Page 365 – Sonoma Magazine

12 Great Ideas for Family Fun in Sonoma County Over Winter Break

December 2016

By Sonoma Magazine Staff

Looking for some family fun during the winter holidays? Look no further!

Little Shop of Horrors: California Carnivores
California Carnivores is the largest retail carnivorous plant nursery in North America, with Venus flytraps, sundews, butterworts, bladderworts and tropical pitcher plants chowing down on yellow jackets … well, you just have to see it. The nursery is on a side street behind farm plots south of Sebastopol, yet it’s worth the hunt for the fascinating education and the beauty of these natural pest-control plants. The curators are very serious about the plants, but with a wicked sense of humor, so the shop is decorated with skulls and spiders and the occasional severed (rubber, we hope) hand. 2833 Old Gravenstein Highway, Sebastopol, 707-824-0433, californiacarnivores.com, open Thursday through Monday from 10am – 4pm. Closed Tuesday and Wednesday and all major holidays.

Fly a Kite: Bodega Bay
Go fly a kite. And we mean that in the nicest way possible. The windy Sonoma Coast has emerged as one of the nation’s best-known spots for kite flying, welcoming both the casual, lazy-days-of-childhood fliers and the highly competitive sporting types, who seek an adrenaline rush instead of a calming peace. Bodega Bay beaches offer some of the wildest kite flying in the county – after all, the coastal town didn’t get the nickname ‘Blow-dega Bay’ for nothing! A favorite spot is Doran Regional Park, which features a wide beach facing the relatively calm bay, with no power lines or trees to disrupt flight. Need to pick up a kite? Visit Candy & Kites, or Second Wind. Candy & Kites, 1415 CA-1, Bodega Bay, (707) 875-3777. Second Wind, 1805 N Highway 1 (Corner of Eastshore Road), Bodega Bay, (707) 875-9463

Let the Kids Rule: Children’s Museum of Sonoma County
Kids set their own game rules at the Children’s Museum of Sonoma County. Young visitors are free to invent their own games and activities, so they can really make it their own. Built to inspire creative fun and imaginative discovery, the museum in Santa Rosa offers engaging activities for little ones, including water play, fort building, art studio, marble run construction set, play market, even a boulder-studded “Russian River” filled with fish to net and set in a flowering landscape. Water tables with hand pumps, tubing, water runs and sluice gates invite youngsters to learn about the forces that generate hydroelectric power. The outdoor garden features interactive stations illustrating the life cycle of the butterfly, which introduces children to solar power and crank mechanics, with colorful wings for them to wear and a kid-sized chrysalis to duck into. 1835 West Steele Lane, Santa Rosa, 707-546-4069, cmosc.org, open daily except for Mondays, Thanksgiving, Christmas and New Year’s Day.

The Children’s Museum in Santa Rosa. (Photo by Beth Schlanker)

Zip-A-Dee-Doo-Aah: Sonoma Canopy Tours
With your harness attached to a pulley on a heavy steel cable, soar above ancient redwoods and deep ravines at up to 25 mph on the zip lines at Sonoma Canopy Tours near Occidental. The seven lines are connected by platforms, two skybridges and a spiral staircase, providing an eco-friendly workout and thrill ride that ends with a rappel to the forest floor. Look down if you dare. $99-$109; discounts for ages 10 to 17 and seniors. 6250 Bohemian Highway, Occidental, 888-494-7868, book flights here: sonomacanopytours.com

Turn up the fun-o-meter: Fundemonium!
Fundemonium! in Rohnert Park is not only a toy and hobby store but a community center that hosts daily activities for kids, from crafts and free play to slot car and RC (radio controlled) car racing. “Momnificent Mondays” offer free play and treats from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. Mondays. Other daily activities require a small fee. 579 Rohnert Park Expressway West, (707) 800-4060, fundemoniumtoys.com, open Monday through Saturday, 10am – 9pm, Sunday 10am – 6pm.

Hit a Striiiiiike: Windsor Bowl
Bowling may sound kind of old-school, but local bowling alleys now offer discount family deals and crank up the excitement with special effects like light shows. At the Windsor Bowling Center, Rock N’ Glow Night from 5 to 10 p.m. on Mondays is geared toward families on a budget, with two hours of bowling for just $10 each, shoe rental included. There is LED lighting plus special bumper-rails for kids to help avoid gutter balls. 8801 Conde Lane, Windsor, (707) 837-9889, windsorbowl.com.

2013_636576 — Shelves stocked with rental bowling shoes at Windsor Bowl in Windsor, Calif., on February 12, 2013. (Photo by Alvin Jornada)

A Kid’s Kind of Fish Shop: Ceasar’s Tropical Fish
No one will mistake it for Sea World, but Caesar’s Tropical Fish in Santa Rosa is nearly as much of a kid thriller as a splash by a killer whale. In darkened display rooms, little ones go eyeball to eyeball through aquarium glass with audaciously hued saltwater exotics, bug-eyed goldfish and a resident Madagascar cichlid that seems to want to nibble at noses. 1648 Piner Road, Santa Rosa, 707-546-7456, caesarstropicalfish.com

African Cichlid at Ceasar’s Tropical Fish.

Hear That Whistle Blowin’: Train Town
TrainTown chugs along on the margins of Sonoma, well off the upscale tourist routes. The quarter-scale steam train and track were built by the late Stanley Frank in 1968. Generations of kids have since thrilled to the 20-minute journey through the trees, over bridges and into tunnels, including a short layover in a miniature town complete with petting zoo. Near the station are more kiddie rides, including a Ferris wheel, carousel and dragon coaster. It’s for the kid in all of us. 20264 Broadway, Sonoma, 707-938-3912, traintown.com, open Friday through Sunday 10am – 5pm, closed Christmas Day.

