At the Chef’s Table room at Jordan Winery, guests can enjoy food pairings. (Christopher Stark)
Healdsburg’s Jordan Winery has been making Cabernets and Chardonnays in the French Bordeaux tradition since the mid-1970s, when Tom and Sally Jordan founded the winery. Now owned by their son, John Jordan, the winery recently unveiled its latest expression of Francophilia: the renovated tasting room, al fresco dining area and gardens — all refreshed in the property’s classic French style.
The 1,200-acre estate is notable for its well-balanced wines and sustainable use of the land (three-quarters of the grounds are left wild). Also of note is the property’s Old World-style chateau that houses winemaking facilities, guests suites, a tasting room and kitchen.
San Francisco-based Maria Khouri Interiors brightened the existing dark palate of the chateau’s tasting room. Tranquil tones meet the opulence of Louis XVI-style chairs, a Maison Baguès chandelier and 13th century-style encaustic tile on the hearth. Dark wooden ceiling beams contrast with white oak Carlisle floors. Richly textured curtains and Colefax and Fowler fabric upholstery on the chairs soften the look further.
At the Chef’s Table room at Jordan Winery, guests can enjoy food and wine pairings. French and vintage decor also adorn the room. (Christopher Stark)Jordan Winery’s culinary arts are made a focal point thanks to the view into the kitchen. (Christopher Stark)
Adjacent to the tasting room is the Chef’s Table room, where guests can sit at a French Provincial solid walnut dining table while enjoying the property’s culinary creations. Vintage elements adorn the room, like a Louis Philippe-style walnut cabinet and a 19th century Louis XVI-style canvas. And since the art of wine and food pairings are a focus at Jordan Winery, the redesign opened the wall to offer a view into the kitchen.
Just outside the tasting room doors is a covered pavilion providing an elevated al fresco experience with views of the impeccably designed and manicured gardens.
The work of Marin landscape designer Christian Douglas, the garden enjoys wide swaths of hedges and dots of boxwood spheres in Versailles planters. Crushed gravel paths frame symmetrical patches of green that center around a stone fountain. The disciplined and artful layout epitomizes classic French gardens.
For more information, or to book a tasting experience or event in Jordan’s revitalized spaces, contact Jordan Winery, 707-431-5250, jordanwinery.com
The sale is the vision of Sonoma-based interior designer and Hue Solstice principal, Andrea Palacios, who is introducing home staging services with a retail twist. (Meredith Gilardoni)
Just a few blocks from the Healdsburg Plaza, a recently renovated, 1923-era Healdsburg home will host an open house and pop-up art gallery on Nov. 16, featuring local artists and wine.
The off-market dwelling, currently listed for $5,995,000, is offering private tours exclusive to pre-qualified buyers. However, the upcoming event will give the public a chance to see the historic home while sipping wine and perusing artwork from Fulton Crossing Gallery artists.
The event is the vision of Sonoma-based interior designer Andrea Palacios, owner of Hue Solstice. Palacios — whose boutique luxury interior design business serves both local and international clients — is currently launching a home staging business with this interactive shopping twist.
Living room in the historic five-bedroom, four-bathroom home, formerly owned by the famous Matheson family. (Meredith Gilardoni)
“There’s an incredible pool of talent here in Sonoma County,” Palacios said. “I thought, ‘Why not create a stage for our local artists, furniture makers, wine producers and greenery experts — right inside a beautifully restored home?”
The historic five-bedroom, four-bathroom home was formerly part of the Matheson Ranch Estate and owned by famed city builder Colonel Roderick Matheson’s family. Built in 1923 and first renovated in 1964, realtors Tatiana and Ben McWilliams gave the home a fresh restoration this year.
Petaluma-based winery Sophie James will be pouring at the upcoming event. A local French jazz band will provide a jazzy ambience for gallery-goers.
Lounging area with furniture and artwork in the basement. (Meredith Gilardoni)
The staging of the gallery includes curated artworks by Fulton Crossing artists Lida Rebik, Lucy Liew, Donna McGinnis, Gale McKee and Britta Kathmeyer. Jorge Martinez, of Wine Country Decor, created select furniture pieces. House of Botanicals worked on the plant design in the home. Glass accessories are from Kay Young Glass and pottery is by Laura Ames.
Art pieces, furnishings and the home itself can be purchased at the Nov. 16 event. Twenty percent of all art sales will be donated to the Healdsburg Food Pantry.
The Open House will be held from 1-4 p.m. on Nov. 16. Limited spots are available. Register online. To learn more about the property coming soon to market, contact realtor Tatiana McWilliams at 707-303-6230, tatiana@liveinwinecountry.com, liveinhealdsburg.com.
At Arnot-Roberts winery in Healdsburg. (Courtesy of Arnot-Roberts)
One of the great things about Sonoma Wine Country is that there’s an experience for every intention. Sometimes, I’m in the mood to feel rich and pampered at a beautiful venue, drinking in the views as much as the wine. On other days, I want humbler surroundings at a place where it’s all about what’s inside the bottle. With its industrial setting and array of fascinating wines from across California, Arnot-Roberts is just the place to go low-key.
The story
Childhood friends Duncan Arnot Meyers and Nathan Lee Roberts grew up together in the Napa Valley with close ties to the wine industry. Meyers’ dad, a local attorney, was good friends with legendary Clos du Val winery cofounder Bernard Portet. Roberts is the grandson of Margrit Biever Mondavi — it’s her botanical artwork that graces Arnot-Roberts wine labels — and his father cofounded a California-based cooperage. Like his dad, Roberts is a master cooper, and he began his wine industry career making barrels. The friends made their first wine together in 2001, and they cofounded Arnot-Roberts in Healdsburg a decade later.
The vibe
If you’re craving an Instagram-ready atmosphere with gorgeous vineyard views, you won’t find that at Arnot-Roberts. The winery is hidden along an industrial stretch of Healdsburg Avenue, just across the road from Memorial Beach Market and next to The Healdsburg School. Drive around back until you spot the Arnot-Roberts sign. Head toward the crush pad and you’ll see a rustic tasting bar set up on a small, shaded deck next to a lone fermentation tank. Glamorous? Nope. But the winery’s appeal lies in its authenticity. This is where sommeliers and other winemakers come to taste.
