It’s the season for showing family members, friends and pets just how much they are appreciated and loved. We’ve scoured Sonoma to come up with gifts that are bound to leave an impression long after they’re unwrapped.
FOR HIM
Dapper Dude
This tie bar from Olive and Poppy features a hexagon made from reclaimed oak barrel staves. Delivered in giving-ready packaging, it’s an accessory sure to spark conversation when worn by guys who love wine. $24, Patz & Hall, 21200 Eighth St. E., Sonoma, 707-265-7700, patzhall.com
Ultimate Man Bag
Ideal for weekend getaways, this duffle bag from Herschel Supply Co. is ready for adventure. Just the right size for a few days away, this clever bag’s bottom unzips to hold shoes and so many other vital accessories. $84.99, Kaliber, 315 D St., Santa Rosa,707-528-0182, shopkaliber.com
En Garde!
Any guy (and gal) can be the life of the celebration by dramatically opening a bottle of sparkling wine with this flashy saber. Made by hand by a small company in San Francisco, this rosewood-handle sword performs the ultimate party trick, releasing the cork from any bottle of bubbly with a quick slash of the arm. Wait for the oohs and aahs. $159, Sigh Sonoma, 29 E. Napa St., Suite C, Sonoma, 707-996-2444, sighsonoma.com
FOR HIM & HER
Creative With Corks
The Corx company in Sonoma imports fashion accessories made from natural cork grown in Portugal — the kind that stoppers wine bottles. Handbags, pouches, bracelets, belts, even bow ties surprise with just how stylish goods made from an agricultural product can be. Dry Creek Vineyard, 3770 Lambert Bridge Road, Healdsburg, 707-433-1000, drycreekvineyard.com; or online at corx.com
Fine for Fizz
Toast this and every other new year with these sparkling-wine flutes from Swarovski. Also classy for newlyweds and anyone who wants to wow that special someone, these clear-crystal stems from Austria are elegant and refined. $399 for two, Corrick’s, 637 Fourth St., Santa Rosa, 707-546-2424, corricks.com
FOR HER
Naughty or Nice
Made from recycled brass and with a sterling silver or gold overlay, this necklace from Kris Nations is the ultimate personalized gift. It comes packaged in a tiny glass bottle with a label that lists personality traits; the gift-giver can choose “Nice Zodiac” or “Naughty Zodiac.” $48, Gathered, 377 Healdsburg Ave., Healdsburg, 707-395-4622, visit on Facebook
Hot Pot
Unusual meets practical with this hand-painted clay tagine. With a Moroccan motif, it works on the stovetop as a slow cooker and does double duty as a beautiful serving dish. Let the pot do the work while the cook relaxes. $258, Bram Cookware, 493 First St. W., Sonoma, 707-935-3717, bramcookware.com
Fashionista Focus
Women who appreciate creative design will love this Forestville & Shield crossbody bag from designer Adelle Stoll. Produced at her Santa Rosa studio, this bag is made of leather, features a brass shield, and is available in black, chestnut, oxblood, red and white. Each of Stoll’s bags is named for a Sonoma park, beach or other scenic location. $268, The Silo, 707-291-4484, siloamericanmade.com; OSKA Healdsburg, 310 Center St., Healdsburg, 707-431-1777, visit on Facebook
FOR THE KIDS
One-Two-Three
Teach kids to count to 10 with this magical book by papercut artist Helen Musselwhite. Featuring houses from around the world, including San Francisco, the book includes fun facts about each house. $15.95, The Corner Store, 498 First St. E., Sonoma, 707-996-2211,
This Many
Have you seen a child raise her or his hand to represent their age? The “I Am This Many” T-shirt for kids is adorable and certain to up the cuteness factor for young ones ages 1 through 5. Printed on American Apparel clothing, the tees feature original designs by Vicarious Clothing. $21, Hello Penngrove, 10101 Main St., Penngrove, 707-665-5759, hellopenngrove.com
Cat’s Meow
Your independent feline will appreciate these stylish food and water dishes from Ethical Pets, even though Whiskers is unlikely to tell you so. With a modern design that features a mouse, the ceramic, 5-inch-square dishes come in dark brown with a contrasting blue or green inner color. Cats will appreciate their food and water presented with such style. $9.99, Pawsarotti’s, 4040 Sonoma Highway, Santa Rosa, 707-539-7297.
Tub Time
Locally produced Soapy Tails bowser bar soaps are made with essential oils and natural botanicals designed to gently remove dirt and rinse easily, without dog-offputting aromas. Pups with long, short, smooth and coarse coats will wag when they’re bathed in these bubbles. $8, Oliver’s Markets, oliversmarkets.com;soapcauldron.com
A photo posted by trailhousesantarosa@gmail.com (@trailhousesantarosa) on
Conceived by the owner of the Bike Peddler and NorCal Bike Sport, the family-friendly location will offer local beers, SF’s Sight Glass coffee and light nibbles including yogurt parfaits, baked goods, breakfast sandwiches and hot dogs, according to GM and co/owner Shane Bresnyan.
“I think it’s gonna blow everyone’s mind,” he said of the space, which features indoor and outdoor bicycle parking, bike rentals and demos of high-end bikes. Located at 4036 Montgomery Drive, it’s close to Howarth Park and several trails. More details when the Trail House opens.
Though Kyle and Katina Connaughton’s highly-anticipated Healdsburg restaurant officially opens this week, the kitchen and dining room have been in full swing doing “friends and family” meals to iron out any wrinkles in the luxe, multi-course restaurant experience. But here, friends and family testing out the menu included esteemed toques John Ash and Top Chef Master’s winner Douglas Keane making their way through nine courses at nearby tables, as we got a first glimpse.
For more than a year, Connaughton and several key members of the staff have been preparing for the opening — which included preparing the Connaughton’s Healdsburg farm, along with a complete build-out of the North Street building with custom kitchen areas and carefully curated dining experience. It’s something to behold.