Train Town in Sonoma. (photo by Beth Schlanker) — Train Town in Sonoma. (Photo by Beth Schlanker)

Experience the Peanut Version of Family Fun: Charles M. Schulz Museum & Ice Rink
The Charles M. Schulz Museum in Santa Rosa will host winter break classes for kids in art, cartooning, animation, hands-on science and more between December 26 and January 6. There’s fun for the whole family here: adults can reminisce, and get a good laugh, while checking out the comic strips while the little ones have fun in the workshop. Then get your skates on at Snoopy’s Home Ice. Charles M. Schulz Museum, 2301 Hardies Lane Santa Rosa, California 95403, (707) 579-4452, schulzmuseum.org, Snoopy’s Home Ice/Redwood Empire Ice Arena, 1667 W Steele Ln, Santa Rosa, CA 95403.

Rachel Vaden of Santa Rosa skates with her daughter Maren, 3, at Snoopy's Home Ice during a family skating session. (John Burgess — Rachel Vaden of Santa Rosa skates with her daughter Maren, 3, at Snoopy’s Home Ice during a family skating session. (Photo by John Burgess)

Hug a Tree: Old Grove Trees
In an unusual location for the remaining old-growth redwood stands in Sonoma, the Grove of Old Trees is perched high on a remote ridgetop, hidden along narrow, twisting Fitzpatrick Lane off Joy Road in Occidental. The grove is owned and managed by the land conservancy group LandPaths and includes 28 peaceful acres traversed by a network of wide, easy-to-walk trails. Access is free, but be forewarned: There are no amenities, save for a picnic table. 17400 Fitzpatrick Lane, Occidental, 707-544-7284, landpaths.org

Grove of Old Trees, Occidental. (Photo by John Burgess)

Birds and Burros
Odd animals are the attraction at the Bird Exchange and Honkey Donkey Farm, a popular stop for families on Hall Road in Santa Rosa. The Bird Exchange, a bird store and supply shop, has one of the largest selections of exotic avians in Northern California, hundreds at any given time. Next door, the Honkey Donkey Farm is home to more than 100 miniature Sicilian donkeys, pint-sized beasts that grow to an average 30 to 32 inches tall, making them a favorite among young kids who are about the same size. 5355 Hall Road, Santa Rosa, 707-575-0433, birdexchange.com

Freshest of the Fresh: Green String Farm
Farmers market produce not fresh enough for you? Then go directly to the farm. At Green String Farm, you can see your kale and radishes harvested from the Petaluma soil. Take a free tour of the farm on the first Saturday of each month at noon and learn about its sustainable farming practices, then hit the produce stand for more just-picked fruits and veggies, eggs, cheese, honey and nuts. Green String Farm, 3571 Old Adobe Road, Petaluma, 707-778-7500, greenstringfarm.com

Green String Farm offers free tours every Saturday, but visitors are welcome to stop by anytime. — Green String Farm in Petaluma offers free tours on the first Saturday of each month.

Rossi’s Change, Johnny Garlic’s Closed, New Tenant at Brasa

December 2016

By biteclub

Rossi’s1906 Becomes Reel Fish Shop & Grill

The little Sonoma roadhouse most-recently known as Rossi’s 1906, and before that, Little Switzerland, will soon become a seafood restaurant. Owner Max Young has partnered with Aiki Terashima to revive the space with seafood classics like New England lobster rolls, cioppino, fish tacos and fresh aki poke, says Sonoma Index-Tribune writer Kathleen Hill. The restaurant is slated for a January opening. More details soon.

Brasa Becomes Tipsy Taco

Tipsy Taco and Cantina is taking over the massive 505 Mendocino space, which has stood vacant for months, since Brasa Churrascaria closed. The restaurant space has been doomed for years, as restaurant after several restaurants failed to attract crowds and ultimately closed. Hopefully a return to Mexican tacos and margaritas will be the winning combination for the old Acapulco space.

Johnny Garlic’s Closed

A few weeks ago, the original Johnny Garlic’s in Santa Rosa quietly closed. The launching pad for Food Network star Guy Fieri opened in 1996 when wacky dishes like Donkey Sauce, Volcano Chicken and “Off Da Hook” seafood dishes were a novelty in the culinary world. Fieri walked away from his signature restaurants in April, turning them over to former business partner Steve Gruber. The restaurant reopened as Johnny Garlic’s Craft Bar and Scratch Kitchen, last summer.

Ceres Cafe

Though it’s been open since February, we haven’t had a chance to give a shout out to the Ceres Cafe in Santa Rosa. It’s a win-win project that offers up Ceres’ healthy, healing foods to the general community while helping teens at the SAY Dream Center learn vocational skills in the kitchen. The menu includes a beet burger, chicken and kale pesto panini, tuna salad wrap and several salads, including a sampler plate with kale, potato, tuna or beet burger salad. The cafe also offers daily soups, breakfast pastries, coffee and lattes. All items are under $10. The cafe is open from 9a.m. to 2p.m. Monday through Friday. Debit or credit cards only, 2447 Summerfield Ave., Santa Rosa.

Tis the Season for Tea

With all the cold rainy weather lately, a cuppa tea hits the spot, especially when it includes scones with jam and cream. Tudor Rose English Tea Room will hold a Mad Hatter-themed tea party with all of the above, plus mini quiches, cupcakes and raspberry vanilla tea on Dec. 20 in downtown Santa Rosa. Costumes are encouraged, and children will be entertained in a private room while adults enjoy the tea in the main tea room. $39 per person, 4-6p.m., 733 Fourth St., Santa Rosa. Reservations required, details at tudorrosetearoom.com.

9 Restaurants For New Year’s Eve Dinner in Sonoma

December 2016

By Kathleen Hill

The Depot Hotel in Sonoma. — The Depot Hotel in Sonoma will offer a special New Year’s Eve dinner.

Many people prefer to stay home on New Year’s Eve, open a good beverage of choice, cook a fine dinner, and get in bed and watch celebrations elsewhere. And some people set the clock ahead three hours so that when it’s 2017 in New York, they can celebrate early instead of waiting until midnight. My late husband Jerry used to call New Year’s Eve “amateur night.”

