The shadow from a sign in the front window falls upon a table with cassoulet, duck confit, lamb and red peas at Bistro Lagniappe Thursday, June 19, 2025 in Healdsburg. (John Burgess / The Press Democrat)
In New Orleans, lagniappe (pronounced lan-yap) means “a little something extra,” a small gift of appreciation given with a purchase, a kindness often extended in restaurants there.
It’s also the perfect name for the new Bistro Lagniappe in downtown Healdsburg. In a town already brimming with great food, chef-owner Jacob Harth’s inspired California-French cuisine is indeed a special treat. His wood-fired cooking, inspired by France’s rural bistros, brings a welcome, hearty approach to the local dining landscape.
Raised on a farm in Southern Oregon, Harth learned to hunt, forage, and fish from an early age. His mother taught him to cook, his father how to barbecue oysters. His grandmother, who owned a restaurant, gave him his first job in the kitchen. After honing his skills in Portland, he moved to San Francisco to work as a chef at the three-Michelin-starred Saison, before returning to Portland to open Erizo, a seafood restaurant of his own focused on “radical sustainability.” The pandemic brought that critical success to an untimely end, and Harth went on to Michelin-caliber restaurants in Brooklyn and Mexico City. He returned to the Bay Area and in summer of 2024 hosted his first pop-up at Healdsburg’s Maison Wine Bar, paving the way for his new venture.
Chef Jacob Harth, center, prepares the beef tartare for the evening at Bistro Lagniappe Thursday, June 19, 2025, in Healdsburg. (John Burgess / The Press Democrat)Beef tartare from Bistro Lagniappe Thursday, June 19, 2025, in Healdsburg. (John Burgess / The Press Democrat)
There’s so much to enjoy on the Lagniappe menu, it can be hard to choose, so just dive in and savor the experience of eating well. True to his background, Harth sources as close to home as possible. His pâté ($15), a rustic, country-style dish, is made with a hog he purchased from local Future Farmers of America (FFA) students. The ground pork is combined with sweetbreads from a family-owned Cloverdale cattle ranch. In an unexpected twist, he grills the pâté slabs for a smoky, savory finish “that’s like a nice backyard-barbecue hot dog,” quips Harth.
Seafood selections depend on the day’s catch, which might be crudo made with hook-and-line rockfish from Bodega Bay or silky halibut with beautifully salty bottarga (cured fish roe), juicy Sungold tomatoes, and a hint of lime leaf ($20). Harth is one of the few local chefs able to secure prized Knights Valley Wagyu from rancher Adam Gordon, and the cuts change based on what is available. On one visit, the treasure was tri-tip, served with French fries ($50) that one cook spends hours perfecting until they are crisp-on-the-outside, buttery-on-the-inside golden beauties.
Trout, mussels, lettuce and fig leaf from Bistro Lagniappe Thursday, June 19, 2025, in Healdsburg. (John Burgess / The Press Democrat)Mille-feuille of Brokaw passionfruit, vanilla crème diplomat, and fermented honey from Bistro Lagniappe Thursday, June 19, 2025, in Healdsburg. (John Burgess / The Press Democrat)
From the brick-lined wood oven — a holdover from the building’s days as Molti Amici Italian restaurant — emerge perfectly roasted oysters with smoky garlic butter ($6), delicate, chewy flatbreads ($9), and cassoulet laden with tender lamb and a whole leg of duck confit ($38).
For dessert, the mille-feuille is an edible work of art, featuring layers of crisp, flaky pastry filled with Brokaw Ranch passion fruit, vanilla crème diplomat, and a touch of fermented honey. Like everything else at Bistro Lagniappe, it’s something extra — extra-marvelous.
Auteur, one of Russian River Valley’s newest tasting rooms, offers exquisite views in luxury surroundings in Healdsburg. (Eileen Roche / Sonoma Magazine)
West county has a distinct feel all its own. Historically known as a “hippie” enclave, the region is better known today as a creative hub for artists, musicians, makers, chefs, and winemakers. It’s also famous for the beautiful Russian River Valley wine region, which produces legendary Pinot Noirs and Chardonnays.
Taste
Auteur Wines
The winery’s new Russian River tasting room is a stunner. Set near Forestville, the contemporary space takes full advantage of its hillside setting, with floor-to-ceiling windows and a sheltered terrace for admiring the vineyard and redwood views. The design is as inviting as it is awe-inspiring.
“When the architect asked me how I wanted the new tasting room to feel, I told him ‘a warm embrace,’” says Laura Juhasz, who co-owns the winery with her winemaker husband, Kenneth, and two other couples who are investment partners. “We don’t want people to feel intimidated here. Wine is supposed to calm your heart, calm your mind, and connect you to others.”
Auteur’s lineup of minimalist wines highlights expressive single-vineyard and appellation-specific Pinot Noir and Chardonnay. If you love a mystery, book the “Be Here Now” tasting — coming soon — an exploration of wines presented without any information about their background. Reservations recommended. 10520 Wohler Road, Healdsburg. 707-766-0222, auteurwines.com
At Auteur Wines in Healdsburg. (Eileen Roche / Sonoma Magazine)The tasting barn at Horse & Plow in Sebastopol. (Scott Hampton)
Horse & Plow
This small, family-owned winery just outside Sebastopol is known for its natural wines and bright ciders made from organic apples. The setting is wonderfully bucolic, with a sweet barn for indoor tastings and a spacious outdoor area set amid shady oaks, apple trees, and a bountiful vegetable garden. Choose from offerings by the flight, glass, or bottle, then settle in with a cheese or charcuterie plate and feel the stresses of everyday life melt away. On Sundays, there’s live music from 2-4 p.m. Reservations recommended. 1272 Gravenstein Hwy. N., Sebastopol. 707-827-3486, horseandplow.com
Ryme Cellars
Rustic Ryme Cellars is an off-the-beaten-path haven behind Forestville’s main drag. Taste minimal-intervention wines made from varieties like Aglianico. Reservations required. 6450 First St., Forestville. 707-820-8121, rymecellars.com
People toast Ryme rosé at Ryme Cellars in Forestville. (Ryme Cellars)
Porter-Bass Vineyard & Winery
At Porter-Bass Vineyard & Winery, set on a biodynamic vineyard estate surrounded by redwood and fir forests, sample cool-climate Pinot Noir, Chardonnay, and Zinfandel under a walnut tree in front of the owners’ home. Reservations required. 11750 Mays Canyon Road, Guerneville. 707-869-1475, porter-bass.com
Joseph Swan Vineyards
O.G. Joseph Swan Vineyards is known for its beautifully balanced old vine Zinfandel and Pinot Noir, along with a cool lineup of wines like Tannat, Valdiguie, and skin-contact whites. Tastings happen at an outdoor table overlooking the estate vineyard or among the barrels. 2916 Laguna Road, Forestville. 707-573-3747, swanwinery.com
Dine
Dishes from Wild Poppy Cafe in Sebastopol, Friday, May 3, 2024. (John Burgess/The Press Democrat)If you’re heading out to the coast, Sebastopol’s Wild Poppy Cafe offers a creekside, dog-friendly patio with music for brunch on the weekends. (John Burgess/The Press Democrat)
Wild Poppy Cafe & Market
This roadside café is a hidden gem for breakfast, brunch, and lunch. The creekside patio is the place to be, with its weathered wooden tables and relaxed ambiance. The frequently refreshed menu emphasizes organic, biodynamic, and regeneratively farmed ingredients grown locally — with lots of exciting vegetarian and vegan options. 9890 Bodega Hwy., Sebastopol. 707-503-6332, thewildpoppycafe.com
Bazaar Sonoma
What happens when a veteran of Healdsburg’s SingleThread opens a Chinese restaurant in Forestville? Something both unexpected and delicious. Known locally as BaSo, this compact café serves boldly flavored traditional fare without falling into the all-too-common trap of Americanization. The pork dumplings are divine, and don’t skip the sizzling seasonal fish. 6566 Front St., Forestville. 707-614-8056, bazaar-sonoma.com
Editor’s note: A Sept. 22 fire gutted Bazaar Sonoma, leaving the Forestville restaurant temporarily closed. However, the team is planning several local pop-ups as The Matriarch. Learn more and find the pop-up schedule at bazaar-sonoma.com.
