting and Turkish tiles that bring the restaurant a sunny, Mediterranean atmosphere.
Change has brought a new cohesion to the 20-year-old Santa Rosa restaurant, offering more focus and interest to the Mediterranean-inspired menu. I’ll be back.
Monti’s menu also features many gluten-free and plant-based options. Reservations are highly recommended. Open 11:30 a.m. to 9 p.m. daily for indoor and outdoor seating.
714 Village Court, Santa Rosa, 707-568-4404, montismv.com
Julie Rothberg, president of Medlock Ames Winery, with a glass of the 2019 The Flag Cabernet Sauvignon, sold as a three-bottle set complete with a custom collector’s box, at the tasting room in Healdsburg on Wednesday, Dec. 14, 2022. (Beth Schlanker/The Press Democrat)
Julie Rothberg launched Odyssey Wine Academy at Healdsburg’s Bacchus Landing in 2021 to provide classes with the Wine & Spirit Education Trust, or WSET, an internationally recognized certification pursued by many industry professionals. As president of Medlock Ames winery, Rothberg knows that the formal study of wine makes good business sense — not only for those who work in tasting rooms and other hospitality roles, but also for those who work in the vineyard.
Medlock Ames co-founder Ames Morison agrees. “Our vineyard team has such incredible site knowledge. They understand every idiosyncrasy of the vineyard and how that influences the fruit,” Morison said. “But they didn’t have a lot of knowledge about wine itself. I wanted to help them understand how their hard work was contributing to the final wine through the WSET’s universally recognized training.”
But finding a local WSET teacher fluent in Spanish was difficult. So Morison, who is fluent in Spanish, decided to become a WSET-certified instructor. And in August 2023, Morison taught his first course to a group of Medlock Ames vineyard employees.
Ames Morison, co-founder of Medlock Ames winery. Morison is the first to teach a wine education course in Spanish at the Odyssey Wine Academy in Healdsburg. In addition to the customized course, Julie Rothberg and Morison want to continue the WSET Level 1 class in Spanish. (Beth Schlanker / The Press Democrat)Julie Rothberg, president of Medlock Ames Winery, at the tasting room in Healdsburg on Wednesday, Dec. 14, 2022. She launched Odyssey Wine Academy at Healdsburg’s Bacchus Landing in 2021 and the first classes began in 2022. (Beth Schlanker/The Press Democrat)
Agustin Santiago is a vineyard manager who has worked at Medlock Ames for 24 years. He was one of the first to complete the six-hour program.
“The class helped me learn how to taste wine and understand the flavors,” said Santiago. “It also helped me understand the aromas in the wine and what techniques I can use in the vineyard to improve those aromas. It will help me in my career because it improved my understanding of wine and opened my mind to new opportunities.”
The class experience was enlightening, but there were also some obstacles.
“One of the challenges I didn’t anticipate is that many of the students had never taken a formal exam,” said Rothberg.
With WSET’s standardized curriculum and mandatory 30-question exam, there was little Rothberg could do to modify the course for nontraditional learners.
Julie Rothberg, president of Medlock Ames winery, during a wine education class at the Odyssey Wine Academy. The classes are held at Bacchus Landing in Healdsburg. (Erik Castro/for The Press Democrat)
Rothberg and Morison are now partnering with Sonoma County Winegrowers to develop a new, customized course targeted specifically to local vineyard workers, with Morison as the instructor. They hope to launch the partner program within the next year.
“These classes will be really geared toward native Spanish-speakers who live in the community and may or may not work in wine,” said Rothberg. “For those who do work in wine, these classes can help them communicate with other Spanish speakers who may understand things better in their native tongue. We talk a lot about diversity and inclusion in the wine industry, but there are few resources for Spanish speakers.”
In addition to the customized course, Rothberg and Morison would like to continue to offer the WSET Level 1 class in Spanish as an option for those interested in formal certification. For Francisco López, co-owner of Bacchus Landing and Aldina Vineyards in Healdsburg, these options fill a critical niche in the community.
“It’s important we create these types of programs to educate people who have been historically overlooked — especially in our community where many Spanish speakers work behind the scenes in the wine industry,” said López. “Hopefully, these classes can help foster a more equitable and inclusive environment where people of all backgrounds can thrive.”
Rothberg is looking forward to this next chapter. “I do this because I feel strongly about wine education and creating access for our community,” said Rothberg. “The more people know about wine, the better. It’s really a labor of love.”