Photo: Jason Jaacks
Let’s talk about the price, first. With a $295 price tag per person (not including wine or non-alcoholic pairings), the restaurant has had its share of critics even before opening, questioning the steep price tag for a restaurant that has yet to get a Michelin star or even a review. To put it in context, similarly haute dining experiences have similar costs.Chef Christopher Kostow’s 10-course tasting menu at the three-Michelin starred Meadowood is $330 per person (excluding wine) or $500 for a “counter menu” inside the kitchen. The also three-starred French Laundry is $310 per person without tax, tip or drinks. San Francisco’s Saison, which has the distinction of being the most expensive restaurant in the region, also three-stars, is $398-$498 (for special holidays) per person without tax, tip or drinks.Douglas Keane’s Cyrus, which closed in 2012, was over $800 for two people when we visited.
Photo: Eric Wolfinger
So, why in the world would someone pay that much for a single meal? Again, context. Meals like those at Meadowood, French Laundry, and what Connaughton hopes his restaurant will become, are bespoke experiences using precious ingredients (abalone, Mangalitsa pig, foie gras) as well as highly labor-intensive sauces and preparations.Food is served as art, with two or three chefs using tweezers to place each garnish, each tiny flower or microgreen. For a food connoisseur, it’s a one in a lifetime experience with as much beauty and joy as, say, driving a beautiful car or buying a well-crafted suit or dress. Though ephemeral, how is it different, exactly, from a stay in a luxurious hotel or even a penny-pinching weekend trip to Gualala (my own luxury indulgence)?
And memorable the experience was, from the moment we opened the door to the restaurant, to our final bite of chocolate. Walking into the silent, enclosed reception area sets the tone, where guests can peek through a window into the silent kitchen. Silent.
A massive door opens into the dining room, with just a handful of tables, the most fascinating of which is a theater table where guests can sit side by side, with an unobstructed view of the kitchen, where Connaughton and his staff work at two massive islands, hunched over a collection of pottery plates, bowls, donabe and hand-crafted flatware created in Japan. Truly the service ware is one of the most artful parts of the meal.
Connaughton’s influences are micro-seasonal (whatever is perfectly ripe at the moment) and Japanese “kaiseki”, a traditional multi-course meal that is as artful as delicious.
At Single Thread, the first course is served on a perfectly-arranged display of wood, moss and flowers, creating a sort of adventure in finding each tiny bite — from whelk inside it shell, to pheasant wrapped in a fig leaf, Miyagi oysters and a nibble of Dungeness crab with ponzu. It’s followed by a single blue egg nestled in a nest of moss, with smoke sabayon, then a dish of umeboshi plums and beets, red jewels on gently scalloped plate.
The courses continue for hours, one with a donut-shaped wooden plate with Mangalitsa jowl and watercress puree; abalone in onion sauce with foam, foie gras on a bed of persimmon leaves, fermented local farro in a matsutake mushroom broth, or guinea hen roulade in pumpkin puree. Each course is a simple bite or two, carefully thought out from plate and utensil to the carefully-placed microgreens.
That leaves plenty of room for a multi-course dessert menu that included frozen fromage blanc with quince reduction and puffed amarynth, or an “apple” made of chocolate, filled with cream and Gravenstein apple sorbet.
Photo: Jason Jaacks
On-trend, Single Thread offers both wine pairings and a non-alcoholic pairing. Though the pairing still needs work to jive with the dishes, it was far more fun to try white tea, cucumber soda with lemon and mint, a turmeric shrub with smoked salt and grenadine, or a mocktail with spicy mustard greens, non-alcoholic “gin” and lime, or a matsutake mushroom and lemon verbena tea.
There are still details being worked out, and like any preview dinner, staff were still figuring out how to provide the kind of luxury service and attention that diners of this caliber will demand. We’re confident, however, that Single Thread will be a culinary jewel in the crown of the Sonoma County dining scene, showcasing the unique bounty of our county — from our farms to Connaughton’s beautiful tables.
A note: I was unable to get access to take photos of the food before posting this article, so what you see in the above photos is not necessarily representative of the meal we experienced. Hopefully we’ll be able to show you more pix soon.
Every Saturday until Dec. 24, enjoy a free horse-drawn carriage ride in Railroad Sqaure. This Saturday, Dec. 3, is the Holiday Open House. (Photo by John Burgess)
Get in the holiday spirit with these events coming up. Enjoy Christmas carols, carriage rides and shopping fun at the Holiday Merchant Open House in Railroad Square. Burn off those cookie calories at the Santa Rosa Santa Run. See the magical sight of dozens of lit-up snowmen at the Lighting of the Snowmen Festival at Cornerstone Sonoma. All this and more is in our list of things to do.
Dec. 2-3 Petaluma Festival of Trees: View over 50 decorated trees and bid on the one you want in this fundraising event benefiting local non-profits. Hosted by The Fabulous Women of Sonoma County and The Petaluma Woman’s Club, this event will include live music, gifts for purchase, baked goods, a raffle and more. The fun kicks off at 6 p.m. at the Petaluma Women’s Club, and admission is free. Find out all the details at thefabulouswomen.com.
Through Dec. 18 Peter and The Starcatcher: Spreckels Theatre Company presents the swashbuckling tale of Peter Pan and the Lost Boys, and their pre-Neverland story, based on the popular book by Dave Barry. Tickets are $16-$26. Find out all the details at spreckelsonline.com.
Friday, Dec. 2 Hospice of Petaluma Light Up a Life: Remember loved ones at Center Park in downtown Petaluma with music, candles and tree lights. The event starts at 6 p.m. Find out more at hospicelightupalife.org, or call 707-778-6242.
Friday, Dec. 2 Cotati Tree Lighting: From 5-8 pm., enjoy an evening of the annual tree lighting ceremony, live holiday music, storytelling, carriage rides, crafts and more. Plus, Santa will be making an appearance. Be sure to also take part in the Holiday Cheer bar crawl on Dec. 1, and the Shop and Stroll on Dec. 3. Find out all the details at cotati.org.
Friday, Dec. 2 Cloverdale Tree Lighting: Starting at 5:30 p.m. at the Cloverdale Plaza, enjoy an evening of seasonal treats, a visit with Santa, caroling and the traditional tree lighting ceremony. Find out more at cloverdalechamber.com.
Saturday, Dec. 3 Santa Rosa Santa Run: Practice your “Ho-Ho-Hos” for this annual holiday run/walk, starting and ending at Juilliard Park. Participants will receive a Santa suit and an event t-shirt, and everyone gets milk and cookies at the end. The 5K run/walk kicks off at 9 a.m., and the “Merry Mile” starts soon after. Cost is $30-$40 to participate. Find out all the details at santarosasantarun.com.