Black Cod with soy sauce, ginger, greens and a hot infused oil table pour from Bazaar Sonoma, Oct. 17, 2024, in Forestville. (John Burgess / The Press Democrat)Nam Khao Tod, Lao-Thai Crispy Rice Salad with the Pineapple Express cocktail with a sprig of Thai basil Thursday, Sept. 19, 2024, from Underwood Bar and Bistro in Graton. (John Burgess / The Press Democrat)
Underwood Bar & Bistro
In blink-and-you’ll-miss-it Graton, this neighborhood favorite combines Paris bistro ambiance with — surprise! — flavorful Thai-inspired dishes. For 25 years, Underwood has been the place to spot local winemakers stopping in for a post-harvest beer paired with everything from steak frites and French onion soup to Thai lettuce cups. 9113 Graton Road, Graton. 707-823-7023, underwoodgraton.com
Explore
Before heading home, hit the Sunday Sebastopol Farmers Market and soak up the community vibe while stocking up on farm-fresh produce. 6908 Weeks Way, Sebastopol. 707-861-1147, sebastopolfarmersmarket.org
Bobby Murphy of Singing Frogs Farm mans the farm’s booth Sunday, Dec. 1, 2024, at the Sebastopol Farmers Market. (Madison Smalstig)Ziplining through the redwoods at Sonoma Canopy Tours in Occidental. (Emily Blake / Sonoma County Tourism)
Zipline through the redwoods on a Night Flight zipline tour and wonder at the stars from tree-top platforms. Sonoma Canopy Tours, 6250 Bohemian Hwy., Occidental. 888-494-7868, sonomacanopytours.com
Insider Tip
Book an orchard hike
Sample a delicious array of artisan olive oils, vinegars, and apple products at Gold Ridge Organic Farms. 3387 Canfield Road, Sebastopol. 707-823-3110, goldridgeorganicfarms.com
Gold Ridge Organic Farms owner Brooke Hazen focuses on antique heirloom apples on the Sebastopol property. Photo taken Wednesday, Aug. 30, 2023. (John Burgess / The Press Democrat)Fern Bar in Sebastopol serves the “Euphoria,” a fruit forward nonalcoholic gin “free-spirited cocktail.” (Fern Bar)
Grab a post-dinner drink
Lively, plant-filled Fern Bar at The Barlow is open until 10 p.m. on weekends. 6780 Depot St., Suite 120, Sebastopol. 707-861-9603, fernbar.com
Dark Chocolate Pot de Créme with candied orange, ricotta donut and chantilly from Spoonbar Thursday, June 5, 2025 in Healdsburg. (John Burgess / The Press Democrat)
Best. Risotto. Ever.
I’m not a frequent risotto eater because, all too often, the dish becomes a traumatic experience. It’s either gluey enough to be used as spackle or so undercooked that the rice remains crunchy. I get it — the dish is notoriously difficult to master. Like a toddler, it requires constant attention, a delicate touch and just the right amount of patience; otherwise, it turns into a sticky mess.
Enter chef Robert Leva, who, it turns out, is the risotto whisperer. The newly installed chef at Spoonbar (formerly of Traci Des Jardins’ Jardinière, Mayacamas, and Auberge du Soleil) serves up a stunning autumn mushroom risotto ($30) with truffle butter, black garlic, mushrooms and spinach. The creamy, perfectly al dente rice is an umami bomb, enriched with shaved Parmesan and accented by the earthy punch of truffle and the subtle sweetness of black garlic. I’m hooked.
The autumn risotto at Spoonbar in Healdsburg. (Heather Irwin / The Press Democrat)Chef Robert Leva, formerly of Jardinière, Salt House, Bellota and the Mayacamas Club, has taken over the kitchen of Healdsburg’s Spoonbar restaurant at the h2hotel Thursday, June 5, 2025, in Healdsburg. (John Burgess / The Press Democrat)
Since its 2015 opening, I’ve always found the ultra-modern Spoonbar at Healdsburg’s h2hotel to be fine, but lacking the sparkle to bring me back, especially with so many other great dining options in town. Leva’s seasonal squash, apple and chestnut soup ($14), smoked ham croquettes with sweet red onion marmalade ($16) and roasted Rocky chicken ($32) with chanterelle mushrooms gave me a reason to return.
A selection of dishes at Spoonbar in Healdsburg, including the roasted Rocky chicken with chanterelles. (Mike Battey)Three honey-based drinks for Bees Knees Week from Spoonbar Thursday, June 5, 2025, in Healdsburg. (John Burgess / The Press Democrat)
And don’t miss the cocktails, which have always been Spoonbar’s boozy calling card. The Right Round ($14) is a dazzling margarita with white tequila, raspberry and passion fruit liqueurs, and a spicy chile pepper rim. It’s nice, but very naughty.
A few dishes did miss the mark, such as the Hokkaido scallops ($40), which were overwhelmed by an overzealous mix of fennel purée, basil oil and piperade (tomatoes, onion, green pepper and smoky Espelette). Why bury such lovely, delicate shellfish? The Creekstone flat iron steak ($38) was tough and chewy.