Or maybe hang out in a bar of choice that hopefully offers snacks. If you have a favorite place to celebrate, go for it.

Here are some restaurants that have let us know they offer special menus and events, alphabetically.

Breakaway Café will offer its regular menu with a few added specials both New Year’s Eve and New Year’s Day. No reservations.

Café La Haye will serve a four-course dinner of Dungeness crab bisque, a crispy Portobello mushroom, or beef carpaccio; entrées of braised lamb tagliatelle, grilled Day Boat scallops, or pecorino risotto; followed by sea bass with foie gras, Wolfe Ranch quail, or filet mignon and housemade desserts. Hog Island oysters on the half shell $18 additional. $115. 140 E. Napa St., Sonoma. 935-5994.

Carneros Bistro & Wine Bar offers their regular menu, plus a three-course prix-fixe menu of cauliflower soup or Coke Farms beet salad; a choice of seared jumbo Day Boat scallops with carrot purée and crispy quinoa, filet of beef, or truffled red quinoa with mushrooms, carrots, roast beets and confit shallots. Dessert will be a trio of crèmes brûlée. $65, wine pairings $30 extra. 5:30 to 10 p.m. As well, they will have sparkling wine and oyster and caviar bars in the lobby lounge from 10 p.m. to midnight. 1325 Broadway, Sonoma. 931-2042 or Renaissancehotels.com.

Depot Hotel Restaurant starts off with cauliflower bisque, then choice of butter-poached Gulf prawns, butternut squash “lasagna,” or Piedmontese beef carpaccio. Third course brings choice of Dungeness crab cannelloni, halibut, gnocchi with oyster mushrooms, or roast sirloin of beef. Dessert offers their fabulous tiramisu, Manjari chocolate torte, or rum cake with zabaglione. $62. Reserve at 938-2980 Wednesday through Sunday or at opentable.com.

El Dorado Hotel & Kitchen will serve a three-course prix-fixe menu to include Wagyu beef carpaccio with crispy fingerling potatoes, pea shoots, Daikon radish, and truffle aioli, foie gras, salad or cauliflower soup; bacon-wrapped Venison with ginger carrot purée with Walla Walla onions, spinach, sun chokes and cranberry sauce; seafood paella, Steelhead trout, truffle risotto or filet mignon, followed by chocolate crunch tart with almonds and lemon crunch. $75. 405 First St. W., Sonoma. Reserve at 996-3030.

The Fig Café will serve its regular menu plus a three-course tasting menu that includes lobster bisque and veal-wrapped tenderloin of beef ($45). Open New Year’s Eve 5 to 9:30 p.m. and from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. for brunch and regular menu from 3 p.m. on New Year’s Day.

Girl & the Fig will be open 8 a.m. to 11 p.m. serving brunch and its regular menu. 110 W. Spain St. 938-3634.

Glen Ellen Star will serve its regular menu and add a whole oven-roasted Dungeness crab and a puttanesca with housemade campanelle.

Ramekins Culinary School offers its NYE Celebration 2017 “in true Hollywood Style. Dress in your glamorous best for an all-inclusive party at Ramekins.” Expect beer, wine and champagne, savory bites, a midnight toast, and late night snacks, with music by “The French Connection.” $125. 8 p.m. to 1 a.m. 450 W. Spain St. Ramekins.com.

How to Throw An Around-the-Clock Bridal Shower in Sonoma

December 2016

By Amy Lee

Around-the-Clock Shower

This classic bridal shower tradition, an old favorite that’s enjoying a comeback, has guests assigned a time of day that informs their choice of gift. Here are our picks for what you’ll need morning, noon, and night as you move from engagement to wedding to honeymoon!

MORNING

Morning Mask
Begin your pre-wedding self-care with a luxurious home facial mask session. These one-time-use mask pouches from Oak & Ashland, a local ingredient-conscious beauty product line, are made with skin-soothing ingredients such as rose clay, creamy coconut milk, and activated charcoal. $6.50 per pouch, Oak & Ashland, Sonoma, oakandashland.com

Tea Time
Start your wedding-prep mornings with a soothing cup of tea from Mr. Trombly’s Tea & Table. Sign up for the tea-of-the-month club, which allows you to select two 3 oz. bags of fresh loose-leaf tea in whichever flavors your heart desires. $25 per month or $3.25 per 2 oz. individual bag, Mr. Trombly’s Tea & Table, Duncans Mills, mrtromblystea.com

Bridal Indulgence
As exciting as wedding planning can be, it also takes a toll on your stress level. Blush Spa Sonoma invites you and your bridesmaids to indulge in a full day of massages, facials, and salt scrubs — complete with complimentary Champagne and strawberries. Bridal Package $325, Bridesmaids $145 per guest, Blush Spa Sonoma, Sonoma, blushspasonoma.com

Get Your Glam On
Fringe, a full-service salon in the quaint town of Penngrove, offers day-of-wedding hairstyling for the bride, bridesmaids, mother of the bride, and flower girl. Makeup application, tanning, and brow and nail services are also available at Fringe. Prices vary based on hairstyle and/or service, Fringe Salon, Penngrove, fringebeautysalon.com

NOON

Tastings That Tempt
Wine tasting is a must-do for any weekend spent in Sonoma. Ferrari-Carano, located on a stunning property that includes five acres of gardens to explore, offers private wine tastings in its Prevail Room with a variety of options to sample. $30-$50 per person, Ferrari-Carano Vineyards and Winery, Healdsburg, ferrari-carano.com

Satisfy Your Sweet Tooth
Your Sweet Expectations, a top Sonoma County wedding cake vendor, offers onehour tasting sessions for the happy couple to sample a variety of sweet flavors, fillings, and icings until they find the cake of their dreams. Owner Carolyn Bessé has been in the cake industry for almost 30 years, bringing a level of excellence to your special day. $25 per tasting session, Your Sweet Expectations, Cotati, yoursweetexpectations.com