Saturday, Dec. 3 Holiday Merchant Open House: Head to Historic Railroad Square in Santa Rosa this Saturday for a day of holiday shopping, horse-drawn carriage rides, Christmas carols and more. Every Saturday until Dec. 24, there will also free holiday fun, including carriage rides and holiday carolers. Find out all the information at www.railroadsquare.net.
Saturday, Dec. 3 Mercatino di Natale: This Saturday, bring the whole family for an Italian-styled Christmas festival with local crafts, food vendors, artisan gifts and more. This family event is a joint fundraiser of the North Bay Italian Cultural Foundation and Slow Food Sonoma County North. Tickets are $5 in advance, or $10 at the door. 12 and under are free. Purchase tickets at www.brownpapertickets.com/event/2667032.
Saturday, Dec. 3 Free Standup Paddleboarding: Desolation Outdoors and Petaluma Standup Paddle are hosting a free standup paddleboard demo day this Saturday from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. Interested participants should reserve their spot ahead of time by calling 800-383-1430. Find out more information at www.desolationoutdoors.com.
Saturday, Dec. 3 Russian River Parade of Lights: Head over to downtown Guerneville from 5-9 p.m. for the annual parade of lights. Get in a little Christmas shopping during the Merchant Open House, and stay for the tree lighting at 6 p.m. The parade begins at 7 p.m. Find out all the details at russianriver.com.
Saturday, Dec. 3 North County Hospice Light Up a Life: Honor those who have passed away at this annual tree lighting event at Healdsburg Plaza. The event starts at 5 p.m. Find our more at hospicelightupalife.org, or call 707-568-1094.
Saturday, Dec. 3 Cornerstone Sonoma’s Lighting of the Snowmen: From 4-8 p.m., take part in the celebration at Cornerstone Sonoma with Santa visits, hot soup and cocoa, kids activities and more. Along with the festival is the annual lighting of the snowmen, creating a mesmerizing scene on the Cornerstone property. Find out more at cornerstonesonoma.com.
Saturday, Dec. 3 Rohnert Park Holiday Lights Celebration: In its 34th year, Rohnert Park kicks off the holidays with a tree lighting, kids activities, holiday music and more. The event takes place at city Center Plaza from 5-7 p.m., and the tree lighting is at 6 p.m. Find out more rohnertparkchamber.org, or by calling 707-584-1415.
Sunday, Dec. 4 Memorial Hospice Oakmont Light Up a Life: Starting at 6 p.m. at the Star of the Valley Parish Hall in Oakmont, remember those you love with music, candles and a tree lighting ceremony. Find out more at hospicelightupalife.org, or call 707-568-1094.
OTHER UPCOMING EVENTS:
Friday, Dec. 2
Joe Craven and The Sometimers: Americana and ‘no genre left behind,’ 8 p.m., Sebastopol Community Cultural Center. $20-$23. 823-1511, seb.org.
Carlos Varela: Cuban singer-songwriter and his band, benefit for a Havana daycare center, 7 p.m., Barn at Tyge William Cellars, Sonoma. $50. cornerstonesonoma.com/events.
‘Joy to the World’: Transcendence Theater Company, holiday favorites, Broadway showstoppers, 7:30 p.m., Luther Burbank Center, Santa Rosa. Through Dec. 4. $35-$129. 546-3600, lutherburbankcenter.org.
Desert Dwellers: Global sounds with Amani Friend and Treavor Moontribe, 9 p.m., Mystic Theatre, Petaluma. $18-$23. 765-2121, mystictheatre.com.
‘Santaland Diaries’: Naughty one-man tale of a Macy’s Christmas elf, opens 8 p.m., 6th Street Playhouse, Santa Rosa. Through Dec. 18. $10-$26. 523-4185, 6thstreetplayhouse.com.
Cantiamo Sonoma: Candlelight Christmas concert with popular Sonoma County a cappella choral ensemble, 8 p.m., St. Seraphim Church, Santa Rosa. $10-$25. 539-5377, cantiamosonoma.org.
Saturday, Dec. 3
Calistoga Lighted Tractor Parade: Tractors, antique trucks and construction equipment decked with lights, 7 p.m. Saturday, Lincoln Avenue, downtown Calistoga. Free. 942-6333, visitcalistoga.com.
Occidental Community Choir: ‘Sing the Long Nights’ winter concert, 8 p.m. Saturday, 3 p.m. Sunday, Occidental Center for the Arts. $15. 874-9392, occidentalcenterforthearts.org.
Luther Burbank Holiday Open House: Home and garden tours, old-time festivity, 10 a.m.-4 p.m. Saturday and Sunday, Luther Burbank Home & Gardens, Santa Rosa. $3. 524-5445, lutherburbank.org.
Wine Country Winter Festival: Art, fine crafts, entertainment, tastings, 10 a.m.-6 p.m. Sturday, 10 a.m.-5 p.m. Sunday, Sonoma County Fairgrounds, Santa Rosa. $8-$15. winecountrywinterfestival.com.
Sunday, Dec. 4
‘In Search of Israeli Cuisine’: Sonoma County Jewish Film Festival culinary documentary, 3 p.m. Sunday, Rialto Cinemas, Sebastopol. $18. Dinner sold out. 528-4222, jccsoco.org/filmfestival.
Charlie Hunter Quartet: Blues, rock, jazz and Latin-influenced guitarist, 8 p.m. Sunday, HopMonk Tavern, Sebastopol. $17-$20. 829-7300, hopmonk-sebastopol.ticketfly.com.
Monday, Dec. 5
Santa Rosa Symphony: ‘Poetic Bells,’ annual holiday choral concert, 8 p.m. Monday, Weill Hall, Green Music Center, Rohnert Park. $20-$80. 546-8742, srsymphony.org.
The Steel Wheels: Soulful Americana folk musicians from the Blue Ridge Mountains, 8:30 p.m. Monday, Mystic Theatre, Petaluma. $22. 765-2121, mystictheatre.com.
Tuesday, Dec. 6
Pink Martini: ‘Holiday Spectacular’ with festive songs from around the globe, 8 p.m. Tuesday, Luther Burbank Center, Santa Rosa. $45-$69. 546-3600, lutherburbankcenter.org.