Nathan Lee Roberts, co-owner of Arnot-Roberts, is the grandson of Margrit Biever Mondavi. Her botanical artwork graces Arnot-Roberts wine labels. (Courtesy of Arnot-Roberts)Uncommon grape varieties and elegantly retrained wines are the draw at the low-key Arnot-Roberts tasting room in Healdsburg. (Courtesy of Arnot-Roberts)
On the palate
Growing up in Napa Valley with exposure to “old Napa” wine cellars, Meyers and Roberts came to appreciate the reserved style of wines from the region’s earlier days — before points-chasing wineries adopted a “bigger is better” approach characterized by ultra-ripe flavors and high levels of alcohol.
Hailing from cool, maritime-influenced sites all over the state — including Roberts’ own Que Syrah vineyard in the Sonoma Coast appellation — Arnot-Roberts wines are about restrained elegance. Because Meyers and Roberts love to showcase uncommon varieties and interesting vineyards, they typically make a couple dozen small-lot wines each year, taking a low-intervention approach.
For $45, visitors can taste a different selection each week consisting of five to six wines. I immediately fell for the 2023 Trousseau ($35), a lighter-bodied red wine with perfumed aromas of red fruits and a silky texture. The 2023 Falanghina from Las Cimas vineyard in Russian River Valley ($32) is another charmer. With peachy aromas, this mouthwatering, Italian-style white is fresh and clean, with plenty of acidity. On the more traditional side, the 2021 Cabernet Sauvignon from Clajeux Vineyard in Chalk Hill ($125) is pure elegance. The wine has notes of black cherry and spice, and enough acidity to carry it into the next decade. Bonus: All of the Arnot-Roberts wines are in the lower-alcohol range of 11%-13% ABV.
Beyond the bottles
Downtown Healdsburg offers a plethora of upscale dining destinations, but sometimes all you want are some great, cheap tacos and a palate-cleansing Modelo. That’s when you head for Taqueria Guadalajara. Set in a strip mall on Healdsburg Avenue, this spot is a go-to for locals and vineyard workers — and a staff favorite at Arnot-Roberts. Definitely try the tomatillo salsa.
Arnot-Roberts, 33 Healdsburg Ave., Unit I, Healdsburg, 707-433-2400. Open Fridays and Saturdays by appointment. arnotroberts.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.
A Prickly Pear Margarita with chicken fajitas at La Rosa Tequileria & Grille in Santa Rosa, on Tuesday, August 11, 2015. (BETH SCHLANKER/ The Press Democrat)
Whether you’re pinching pennies or just looking for an afterwork hangout, happy hours are hotter than ever. Read below for restaurants and bars that offer excellent food along with your drinks, so you can satiate deliciously on the cheap.
Augie’s French: Classy versions of French onion dip and pigs in a blanket, along with deviled eggs (œufs mayonnaise) and French fries with aioli for dipping are all on the happy hour menu at this downtown French bistro. Because it’s a Stark restaurant (known for their unbeatable happy hours), you’ll won’t go hungry or thirsty. Lower ABV cocktails like the Kir Royale and higher octane Vesper and French 75 are $7. 3-5 p.m. Monday through Friday. 535 Fourth St., Santa Rosa, 707-531-4400, augiesfrench.com
Belly Left Coast Kitchen: Food and drink specials from 3 p.m. to 6 p.m. Monday through Friday and all day Sunday. Pair happy hour drinks with small bites like a Mai Tai with dynamite shrimp, a Michelada with peppered fries or a Moscow Mule with buffalo chicken wings. 523 Fourth St., Santa Rosa, 707-526-5787, bellyleftcoastkitchenandtaproom.com
Drinks with a view at Perch + Plow in downtown Santa Rosa. (Perch + Plow)
Perch + Plow: Handcrafted cocktails are as delicious as they are beautiful at this lively restaurant-meets-nightclub. During happy hour, complement habanero chicken wings ($6) with a local draft beer ($5), or taquitos ($7) with the spicy pineapple margarita ($8). 5-7 p.m. Wednesday through Saturday. 90 Old Courthouse Square, Santa Rosa, 707-843-3582, perchandplow.com
Cascabel: Don’t cry for me, margarita, the truth is, I’ve never left you. Evita would really want you and your gal pals to hit up this Montgomery Village hot spot. At this Mexican grill and restaurant, ordering jalapeño jelly fries and Tecate shots is a win-win. Happy hour is 3-6 p.m. daily. 909 Village Court, Santa Rosa, 707-521-9444, cascabelbayarea.com
Front Room at John Ash: Sink into a leather seat and nibble on tasty small plates while kicking back well-crafted cocktails from 3 to 5 p.m. daily. 4330 Barnes Road, Santa Rosa, 707-527-7687, vintnersresort.com
Jackson’s Bar and Oven: A chef-driven menu and craft cocktails make this one of the most popular happy hours in Santa Rosa from 3 to 5 p.m. Monday through Friday. 135 Fourth St., Santa Rosa, 707-545-6900, jacksonsbarandoven.com
Strawberry cocktail at Kancha Champagne Bar & Tapas in downtown Santa Rosa. (Chad Surmick / The Press Democrat)Margaritas from La Rosa Tequileria & Grille in Santa Rosa on Monday, July 8, 2024. (John Burgess/The Press Democrat)
La Rosa Tequileria: Welcome to Sonoma County’s favorite Margaritaville. Tequila drinks and approachable Mexican fare make this an easy choice for kicking back with a few friends from 4 to 6 p.m. daily. 500 Fourth St., Santa Rosa, 707-523-3663, larosasantarosa.com
Lazeaway Club: Get some island vibes by the pool at the glamorously-outfitted Flamingo Resort. Guava punch slushies, wine and beer compliment Thai chili chicken wings, edamame-avocado dip and pork belly bao from 4 to 6 p.m. Monday through Thursday. 2777 Fourth St., Santa Rosa, 707-510-4533, lazeawayclub.com