Crowning Glory
Sonoma-based photographer Rebecca Gosselin, hair and makeup artist Caysi Jean, and florist Mae Flowers have developed the ingenious idea of a floral crown workshop — a fun diversion for a bachelorette weekend afternoon. They come to a bride’s home or Sonoma vacation rental, teach the fine art of floral crown-making, and provide a festive photo shoot afterward to showcase the newly designed crowns. The gowns shown here are by Bella Vita, worn by models Kerry Anderson, Savannah Ried, and Lindsey Knox. $435 for the full package including flower crown materials, hair and makeup, and a portrait session, mail@rebeccagosselin.com

Scents for the Senses
Relax from your wedding planning with an afternoon lie-down courtesy of Sonoma Lavender’s Spa Kit. The kit includes a neck pillow, spa mask, and more, which can all be chilled or warmed to relieve tension from your muscles while the relaxing scent of lavender helps those wedding worries disappear. All products are made locally in Sonoma County. Prices vary, Sonoma Lavender, Santa Rosa, sonomalavender.com

NIGHT

Italian Escape
Planning a wedding is a life-changing experience for a couple, and a night out to a romantic Italian dinner is just the place to unwind. Risibisi’s romantic atmosphere, delicious pasta, and extensive wine list offer you and your partner a night to relax and enjoy each other’s company before the big day. Dinner $15-$28, Risibisi, Petaluma, risibisirestaurant.com

Let’s Rehearse
Depot Hotel Restaurant and Garden offers a rustic, country-inn feel with a large menu to select from for groups of 50 to 150. Book your rehearsal dinner here for a pre-wedding night to remember with your closest family and friends. Depot Hotel Restaurant, Sonoma, depotsonoma.com

Here’s to You
Weddings toasts are an incredibly memorable element of the wedding, so Sonoma County speech and presentation coach Maureen Merrill has developed a program for individual sessions or workshops. Make sure your speech is polished and ready to move guests to laughter and tears by the time the wedding rolls around. Prices vary, Maureen Merrill Communications Consultant, Santa Rosa, maureenmerrill.com

Vino and Art
The paint-and-sip craze has made its way to Sonoma County! Take a night during your girls’ getaway weekend to paint with local artist Alex Cole at Bump Wine Cellars. Be sure to reserve your seat in advance for a night of creativity, laughs, and great wine. Prices vary based on the event, Alex Cole Studio at Bump Wine Cellars, Sonoma, alexcolestudio.com

Romantic Bubble Bath
Take off for your honeymoon with Sonoma County Bath Works’ Bubble Bath in your suitcase! Rich, moisturizing coconut oil and other skin-softening ingredients are combined to relieve your skin from the whirlwind of the day. Pour under hot running water and enjoy your calming bath for two. $11-$20, Sonoma County Bath Workds, Santa Rosa, sonomacountybathworks.com

Napa, Sonoma Restaurants Named ‘Best in America’

December 2016

By Sonoma Magazine Staff

aubergefb - 1 — Auberge du Soleil in Rutherford. (Auberge)

Three restaurants in the North Bay have made it into this year’s OpenTable’s 100 Best Restaurants in America: St. Francis Winery & Vineyards in Santa Rosa, Terra in St. Helena, and Auberge du Soleil in Rutherford.

The complete list includes long-running and new eateries in 30 states and the District of Columbia. New York has 13 winning restaurants, followed by California with 12 and Virginia with seven.

San Francisco-based OpenTable is a provider of online restaurant reservations, and according to the company, the awards reflect the combined opinions of more than 10 million restaurant reviews submitted by OpenTable diners at more than 24,000 restaurants.

The picturesque St. Francis Winery off Highway 12 in the Sonoma Valley at Pythian Road. The winery does food and wine pairing events. Photo: St. Francis Winery 2008 — The picturesque St. Francis Winery off Highway 12 in the Sonoma Valley at Pythian Road. The winery does food and wine pairing events. (Photo: St. Francis Winery 2008)

Similar to last year’s list, established restaurants account for the majority of winners and fine dining and casual elegant dining establishments make up the majority of the list. Most eateries in the top 100 embrace sustainability, seasonality, and house-made ingredients, including cheese and charcuterie. While American and French cuisines are the most popular, global flavors are present on many of the menus, from regional Italian dishes to Middle Eastern specialties.

“The common thread running through this list of winning restaurants is excellence in hospitality,” stated Caroline Potter, OpenTable chief dining officer. “Whether creating one-of-a-kind fine-dining experiences or serving up incredible fare in a more casual setting, this year’s honorees are consistently earning rave reviews from diners.”

The list of the 100 Best Restaurants in America, released Dec. 1, is generated from reviews collected between November 2015 and October 2016. All restaurants with a minimum overall score and number of qualifying reviews were included for consideration. Qualifying restaurants were sorted according to a score calculated from each restaurant’s average rating in the overall category along with that restaurant’s rating relative to others in the same metropolitan area. See a complete List of Winners

Top 5 Sonoma Wine Picks of 2016

December 2016

By Peg Melnik

Here’s a sampling of this year’s wine-of-the-week winners: five knockout wines that over-deliver.

5 knockout wines that over-deliver

Enjoue, 2015 Sonoma Valley Estate Rose, 13.5%, $28. ★★★★: The salmon-colored rose has aromas and flavors of mango, strawberry, grapefruit and mineral. It’s nice and dry and finishes crisp, leaving you wanting another sip.

Foursight, 2013 Anderson Valley Unoaked Pinot Noir, 14.1% alcohol, $25. ★★★★ This pinot has generous, layered red fruit, bright acid and it finishes dry. It’s bright and refreshing, a steal for the quality.

Decoy, 2014 Sonoma County Merlot, 13.9%, $25. ★★★★: This seamless merlot has quite a range — black cherry, blackberry, cocoa and leather. It has bright acidity, ripe tannins and a lingering finish.