View from above. (SeaTimber Media / Sotheby’s International Realty)
A modern estate on the Sonoma property once belonging to Adolph and Alma Spreckels, of the Spreckels family sugar dynasty, is currently listed for sale. For $11.5 million, on offer is a 7,000-square-foot dwelling on 2.26 acres rich with vegetation and luxury amenities.
The property on Sobre Vista Drive has a history of welcoming celebrities during the early 1900s. According to The Press Democrat, Alma Spreckels hosted such guests as Charlie Chaplin, Mary Pickford, John Barrymore and boxing champion Gene Tunney at their illustrious estate.
A modern estate on a parcel of the Sonoma property once belonging to the Spreckels family is currently listed for $11.5 million. (Sea Timber Media / Sotheby’s International Realty)
The airy and modern home was built in 1968 and renovated in 2019. Notable elements include seven ensuite bedrooms, a billiards room, a gym and four vintage brick fireplaces (some with interesting inlays to hang artwork).
The illuminated grounds, designed by Penney Magrane, include manicured elements, raised garden beds, a saltwater pool, tennis court and outdoor kitchen. A partially enclosed spa with copper soaking tubs sits off in the yard among wildflowers.
For more information on this estate at 1245 Sobre Vista Drive in Sonoma, contact listing agent Tina Shone, 707-799-7556, 707-933-1515, Sotheby’s International Realty – Wine Country – Sonoma Brokerage, sothebysrealty.com
This tiny home in Guerneville with its own enclosed yard is currently listed for $124,900. (In D Sky Homes)
Tiny home seekers may find a buying opportunity just outside of downtown Guerneville. A one-bedroom, one-bathroom tiny home with a private yard and its own “fairy ring” of redwood trees is currently listed for $124,900.
The mobile home, built in 2021, keeps to just 226 square feet but boasts a separate bedroom from the main living area as well as solid pine interior logs, roof and flooring. Plus, the home is located near the Russian River, prized for its beauty and seclusion.
Great room in the Russian River tiny home in Guerneville. (The Woodland Stylists)
Prolific home designers Woodland Stylists staged the home to its sparkling potential, showing there’s nothing little about tiny home style. A vaulted ceiling and lots of windows lend an airiness. A built-in closet and efficient layout maximize the space. A covered porch adds “curb appeal” and a spot for protected lounging among the trees.
According to listing agent Carlos Cabarcos, the Redwood Grove community is transitioning to a tiny home community.
Outside tasting area at Cuvaison Winery in Napa. (Courtesy of Cuvaison Winery)
Cuvaison has a long history in Los Carneros, predating the appellation itself. But that doesn’t mean the winery is stuck in the past. After more than 50 years in business, the Napa Valley winery keeps finding new ways to wow visitors.
The story
Stop me if you’ve heard this one before: A couple of Silicon Valley tech guys visit Napa Valley and decide to open a winery. That’s just what happened in 1969, when wine-smitten engineers Thomas Parkhill and Thomas Cottrell founded Cuvaison on a hillside property near Calistoga. The two Thomases sold the winery five years later to New York publisher Oakleigh Thorne, who then passed the baton to — are you ready for the twist? — a fourth-generation family of vintners based in Switzerland.
The Schmidheiny family recognized good vineyard land when they saw it. Soon after buying Cuvaison in 1979, they acquired 400 acres in Los Carneros as the focus for their new Chardonnay and Pinot Noir program. In 2009, the family built a modern winery and tasting room at the site.
Architect Douglas Thornley designed Cuvaison’s light-filled tasting room as an antidote to the dark, cellar-like wineries of the early 2000s. (Courtesy of Cuvaison Winery)Sip wine overlooking the water at the new, open-air boathouse pavilions at Cuvaison Winery in Napa. Cuvaison has just two boathouses, so reservation times fill up quickly. (Courtesy of Cuvaison Winery)
The vibe
Architect Douglas Thornley designed Cuvaison’s light-filled tasting room as an antidote to the dark, cellar-like atmosphere found at many wineries in the early 2000s. Outfitted with wall-size sliding glass doors that blur the lines between indoor and outdoor spaces, the contemporary venue presents panoramic views of the surrounding vineyards and hillsides. Cuvaison recently expanded its terrace tasting area and created two “boathouse” pavilions that extend out over a picturesque irrigation reservoir.