Despite a few imperfections, it’s nice to have a reason to return. I’ll keep my eye on you, Spoonbar.
The remodeled Sea Ranch Lodge Restaurant main dining room with sunset seating Friday, Feb. 21, 2025. (John Burgess / The Press Democrat)
Chef Ryan Seal has taken over as executive chef at The Sea Ranch Lodge.
Seal, whose resume includes Napa’s Round Pond Estate, Solage, Calistoga Ranch and Morimoto, as well as San Francisco’s SPQR, impressed me last February with his menu at the now-shuttered Greenwood restaurant at Elk’s Sacred Rock Inn.
I called Seal an “under-the-radar talent who shouldn’t be.” Hopefully, dishes like his uni carbonara, steelhead tartare and Maine lobster ravioli make an appearance on the new menu.
Brandon Dawson, center, celebrates after winning the Safeway 52nd annual World Championship Pumpkin Weigh-Off in Half Moon Bay, Calif., Monday, Oct. 13, 2025. (AP Photo/Godofredo A. Vásquez)
Harvest season is a high-stakes proposition for giant-pumpkin grower Brandon Dawson, who lives in Santa Rosa with his wife and two young children.
Last year, Dawson grew California’s largest pumpkin in his backyard in Rincon Valley. The behemoth he named Seymour weighed in at 2,465 pounds and just narrowly missed winning the prestigious and lucrative Half Moon Bay World Championship Pumpkin Weigh-Off.
Dawson grew up on a rural property in southwest Santa Rosa where he learned a love for all things outdoors and inherited his green thumb from his mom, Pattie, a Sonoma County Master Gardener. Dawson is concerned about his pumpkin-growing prospects this year due to a cool start to the growing season and shares his trials and triumphs on YouTube and Instagram.
Editor’s note: At the 52nd World Championship Pumpkin Weigh-Off on Oct. 13, Dawson won the top prize with the largest pumpkin, weighing 2,346 pounds.
Brandon Dawson shows off a 1,600-pound pumpkin before loading it into his truck for a weigh-off Oct. 4, 2024. (Chad Surmick / The Press Democrat)
As a kid, Dawson recalls having birthday parties at Furlong Gulch Beach. These days he likes to take his kids for a gentle amble along the Kortum Trail, which offers easy access to the small, scenic beach. “It’s all about timing with the weather.” A self-professed weather geek, he checks to make sure there’s an offshore flow, ensuring a sunny day. Sonoma Coast State Park, Highway 1, Bodega Bay. parks.ca.gov
Hiking along the Kortum Trail on the Sonoma Coast. (Jerry Dodrill)The Saloon at The Jack London Lodge in Glen Ellen. (Kim Carroll)
Dawson heads to Glen Ellen for dinners out. When the weather is nice, the creekside patio at The Saloon at The Jack London Lodge is a favorite family spot. For date nights Dawson and his wife, Zelda, like Glen Ellen Star. His go-to menu item is the wood-roasted seasonal vegetables, and he likes to sit at the bar to watch the chefs work their pizza oven magic. “How they go about it is kind of exciting.” 13648 Arnold Drive, Glen Ellen. 707-343-1384, glenellenstar.com
Roasted red kuri with harissa and roasted pepitas from the Glen Ellen Star restaurant. (John Burgess / The Press Democrat)Birch trees and shrubs cast their reflections into the lower pond at Sonoma Botanical Garden in Glen Ellen. (Charlie Gesell / The Press Democrat)
“I’m really into native plants, and I recently re-did the front yard.” Dawson finds inspiration at the Sonoma Botanical Garden, in particular their recent focus on native California species including oak woodlands, stands of manzanita, and the rich variety of wildlife they support. 12841 Highway 12, Glen Ellen. 707-996-3166, sonomabg.org
With a day-job in the auto industry, Dawson enjoys going for drives. One of his favorites routes is along Coleman Valley Road because it offers “a great snapshot of the flora and fauna of Sonoma County.” Winding from Occidental to the coast, the scenery changes from redwoods to oak woodlands, then coastal chaparral. But Dawson warns, “It’s not the best sports car drive.”
Outdoor dining area. (Steve Magner / Sotheby’s International Realty)
A traditionally styled estate on 2.56 acres along the iconic Silverado Trail in Napa is currently listed for sale. Framed by antique olive trees and modeled after a Provence village square, the four-bedroom and four-bathroom main home, guest house and studio suite are currently listed for $4,650,000.
The dwelling, built in 1969, expresses French country style with arched windows and doors, stone elements and ironwork. Interiors have traditional trims and fixtures. The look is topped off playfully with Harlequin tile.
A great room — with dormer windows allowing for lots of light — combines the kitchen, dining and lounging areas. A separate butler’s pantry allows for out-of-sight food prep and staging. Exterior stone accents are carried inside to the great room’s fireplace.
Great room in traditional Calistoga home. (Steve Magner / Sotheby’s International Realty)Outdoor seating area and vineyard. (Steve Magner / Sotheby’s International Realty)Yard with pool. (Steve Magner / Sotheby’s International Realty)
Raised garden beds, a commercial Cabernet vineyard, and a hobby-sized block of Rhône grapes make the grounds both hardworking and serene. The balcony of the guest house overlooks the famed Three Palms Vineyard.
Various patios offer spots to lounge, eat and play among the vines. There’s a pool, spa and a delightfully large chess set. A stone woodburning pizza oven is the star of a full outdoor kitchen.
For more information on 800 Lommel Road in Calistoga, contact listing agents Arthur Goodrich, 415-735-8779, or Federico Parlagreco, 628-252-9532; Sotheby’s International Realty, St. Helena Brokerage, 1229 Adams St., St. Helena, 707-200-2488, sothebysrealty.com
Sitting area of great room. (Sebastian Jimenez Creative)
A small home with tremendous style recently hit Sonoma’s real estate market. The renewed, circa-1942 home with one bedroom and one bathroom is priced at $497,000 — a more approachable sum in a market where $1.3 million is the median list price. According to listing agent Martin Hurtado, the property is currently under contract.
The home provides a lesson in creating interest and openness in just 504 square feet. The open floor plan and windowed doors allow for light and airiness. Neutral tones create visual quietness. White walls are warmed up with white oak plank floors, wicker accents and wood furnishings.
The kitchen style is sharp and clean with white quartz countertops and shaker-style cabinets. Personality is infused through gold fixtures and just-enough “styling” — wood cutting boards, wicker and art.