Laurel Glen Counterpoint, 2014 Sonoma Mountain Cabernet Sauvignon, 14.4%, $40. ★★★★: This is a cab that has great structure, firm tannins and yet it manages to be fleshy. Juicy raspberry fruit with cassis, anise and cracked black pepper in the mix. It’s a steal at this price point for the quality.

River Road, 2014 Stephanie’s Cuvee, Green Valley of Russian River Valley, Sonoma County Pinot Noir, 14.3%, $25. ★★★★: This is a bright and tangy pinot noir. It has striking red fruit — cherry, raspberry and strawberry jam. It’s also layered with notes of cedar and smoke. But what makes it a standout at this price point is its pitch perfect balance.

Here’s a peek at the winemakers behind our winners and what they had to say about their bottlings.

Julia Iantosca is the winemaker behind the Enjoué, 2015 Sonoma Valley Estate Rosé at $28. The name Enjoué is French for “joyful, playful and lighthearted.”

Iantosca said: “Our goal is to produce a wine that is evocative of the wines from the southern Rhone, particularly Provence and Bandol.

“Fortunately we have the varieties traditionally used to create these wines planted in our vineyards, and our site on the Glen Ellen Bench is one where these varieties flourish.”

Joe Webb is the winemaker behind the Foursight, 2013 Anderson Valley Unoaked Pinot Noir at $25. Webb said: “Producing a stellar unoaked pinot depends on the purity of fruit for the bottling. You have to be 100 percent confident in the quality of your fruit when you produce an unoaked wine.

“There’s nowhere to hide any mistakes, so you can’t make any.”

Tyson Wolf produces the Decoy, 2014 Sonoma County Merlot at $25.

Wolf said: “There is a reason that merlot is considered one of the world’s great grapes. While it can be silky and luscious, with lots of delicious fruit, it can also have depth, nuance and fascinating character and complexity.

“We strive to show both aspects.”

Randall Watkins is the winemaker of Laurel Glen’s Counterpoint, 2014 Sonoma Mountain Cabernet Sauvignon at $40. “Savory” is a key component of the label’s house style.

Watkins said: “Classic cabernet sauvignon has both ripe fruit and a brilliant savory side.

“In the ’90s, many wineries began picking grapes later and later, and the wines produced were lusher and higher in alcohol, residual sugar and new oak. ‘Herbal’ became a swear word to many winemakers.”

Joe Freeman crafts the River Road, 2014 Stephanie’s Cuvee, Green Valley of Russian River Valley, Sonoma County Pinot Noir at $25.

The winemaker produces a decidedly less dense, more food-friendly pinot noir.

Freeman said: “Delicate structure, bright acidity and ‘just-ripe’ fruit aromas and flavors are the goal.

“We focus on even ripening and consistent vigor in the vineyard and strive to pick the grapes once they are expressing juicy cherry and berry flavors with ripe tannins.

“Subtle, savory and sweet barrel highlights complement the flavors from the grapes.”

Zosia Cafe and Kitchen: Pierogies in Graton

December 2016

By biteclub

CLOSED

Occidental-based artist Les Claypool is a man of many talents, from being the lead vocalist of the band Primus and avant garde artist to creating his own wine label. Add to the resume: Official namer of the most popular breakfast dish on the menu at Zosia Cafe & Kitchen in Graton.

Zosia Cafe and Kitchen in Graton, a California and Eastern European restaurant. Heather Irwin/PD.

The “Eggstravaganza” is a steaming bowl of fried rice with bacon, onion, celery and jalapeno with an over-easy egg draped over the top ($7.95). It’s a hearty little day-starter, made even more delightful by the fact that Claypool himself is sitting at a table next to me, possibly dreaming up other breakfast monikers. It seemed rude to ask.

Eggstravaganza at Zosia Cafe and Kitchen in Graton, a California and Eastern European restaurant. Heather Irwin/PD.

The tiny hamlet of Graton just got the restaurant it’s been waiting for in Zosia. Open by husband and wife team Monika and Slawek Michalak, it’s a quirky-cool cafe that’s Wine Country enough for the espresso and pinot-set, but offbeat enough for the likes of locals like Claypool and the West County artist community to tuck into Loco Moco, Polish pierogi and borscht on weekday afternoons, while discussing life’s pressing issues.

Pierogies at Zosia Cafe and Kitchen in Graton, a California and Eastern European restaurant. Heather Irwin/PD.

The Polish couple, who worked with Claypool on his wine label, have transformed the corner of Graton Road and Edison St. into an inviting space with a large outdoor patio, a forthcoming Airstream coffee stand and a cozy European-style kitchen and cafe with great food, sleek lines, and original art created by GM Dawid Jaworski (another Pole and Barndiva alum). Suffice to say its a worthy addition to the destination-worthy and celeb-friendly Willow Wood and Underwood restaurants within spitting distance of the new cafe.

But what brought us out, in the pouring winter rain, was the half of the menu devoted to authentic Eastern European comfort cuisine, something sorely lacking in Sonoma County.

Palmeni Dawid, Monika and Slawek Eggstravaganza at Zosia Cafe and Kitchen in Graton, a California and Eastern European restaurant. Heather Irwin/PD. — Palmeni at Zosia Cafe and Kitchen in Graton, a California and Eastern European restaurant. Heather Irwin/PD.

“There was just a need for it,” said Slawek. “Everyone comes from somewhere,” he said, and many people recognize Eastern European foods from their grandparents or great-grandparents.

Dawid, Monika and Slawek Eggstravaganza at Zosia Cafe and Kitchen in Graton, a California and Eastern European restaurant. Heather Irwin/PD. — Dawid, Monika and Slawek at Zosia Cafe and Kitchen in Graton, a California and Eastern European restaurant. Heather Irwin/PD.

Primarily served at lunch (the restaurant is currently open for breakfast and lunch only), Russian chef Ekaterina Zaitseva has an ever-changing lineup of rib-sticking dishes from cabbage borscht and Siberian “pelmeni” dumpling soup, to kielbasa, polish crepes and hunter’s stew called “Bigos”.