Wednesday, Dec. 7
Westside Stories: ‘GrandSlam’ personal storytelling competition and crowning of this year’s champion, 7:30 p.m. Wednesday, Mystic Theatre, Petaluma. $18. westsidestoriespetaluma.com.
Thursday, Dec. 8
Gary Allan: Platinum-selling country music star, 8 p.m. Thursday, Luther Burbank Center, Santa Rosa. $65-$79. 546-3600, lutherburbankcenter.org.
‘It’s a Wonderful Life’: Live radio broadcast staging, opens 8 p.m. Thursday, Raven Performing Arts Theater, Healdsburg. Through Dec. 18. $10-$25. 433-6335, raventheater.org.
Doyle Bramhall II: Rock and blues guitar virtuoso, 8 p.m. Thursday, HopMonk Tavern, Sebastopol. $20-$23. 829-7300, hopmonk-sebastopol.ticketfly.com.
Friday, Dec. 9
Tommy Emmanuel: Program of ‘Classics & Christmas’ with the Australian-born guitarist, 7:30 p.m. Dec. 9, Green Music Center Weill Hall, Green Music Center, Rohnert Park. $25-$45. (866) 955-6040, gmc.sonoma.edu.
Posada Navideña: Folk culture of Mexico and traditional posada, 7 p.m. Dec. 9, Luther Burbank Center, Santa Rosa. $2-$10. 546-3600, lutherburbankcenter.org.
Saturday, Dec. 10
Angélique Kidjo: Grammy Award-winning singer, Africa’s ‘premier diva,’ 7:30 p.m. Dec. 10, Weill Hall, Green Music Center, Rohnert Park. $25-$75. (866) 955-6040, gmc.sonoma.edu.
Gingerbread Doghouse Class: Create Snoopy’s gingerbread doghouse, plus crafts, 10 a.m. Dec. 10 (ages 3-6) and 1 p.m. Dec. 10 and 11 (grades 1-6), Schulz Museum, Santa Rosa. $10-$32. 284-1272, schulzmuseum.org.
‘Sing-Along Messiah’: Singalong with a string quartet, soloists and a chorus, 2 p.m. Dec. 10, Sebastopol United Methodist Church. $6, $15 per family. 829-4797, sebarts.org.
Sunday, Dec. 11
Symphony Pops: ‘A Charlie Brown Christmas Concert,’ featuring songs from the 1965 holiday classic, 3 p.m. Dec. 11, Luther Burbank Center, Santa Rosa. $37-$80. 546-3600, lutherburbankcenter.org.
‘A Chanticleer Christmas’: San Francisco-based male chorus, program of holiday songs, 5 p.m. Dec. 11, St. Vincent de Paul Church, Petaluma. $35-$75. chanticleer.org.
Zoë Keating: Cellist and composer, 3 p.m. Dec. 11, Schroeder Hall, Green Music Center, Rohnert Park. $30, sold out. (866) 955-6040, gmc.sonoma.edu.
Dining Out for Life happens Dec. 1 (World AIDS Day) to raise money and awareness for local AIDS charities. Here in Sonoma County, the recipient is Sonoma County’s Food For Thought — a local agency providing healthy food and compassion to people living with HIV/AIDS and other illnesses.
Select from 90-plus restaurants throughout Sonoma County who will donate between 25 to 50 percent of the day’s proceeds to the non-profit organization. On the list are restaurants for any price point, from casual pizza at Mountain Mike’s to upscale dining at Barndiva, Rocker Oysterfellers, Russian River Vineyards, Brew Coffee and Beer, and K&L Bistro (plus dozens more).
Busy stocking up on stocking stuffers? Here are a few sudsy suggestions for the beer lover in your life. There is something to satisfy beer geeks and casual beer drinkers alike.
The Russian River Porter at Russian River Brewing Co. (Photo by Jess Vallery)
The first 5 beers on this list can all be found in one location, at local beer shop and taproom Beer Craft in Rohnert Park. For those in need of a one-stop-shop (and pint after a hectic shopping day), this place offers a variety of local brews and help with selections.
Beer Craft Bottle Shop and Taproom, 5704 Commerce Blvd., Rohnert Park, CA 94928, (707) 206-9440,beercraft.com @BeerCraft
Fall River Brewing Abbott’s, available at Beer Craft. (Photo by Jess Vallery)
Shady Oak Barrel House – Somnambulism
A mild dark sour aged in rye whiskey barrels and Pinot Noir barrels. Light on the palate with a tart finish. (Available now on draft at Beer Craft, their taps rotate often so get there quickly to try this lovely food friendly beer)
Shady Oak Barrel House Somnambulism, available at Beer Craft. (Photo by Jess Vallery)
Almanac Beer Co. – Farmer’s Reserve Nectarine
A sour, wild ale, aged in old wine casks with California yellow nectarines. This beer is light and crisp with hints of brettanomyces. Pair this with baked ham or a warm peach pie or crisp for an amazing party in your mouth.
Almanac Beer Co.’s Nectarine, available at Beer Craft. (Photo by Jess Vallery)
Cascade Brewing Barrel House – Figaro Ale
A Northwest-style sour ale aged in Chardonnay barrels for 18 months with white figs. Flavors of white wine grapes and sweet figs with a finish of lemon tartness. This beer is a must have for any sour fan.
Cascade Brewing and Barrel House Figaro, available at Beer Craft. (Photo by Jess Vallery)
The second part of this list include beers that can be found at various breweries throughout Sonoma County.
Sonoma Springs Brewing – Subliminal Gold IPA
No party is complete without a hoppy IPA. This beer is crisp a floral with notes of gooseberry and grapefruit citrus. Purchase it at Beer Craft or at the Sonoma Springs taproom in the town of Sonoma. If you swing by the taproom, try their newly released milk stout. Sonoma Springs Brewing, 19449 Riverside Drive, Sonoma, CA 95476, Ste. 101, (707) 938-7422, sonomasprings.com @SonomaSprings, Taproom Hours: Mon – Tue 4-9PM and Wed – Sun 1-9PM, Christmas Eve 1-6PM, Christmas Day closed, New Year’s Eve 1-6PM, New Year’s Day closed.