Ricardo’s Bar and Grill: Double your happy hour pleasure with restaurant drink deals from 3 to 6 p.m. Monday through Friday and 9 p.m. to close daily at the bar. 2700 Yulupa Ave., Santa Rosa, 707-545-769, ricardosbargrill.com
Stark’s Steak and Seafood: There’s no denying that Stark’s is the Grand Poobah when it comes to Santa Rosa’s happy hour scene. Packed to the gills most nights, it’s the perfect storm of top-notch bites, well-crafted drinks and a clubby, steakhouse atmosphere. 3-6 p.m. Monday through Friday. 521 Adams St., Santa Rosa, 707-546-5100, starkrestaurants.com
According to the owners these are two of the most popular drinks in Peru: a Pisco Sour, left, and Vamos Boys which is made of Pisco, Elderflower, vermouth bianco and Tio Pepe at Warike Restobar in downtown Santa Rosa on Wednesday, Jan. 5, 2022. (Erik Castro/for The Press Democrat)
Warike Restobar: Peruvian-inspired cocktails with plenty of kick and tasty bites from 3 to 6 p.m. Monday through Thursday. 527 Fourth St., Santa Rosa, 707-536-9201, warikesf.com
Willi’s Wine Bar: The addition of a full bar and hoppin’ happy hour from 3 to 5 p.m. daily features small bites (get the Nashville hot fries), the famous $6 martini and banging Bedstuy Old Fashioned for $7. 1415 Town and Country Drive, Santa Rosa, starkrestaurants.com
Grata: Happy hour Italian-style off the Windsor Square. Focaccia pizza, arancini, melon and prosciutto bruschetta, short rib sliders and chilled oysters for $6. Choose from Prosecco ($5), house wine ($4) or a spritz for $6. 4 to 6 p.m. Monday through Friday. 186 Windsor River Road, Windsor, 707-620-0508, gratawindsor.com
Spirit Bar at Hotel Healdsburg: With nibbles from Charlie Palmer’s Dry Creek Kitchen and the cozy charm of the hotel, it’s not surprising that space is at a premium at this haute happy hour. You’ll leave both full and well-lubricated. 5:30 to 7 p.m. Sunday through Thursday. 317 Healdsburg Ave., Healdsburg, 707-431-0330, drycreekkitchen.com
From Left, Fink Bomb, Classic Mai Tai and the Tropical Itch at Kapu Bar, tiki bar and restaurant in the heart of downtown Petaluma on Keller street Feb. 1, 2023. (Chad Surmick / The Press Democrat)
Kapu: Tiki-tastic cocktails flow during happy hours — all day Monday through Wednesday, 4-6 p.m. Thursday, 4-6 p.m. and 9-11 p.m. Friday and Saturday, and 4-6 p.m. Sunday. Pair drinks with Hawaiian-style provisions like braised pipikaula or crispy pork belly for your complete tropical island experience. 132 Keller St., Petaluma, 707-559-3665, kapubar.com
Luma: Flatbread and a bottle of wine special for $35, plus craft cocktails and nonalcoholic cocktails from 3 to 5 p.m. Wednesday through Sunday. 50 E. Washington St., Petaluma, 707-772-5037, lumaeatery.com
Salt & Stone: Day drinkers can get a boozy start to the day at this Kenwood hangout’s 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. happy hour (Monday through Friday). A selection of wines by the glass and well cocktails are $7 each. A quarter pound burger, crispy calamari, truffle fries, Bay shrimp cocktail and steamed mussels are each $7, as well. Don’t dawdle, however, because guests are asked not to linger more than an hour. 9900 Sonoma Highway, Kenwood, 707-833-6326, saltstonekenwood.com
Cucumber Martini at Seared in Petaluma. (Courtesy Seared)
Seared: Petaluma’s best-bet happy hour. The menu is extensive, with filet mignon skewers, calamari, mac and cheese, tacos and a prime rib dip sandwich from 3:30 to 6 p.m. Tuesday through Sunday. 170 Petaluma Blvd. N., Petaluma, 707-762-5997, petalumaseared.com
Maya Restaurant: Not just nachos, but “Really Good Nachos,” are part of this Yucatecan menu, along with specially priced tacos, sliders and margaritas from 4 to 6 p.m. Monday through Friday. 101 E. Napa St., Sonoma, 707-935-3500, mayarestaurant.com
Oso: Locals love this epic happy hour from 4 to 5:30 p.m. Wednesday through Friday. Try some lower-alcohol cocktails that are strong enough to do the trick, but won’t leave you making grass angels. 9 E. Napa St., Sonoma, 707-931-6926, ososonoma.com
Rocker Oysterfeller’s: Oyster Mania Monday with half-off all oysters all day long. Happy hour specials 3 to 5:30 p.m. Tuesday through Friday include deviled eggs, cheesy jalapeño pull apart bread, chowder with applewood smoked bacon and beer battered onion rings for $7.95. Drink specials: $2 off all draft beers, $3 off wine by the glass and $5.95 margaritas. 14415 Highway 1, Valley Ford, rockeroysterfellers.com
A cheese plate from Point Reyes Farmstead Cheese Co. with Point Reyes Toma, aged Gouda, salami, pimento cheese, Point Reyes Bay Blue and Original Blue cheeses. (Christopher Chung/The Press Democrat)
Oprah Winfrey recently released her hotly-anticipated annual list of “Favorite Things.” Among them is a body butter from Petaluma’s McEvoy Ranch and a cheese from a Point Reyes company.
With over 100 items on her list, Oprah highlights several small businesses with items that make great gifts and stocking stuffers for the holiday season.
Citrus and Verde Whipped Body Butter from McEvoy Ranch in Petaluma. The ranch’s Whipped Body Butter was listed on Oprah’s 2024 list of “favorite things.” (Courtesy of McEvoy Ranch)Verde Whipped Body Butter and olive oil from McEvoy Ranch in Petaluma. (Courtesy of McEvoy Ranch)
McEvoy Ranch Whipped Body Butter, $39
The family-owned McEvoy Ranch, located in rural south Petaluma, produces award-winning olive oils — and now its beauty products are in the national spotlight. Oprah called McEvoy Ranch’s Whipped Body Butter “a rich and luxurious moisturizer.”