Bigos at Zosia Cafe and Kitchen in Graton, a California and Eastern European restaurant. Heather Irwin/PD.

Slawek says the staff have daily discussions (okay sometimes ongoing arguments) about the dishes, because each of their families have a slightly different way of preparing them.

Take the borscht ($5.95 cup) for example: We tried it on a day it was make with a tomato base, cabbage and potatoes. No beets.

Borscht Palmeni Dawid, Monika and Slawek Eggstravaganza at Zosia Cafe and Kitchen in Graton, a California and Eastern European restaurant. Heather Irwin/PD. — Borscht at Zosia Cafe and Kitchen in Graton, a California and Eastern European restaurant. Heather Irwin/PD.

“We use beets,” said Slawek. So another day, he said, they’ll have it with beets. It’s the same for the pierogies ($8.95 for six), which some days are a little bigger, some days a little smaller, with different fillings including pork and beef, potato and cheese or sauerkraut and mushroom. “Polish are usually a little bigger,” said Slawek.

Polish crepes ($8.95 for three) filled with farmer’s cheese, or savory meat and veggies, are better known as blintzes, or in my Hungarian family, palatschinke. Whatever you call them, they’re breakfast perfection, made from scratch.

Polish crepes at Zosia Cafe and Kitchen in Graton, a California and Eastern European restaurant. Heather Irwin/PD.

Cabbage rolls ($8,95) are another Eastern European favorite, filled with pork, beef and rice, and twice as good the next day (so order enough to take home). Zaitseva, who previously worked at the European Food Store (2790 Santa Rosa Ave., Santa Rosa), makes almost everything in house, so put yourself in her hands and try something you’ve never heard of — like the daily special of Bigos ($8.95), made with sauerkraut, beef, and a mix of spices that ends up being a warm winter hug in a bowl.

“There’s a story behind every dish,” said Dawid, explaining each of the unique plates piled in front of me.

Pulled pork sandwich at Zosia Cafe and Kitchen in Graton, a California and Eastern European restaurant. Heather Irwin/PD.

Keep in mind that that Eastern European dishes are only about half the menu. The kitchen has a solid grasp on more California-style cuisine as well, with a solid burger, hearty salads and a luxe pulled pork sandwich that doesn’t rely on gobs of sauce for great smoky flavor. Breakfast includes eggs, omelettes, pastries and breakfast sandwiches, along with espressos and coffees.

Most dishes are under $10, and are perfect for sharing. Don’t miss checking out Slawek’s 1965 R695 BMW motorcycle on display in the cafe that’s still in running condition (though Monika prefers it stays behind glass than with Slawek riding it.)

Chef Zaitseva at Zosia Cafe and Kitchen in Graton, a California and Eastern European restaurant. Heather Irwin/PD.

And the name of the restaurant, pronounced Zo-she-a? Their eight-year-old daughter’s. Seems Claypool suggested that one too.

Zosia Cafe and Kitchen, 9010 Graton Road, Graton, 861-9241. Open Wednesday through Monday for breakfast and lunch, closed Tuesday, zosiacafe.wordpress.com.

Holiday Entertaining: 5 Tips From the Pros

December 2016

By Adrienne Shubin

In 10 Ways to Refresh Your Holiday Table, Justina Geraghty of Harlin & Sparrow offered tips for creating an unforgettable winter table scape your guests will be talking about for holidays to come. Make the holiday celebration even more special – and delicious – with these tasty suggestions from Justina, Claire Sanz of PoppyStone Designs and Andrea Koweek of Crisp Bake Shop, along with photography by Sarah Deragon.

Use a Bar Cart

Justina suggests adding a bar cart to your holiday dinner party and says, “Using a bar cart that can be wheeled to the table makes servicing drinks more convenient and it adds an extra element of elegance to your evening.”

Justina added some extra touches to the cart that stay true to the table scape theme and color palette, such as a smaller version of the floral centerpiece, designed by Claire, and heirloom crystal decanters and coasters.

She topped each champagne flute with a small card. Each card had a guest’s name, hand-written by Sarah Davis of S. Davis Prints. The cards match the custom menu and place cards on the table, also created by Sarah.

Choose Wines Thoughtfully

When choosing wines for your holiday dinner, consider not only the varietal and quality of the wines but their appearance, too. Justina stayed true to her French-themed menu and the color theme and selected a French champagne with a neutral label and foil.

WinterStyledShoot-22 — Photo Credit: Sarah Deragon

Make a Signature Cocktail

Greet guests with a signature cocktail. Justina chose a holiday drink that keeps with the wintery design not only in color but in flavor too.

This Winter Champagne Cocktail is delicious and easy to make. Just mix one part St. Germaine with two parts white cranberry juice, then add champagne to fill. Serve in coupe glasses.

WinterStyledShoot-107 — Photo Credit: Sarah Deragon

French Country Fare

Justina chose a French Country-themed menu and says, “I wanted a convenient and simple menu that I could make ahead of time, then reheat when guests arrived.”

The menus were created by Sarah Davis and done with blue-gray ink on winter white paper and includes a place card.

WinterStyledShoot-9 — Photo Credit: Sarah Deragon

The menu includes French paté and tarte flambée, céleri-rave rémoulade, purée de pommes de terre française, poireaux vinaigrette, coq au vin and cassoulet au canard.

Sweet Wintery Treats

Proprietor and Pastry Chef of Crisp Bake Shop, Andrea Koweek, created desserts for the holiday dinner party and says, “A White Christmas theme was such a great change from the typical red, green and gold holiday desserts that we are accustomed to doing.”

Andrea made one of her signature holiday cakes, a Coconut Cake which has passion fruit filling and is topped with vanilla bean buttercream frosting, coconut and vanilla meringues.

WinterStyledShoot-7 — Photo Credit: Sarah Deragon

Justina tied ribbon she sourced at the fabric store around the handle of the heirloom cake server for an added touch that ties in with her winter white color scheme.