Sonoma Springs Subliminal IPA, available at Beer Craft and the Sonoma Springs taproom. (Photo by Jess Vallery)
Fogbelt Brewing Company – Federation Giant Irish Coffee Stout
An Imperial Milk Stout with 30 gallons of cold brew coffee. 50% of this beer is aged in whiskey barrels for five months. This beer is available in bottles and on draft now at the taproom. Fogbelt Brewing Company, 1305 Cleveland Ave, Santa Rosa, CA, 95401, (707) 978-3400, fogbeltbrewing.com, @FogbeltBrewing, Taproom hours: Mon – Thurs 12-10PM, Fri – Sat 11AM-11PM, Sun 11AM-8PM, Christmas Eve 11AM-8PM, Christmas Day closed, New Year’s Eve 11AM-Midnight, New Year’s Day 12-10PM.
Fogbelt Brewing Federation Giant. (Photo courtesy of Fogbelt Brewing)
101 North Brewing – Red Gone Wild Ale
The Stigmata Red Rye aged in Rhone and Burgundy barrels for 12 months. This beer has a barnyard nose coupled with a tart cherry finish. It’s available at select retailers and the taproom now. 101 North Brewing, 1304 Scott Street, Petaluma, CA, 94954, (707) 778-8384, 101northbrewing.com, @101NorthBrewing, Taproom hours: Wed – Fri, 4-9PM and Sat – Sun, 1-9PM, Christmas Eve 2-6PM, Closed Christmas Day, and New Year’s Day.
The growler and boot club glass at the taproom at 101 North Brewery. (Photo by Tim Vallery)
Russian River Brewing Company – The Mini Growler (32 ounce)
Fill the growler with anything your beer loving friend desires: from Blind Pig IPA to the Russian River Porter and the Row 2 Hill 56, all will be a nice, fresh treat on Christmas Day. Russian River Brewing Company, 725 4th Street, Santa Rosa, CA 95404, (707) 545-2337, russianriverbrewing.com, @RussianRiverBrewingOfficial, Taproom Hours: Daily 11AM-12AM, Closed Christmas Day.
The mini stainless steel growler at Russian River Brewing. (Photo by Jess Vallery)
Crooked Goat Brewing – Beer Crowler
Buy your loved one a beer or three at Crooked Goat Brewing. Select something from their 16 beers on tap, buy one crowler for $12 or 3 for $33. My favorites are Silver Lining vanilla bean stout and the Grazer Session IPA. 32 ounce Crowlers are filled and sealed right at the brewery and make the perfect stocking stuffer! Crooked Goat Brewing, 120 Morris Street, Suite 120, Sebastopol, CA 95472, (707) 835-4256, crookedgoatbrewing.com, @CrookedGoatBrewing, Taproom Hours: Sun – Thur Noon – 9PM, Fri – Sat Noon to 11PM. Christmas Eve 12-4PM, Closed Christmas Day, New Year’s Eve 12-11PM, Closed New Year’s Day
The crowlers at Crooked Goat Brewing. A 32 ounce can. (Photo by Tim Vallery)
Henhouse Brewing Company – Saison
A farmhouse style beer with aromas of lemongrass and coriander with a light, crisp finish. Get this popular beer only at the taproom, hurry, this beer will be sold out soon! Henhouse Brewing, 322 Bellevue Ave, Santa Rosa, CA 95407, (707) 978-4577, henhousebrewing.com, @HenhouseBrewing, Taproom Hours: Mon – Fri 4PM-9PM, Sat – Sun 11AM-9PM, Christmas Eve 11AM-4pm, Closed Christmas Day, New Year’s Eve 11AM-9PM, Closed New Year’s Day.
Merry Christmas and Happy Holidays to you and yours!
Panisse with roasted vegetables and herbed fromage blanc at Crocodile Restaurant in Petaluma. Heather Irwin/PD
You won’t be hard-pressed to find French culinary traditions or French-trained chefs in just about every restaurant in Sonoma County. But finding a decent boeuf Bourguignon or panisse north of San Francisco? Bonne chance.
Fortunately, both are on the menu at Petaluma’s Crocodile Restaurant— recently opened in the downtown theater district — along with other French classics including crispy pumpkin croquettes, cheesy Gougeres, house-made charcuterie and steak frites with a distinctly Gallic accent.
French cuisine with a unique point of view at Petaluma’s Crocodile Restaurant. Heather Irwin/PD
“It’s French comfort food,” said Moire Beveridge, co-owner of the restaurant. She and husband/chef Michael Dotson recently moved to Sonoma County from the South Bay, where they owned a popular Scottish gastropub. Now, they’re turning their attention to France.
“Both my husband and I had a deep love for the French lifestyle and food,” said Beveridge, a native of Scotland. “My family and I used to rent homes in France during the summers and spend months at a time living as the French did,” she said of the fresh ingredients, time-honored culinary traditions and passion for good food.
French cuisine with a unique point of view at Petaluma’s Crocodile Restaurant. Heather Irwin/PD
“It also held a place in my husband’s heart as he trained in France when he was just starting out as a young chef. There is something elegant yet unpretentious about French cuisine…the techniques are not obvious, and although they can be time-consuming, the results are classic and simply delicious,” Beveridge added.
But Dotson is far from a purist, dotting his dishes with spices and culinary influences from North Africa, the Mediterranean and India. In the restaurant’s small, open kitchen, a shelf holds dozens of his favorite seasonings, from piment d’esplette to fennugreek, coriander and alderwood smoked sea salt. “I’m rooted in classics, but became fascinated with Marseille,” Dotson said of the southern French port, where the cuisines of North Africa, Spain, Italy and the Mediterranean commingle.
French cuisine with a unique point of view at Petaluma’s Crocodile Restaurant. Heather Irwin/PD
You’ll see those spices in dishes like Pumpkin Croquettes ($7), bite-sized balls of sweet pumpkin and breadcrumbs sitting in a pool of creme fraiche and chermoula (a pungent Moroccan herb sauce) or Baby Carrots ($7) with pomegranate and muhammara (a Turkish pepper dip).
He also has a sense of humor with his cuisine, filling his classic puffed cheese Gourgeres ($7) with the distinctly American pimento cheese; or serving frites (fries) with “Pyrenees” ketchup, a combination of Heinz ketchup and piment espelette, a Basque chili that was popular in his former restaurant. “People wanted their Heinz,” he said. So they doctored it up to be a bit more homemade, in the tradition of making everything at the restaurant, even if this one happens to be semi-homemade.