The body butter is made with the ranch’s organic extra virgin olive oil — as well as rosehip fruit oil, hyaluronic acid and shea and cocoa butters — for a skin-nourishing, hydrating cream. Scents include citrus, lavender, unscented and an herbaceous verde. The whipped body butter is currently on sale for $39 on McEvoy Ranch’s website.
A cheese plate from Point Reyes Farmstead Cheese Co. with Point Reyes Toma, aged Gouda, salami, pimento cheese, Point Reyes Bay Blue and Original Blue cheeses. The cheese company’s Cheese & Thank You gift set is on Oprah’s “Favorite Things” list of 2024. (Christopher Chung/The Press Democrat)Point Reyes Farmstead Cheese Co.’s Cheese Celebration Collection landed on Oprah’s Favorite Things list in 2023. (Courtesy of Point Reyes Farmstead Cheese Co.)
Point Reyes Cheese & Thank You Gift Set, $95
Among Oprah’s favorite food gifts is a cheese gift basket from Marin-based Point Reyes Farmstead Cheese Co. The Cheese & Thank You gift set is filled with a selection of handcrafted cheeses to pair with crackers and a spread.
“Thanks to four artisanal cheeses — TomaRashi, Gouda, Bay Blue and a just-so-good Truffle Brie — sweet olive oil crackers and a sour cherry spread,” Oprah stated, “the lucky recipients of this gift box (created just for us) will use the enclosed cheese knife to dive right in.”
In 2021, Santa Rosa-based Sonoma Lavender Co. made it on Oprah’s list for its lineup of scented stuffed animals. The heatable plushies contain a pouch of fragrant, soothing local lavender or eucalyptus.
In Napa Valley, Model Bakery’s English muffins made it on Oprah’s favorites list four times, in 2016, 2017, 2020 and 2021. The Napa County bakery opened a location in the East Bay in 2022.
Hawaiian Kalua Pork Tacos from Belly Left Coast Kitchen & Taproom in Santa Rosa in 2023. (John Burgess/The Press Democrat)
Sure, we can eat tacos every day of the year (and nobody could stop us from trying). But it is reassuring to have a dedicated day each week to stake a claim to the flavorful tortilla pockets.
It seems Taco Tuesday has always been in the zeitgeist, though its origins, and copyright, has been in contention for decades. According to a 2018 Thrillist article, Mexican restaurant chain Taco John’s has held the “Taco Tuesday” registered trademark since 1989. So protective of the trademark as they are, the restaurant has sent cease-and-desist letters to other eateries who use the phrase.
While Taco John’s claims to have been the first to use the phrase “Taco Tuesday,” in 1979, Thrillist stated it had been in use for several years prior. Baker’s Drive-Thru in Southern California has a “Taco Tuesday” campaign that dates to 1976. And Gregory’s Restaurant & Bar holds the trademark for “Taco Tuesday” in New Jersey, which it filed in 1979.
Finally, in 2023, Taco John’s formally abandoned its claim to the phrase after Taco Bell went on a high-profile quest to free the commonly used saying of trademark restrictions. That’s right; you can thank Taco Bell for liberating “Taco Tuesday” for all (well, in 49 states — Gregory’s Restaurant & Bar still holds the trademark in New Jersey).
Locally, some residents started their own Taco Tuesday campaign — with a healthy twist. Chad Hunt and Juan Chavez, founders of the North Bay Kruzers bike club, initiated the Santa Rosa Taco Tuesday Ride in 2021, which sees dozens of people biking through the Santa Rosa Junior College neighborhood en route to local food trucks for post-ride tacos (on Tuesdays, of course).
Juan Chavez, left, and Chad Hunt, founders of the Taco Tuesday Ride, with hardcore bicycle riders in Old Courthouse Square in Santa Rosa, Tuesday, Nov. 28, 2023. (John Burgess / The Press Democrat)Kris Culp of Santa Rosa stops with others on Fourth Street in Santa Rosa during the Taco Tuesday bike ride, May 31, 2022. (Kent Porter / The Press Democrat)
On Election Day, locals rode through town in a lighted bike parade, from the SRJC parking lot to Mitote Food Park (see videos of the spirited community ride, as well as updates on future rides, on the group’s Facebook page). Find more information on schedules, start times and course routes for the weekly Taco Tuesday rides at downtownsantarosa.org.
So, now that Taco Tuesday is for everyone, we compiled some local restaurants that offer the best taco deals and specials on Tuesdays.
For more delicious tacos any day of the week, we rounded up the best in the county. And our dining editor has shared her overall favorites.
Taco Tuesday deals
Tres Mini Tacos Al Pastor at La Rosa Tequileria & Grille in Santa Rosa, on Tuesday, Aug. 11, 2015. (Beth Schlanker/ The Press Democrat)Chorizo, asada and al pastor tacos from Tipsy Taco & Cantina in Santa Rosa, 2017. (Ricardo Ibarra / La Prensa Sonoma)
El Coqui
This year, Puerto Rican favorite El Coqui rolled out “TacoRican Tuesdays,” only available in-store. The Tuesday deal includes $10 tacos made with the restaurant’s signature pollo al horno and garlic cilantro sauce, as well as $10 nachos with Puerto Rican black beans and garlic cilantro sauce. There’s also $5 micheladas and margaritas.
400 Mendocino Ave., Santa Rosa, 707-542-8869, elcoqui2eat.com
Tipsy Taco & Cantina
The Santa Rosa cantina offers $2 street tacos all day for Taco Tuesday, including veggie, chicken, carnitas, chorizo, asada and al pastor.