Kitchen in the small Sonoma home. (Sebastian Jimenez Creative)View through French doors. (Sebastian Jimenez Creative)Patio. (Sebastian Jimenez Creative)
The tonal aesthetic is carried into the bathroom via a linear plank tile that mimics a wood siding. Creamy marble accents provide a cooler counterpoint.
Through modern French doors is a backyard with a covered patio, trees and space for gathering.
Apple Strudel from Tisza Bistro chef/owner Krisztian Karkus Monday, February 12, 2024, in Healdsburg. (John Burgess/The Press Democrat)
Eat dessert first, because those peas and carrots aren’t going anywhere. No matter what mom said, we’re all about enjoying the sweeter things in life and worrying about the rest tomorrow.
When the call went out for some of your favorite desserts, we couldn’t help but add a few of our own guilty pleasures from around Sonoma County. Read with caution, because this list is jam-packed with chocolate, sugar, whipped cream and cookies.
National Dessert Day is Oct. 14, so now would be as good a time as any to get acquainted with the best desserts in the county.
Story by Sofia Englund, Jennifer Graue, Heather Irwin and Maci Martell. Readers contributed their dessert picks on the Sonoma Magazine Facebook.
Heather’s Picks
St. Honoré Tart, Bijou
It’s exceedingly rare to see restaurant desserts created with the same finesse and artistry as the preceding meal. Bijou’s executive pastry chef, Sylvain Parsy, creates stunning masterpieces of sugar, butter and cream that make you forget about the calories and just embrace the magic. The St. Honoré Tart is made with gold-leaf-adorned almond and caramel chou and a pastry tart filled with cream. You really can’t go wrong with any of Parsy’s often-changing desserts, so don’t panic if the tart isn’t available. 190 Kentucky St., Petaluma, 707-753-9155, restaurantbijou.com
Vanilla soft serve at the Valley Ford Cheese and Creamery in Valley Ford, Thursday, July 31, 2025. (Beth Schlanker / The Press Democrat)
Soft Serve, Valley Ford Creamery
What started as an afterthought during a recent visit to this Valley Ford cheese factory and cafe has haunted my dreams — a swirling cone of creamy soft serve from local Jersey cows. The smooth, gelato-like texture is worth the trip. 14390 Valley Ford Road, Valley Ford, 707- 875-0703, valleyfordcheese.com
Semisweet Chocolate Chip Cookie, Sebastopol Cookie Company
It’s all about the cookies at this hole-in-the-wall bakery. Fresh chocolate chip cookies are outstanding on their own, but in the summer, they add an ice cream middle. Just like milk and cookies, but better. 168 N. Main St., Sebastopol. 707-824-4040, sebastopolcookiecompany.com
Choux au Craquelin with espresso-chocolate mousse and a dusting of powdered sugar from Poppy restaurant, Thursday, June 12, 2025, in Glen Ellen. (John Burgess / The Press Democrat)
Choux au Craquelin, Poppy
We all have that extra dessert pocket in our stomachs, right? No matter how much delicious bread, butter and cream you’ve already eaten, make way for this baseball-sized puff filled nearly to bursting with velvety espresso mousse. 13690 Arnold Drive, Glen Ellen, 707-938-2130, poppyglenellen.com
Tiramisu, Portico
Feel free to dive into a hefty slice of this espresso-soaked dessert made with mascarpone rather than whipped cream. The sweetness is toned down, making it a calorie-worthy dessert without the sugar shock. 100 N. Main St., Sebastopol, 707-888-9136, porticosocialfood.com
The interior of Stella’s Baked “Gelaska” with vanilla gelato, raspberry sorbet, sponge cake and cubes of torched marshmallow fluff, Wednesday, March 26, 2025, in Kenwood. (John Burgess / The Press Democrat)
Baked Gelaska, Stella
This one’s a true show-stopper. Stella’s “Baked Gelaska” is a riff on baked Alaska, with sponge cake, raspberry sorbet and vanilla gelato topped with a swirl of torched marshmallow fluff. 9049 Sonoma Highway, Kenwood, 707-801-8043, stellakenwood.com
Strudel, Tisza Bistro
This seemingly simple dessert is made in-house by stretching the dough into thin, buttery layers filled with seasonal fruit, including apples, cherries and poppy seeds. 165 Healdsburg Ave., Healdsburg, 707-291-5193, tiszabistro.com
Apple Strudel from Tisza Bistro chef/owner Krisztian Karkus, Monday, Feb. 12, 2024, in Healdsburg. (John Burgess/The Press Democrat)Apple Crumb pie at Hazel Restaurant in Occidental, Friday, Jan. 24, 2025. Pies at Hazel are baked once a week, every Friday. (Darryl Bush / For The Press Democrat)
Every Friday is pie day at this Occidental restaurant. Co-owner Michele Wimborough’s pies are legendary, ranging from peanut butter and blackberry to Dutch apple and lemon meringue. You never know what she’ll be making, which is half the fun of your pie adventure. 3782 Bohemian Highway, Occidental, 707-874-6003, restauranthazel.com
Sofia’s Picks
Glacée and Petit Beurre Cookies, Goguette Bread
A variety of ice cream, or glacée, from Goguette Bread in Santa Rosa. (Goguette Bread)
This popular boulangerie extended its hours to 9 p.m. last summer, a brilliant move as warm Sonoma County nights made for a perfect excuse to indulge in their housemade glacée — a decadent French custard-style ice cream — to the tune of chansons on their Parisian patio. Picking a couple of flavors (new ones are made each week) is near impossible when you have choices like pistachio, rose, violet and choco-orange. Whatever flavor you pick, pair your treat with Le Petit Beurre, Goguette’s take on the shortbread from Nantes, in the Brittany region of France. Order in advance to bring your desserts home during fall and winter — ice cream and cookies are not just for summer. 59 Montgomery Drive, Santa Rosa, goguettebread.com
Gluten-free Carrot Cake, Zoftig Eatery
Carrot cake, done right, can be absolutely sublime. Zoftig Eatery has perfected the art of the carrot cake with a gluten-free version that has the Goldilocks ratio of just the right amount of carrot, spice, sweetness and moistness. It is rich, but not overpowering, and the cream cheese frosting is really the icing on the cake, not detracting from the flavors by being overly sweet or artificial-tasting. The secret, according to co-owner Sonjia Spector, is high-quality spices and lasting friendships: the restaurant buys the gluten-free flour for the cake from Spector’s childhood friend Dawn Zaft of Criminal Baking Co. We have attempted to split this generous slice of carrot cake in two and save the second half for the following day, but never succeeded. 57 Montgomery Drive, Santa Rosa, 707-521-9554, zoftigeatery.com