WinterStyledShoot-24 — Photo Credit: Sarah Deragon

Andrea also created nine different single serving desserts and cookies and says, “We love creating dessert tables for events. Having a color or a flavor theme can really help you to get out of your comfort zone and create something both beautiful and delicious.”

WinterStyledShoot-93 — From left to right: Buttermilk & Creme Fraîche Panna Cotta Shooters, Meringues, White Cake Truffles, Alfajors, Brown Butter Cupcakes with Maple Frosting, Peppermint Macarons, Russian Tea Cakes, Egg Nog Cake topped with Meringues, and Lemon Meringue Tartlets. Photo Credit: Sarah Deragon

“Although we stayed with a white theme, we were still able to incorporate a lot of traditional holiday flavors like egg nog, maple, peppermint and nuts,'” says Andrea.

WinterStyledShoot-101 — Photo Credit: Sarah Deragon

Justina arranged the wintery treats on a mirrored tray on stand. That way the beautiful desserts could be on display but also away from the table during dinner. When it was time for dessert, the hosts can simply remove the tray from its stand and take it to the dining table.

WinterStyledShoot-86 — Photo Credit: Sarah Deragon

To add some texture, color and interest to the dessert tray, Claire added some vines from her yard and wrapped them around the stand.

WinterStyledShoot-83 — Photo Credit: Sarah Deragon

No matter how you choose to celebrate the holidays this season, consider trying these helpful suggestions for home entertaining from Justina, Claire and Andrea.

WinterStyledShoot-137 — Photo Credit: Sarah Deragon

Cheers and happy holidays!

Local Holiday Gift Ideas for Everyone on Your List

December 2016

By Adrienne Shubin

Are you working away on your holiday gift list and stumped for ideas? Here are some of my favorite items from around Sonoma County. There’s something on my list for everyone!

FOR HER

Festive Comfort

She’ll want to snuggle up by the fire with a warm cup of cocoa in her Bedhead Pajamas, made in the U.S., and faux shearling slippers. The cotton blend pajamas have a bit of stretch and come in a variety of prints and colors, including this chandelier print. The slippers are by TOMS, a company that gives a new pair of shoes to a child in need with every purchase, and also comes in several other prints. $140 for pajamas, $50 for slippers, Bear Moon Clothing, 117 E Napa St, Sonoma, 707-935-3392, bearmoonclothing.com

Wearable Flowery Art

Sonoma County jewelry artist Alison Morse creates each pair of her flower earrings by hand, working out of her Santa Rosa home studio. She uses traditional silversmithing techniques to create her beautiful and unique pieces. Alison works with copper, brass, and sterling silver and takes custom orders. $65, Alison Morse, online at alisonmorse.com and Corrick’s

Travel in Boho Style

She’ll look chic while heading to her next destination with this velvety soft travel bag in with suede trim and hand-beaded detail. It has an adjustable leather strap, zippered top, and two inside pockets. It measures 18” long, 9.5 inches wide, and 16” high. It’s also available in a royal blue color scheme. $235, Gathered Healdsburg, 377 Healdsburg Ave, Healdsburg, 707-395-4622, visit on Facebook

Cozy Luxury

Look stylish while keeping warm in this luxurious merino wool blanket shawl by Ulla Johnson. Hand-loomed by craftspeople in Uruguay, this shawl has hand-tied fringe, hand-crocheted edge and measures 80″ across. $390, Tamarind Women’s Clothing Boutique, 180 Morris Street, Sebastopol, 707-861-9513, shoptamarind.com

tamarind wrap — Photo Credit: Amanda Lane

FOR HIM

Warm Up Chilly Nights

The Bourbon lover on your list will cheer when opening this gift box from Prohibition Spirits. The “Baby It’s Cold Outside Bourbon Box” includes one bottle of Chauvet Brandy XO, a bag of Bourbon Aged Coffee, 2 brandy glasses and a bottle of Bella Cucina Bourbon Vanilla Oil. $132, Prohibition Spirits, Cornerstone, 23570 Arnold Drive, Sonoma, 707-721-6390, prohibition-spirits.com

Luxe Precision

Surprise him with a fine timepiece he will wear with pride. The JPT-TS44 quartz chronograph by Tsovet, a California company, is hand built and features a 44m 316 L aerospace-grade stainless steel case and precise start/stop pushers. He will appreciate the luminous time function, and easy-to-read numbers. $425, Kaliber, 315 D St, Santa Rosa, 707-528-0182, shopkaliber.com

Sip Ruggedly

Forgo the typical drinking vessel and give him a unique mug he can call his own. Made in Alabama, this Mason jar is wrapped in a soft leather and is secured with brass rivets and hand stitching. It’s water and stain resistant and comes with a lid, making it ideal for drinks – cold or hot – on the go. $30, Truck & Barter, 108 Washington St. Petaluma, 707-658-2131, truckandbarter.co

FOR KIDS

Caped in Cuteness

Give your child an adorable and soft diamond knit cape with a hood, a la Little Red Riding Hood, that she will never want to take off. The Maise Cape is from Blue Ullu, a luxury, eco-friendly children’s knitwear line made by women artisans in the Indian Himalayas using 100% natural dyes and a cruelty-free blend of angora and merino wool. $65, Chateau Sonoma, Cornerstone, 23588 Arnold Drive, Sonoma, 707-935-8553, blueullu.com

A Commanding Voice

The Rogue One: A Star Wars Story fans on your holiday list will command a presence in the galaxy with the Imperial Death Trooper Voice Changing Mask. Speak through the mask to sound just like a trooper. Switch it on and light it up! $22, Disney Store, 1023 Santa Rosa Plaza, Santa Rosa, 707-545-0167, disneystore. com