Hawaiian Kalua Pork Tacos from Belly Left Coast Kitchen & Taproom in Santa Rosa in 2023. (John Burgess/The Press Democrat)
Belly Left Coast Kitchen and Taproom
In addition to Martini Mondays and Wine Wednesdays, this Santa Rosa taproom offers Taco Tuesdays with a fun lineup of street tacos and drinks. The street tacos are $5 and come with chicken, chorizo or pulled pork on a choice of flour or corn tortillas. Modelo Especial and tequila shots are each $5. Sample each of the deals with the Taco Tuesday Combo ($15) — a choice of taco, tequila shot and Modelo Especial. There are also margarita carafes for the table from $30-$35.
Formerly the Nutty Irishman, this restaurant and karaoke bar offers $3 tacos and $7 margaritas all day on Tuesdays.
995 Piner Road, Santa Rosa, 707-544-1447, dolansden.com
Sunny Cafe Food Truck
This taco truck down the way from Coffey Park hosts Taco Tuesday from 4-7 p.m. weekly with $2.50 tacos. Choose one of 10 meats (except fish or shrimp).
The favored Sonoma Mexican restaurant celebrates Taco Tuesday with a variety of deals and choices, such as five tacos (chef’s choice) for $12, or three citrus-marinated shrimp tacos for $11. To pair your nosh with a drink, go for the two tacos with a draft beer for $10. Vegan and vegetarian tacos are also available.
Vegan and al pastor tacos at Sonoma Eats restaurant in Sonoma. (Heather Irwin / The Press Democrat)Taco Al Pastor at Taqueria Mi Pueblo in Petaluma on Wednesday, Nov. 7, 2012. (Jeff Kan Lee/ The Press Democrat)
Mi Pueblo
All Mi Pueblo locations in Petaluma, Santa Rosa, Windsor and Cotati offer Taco Tuesday deals every week. Tacos are just $1.50 all day at the Petaluma and Santa Rosa spots, and $3 for all taco choices (meat, fish or shrimp) at the Cotati location.
The Petaluma pub offers tacos for half off starting at 4:30 p.m. every Tuesday. For something a little different, try the crispy Brussels sprouts tacos or the ahi tuna poke tacos with avocado wasabi mousse.
3120 A Lakeville Highway, Petaluma, 707-782-9090, pubrepublic.com
Taqueria Sol Azteca
This Rohnert Park taqueria celebrates Taco Tuesday every week with $2 tacos. Plus, tacos dorados and super tacos for $3, as well as three quesabirrias for $6.
Starting the first week of November, this Windsor brewhouse will host Taco Tuesdays, elevated with handcrafted margaritas to pair with tacos and tortas. Stay tuned on Barrel Brothers’ Instagram for more details on the Tuesday specials.
Tacos from Castañeda’s Market in Windsor. The market sometimes offers Taco Tuesday deals, in addition to discounted taco bars for special occasions. (Courtesy Castañeda’s Market)Pork belly and kimchi taco, and a fish and chips taco, at Osito Style Tacos at the Barlow in Sebastopol (formerly Barrio). (Heather Irwin/Sonoma Magazine)
Castañeda’s Market
This popular Mexican food market sometimes offers Taco Tuesday deals, in addition to discounted taco bars for special occasions. The market recently offered a “Taco-la Tuesday Presidential Platter” for Election Day — priced at $47 as Americans elected their 47th president. Keep an eye on the market’s Instagram for updates on deals.
8465 Old Redwood Highway, Suite 601, Windsor, 707-838-8820, castanedasmarket.com
Osito Style Tacos
This Barlow taco shop sometimes offers deals for Taco Tuesday — though it pays to follow Osito’s Instagram for updates and special deals. Last week, Osito offered 10% off taco orders if you mentioned its Taco Tuesday post to their team. Innovative creations await, such as chicken and waffle tacos with chipotle syrup and jambalaya tacos with shrimp, pork adobo and chimichurri.
All of Flagship’s taproom locations — Cotati, Windsor and Santa Rosa — offer a Taco Tuesday special, featuring $2 street tacos. Vegan and vegetarian options are also available.
8099 La Plaza St., Suite B, Cotati, 707-664-5904; 1001-1007 McClelland Drive, Windsor, 707-837-5654; 446 B St., Santa Rosa, 707-541-6716, flagshiptaproom.com
Super Chicken Nachos from Juanita Juanita in Sonoma. (John Burgess/The Press Democrat)
The perfect dish for sharing, the ultimate Super Bowl snack, the pub fare you can’t get enough of — nachos are the quintessential cheesy treat.
We have Ignacio “Nacho” Anaya García to thank for this simple yet glorious dish. As the story goes, in 1943 in the city of Piedras Negras, Mexico, a group of U.S. military wives arrived at the restaurant Club Victoria where García worked. With no chefs nearby to feed the hungry crew, García improvised a dish. He grated cheese onto a plate of tostados, broiled it for a few minutes until the cheese was perfectly melted and then topped it with sliced jalapeño. Thus was born Nachos especiales (Nacho’s special) and the world has been indebted to his cheesy genius ever since.
While we can honor García any day by stuffing our face with his namesake snack, it seems all the more fitting to do it on National Nacho Day, Nov. 6. So get in the nacho spirit and check out where to get the best plate of nachos in Sonoma County. Click through the above gallery for a taste and get the details below.