Vegan Elderflower/Berry Mini Cake, Criminal Baking Company
This hidden gem bakery, located off the beaten path in a red brick industrial building on Donahue Street, continues to serve up the best sweet treats in Sonoma County. The menu changes frequently, but you won’t be disappointed whatever you order. A recent favorite includes a vegan elderflower/berry mini cake — the kind of heavenly dessert that treats your taste buds to a sort of transcendental experience. The outdoor seating, under bright yellow umbrellas, is lovely but we like the bustling indoor space that feels like a theater set beneath tall ceilings. 808 Donahue St., Santa Rosa, 707-888-3546, criminalbakingcompany.com
Jennifer’s Picks
Gateau Parisien, Patisserie Angelica
If the words “gluten-free dessert” typically leave you cold, this ethereal treat (which won the best of show award in the 2024 Sonoma County Harvest Fair) will change your mind. Three layers of almond macaron are layered with Italian praline buttercream. It’s not overly sweet and is simply delicious. The best part? In addition to full-sized cakes, they also come in individual servings, so you don’t have to share. 6821 Laguna Park Way, Sebastopol, 707-827-7998, patisserieangelica.com
Fruit Basket Cake, Oliver’s Market
This cake perennially pops up at birthdays, retirement parties and Mother’s Day gatherings, and every single time it appears, we make a beeline for the dessert table. An eye-catching rainbow of fruit for a topping draws you in, but the layers of moist vanilla cake, pastry cream, and a hint of raspberry jam keep you coming back for just one more bite. Cakes come in 6, 8 and 10 inches, plus two sheet cake sizes for when you’re serving a crowd. Locations in Cotati, Santa Rosa and Windsor. oliversmarket.com
Co-owner Christian Sullberg cuts a slice of Peanut Butter Pie at Noble Folk Ice Cream and Pie Bar in Santa Rosa. (Beth Schlanker/The Press Democrat)
Peanut Butter Mousse Pie, Noble Folk
This pie is 9 inches of decadence, and it is worthy of every single, silky bite. Noble Folk’s co-owner, Christian Sullberg, fills an Oreo cookie crust with whipped peanut butter mousse and tops it all with a cloud of whipped cream. It’s a seasonal pie, usually only on the menu a couple of times a year, so keep a sharp eye out. Plus, my 2022 Thanksgiving story included a recipe for it; super bonus! 116 Matheson St., Healdsburg, 707-395-4426; 539 Fourth St., Santa Rosa, 707-978-3392, thenoblefolk.com
Maci’s Picks
Brownie Cupcake and Baby Fruit Galettes, Downtown Bakery & Creamery
Step into Healdsburg’s Downtown Bakery, and suddenly words like “carbs” and “calories” have no meaning. The incredibly rich and chocolaty brownie cupcake is a treat I will never pass up. And whatever fruit galette is available, get it. All of them are winners. 308 Center St., Healdsburg, 707-431-2719, downtownbakeryhealdsburg.com
Croissants, sticky buns, blueberry scones and a baby apple quince galette from the Downtown Bakery and Creamery in Healdsburg. (John Burgess / The Press Democrat)The deli and bakery cases at Grossman’s Noshery & Bar in Santa Rosa. Grossman’s black and white cookies, right case, are a favorite. (Sonoma County Tourism)
Black & White Cookies, Grossman’s Noshery & Bar
A staple in New York bakeries, the black and white cookie delights with its classic chocolate and vanilla combo. Grossman’s back-and-whites are the stuff of dreams, with creamy, rich chocolate and vanilla frosting atop a soft, cake-like cookie. Not too sweet with just the right balance of flavors, it’s quite possibly the best cookie I’ve ever had. The cinnamon babka also never disappoints. 308 Wilson St., Santa Rosa, 707-595-7707, grossmanssr.com
Apple Pecan Crumble Pie, Petaluma Pie Company
This brown sugar-sweetened apple pie is topped with a nutty crumble and a generous drizzle of housemade salted caramel for a luscious fall dessert. Bring it to the Thanksgiving table this year to switch up your traditional pie offerings and make a lasting impression. And while nothing beats grandma’s homemade, from-the-garden strawberry rhubarb pie, this humble pie shop’s sweet-tart strawberry rhubarb comes as close as it gets. 125 Petaluma Blvd. N., Suite B, Petaluma, 707-766-6743, petalumapiecompany.com
Readers’ Picks
Carrot Cake, Cacau Bakery
Specializing in vegan baking, this local bakery crafts scrumptious Swedish and Brazilian goods, all from scratch. Reader Ann Gardner recommended the bakery’s carrot cake on the Sonoma Magazine Facebook page. “This is a small, family-run mobile operation, so it is a hidden gem, except for folks in the know about where and when to find one of their two parked vans,” Gardner said. instagram.com/cacau.sweets
Chocolate Chunk Banana Bread Pudding, Stark’s
Katie Clarke Boyd recommended Stark’s chocolate chunk banana bread pudding, noting that it “was an original at the first Willi’s Wine Bar before it burned down.” 521 Adams St., Santa Rosa, 707-546-5100, starkssteakhouse.com
Plum Sorbet, Screamin’ Mimi’s Ice Cream
Another brilliant Ann Gardner pick, Screamin’ Mimi’s plum sorbet is sweet, smooth and seasonal (so keep on alert come plum season). “I don’t know if they do this on purpose, but just enough sour peel is mixed in to give it a little zip,” Gardner said. 6902 Sebastopol Ave., Sebastopol, 707-823-5902, screaminmimisicecream.com
Key Lime Pie, Nom Nom Cakes
Lana McIntire, founder of Nom Nom Cakes, recommended her key lime pie on our Facebook page. And based on our own experience with her sweet treats and all the gold ribbons her baked goods garnered at the recent Harvest Fair food competition, we’re inclined to take her word for it. The pie is made with Florida key lime in a graham cracker crust, topped with fresh whipped cream. 390 Calle del Sol, Bodega Bay, 805-350-0680, nomnombaking.com
Hand-crafted cocktails made during the Wizards of Elixirs Cocktail Competition in 2024. This year’s Wizards of Elixirs competition will take place Oct. 28 at Brewsters Beer Garden in Petaluma. (Don Lex)
October is finally upon us, and with it comes some of our favorite fall sports: pumpkin picking, scary movie watching and trick-or-treating. Halloween happenings abound this year in Sonoma County, from carnivals and costume contests to film screenings and haunted tours.
Read on below to find local Halloween events throughout the month. For more local fall happenings, check out our roundup of all the Día de los Muertos events in Sonoma County.