Pumpkin croquettes at Petaluma French restaurant, Crocodile. Heather Irwin/PD
More traditional dishes, like panisse, are rare finds north of San Francisco. Made with chickpea flour and water, panisse is a bit like polenta, creamy on the inside, and usually fried and sliced into pieces. Here, the creamy carrot panisse is sliced into a pie wedge served with root vegetables and herbed fromage blanc (a sort of cream cheese). The sauce is far more complicated, as are most French sauces, and Dotson winces as he tries to explain it. “The base is broth,” he says, meaning two different broths, in addition to walnuts, chili, vanilla beans, mushrooms and muhammara. Our best suggestion? Just eat it. Don’t try to figure it out.
Steak frites at Crocodile Restaurant in Petaluma. Heather Irwin/PD
Also worth a try:
– Steak Frites: Okay, so steak frites is on just about every bistro menu in the county. But most of the time the beef is pretty unremarkable. We love Crocodile’s version, with beefy hangar steak and maitre d’Hotel butter (a compound butter with herbs). Fries are served with celery root remoulade and Pyrenees ketchup ($25).
Charcuterie board at Crocodile Restaurant in Petaluma. Heather Irwin/PD
– Charcuterie:We love the trend of charcuterie boards, but too many restaurants have tried their hand at this, and should be stopped. Immediately. For the love of god. Because deli salami isn’t charcuterie. Here, the true charcuterie board is comprised of house made rabbit pate, duck pate and chicken liver mousse with wholegrain mustard, pickled veggies, Revolution bread and crackers. $6 each, or $18 for all three.
– Macaroni au Gratin: Creamy shells with melty, gooey St. George cheese. This doesn’t try to be anything but classically delicious ($8).
Macaroni gratin at Petaluma French restaurant, Crocodile. Heather Irwin/PD
– Mushroom Roasted Chicken Breast: The wife of a chef can be picky, as Beveridge admits, but this chicken dish is one of her favorites. “There are mushrooms placed under the skin of the chicken before it is roasted and it always comes out juicy and tender. It also has a Parisian Gnocchi and Brussels sprouts with the chicken just drizzled on the plate,” she said. “It is comfort food at it’s finest,” said Beveridge, ($19).
– Boeuf Bourguignon: So we never got to try this one, but judging from the hours of work Dotson puts into this, it can’t help but be good. During lunch service, Dotson disappeared frequently into the back to build the flavors of this classic French beef dish made with red wine-braised filet mignon, pearl onions and house made egg noodles, $19. Give it a try and let us know…
– Burger, of course: The French don’t do hamburgers, they do brisket burgers. This one comes with green peppercorn mayo and fries, $12.
Caramel pot de creme at Petaluma French restaurant, Crocodile. Heather Irwin/PD
– Caramel Pot de Creme: Think pudding with a pedigree. Rich, creamy, smooth, unbelievable caramel pudding with espresso whipped cream and coconut shortbread cookies, $9.
– Wine, beer, cider: Beveridge has spent months creating a fascinating wine list of both Old and New World producers. That means small local wine, beer and cider makers along with boutique producers from France, Belgium and the U.S. Spend some time paging through it, because there are plenty of wines by the glass, exotic beers and even some fun sour beers and ciders. Free corkage on Mondays.
Gougeres at Petaluma French restaurant, Crocodile. Heather Irwin/PD
– Something you’ve never had: One of the disappointments after opening, said both Beveridge and Dotson, was the lack of interest in some of the more unique dishes like sweetbreads, duck and bone marrow. Both the duck and sweetbreads have been taken off the menu, but may return as specials. The roasted bone marrow with snails, garlic butter and mushrooms is worth trying, even if you’re a bit squeamish, for its buttery, rich taste.
Moire and Michael with their daughter inside Crocodile restaurant in Petaluma.
And the name? “We were sitting down to a regular family dinner with my daughter and my parents talking about the name and we began talking about French dining experiences in general,” said Beveridge. “My father mentioned that his best French dining experience had been at Au Crocodile in Strasbourg many years ago,” she said. It turned out that her father had dined at the restaurant at the same time Dotson had trained there. “We took our inspiration from that moment,” said Beveridge.
Crocodile Restaurant, 140 Second St., Suite 100, Petaluma, 707-981-8159, crocodilepetaluma.com.
Cowboy steak at Calistoga Kitchen in Calistoga, California on Friday, November 11, 2016. (Alvin Jornada
Spring Mountain Heritage Farm rabbit gumbo, at Calistoga Kitchen in Calistoga. (Photo by Alvin Jornada)
It’s a rare restaurant that lifts your spirits as soon as you approach the front door. But such is the case with Calistoga Kitchen, set in a white clapboard cottage behind a cozy slate patio that feels like someone’s personal garden. It just feels special.
The Kitchen has been here since mid-2010, yet it’s mostly a local’s secret, making it all the more intriguing since it’s hidden in plain sight on the southeast corner of Lincoln Avenue and Cedar Street. You’ve probably walked right by the ivy draped white picket fence, too close to look up and see the tall red and white diner-style sign reading “Great Food.”
Calistoga Kitchen at 1107 Cedar Street in Calistoga. (Photo by Alvin Jornada)
Should a regular customer fail to make the turn into the trellised entry along Cedar, chef-owner Rick Warkel has his tricks, however. His kitchen boasts a window where he can peek out through the tree canopy lining the street. One recent evening, he yelled at a passerby, “Hey! No walking on the sidewalk!” The fellow, clearly a friend, laughed and came in.
Dining area at Calistoga Kitchen in Calistoga. (Photo by Alvin Jornada)
Adding to the undercover mood, the restaurant is only open Thursday for dinner, Friday and Saturday for lunch and dinner, and Sunday for brunch. That’s because originally, the concept was born as a semiprivate supper club to supplement Warkel’s busy catering business, created with his wife and local winemaker Ren Ta. (Pause to admire their giant mobile barbecue smoker usually hunkered in the restaurant’s back parking lot.) Now, the café and catering take priority, alongside periodic supper club events hosted with area wineries.