On the palate
Estate Pinot Noir and Chardonnay are the focus here, but it’s also fun to explore Bordeaux-style wines from Cuvaison’s Brandlin Estate on Mount Veeder. I’m sometimes wary of barrel-aged Sauvignon Blanc, but the wines can be truly gorgeous when the oak isn’t allowed to eclipse the fruit. The 2022 Brandlin Sauvignon Blanc ($50) is a prime example. Oak aging adds body to the wine, yet it retains fresh notes of lime, grapefruit and green apple.
If you’re over big, oaky Chardonnays, you’ll dig the 2022 Cuvaison Méthode Béton Chardonnay ($70). It’s made in an egg-shaped concrete fermenter that adds texture to the wine while bringing out its mineral notes. (Translation: yum!) Be sure to try the bright and silky 2022 Cuvaison 90.1 Pinot Noir ($80), made from a single clone planted on the Carneros estate. Standard tastings range from $60 for the Estate Tasting to $85 for the Winemaker’s Tasting, which includes artisan cheese pairings.
Outside tasting area at Cuvaison Winery in Napa. (Courtesy of Cuvaison Winery)Sip wine by the water at the new, open-air boathouse pavilions at Cuvaison Winery in Napa. Cuvaison has just two boathouses, so reservation times fill up quickly. (Courtesy of Cuvaison Winery)
Beyond the bottles
As stunning as the tasting room views are, it’s hard to beat the serenity of the new Boathouse Tasting Experience ($150 per person). The private tasting for two to six guests includes a visit to the winemaking facility and barrel cellar, followed by a golf cart tour of the vineyards with views of San Pablo Bay.
Next, it’s on to the boathouses to sample small- and micro-lot wines expertly paired with gourmet bites like fried olives and duck tostadas. Cantilevered over a scenic irrigation pond teeming with ducks, cranes, herons and even the occasional freshwater otter, the open-sided redwood and steel structures let you imagine you’re relaxing on your own private dock with lively bird chatter as a soundtrack. Cuvaison has just two boathouses, so reservation times fill up quickly. This experience runs year round, weather permitting.
Cuvaison, 1221 Duhig Road, Napa. Open daily by appointment. cuvaison.com
Tina Caputo is a wine, food, and travel writer whose work has appeared in numerous publications, including SevenFifty Daily, Visit California, HuffPost, and Sonoma magazine. Follow Tina on Twitter @winebroad, view her website at tinacaputo.com, and email her story ideas at tina@caputocontent.com.
Dancers perform in front of a crowd during the Dia de los Muertos celebration at the Healdsburg Plaza on Sunday, October 29, 2017, in Healdsburg. (BETH SCHLANKER/The Press Democrat)
Día de los Muertos, also known as the Day of the Dead, is an ancient Mexican holiday to honor deceased loved ones and celebrate life with family and friends. Traditionally observed on Nov. 1 and 2, the holiday often involves celebrating with food and drinks and creating ofrendas, or altars, to remember the dead.
Read on below to find out where to celebrate the holiday in Sonoma and Napa counties.
Saturday, Oct. 26
Halloween Carnival: The Rohnert Park Community Services Department is hosting it’s fourth annual Halloween Carnival with a Día de los Muertos celebration at the Rohnert Park Community Center. There will be games for all ages, a haunted maze, magic show, live animals and more. A community altar will be on display and attendees are invited to add photos and mementos. The altar will be displayed again from 8 a.m. to 7 p.m., Oct. 28 to Nov. 1, at the Rohnert Park Community Center. Free. Noon – 5 p.m. 5401 Snyder Lane, Rohnert Park. rpcity.org
Zinnias and Mexican artwork create a colorful display in the window at Frontburner Open Studio for a Day of the Dead celebration in Windsor, Oct. 9, 2011. (Beth Schlanker / The Press Democrat)
Marigolds and Muertos:The role of the Marigold in the traditions of Mexico: Join Windsor Garden Club at the Town Green Community Garden in Windsor to learn about marigolds (maravillas or caléndulas) and the role they play in Latin American communities. Malinalli López, president of the Windsor Unified School District, will give a short talk on the flower and it’s meaning in Mexican culture and history at 11 a.m. Marigolds are for sale during the event. The garden is located at the corner of Windsor Road and Joe Rodota Drive in the Windsor Town Hall complex. 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. Free. windsorgardenclub.org