Pumpkins in the Parks: A Santa Rosa Scavenger Hunt, Oct. 1-31
Throughout October, locals are invited to visit any Santa Rosa park to hunt for laminated pumpkin cutouts, which include directions on how and where to collect prizes. Prizes include a variety of treats and specials from Santa Rosa Recreation & Parks, Charles M. Schulz Museum and Snoopy’s Home Ice. An adult must be present to claim the prize. City staff will re-hide the pumpkin cutouts for others to find. The last day to collect a prize is Oct. 31. Santa Rosa parks, 707-543-3737, srcity.org
Mannequins and dolls hang from ropes as part of the decor at Blind Scream haunted house in Santa Rosa, Sunday, Sept. 10, 2023. (Beth Schlanker / The Press Democrat)
Blind Scream, Sonoma County’s ultimate haunted house, will run from 7-10 p.m. on Oct. 10-12, 16, 19, 23 and 26; and from 7-11 p.m. on Oct. 17, 18, 24, 25, 30, 31 and Nov. 1 in Santa Rosa. New this year at the 20,000-square-foot attraction is a “blackout” experience, in which guests will need to traverse through the dark haunted house with just a single glow stick to guide their way. General admission to the haunted house is $30, admission for the blackout experience is $25, and admission to both is $40. Fast passes are available. Purchase tickets online. 98 Santa Rosa Plaza, Santa Rosa, 707-953-3909, blindscream.com
Dinner and Divining: An Evening with a Medium, Oct. 17
Altamont General Store will host a seasonal dinner along with a group reading by local medium Tara Mantone, titled “Dinner and Divining: An Evening with a Medium,” from 5:30-8:30 p.m., Oct. 17, in Occidental. A two-course dinner, plus a light sweet, will start at 5:30 p.m., followed by the medium reading at 6 p.m. General admission is $66. Purchase tickets online. 3703 Main St., Occidental, 707-874-6053, altamontgeneralstore.com
At The Lodge at Sonoma in Sonoma. (The Lodge at Sonoma)
Halloween at The Lodge at Sonoma, Oct. 17
The Lodge at Sonoma will celebrate Halloween with a complimentary outdoor screening of Hocus Pocus as part of its first ‘Movie Night at The Lodge’ from 6-8 p.m., Oct. 17, at The Lodge’s Stone Lawn. The free showing starts at 6:15 p.m. and there will be popcorn, sweet treats and beverages available for purchase. The Lodge’s on-site restaurants — Benicia’s Kitchen and Wit & Wisdom — will offer takeout to enjoy during the film, including new fall menu items such as sticky orange duck wings and a lemon raspberry Napoleon dessert. Guests are encouraged to bring blankets and chairs. Reserve a spot on Eventbrite. 1325 Broadway, Sonoma, 707-935-6600, thelodgeatsonoma.com
Halloween at Mystic Theatre, Oct. 17, 31, Nov. 1
Emmy Award-winning stars from RuPaul’s Drag Race will perform in Witch Perfect, a comedy parody of the Disney film Hocus Pocus, on Oct. 17 at the Mystic Theatre in Petaluma. Doors open at 7 p.m. and the show starts at 8 p.m. Tickets start at $48.97. Must be 21 or over to attend.
San Francisco rock and folk band The Sam Chase & The Untraditional will perform a 21-and-over show at the Mystic on Halloween night, with heavy metal band Coffin Hunters opening the show. Doors open at 7:30 p.m. and the show starts at 8:30 p.m., Oct. 31. Tickets are $29.38. Costumes are encouraged.
Bay Area rock band Animal Liberation Orchestra, more commonly known as ALO, will perform a “Halloweekend Haunt” with San Francisco rock band Big Light on Nov. 1 at the Mystic. Doors open at 7 p.m. and the show starts at 8 p.m. Tickets start at $43.85. 23 Petaluma Blvd. N., Petaluma, 707-765-2121, mystictheatre.com
Healdsburg Howl-O-Ween Pet Parade, Oct. 18
In partnership with the city of Healdsburg, the Humane Society of Sonoma County will host its annual pet costume contest and parade from noon to 2 p.m., Oct. 18, in Healdsburg’s Town Square. The Howl-o-ween Pet Parade will include raffles, a kids’ corner with games and prizes for the winning dog costumes. Water stations will be available for people and pups, and Black Oak Coffee will provide coffee. The event is free to attend. Check-in and registration for costumed pups is from noon to 12:45 p.m. Healdsburg Town Square, humanesocietysoco.org
Parade Garden’s Nostalgic Halloween Barn Party, Oct. 18
To “make the night feel like we’re a bunch of kids celebrating Halloween again,” local rock band Parade Garden will host a Nostalgic Halloween Barn Party from 6 p.m. to midnight, Oct. 18, at a location given by request. The Halloween house party is sure to be a rollicking affair, as band member and Lagunitas’ “Party Legend” Max Cacciatore will be in attendance, along with two other local bands, Osito and Neon Lotus, performing live. The event will also include Halloween gamesanda costume contest with prizes. The prize for the best costume is a free tattoo by Sebastopol artist Alicia Silva. In addition to a $10 ticket (paid via Venmo to @Max-Cacciatore), guests must be wearing a costume to enter. BYOB. Message the band on Instagram, @theparadegarden, for the address and more details.