Nachos al pastor available from the EDK Cantina off West Spain Street in Sonoma. Photo taken on Thursday, May 30, 2024. (Robbi Pengelly/Index-Tribune)
Maya Restaurant
The name says it all: Maya Restaurant’s “Really Good Nachos” — topped with savory cheddar and jack cheese, spicy salsa roja, black beans and fresh pico de gallo — are, well, really good. 101 East Napa St., Sonoma, 707-935-3500, mayarestaurant.com
El Dorado Cantina
Also known as EDK Cantina, El Dorado Hotel’s take-out-only cantina offers nachos with black beans, chihuahua cheese, pickled carrots, jalapeños, pico de gallo and crema. Add-ons include chicken, al pastor and short rib birria. 405 First St. W., Sonoma, 707-996-3030, eldoradosonoma.com/edk-cantina
Sonoma Eats
The small nachos is a great appetizer for two to share and the large nachos with generous amounts of gooey cheese and other fixings is excellent for big groups (or have it all to yourself; we won’t judge). 18133 Sonoma Highway, Sonoma, 707-343-1141, sonoma-eats.com
Juanita Juanita
This hidden gem outside the town of Sonoma is a locals favorite. Nachos here come in meaty or meatless variations, with chips, beans, cheese, guacamole, Cotija cheese, jalapeños, salsa and sour cream. 19114 Arnold Drive, Sonoma, 707-935-3981, juanitajuanita.com
Gallina D’Oro
Formerly El Farolito, the local Diaz family restaurateurs continue a long Healdsburg tradition of farm-to-table Mexican cuisine. The nachos still excel, with housemade corn tortillas topped with melted cheese, frijoles fritos, guacamole, salsa and sour cream. 128 Plaza St., Healdsburg, 707-433-2807, gallinadoro.com
Nachos from El Gallo Negro in Windsor. (Courtesy of El Gallo Negro)
El Gallo Negro
Known for its authentic Oaxacan cuisine, El Gallo Negro (also run by the Diaz brothers) serves up masterfully decorated nachos on a bed of toasted housemade corn tortilla chips with all the usual fixings. 8465 Old Redwood Highway, Windsor, 707-838-9511, elgallonegro.net
Los Arcos
A nacho favorite among Yelp reviewers, Los Arcos’ Super Nachos with tender al pastor or carne asada — along with beans, cheese, pico de gallo, guacamole and a dollop of sour cream — come highly recommended. 1791 Marlow Road, Suite 6, Santa Rosa, 707-545-5858, losarcosrestaurantsr.com
Taqueria Molcajetes
The locally and nationally famous (thanks to the excellent food, and Guy Fieri) Taqueria Molcajetes offers a heaping plate of spicy, meaty Super Nachos fit for a king — or a hungry crowd of college kids. 1195 W. College Ave., Santa Rosa, 707-544-8280
Los Molcajetes Bar & Grill
Now with a new third location in Sonoma, Los Molcajetes offers a loaded Birria Nachos dish topped with jack cheese, guacamole, salsa verde, grilled corn, black beans, pico de gallo, chipotle aioli, sour cream and cilantro. 1950 Piner Road, Suite 130, Santa Rosa, 707-843-4716; 6599 Montecito Blvd., Suite 110, Santa Rosa; 19101 Sonoma Hwy., Sonoma, 707-935-3287, losmolcajetesbarandgrill.com
ChoriVegan nachos from the Tacos Tijuana food truck at Shady Oak Barrel House in Santa Rosa on Friday, Oct. 22, 2021. (John Burgess/The Press Democrat)
Tacos Tijuana
In 2021, rival chefs Miguel Canseco and José Rodriguez joined forces to launch Tacos Tijuana, a hybrid food truck and tiny kitchen in Santa Rosa. That’s very good news for fans of Mexican food, including nachos. The ChoriVegan Nachos come with corn chips, black beans, soy chorizo, vegan mozzarella cheese, bell peppers, avocado, vegan sour cream, green onions, tomatoes, cilantro and green salsa swirled with avocado. 3320 Mendocino Ave., Santa Rosa, 707-295-7775, instagram.com/tacostijuana707
El Rancho Taqueria
There’s something for everyone at El Rancho Taqueria, and the Super Nachos are no exception. Whether you’re going for a killer meaty plate or the fresh vegetarian version, these flavor-packed nachos won’t disappoint. 1451 Southwest Blvd., Rohnert Park, 707-795-8537
Don Julio’s Rincon Latin Grill and Pupusas
While Don Julio’s specializes in pupusas, its Locos Nachos are just as mouthwatering. Crispy corn tortilla chips are topped with the works, including refried beans, jack cheese, guacamole and your choice of tender marinated meat. 217 Southwest Blvd., Rohnert Park, 707-242-3160, donjulioslatingrill.com
El Roy’s Mexican Grill
Nacho connoisseurs flock to El Roy’s, where the generously sized Super Nachos are lavishly adorned with melted cheese, tender meat, fresh pico de gallo and guacamole, a light drizzle of sour cream and a healthy sprinkling of spicy jalapeño peppers. 210 Edith St., Petaluma, 707-774-3738, elroys.com
Enter the best shareable dish to pair with an IPA: Lagunitas’ Brewhouse Nachos with IPA beer cheese, black bean puree, pickled jalapeño, tomato, sour cream and green onion. 1280 N. McDowell Blvd., Petaluma, 707-778-8776, lagunitas.com/taproom/petaluma
Cosmic Nachos at The Wild Poppy Cafe bar along the Bodega Highway west of Sebastopol on Friday, May 3, 2024. (John Burgess/The Press Democrat)
The Wild Poppy
This Sebastopol cafe and market’s modest brunch menu includes “Cosmic Nachos,” made with corn tortilla chips, black bean puree, “cosmic” queso, cashew crema, coleslaw and scallion pepita chimichurri. 9890 Bodega Highway, Sebastopol, 707-503-6332, thewildpoppycafe.com
Viva Mexicana
Vegans and vegetarians can rest easy knowing Viva Mexicana serves up delicious Mexican food with plenty of options for them. The Vegan Nachos made with Daiya vegan cheese are as scrumptious as any dairy or meat-filled version of the dish. The vegetarian version of the Super Duper Nachos is topped with your choice of a garlic, eggplant and bell pepper sauté; or housemade potato and yam hash browns. 841 Gravenstein Hwy. S., Sebastopol, 707-823-5555, vivamexicana.com
The family-owned local favorite Guerneville Taco Truck offers consistently satisfying Mexican cuisine, and a reliably loaded, saucy plate of Nachos Supreme for your noshing pleasure. 16405 Highway 116, Guerneville, guernevilletacotruck.com
Ginochio’s Kitchen
If you’re craving smoked meat topped with melted cheese and mild chipotle sauce, it’s time to get Alicia’s Crackling Nachos at Ginochio’s Kitchen, with your choice of juicy pulled pork, tri-tip or beef brisket. 1410 Bay Flat Road, Bodega Bay, 707-377-4359, ginochioskitchen.com
Arts activist Spring Maxfield co-founded the Handcar Regatta in Santa rosa and now focuses on the Maker’s Faire and a new business called Sonoma Art Tours. (John Burgess)
Santa Rosa’s Spring Maxfield has been a fixture of the local art scene for over three decades. She holds multiple art degrees, but Maxfield is not an artist — not in the traditional sense, at least.