Sunday, Oct. 27
Healdsburg 2024 Día de Muertos celebration: Corazón Healdsburg and the City of Healdsburg are putting on this year’s Día de Muertos celebration at the Healdsburg Plaza. The plaza’s gazebo will be decorated with sugar skulls, papel picado and marigolds. There will also be live music, a classic car show with trunk-or-treat displays, an alter honoring loved ones and more. Food and beverages will be available for purchase. Free. Noon – 7 p.m. Healdsburg Plaza at Healdsburg Avenue and Matheson Street.corazonhealdsburg.org
An ofrenda, an altar honoring the dead, during the Día de Muertos at the Plaza in Healdsburg, on Sunday, Oct. 30, 2022. (Beth Schlanker/The Press Democrat)
Friday, Nov. 1
Celebrate Día de los Muertos with La Luz Center: Honor the holiday by painting catrines and catrinas, drinking hot chocolate, eating pan de muerto, dressing up and enjoying live performances from Mariachi San Francisco and Grupo Folklórico Quetzalén. There will be a community altar and a pet altar where people can add items. Photos for the altar can be dropped off at La Luz Center from 9 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. Oct. 28-30. Free. 5-9 p.m. 17560 Greger St., Sonoma. laluzcenter.org
Día de los Muertos Celebración: Join Art Escape Sonoma for an evening honoring loved ones. There will be sugar skull decorating, face painting, traditional Mexican food and drink and a Quetzalén dance performance. Free. 5-8 p.m. 17474 Sonoma Highway, Sonoma. happeningsonomacounty.com
Día de los Muertos in Cloverdale: Celebrate with altars, artisan vendors, traditional music and food at the Cloverdale Citrus Fair. Free. 5:30-10 p.m. 1 Citrus Fair Drive, Cloverdale. happeningsonomacounty.com
Miriam Rivera, 30, attends Windsor’s Día de los Muertos event, Saturday, Oct. 30, 2021. (Kent Porter / The Press Democrat) 2021
Saturday, Nov. 2
Día de los Muertos Winemaker Dinner: Celebrate Día de los Muertos with an authentic Oaxacan mole dinner paired with Surcos wines in a Sonoma vineyard. Join Surcos winemaker Luis Gallegos for this first-ever event featuring Violetta Espinoza’s mole made with more than 36 ingredients and served with chicken, rice, nopales salad and handmade tortillas. A traditional dessert of dulce calabaza, or caramelized pumpkin, will follow. Guests can dress up if they want and are invited to bring photos of loved ones to display on the ofrenda, or altar. Tickets are $60. 6-9 p.m. 2000 Denmark St. (Block 19), Sonoma. eventbrite.com
Día de los Muertos at Sonoma Community Center: The Sonoma Community Center will celebrate Día de Los Muertos with an altar-lighting ceremony, dance performance from Grupo Folklórico Quetzalén, art activities, food, drinks and more. Members are invited to contribute mementos to the altar. Free. 5:30-8 p.m. 276 East Napa Road, Sonoma. sonomacommunitycenter.org
Día de Muertos de Windsor: Stop by the Windsor Town Green to celebrate Día de los Muertos. The event’s performers will include Indigenous dancers, ballet folklórico and mariachi. There will also be music, food, an artisan market, lowrider car show, face painting and more. Free. 3-8 p.m. 701 McClelland Drive, Windsor. somoswindsor.org
Día de los Muertos at Keller Estate: Head to Keller Estate for an evening of wines paired with authentic Mexican dishes. Guests can bring photos and offerings for the event’s altar. $124 or $105 for members. 5:30-8:30 p.m. 5875 Lakeville Highway, Petaluma. sonoma.com
Día de los Muertos: Artesa Winery presents a Día de los Muertos celebration with music by DJ Mark G, an altar display, face painting, raffle, Mexican cuisine, taco truck, wine and more in Napa. Costumes are optional, but encouraged. Photos for the communal altar are welcomed. Must be 21 years or older to attend. $60, club members will have discounted tickets and wine purchases. 7-11 p.m. 1345 Henry Road, Napa. exploretock.com
Napa Día De Los Muertos: The City of Napa presents a family-friendly Día de Los Muertos event at Veterans Park. There will be altars, music, food, art, dancing and more. On the main stage, performances include Aztec and folklorico dancing, charro and mariachi. Free. 3-8 p.m. 800 Main St., Napa. cityofnapa.org