Sebastiani Theatre will present a double weekend production of its annual Witchie Poo Halloween Extravaganza at 1 p.m. on Oct. 18, 19, 25 and 26. Tickets are $12 for children 12 and under and $15 for adults. Purchase tickets online. 476 First St. E., Sonoma, 707-996-9756, sebastianitheatre.org
The Rocky Horror Show at California Theatre, Oct. 23, 24, 25
Santa Rosa’s California Theatre is doing the time warp again with three productions of Richard O’Brien’s 1973 musical The Rocky Horror Show on Oct. 23, 24 and 25. Doors and bar open at 7 p.m., showtime starts at 8 p.m., and a Halloween dance party with a DJ starts at 10 p.m. The kitchen will be open with a new menu. Costumes are highly encouraged. General admission is $55, plus fees. Learn more and purchase tickets online. 528 Seventh St., Santa Rosa, 707-664-7529, caltheatre.com
FUNtazmagoria, Oct. 24-26
The Children’s Museum of Sonoma County will host its annual kid-friendly Halloween event, FUNtazmagoria, from 4-8 p.m. on Oct. 24, and from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. on Oct. 25-26. The three-day event will include a “Mad Scientist Lab” with interactive experiments; live music from the School of Rock House Band; a variety of hands-on crafts and activities; a “Lil’ Pumpkins Patch” with small pumpkins and gourds for toddlers and young children; and local food trucks along with brews from Cooperage Brewing Company. Costumes are encouraged. General admission tickets are $24 and free for infants 11 months and younger. 1835 W. Steele Lane, Santa Rosa, 707-546-4069, cmosc.org
The Healdsburg Farmers Market will host its annual Pumpkin Festival from 8:30 a.m. to noon, Oct. 25, at the West Plaza Parking Lot in Healdsburg. The event will feature three competitions divided by age groups (7 and under, 8-15 years old, and 16 and over). The contests are pumpkin decorating with wheels (must be able to roll), pumpkin carving (contestants can bring a carved pumpkin from home or carve one at the market) and a costume competition (no commercial kits). Registrationfor the competitions is from 8:30 to 10:30 a.m.on the day of the market. Winners will receive “market bucks” as well as prizes donated by local businesses. West Plaza Parking Lot, Healdsburg, 707-824-8717, healdsburgfarmersmarket.org
Halloween at Howarth, Oct. 25
Santa Rosa’s 19th annual Halloween at Howarth will take place from 11:30 a.m. to 2:30 p.m., Oct. 25, at Howarth Park. Children ages 12 and under are welcome to trick-or-treat through the park at treat stations hosted by local businesses. The event will also include a fun zone with face painting, a photo booth, train and pony rides, and arts and crafts. A basic pass is $7 and a deluxe pass is $20. Purchase tickets in person at Finley Community Center (2060 W. College Ave.), by phone at 707-543-3737 or online. Howarth Park, 630 Summerfield Road, Santa Rosa, 707-543-3298, srcity.org
Rohnert Park Halloween Carnival & Día De Los Muertos, Oct. 25
The city of Rohnert Park will host its annual Halloween Carnival with a Día de los Muertos celebration from noon to 5 p.m., Oct. 25, at the Rohnert Park Community Center. The celebration will include live performances, carnival games, a magic show, haunted maze, community altars and more. The event is free to attend, but carnival games will cost a small fee. Proceeds benefit the Cotati-Rohnert Park Unified School District Outdoor Education Program. 5401 Snyder Lane, Rohnert Park, rpcity.org
Yappy Howl-O-Ween at Foppiano, Oct. 25
Foppiano Vineyards will host its Halloween dog costume contest from 2-4:30 p.m., Oct. 25, at its Healdsburg estate. The event will include a raffle, “bark-uterie” treat bags for pups and prizes for best costumes. Hot dogs will be available for $5. An $11 entry fee includes one glass of wine, and you can enter your dog in the contest for $5.Proceeds benefit the Paws For Love Foundation. Purchase tickets on Tock. 12707 Old Redwood Highway, Healdsburg, 707-433-7272, foppiano.com
’80s Terror Night Halloween Party, Oct. 25
Graton Resort & Casino will host a 1980s-themed Halloween party from 8 p.m. to midnight, Oct. 25, at the Rohnert Park resort. The 21-and-over event will include live music by The Spazmatics, specialty drinks from the full bar and a costume contest with cash prizes. Tickets are $25, plus fees, and are available on Ticketmaster. 288 Golf Course Drive W., Rohnert Park, 707-588-7100, gratonresortcasino.com
Halloween Carnival at Coppola, Oct. 26
Francis Ford Coppola Winery will host its annual Halloween Carnival from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m., Oct. 26, at its Geyserville estate. The family-friendly carnival will include interactive games with prizes, an opportunity to meet reptiles and other critters, and the traditional Wheel of Deals. Food and drinks will be available for purchase. Tickets are $15 for each child 13 and under, and no charge for people 14 and over. Log in or create an account on the winery website to purchase tickets. 300 Via Archimedes, Geyserville, 707-857-1400, francisfordcoppolawinery.com
Handcrafted cocktails made during the Wizards of Elixirs Cocktail Competition in 2024. This year’s Wizards of Elixirs competition will take place Oct. 28 at Brewsters Beer Garden in Petaluma. (Don Lex)At the 2024 Wizards of Elixirs Cocktail Competition at Brewsters Beer Garden in Petaluma on Oct. 29, 2024. (Don Lex)
Wizards of Elixirs Cocktail Competition, Oct. 28
Charbay Distillery and The Perfect Purée of Napa Valley will host the seventh annual Wizards of Elixirs Cocktail Competition from 5:30-8:30 p.m. for VIP ticket holders and from 6:30-8:30 p.m. for general admission on Oct. 28 at Brewsters Beer Garden in Petaluma. A mix of Wine Country’s top bartenders will compete to craft the best original cocktail made with Charbay Blood Orange Mandarin Vodka and a Perfect Purée flavor of choice. Among the competing teams are bartenders from Lo & Behold, The Matheson, Little Saint, Brewsters Beer Garden, Grossman’s Noshery & Bar, Waterhawk Lake Club and more. Attendees can sample handcrafted cocktails, and food will be available for purchase. The event is a benefit for local nonprofits Una Vida and Petaluma Active 20-30. Must be 21 or over to attend. Presale tickets are $40, tickets at the door are $45, and VIP admission is $65. Purchase tickets on Eventbrite. Halloween costumes are encouraged. Brewsters Beer Garden, 229 Water St., Petaluma, wizardsofelixirs.com
Halloween at Montage Healdsburg, Oct. 28-31
Montage Healdsburg has a few unique Halloween events for the whole family this year from Oct. 28-31. For those interested in spooky sports, there will be a Pumpkin Bullseye experience where guests can take a private archery class with pumpkins for targets. Reservations are required for the one-hour class and are exclusively available to resort guests 8 and older. Space is limited. Tickets start at $45. Book online.