As executive director of Urban Arts Partnership, her work involves organizing, promoting and supporting the output, and thus the livelihoods, of other artists who call Santa Rosa home.
“I want people to be who they are, and I feel like there’s so many people that aren’t able to fulfill that in the economy that we have in Sonoma County,” says Maxfield, who recently received a Merit Award from the city of Santa Rosa. “If there are ways to create economic opportunities for artists, then I want to help with that.”
Maxfield’s next event is the 20th annual WinterBlast, an interactive art parade and open-studio celebration in Santa Rosa’s South of A (SofA) Arts District on Saturday, Nov. 9 (srurbanarts.org).
Urban jellyfish, lighted strands in see-through umbrellas are prepped for the WinterBlast Sofa District parade, Saturday, Nov. 4, 2023, in Santa Rosa. (Kent Porter / The Press Democrat)
Finding Motivation
What motivates me is brilliant people. I encounter so many amazing humans every day who are not getting to sparkle because they’re working jobs they hate to support their art, when really what they should be doing is being creative. I’ve spent the last 30-plus years trying to find ways to turn that into an income for people, so that they can quit their dull jobs and create an economy from what they should be doing with their lives.
Rising Tides
The more art that’s out there, the more people recognize that it’s accessible to them. The more artists that are selling work, the better they are going to be at getting more customers. A rising tide floats all boats. Creating that economy is about educating the public and providing opportunities for artists to sell their work and for people to find art that they love.
Santa Rosa’s Art Scene
There are so many different pockets, and you’ll really see a very distinct flavor to each. You’re going to find what you’re looking for; there’s a little bit for everybody. I do think that there’s a growing appreciation for art in Santa Rosa. It is much more supported by businesses and the city itself than when I first started here.
Heading to Winterblast
It celebrates the coming darkness and winter in general, and is an irreverent, silly commentary on the “SofA” designation that the city gave that area many years ago. Artists started it by just pushing their studio sofas out into the street and having a party, and it’s evolved from there. I think right now, the purpose WinterBlast serves is giving the public an opportunity to immerse themselves in a very family-friendly expression of personal creativity.
Hiking along the Kortum Trail on the Sonoma Coast. (Jerry Dodrill)
Sonoma County has some of the most stunning stretches of coastline in the world. A hike on one of the many trails near the coast is a perfect way to take in the natural beauty and discover the unique landscapes of this region.
Eager to find the crème de la crème of trails on or near the coast, we consulted our friends at AllTrails, an outdoor recreational app with crowdsource reviews. Here are the 10 best hikes on the Sonoma Coast, according to the site.
Island in the Sky and Fern Tree and Badger Hill Vista
Located in Duncans Mills, this 3.8-mile loop trail is a moderately challenging hike that takes a little over two hours to complete. The trail has “stunning mountaintop meadows in full bloom each spring,” according to AllTrails. It’s popular with hikers and runners. Dogs are not allowed on this trail.
Salt Point Trail to Stump Beach
For a relatively easy route with wide open views of the Pacific, try this 3.4-mile out-and-back trail near Stewarts Point. It takes a little over an hour to walk. “Seals are commonly spotted and even whales are sometimes observed! This is a great choice if you enjoy wildlife,” according to AllTrails. A favorite of birders, hikers and those looking to enjoy some solitude. Dogs are not allowed on this trail.
Sea to Sky to Russian Gulch to Raptor Ridge Loop
This 9-mile loop trail in the Jenner Headlands Preserve takes about four and a half hours to walk. Classified as moderately challenging, it is popular with runners and hikers. “Overall, the trail offers great views, a mix of forest and ocean scenery, and gradual uphills….Hikers should be prepared for both sun exposure and shaded areas, as well as varying conditions,” according to AllTrails. Dogs are allowed, but must be on a leash.
Red Hill via Pomo Canyon Trail
Located near Jenner, this 5-mile loop trail takes about two and a half hours to walk. The moderately challenging trail tends to be a popular hiking spot. “Amazing views of the Russian River flowing to the Pacific Ocean. Very scenic hike that takes you through three different types of terrain,” according to AllTrails. Reviews on the site highlight the trail’s mix of coastal views, redwood forests and green hills. Dogs not allowed on this trail.
Bodega Head Trail
For another easy hike with striking views of the ocean, try this 1.6-mile loop trail near Bodega Bay. The route only takes about 40 minutes to complete. If you time your visit just right, you might just witness a natural wonder. “During their spring and fall migrations, grey whales can be spotted from here,” according to AllTrails. The peak months for whale watching are January through May. Dogs not allowed on this trail.
Salt Point and North Trail Loop
For a longer hike with a variety of terrain, this 8-mile loop trail near Cazadero just might pique your interest. It is a moderately challenging route that takes nearly four hours to walk. Redwoods, pine forests, prairies, and beach views are among the natural features you will encounter on the hike. Dogs are not allowed on this trail.
Stillwater Cove Canyon Trail
This relatively short 1.3 mile loop trail near Stewarts Point takes about a half hour to walk, but is considered moderately challenging. The trail tends to be less frequented than some of the other ones on the list and is great for birders, hikers and runners. “The trail features gorgeous scenery with ferns, clover, and redwoods,” according to AllTrails. Dogs are allowed, but must be on a leash.
Salt Point-Stump Beach Trail
Located near Cazadero at Salt Point State Park, this 6.6-mile out-and-back trail takes almost three hours to walk. It is a moderately challenging trail that is popular with birders, hikers and runners. “It can be foggy along the Salt Point portion, but overall still beautiful with wildflowers mostly finished blooming. The Stump Beach portion may not offer any vistas, so hikers can turn back earlier if desired,” according to AllTrails. Dogs not allowed on this trail.