I’m almost hesitant to share this gem, since the bistro seats only a few dozen inside and out, and the setting is so charming, I don’t want to battle crowds. (Tip: be sure to make reservations.) Add in the retail pricing policy for the boutique wine list, and this is a treasure indeed, celebrating local finds like Tofanelli Family Vineyard 2013 Charbono ($44) and Hard Six Cellars 2014 Seated Cloud Sauvignon Blanc ($36).
House-cured salmon on crisp potato cake, left, and salad of chicories, at Calistoga Kitchen in Calistoga. (Photo by Alvin Jornada)
Except the food here is so very good, it should be showcased. Warkel graduated from the Culinary Institute of America Hyde Park, N.Y., and has catered many French Laundry company parties, plus events for wineries like Joseph Phelps and Schramsberg. So we get relaxed fine dining, from a reliable menu that offers such things as luscious beef Bolognese over handmade cavatelli ($24), but also fancier fare like Grimaud Muscovy duck breast, pan roasted to a crisp skin then flooded in a riveting, dark sour cherry jus that seeps into the accompanying sweet potato puree and haricot verts ($34).
Duck, in fact, is a chef signature, presented in various ways such as an appetizer of Little Gem lettuce cups stuffed with the rich poultry, carrot, cabbage and cucumber alongside spicy peanut sauce and Sriracha ($12), or luxurious confit teamed with braised lentils, frisee and carrot ($32).
Roasted duck soup, at Calistoga Kitchen in Calistoga. (Photo by Alvin Jornada)
The roasted duck soup is a particular specialty, and it’s decadent. It reminds me of ultra-rich pho, the roasted, shredded bird bobbing in star anise-duck bone broth stocked with al dente wild mushrooms, finely diced carrot, quinoa and lots of diced leek that adds crunch and earthy bite ($12). My server said she wouldn’t chide me for lifting the bowl to my lips to get every last drop, but instead I sopped it up with warm, soft bread ($2.50).
Chef Warkel also likes rabbit, preparing it in various guises such as cacciatore, the lusty stew thick with braised vegetables and peppers over creamy polenta ($26). It’s local meat, my server explained, coming from Spring Mountain Heritage Family Farm in St. Helena.
Cowboy steak at Calistoga Kitchen in Calistoga. (Photo by Alvin Jornada)
I liked the rabbit even more on another night, when the tender pulled meat came as gumbo ($26), tumbled with Andouille slices that delivered a pleasing burn in the back of my throat. Nearly raw sliced okra brought nice crunch against tiny-diced carrot and Holy Trinity vegetables, all swimming in a silky thick brown sauce for mixing into fragrant white rice. It was a small portion, but perhaps made smaller in my mind because the stew thrilled me so much.
Chef-owner Rick Warkel of Calistoga Kitchen, in Calistoga. (Photo by Alvin Jornada)
Several dishes are classics, like whisper thin beef carpaccio dressed with arugula, capers and olive oil ($12); or pan roasted, skin-on Rocky Jr. chicken breast rounded out with moist stuffing, buttery green beans and baby carrot ($26). But what may lack in inventiveness is made up in flavor.
Here and there, the chef adds upscale touches, such as the trout roe decorating the herb cream cheese dollops on house-cured salmon, atop crisp potato cake and curls of radish and cucumber ($12). Shrimp fra diavolo gets a new twist, too, with tender pieces of Monterey squid interlaced amid the pappardelle in a spicy tomato-garlic-white wine butter sauce showered in chile flakes ($25).
Monterey squid and shrimp fra diavolo, at Calistoga Kitchen in Calistoga. (Photo by Alvin Jornada)
I can easily skip dessert, though. Selections like flourless chocolate cake with berry sauce, buttered almonds and whipped cream ($9); or apple crisp with garam masala and caramel-vanilla ice cream ($9) are fine, but dated enough that, for me, they aren’t worth the calories.
Even the décor here is traditional elegance, done in gray, white and cream accented with dark wood chairs and softened with fabric banquettes. Broken into several small dining areas and a six-seat bar, the feel is intimate, though things get loud when the house is full.
Then, Warkel pops out of the kitchen again, checking with guests to see how they’re enjoying things. It’s a classic touch, just as if we were dining in his own home.
In a sense, we actually are.
Carey Sweet is a Santa Rosa-based food and restaurant writer. Read her restaurant reviews every other week in Sonoma Life. Contact her at carey@careysweet.com.
Snuggle up in front of a fireplace, soak in a hot tub under a starry sky, or kick-back in a cozy couch — these charming Sonoma County cabins have everything you need for some good-old fashioned seasonal hibernation. Worried about cabin fever? We’ve thrown in a luxe lodge just for you.
Research by Josephine Clements.
Harrison Creek Cabin – Monte Rio
Harrison Creek Cabin in Monte Rio. (Photo courtesy of Airbnb)
Built in 1906, this three bedroom cabin was recently renovated to enhance comfort and preserve the cabin’s historic charm. The house features an outdoor spa and two fireplaces; the surrounding garden is host to a collection of rhododendrons, camellias, ferns and, of course, old-growth redwoods. Next to the house, Harrison Creek runs most of the year and, in rainy months, a spectacular waterfall takes center stage. For restaurant outings, the trendy and quaint town of Guerneville is only four miles away — or drive a little further to the historic hamlet of Duncan Mills and the tempestuous seashores of the Pacific.
Harrison Creek Cabin in Monte Rio.Harrison Creek Cabin in Monte Rio.Harrison Creek Cabin in Monte Rio.
Redwood Cabin – Sebastopol
Redwood Cabin in Sebastopol. (Photo courtesy of Airbnb)
Overlooking a pond and a two-acre meadow, this cute redwood cabin offers a quiet retreat for reading, relaxing and meditation. Have breakfast at nearby Wildflour Bread Bakery, followed by a zen afternoon at Osmosis Day Spa and then spend the evening on the futon chaise in front of the fireplace. The best feature? No cellphone reception.
$145 per night, $155/night for 4 guest, and $800 for one week. More information here: airbnb.com/757633
Redwood Cabin in Sebastopol.Redwood Cabin in Sebastopol.Redwood Cabin in Sebastopol.