Montage’s Paintbox Pumpkin Pals will be available for resort guests with children ages 5-12 years old. The Halloween edition of Paintbox, the estate’s signature children’s program, will include pumpkin carving and other arts and crafts. The four-hour experience will consist of a meal, and a Paintbox counselor will be present. Tickets are $150 per guest. Book online. 100 Montage Way, Healdsburg, 707-979-9000, montage.com/healdsburg
Jordan Winery Cabernet Sauvignon. (Matt Armendariz)
A Taste of Halloween at Jordan Winery, Oct. 28 — Nov. 2
Jordan Vineyard & Winery will host its annual Halloween soirée — which will honor the 100th anniversary of The Great Gatsby with jazz music and lavish 1920s decor —at 1 p.m. from Oct. 28 to Nov. 2 at its chateau in Healdsburg. The eventwill include a welcome glass of Jordan Cuvée paired with Jordan Chef’s Reserve Caviar, followed by a walking winery tour and a seated food and wine pairing, prepared by executive chef Jesse Mallgren. The Halloween tour and tasting menu includes Waldorf salad, spiced ham deviled eggs, fried chicken sandwich and a lemon icebox cake, all paired with estate wines. Tickets are $95, with special pricing for wine club members. Purchase tickets online. 1474 Alexander Valley Road, Healdsburg, 707-431-5250, jordanwinery.com
Halloween Throwdown at Brew, Oct. 30
Brew Coffee and Beer House will host its annual latte art throwdown and Halloween party from 5-8 p.m., Oct. 30, in Santa Rosa. Sebastopol’s Retrograde Coffee Roasters and Jenner’s Café Aquatica will participate in the event, which will include a costume contest with prizes. The latte art competition starts at 6 p.m. 555 Healdsburg Ave., Santa Rosa, 707-303-7372, brewcoffeeandbeer.com
Halloweird at El Infierno, Oct. 30
Wine Country event producer and and promoter Jake Ward will present his annual, 21-and-over-only Halloweird event — a North Bay Cabaret Halloween variety show — from 6 p.m. to midnight, Oct. 30, at El Infierno Cantina in Santa Rosa. The show will include comedy, burlesque and drag performances, pole dancers, circus stunts, slam poetry, crowd games and other interactive elements. There will also be a costume contest, live art demos, tarot card readings, a photo booth, food menu and two full bars. Doors open at 6 p.m., the variety show starts at 7 p.m., Oakland band Van Goat performs at 9 p.m. and a post-show DJ dance party starts at 10 p.m. and lasts through midnight. Costumes encouraged. Tickets range from $25-$200. Purchase tickets on Eventbrite. El Infierno Cantina, 120 Fifth St., Santa Rosa, 707-494-6855, northbayevents.com
Cotati Candy Land Halloween, Oct. 31
The city of Cotati will host its sixth annual Cotati Candyland Halloween Trick or Treat event from 2-5 p.m., Oct. 31, at La Plaza Park and throughout Cotati. The free event will include vendors and feature trick-or-treating at local businesses, where candy will be handed out. Head to the Cotati headquarters booth in La Plaza Park for a map of all the participating companies. The Children’s Museum of Sonoma County will be in attendance, providing family-friendly activities. La Plaza Park, 8167 La Plaza, Cotati, cotaticity.gov
Slay O’Ween at Bloom Carneros, Oct. 31
Bloom Carneros will host a 1980s-themed Halloween dance party from 7-10 p.m., Oct. 31, at the Sonoma restaurant. The 21-and-over event will include costume contests, DJ HurryKane spinning ’80s dance music and drag performances by San Francisco performer Lydia Darling. Proceeds benefit Wake up Sonoma. Tickets are $30 and available on Eventbrite. Bloom Carneros, 22910 Broadway, Sonoma, 707-412-0438, bloomcarneros.com
Late Night Halloween Party at Little Saint, Oct. 31
Healdsburg restaurant and events venue Little Saint will host a Halloween party from 8 p.m. to midnight, Oct. 31, at its first story bar and lounge area. DJs BianKa and SabreeN will be spinning vinyl through the night. Cocktails will be available for purchase. Costumes are encouraged, but not required. The event is free to attend and no tickets are required, but people can learn more and register a spot on Eventbrite. 25 North St., Healdsburg, 707-433-8207, littlesainthealdsburg.com
An assortment baguettes and other breads are displayed at Nightingale Breads, Sunday, October 9, 2022, in Forestville. (Darryl Bush / For The Press Democrat)
Local caterers, restaurants and food producers won big at this year’s Sonoma County Harvest Fair food competitions, with entries ranging from cheesecake to chimichurri. The professionally judged food competition showcases local businesses in various categories, including appetizers, bread, deli and charcuterie, desserts, ice cream, sandwiches, cakes, pastries and cookies.
Best of Show Professional French Bread: Nightingale Bakery seeded sliced sour
Owner Jessie Frost stacks baguettes for sale at Nightingale Breads, Sunday, October 9, 2022, in Forestville. (Darryl Bush / For The Press Democrat)An assortment of breads are displayed at Nightingale Breads, Sunday, October 9, 2022, in Forestville. (Darryl Bush / For The Press Democrat)
Best of Show Professional Specialty Bread: Frost Bake Co. sourdough honey and milk bread pan loaf
Best of Show Pastry: Sonoma Cake Creations & Sonoma Sauces blackberry Merlot cheesecake
Best of Show Charcuterie, Deli, Sandwiches, Salads: Costeaux French Bakery BLAT sandwich with Journeyman barrel bacon, heirloom tomatoes, avocado, lettuce and roasted peppers on ciabatta bread
Best of Show Pantry: Harvest Spice Company freeze-dried Guerneville guac
Best of Show Candy: Sonoma Cake Creations dark chocolate truffle
The Nom Nom Cakes bakery cart filled with goodies on Friday, May 13, 2025, north of Bodega Bay. (John Burgess / The Press Democrat)
Best of Show Cookie: Nom Nom Cakes brown vanilla macaron with caramel macchiato filling
Best of Show Ice Cream: Dave’s Gourmet Ice Cream caramel macchiato
Best of Show Individual Dessert: Nom Nom Cakes goat cheese panna cotta with wine-poached pear and candied walnut
Best of Show Appetizer: Varenna of Fountaingrove Dungeness crab cocktail with cucumber, mango and avocado
Shrimp po’boy at the Parish Cafe in Healdsburg. (Parish Cafe)
Who’s ready for gator tots? Healdsburg’s Parish Cafe, known for its Cajun comfort cuisine, will now offer happy hour and dinner Thursday through Saturday, according to owner Gareth Owens. The happy hour menu (3-5 p.m.) will include fried Louisiana alligator tail meat with rémoulade sauce, as well as gumbo, jambalaya and drink specials.
The debut dinner menu, served from 5 -8 p.m., features crawfish étouffée, trout meunière, pickle-brined fried chicken, and tried-and-true Parish favorites, including red beans and rice, shrimp po’boys, gumbo and a new bananas Foster bread pudding with bourbon sauce for dessert.
Shrimp po’boy at the Parish Cafe in Healdsburg. (Parish Cafe)Gumbo and rice at the Parish Cafe in Healdsburg. (Parish Cafe)
Owens, a sommelier and wine educator, has expanded the wine list to include local and international wines made with limited intervention and additives. An HBG Hurricane, French Quarter 75 and Second Line Spritz have joined the new low and no-alcohol cocktail lineup.
Parish Cafe is open for breakfast and lunch, Monday through Wednesday, and brunch on Saturday and Sunday. Open for dinner from 5-8 p.m. Thursday, Friday and Saturday. For more information, visit theparishcafe.com. 60 Mill St., Healdsburg, 707-431-8474.