Coastal Bluff Trail to Sea Pine Beach
This trail near Gualala is 6.9-miles out-and-back and takes under two and a half hours to walk. It is classified as easy and is popular with hikers and runners. “At one point you can walk out onto a bluff overlooking Sea Pine Beach before turning back. Sea mammals are often spotted from the trail,” according to AllTrails. Dogs are allowed, but must be on a leash.
Kortum Trail: Shell Beach to Blind Beach
The last trail on the list, but certainly not the least, this 4.4-mile out-and-back trail is located on the coast near Jenner. It is a moderately challenging route that can be walked in just under two hours. A delight for birders, hikers and runners alike. “The trail is known for its beauty and panoramic views, especially in the Spring, Summer, and Fall seasons,” according to AllTrails. Dogs are not allowed on this trail.
Encacahuatado, pork ribs cooked in a peanut mole sauce from El Milagro Healdsburg, a block west of the square Friday, Nov. 1, 2024, in downtown Healdsburg. (John Burgess / The Press Democrat)
Neighborhood restaurants are the lifeblood of Sonoma County’s food scene, where servers know your name and order as soon as you walk in. Prices are usually reasonable, kids welcome, drinks stiff and there are plenty of opportunities to run into old friends. Some have been around for decades while others just seem to fit in right when they open.
Recently, I’ve been visiting some favorite old haunts worth discovering (or rediscovering).
Pizzando
Healdsburg in the daytime can be slow as a sloth. But come dusk, restaurant lights flood the streets and the party heads outside to semi-enclosed sidewalk parklets. Strolling past Pizzando, it’s hard not to notice al fresco diners — families, couples, friends — huddled around Neapolitan pizzas and hulking plates of pasta. It’s a delicious advertisement for the 12-year-old restaurant after a significant menu overhaul and interior expansion in 2023, something sorely needed at the longtime Hotel Healdsburg trattoria.
From left, Lori Taylor, Phyllis Sutton and Tracy Garrison grab a pizza for lunch from Pizzando on a day out in Healdsburg, Friday, June 2, 2023. Pizzando now offers an extended menu with hearty entrées, as well as a full bar. (John Burgess / The Press Democrat)
Launched with just a handful of tables, a woodfired oven and little else, the restaurant was an also-ran in the glitzy, over-the-top Healdsburg restaurant scene for years.
That’s changed.
Pizzando now offers an extended menu with hearty entrées (lasagna and osso buco are favorites), excellent pasta, burgers and antipasti, a well-thought-out wine list (both local and Italian) and a full bar.
It’s also one of the few all-day restaurants downtown, offering their full menu from 11:30 a.m. to 9 p.m. and a weekday happy hour from 3 to 5 p.m.
Cocktails from Pizzando in downtown Healdsburg. Pizzando has a well-thought-out wine list and full bar as well as a weekday happy hour from 3 to 5 p.m. (Courtesy of Pizzando)
Best Bets
Preserved Lemon Ravioli ($25): stuffed with creamy ricotta, the extra-large ravioli swim in a lemon-butter sauce you’ll be licking from the bowl (we used our extra pizza crust).
Melanzane alla parmigiana ($21): You’ll be eating on this for days, which is just fine, considering the mix of tart tomato sauce, baked (not fried) thinly sliced eggplant and globs of melty, stringy mozzarella happily melding into a tummy-filling treat.
Elderflower Spritz ($14): Aperol is out, and sassy St. Germaine elderflower liqueur is in. More delicate and less bitter, this fizzy spritz is a refreshing foil for all the cheese and carbs you’ll consume.
A charming, tucked-away cucina offering authentic regional Mexican cuisine from the owners of El Milagro in Cloverdale. While Healdsburg isn’t lacking in Mexican restaurants — from higher-end cafés to everyday taquerias — I’ve long been a fan of the bighearted, family-inspired dishes from chef-owners Alan Valverde, Julio Velazquez and Marco Zamora.
Open from 11 a.m. to 9 p.m. daily.
Mole Verde Pipian, braised chicken breast in housemade green pumpkin seed mole sauce from El Milagro Healdsburg, Friday, Nov. 1, 2024, in downtown Healdsburg. (John Burgess / The Press Democrat)Traditional pre-Hispanic Mole Rojo with a mix of spices perfected by co-owner Julio Velazquez’s mom from El Milagro Healdsburg, a block west of the square Friday, Nov. 1, 2024, in downtown Healdsburg. (John Burgess / The Press Democrat)
Best Bet
You’re here for the mole, specifically, the Mole Verde Pipian (green pumpkin seed mole, $22) made with chiles, spices and crushed pumpkin seeds with braised chicken.
Even better is pork Mole Rojo ($22), an ancient recipe that predates the Spanish and is “a melody of the owners’ moms’ recipes.” Long stewed pork is infused with the sweet, bitter, intensely flavored sauce made with over a dozen ingredients. My new favorite mole.
Kin restaurant in Windsor Monday, Nov. 17, 2014. (Crista Jeremiason / The Press Democrat)
After 13 years in business on the Windsor Town Green, it’s easy to take this neighborhood restaurant for granted. However, the fact that I end up here so often with friends and family speaks to its broad appeal and well-made comfort food ranging from burgers and frickles to braised short ribs, mac and cheese and warm cobbler.
Hospitality industry veterans Brad Barmore and JC Adams intentionally created a casual restaurant with something on the menu for everyone without feeling like a compromise.
Open from 11 a.m. to 9 p.m. Sunday to Thursday, until 10 p.m. Friday and Saturday.
Mac and cheese at Kin restaurant in Windsor. (Heather Irwin/The Press Democrat)
Best Bets
Braised Short Rib ($30): Red wine-braised beef short rib piled on cheesy polenta is cozier than a cashmere sweater.
Kin Mac & Cheese ($18): An entree-sized, shareable portion of cavatappi pasta bathed in white cheddar bechamel sauce, topped with Parmesan bread crumbs. Carbs + cheese + bread crumbs = pure happiness.