Stay Warm While Looking Cool

He won’t argue when you ask him to wear a coat in this reversible North Face Perrito jacket. This hooded puffer jacket is water-repellant, insulated and it’s machine washable. It comes in four color combinations, each with a solid color on one side and a companion pattern on the other. $110, Macy’s Santa Rosa Plaza, 800 Santa Rosa Plaza, Santa Rosa, 707-523-3333, www1.macys.com

FOR EVERYONE

Aromatherapy at the Sink

Give the gift of aromatherapy with a hand soap and lotion set from Wine Country Botanicals. The Sonoma Collection is a unique blend of earthy scents that includes lavender, bergamot, patchouli and sandalwood. The bottles are frosted glass, which makes them all the more elegant and impressive. This set comes with a modern metal bottle holder. $64 for set, Wine Country Botanicals, online at winecountrybotanicals.com and Sonoma Bath Works

Give a Coffee Upgrade

Your favorite coffee lover won’t be driving to the coffee bar and standing in line for a latte. A Nespresso CitiZ Espresso Machine & Milk Frother let’s you make your own lattes, cappuccinos and espressos at home. This retro espresso maker comes in four modern colors and is compact so it won’t take up much space on your counter. $224, Sur la Table, Montgomery Village, 2323 Magowan Drive, Santa Rosa, 707-566-9820, surlatable.com

Bake Moustache-Os Like a Pro

If you’ve never had a Moustache-O chocolate sandwich cookie with its vanilla bean frosting middle from Moustache Baked Goods, make sure you put it on your list of must-eats. Or make your own at home with this adorable jar of dry mix. It comes with a recipe for their irresistible vanilla bean frosting. $18, Moustache Baked Goods, 381 Healdsburg Avenue, Healdsburg, 707-395-4111, moustachebakedgoods.com

10 Ways to Refresh Your Holiday Table

December 2016

By Adrienne Shubin

The holidays are in full swing and winter is fast approaching. Why not celebrate the season by hosting an intimate wintery holiday dinner party?

Justina Geraghty of Harlin & Sparrow designed a wintertime table scape using items many of us already have in our home. Add a few extra special touches and you’ve got the makings for a festive and unforgettable celebration!

WinterStyledShoot-42 — Photo Credit: Sarah Deragon

Justina shares her design tips, accompanied by photos taken by Sonoma photographer Sarah Deragon.

Start Simple

Justina suggests starting with a simple color palette. Here she selected shades of winter whites, then added an icy blue-grey for depth and a pop of color. She also decided to use silver flatware to keep with the icy, wintery theme.

WinterStyledShoot-17 — Photo Credit: Sarah Deragon

Keep Your Color Palette Consistent

“Maintaining the same color palette throughout all of your party planning helps to create a cohesive look, “ says Justina. “This includes all décor, table setting items, floral arrangements, food, desserts, a signature cocktail and even the wine labels.”

WinterStyledShoot-54 — Photo Credit: Sarah Deragon

Incorporate Different Textures, Patterns and Layers

Give your table a bold, elegant and unique look by adding a variety of textures, patterns and layers. Faux fur placemats atop a linen runner, wood chargers under a ceramic snowflake plate and modern metal chairs around a French Country table are just a few of the ways Justina adds interest to her winter table.

Repurpose

It’s not necessary to buy holiday-themed décor to create a wintery look. “Look through your cabinets and drawers to see what you can use for your table scape,” Justina says. “You may be surprised by what you’ll find!”

Justina adds, “If you do want to add something new to your table, use your existing china then spend a little on chargers or festive salad plates like these snowflake plates.”

Create Ambiance

Take advantage of our often comfortable fall and winter weather and move the party outside. Situate some chairs around an outdoor fire pit, if you have the space, or use patio heat lamps. Be sure to give each guest a cozy blanket and add fluffy throw pillows to the chairs. Or keep is simple and add candles to your table to create ambiance.

“Tall taper candles in different lengths add drama and height to your winter table,” says Justina. “And if your tapered candles are too small to fit your candle holders, simply wrap the bottoms with plastic wrap and they will stand tall and straight and they’ll stay put.”

Make it Personal

“Handwrite the menus and place cards to make your guests feel extra special,” Justina suggests. If your handwriting isn’t the best, have a professional make them for you. These menus and place cards were made by Sarah Davis of S. Davis Prints. Justina chose an icy blue-gray shade, the same hue as the chargers.

WinterStyledShoot-8 — Photo Credit: Sarah Deragon

Decorate with Foliage

Add foliage and pine cones to your décor for a festive and organic feel.

WinterStyledShoot-126 — Photo Credit: Sarah Deragon

Give Guests Ornaments

Give your table an extra dose of holiday spirit by adding a special ornament, in a color that works with your chosen palette, to each place setting. Give them to your guests to take home as a gift.

WinterStyledShoot-120 — Photo Credit: Sarah Deragon

Mix and Match

“Use heirloom pieces and vintage items,” Justina advises, “like crystal vases and candle holders, then mix them in with modern items like wine glasses, flatware and linens.”

Save on Linens

“Source linens from your local fabric store,” she suggests. “Every color and type of fabric can be found at usually half the cost of buying tablecloths and runners.”

Justina let the runner cascade all the way down both sides of the table for a free-flowing look. She fringed the ends by pulling out a few rows of thread.

WinterStyledShoot-58 — Photo Credit: Sarah Deragon

Claire of PoppyStone Designs worked with Justina’s color palette to create a stunning winter centerpiece. She chose seasonal flowers and foliage in winter white shades.

WinterStyledShoot-67 — Photo Credit: Sarah Deragon

She used pampas grass, cymbidium orchids, statice, white scabiosa and white roses.

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And for greenery, she used olive branches and lavender greens.

To save a little money on the extra floral you may want to add, Claire suggests, “Look in your yard for extra greenery and flora. Get creative!”

WinterStyledShoot-65 — Photo Credit: Sarah Deragon

This table scape is not only ideal for holiday dinner and parties but for any special wintertime occasion.

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Next, the drinks, desserts and menu from this Winter Holiday Dinner Party!