Charles Schulz’s Cabin – Sebastopol
The original Sonoma County home of Charles Schulz, where he raised his children, is surrounded by a four hole golf course, redwood trees and fountains. (Photo by Kent Porter)
Described as “Hidden Cabin of Famous Cartoonist” on Airbnb, this vacation rental was originally built in the 1960s as a private drawing studio for “Peanuts” creator Charles Schulz. This is a unique opportunity to stay in the place where one of the most iconic comic strips was drawn, while enjoying the serenity of the Sonoma County woods. Just 10 minutes outside of Sebastopol, this secluded oasis comes with its own four-hole golf course (rumor has it a few Hollywood celebrities have played here), fireplace, expansive deck, and Japanese-style garden with pond, waterfalls and maple trees. Take a short hike though the redwoods, pick fresh fruit from a variety of trees on the grounds – apples, lemons, plums, apricots, cherries – or just soak up the atmosphere of this very special place.
The original Sonoma County home of Charles Schulz. This was the studio, which has been converted into a bedroom. (Photo by Kent Porter)
The entrance to the kitchen and dining area. (Photo by Kent Porter)Gazebo by the original drawing studio of Charles Schulz. (Photo by Kent Porter)
A-Frame Cabin – Cazadero
A-Frame Cabin in Cazadero. (Photo courtesy of Airbnb)
Surrounded by redwoods, this little house in the woods is the dream retreat for an artist, writer, musician — or a couple looking for a romantic getaway. There’s a wood-burning stove for cooking stews and other comfort foods (and plenty of cookbooks for inspiration), a record player for your Sonoma County soundtracks, a well-stacked bookcase, and homey details throughout. This cabin is a ten-minute drive from the Sonoma Coast, and just fifteen minutes from Guerneville; head west and you’ll hit the charming town of Duncans Mills; go east to Monte Rio, and catch a movie at the historic Rio Theater.
A-Frame Cabin in Cazadero.A-Frame Cabin in Cazadero.A-Frame Cabin in Cazadero.A-Frame Cabin in Cazadero.A-Frame Cabin in Cazadero.A-Frame Cabin in Cazadero.
Cabin with Private Chef – Guerneville
Cabin with Private Chef in Guerneville. (Photo courtesy of Airbnb)
This mid-century modern cabin — called the Lucky Bend Lookout — was architect-designed and constructed in 1966 and features an open-floor plan, an elevated treehouse-style wraparound deck, floor to ceiling windows, redwood walls and ceilings, and stairs leading down to the Russian River and a private dock. One of the bedrooms features a sturdy set of bunk beds for a comfy summer-camp setup – if you’d like to bring the kids on your winter getaway. Too comfy to cook? A private chef is available upon request.
Cabin with Private Chef in Guerneville.Cabin with Private Chef in Guerneville.Cabin with Private Chef in Guerneville.
Redwood Treehouse Cabin – Guerneville
Redwood Treehouse Cabin in Guerneville. (Photo courtesy of Airbnb)
This handcrafted Redwood retreat, built in 1932, offers an out of the ordinary winter getaway. The house features high ceilings throughout and a handcrafted wood spiral staircase leads to a loft-style master bedroom with windows overlooking the treetops. Outside on the wraparound deck, there is a fully-equipped gas-range grill and a hot tub. What else could you possibly need to relax in real Russian River style?
Redwood Treehouse Cabin in Guerneville.Redwood Treehouse Cabin, Guerneville.Redwood Treehouse Cabin in Guerneville.Redwood Treehouse Cabin in Guerneville.Redwood Treehouse Cabin in Guerneville.
Luxe Lodge – Healdsburg
Luxe Lodge in Healdsburg. (Photo Courtesy of VRBO)
If you’d like to treat your whole family to a cabin experience – minus the fever – this 4000 square feet luxury lodge in Healdsburg sleeps 10 and has a 25-feet open-beam ceiling. Originally a turn-of-the-century premium horse-training stable, the lodge consists of 31 horse stalls, most of which have been converted into living space, preserving the crafted woodwork and original stall doors with silver-plated hand wrought hardware. The house surrounds a 10,000 square foot courtyard and is situated on 11 acres with oak and bay trees, trails and a secluded hot tub. Our favorite perk is the 6 ft grand piano and the lap pool crafted out of natural river rock.
$927 per night, sleeps 10. More information here: vrbo.com/932716
Luxe Lodge in Healdsburg.Luxe Lodge in Healdsburg.Luxe Lodge in Healdsburg.Luxe Lodge in Healdsburg.Luxe Lodge in Healdsburg.
‘Tis the season of giving and gifting! Whether you want tackle your holiday gift list, give back to the community – or both, here are 8 local holiday events that will make giving extra fun and festive this season.
Photo credit: Sarah Deragon
Jewelry Jubilee & Winter Coat Drive
Gather up your unwanted gently worn coats and jewelry and donate to women and children in need during the Jewelry Jubilee & Winter Coat Drive. Hosted by The Epicurean Connection, G3 – gather grow and go – Events, Pangloss Cellars, Benziger Family Winery, Adele Harrison Leadership, your items will be donated to The Sonoma County YWCA Safe House and The Living Room Day Services. For additional information, donations and question, please call Sheana Davis 707-935-7960 or sheana@vom.com. November 30, 5:00 p.m. – 7:00 p.m at The General’s Daughter, 400 West Spain St. Sonoma, 95476.
Cornerstone’s 12 Days of Christmas
Experience festive holiday shopping in Sonoma Valley by celebrating Cornerstone’s 12 Days of Christmas. Visit your favorite shops during the first 12 days of December when each one is offering special treats and events. Visit the Cornerstone website for a calendar of festivities. And don’t miss this year’s 12th Annual Lighting of the Snowmen happening December 3rd at 4:00 p.m. December 1 – December 12, 10:00 a.m. – 5:00 p.m. each day at Cornerstone, 23579 Arnold Drive, Sonoma, 95476.
Handmade Holiday Craft Fair and Luther Burbank Holiday Open House
Spend a festive day in Santa Rosa touring the historic Home and Gardens of Luther Burbank, which will be decorated for the holidays reminiscent of the Victorian era. Be sure to shop for charming and unique Burbank-related gifts in the Carriage House Museum and Gift Shop. Then enjoy a free ride on “Rosie the Trolley” to the 42nd Annual Handmade Holiday Craft Fair held at the Finley Community Center where 80 local artists will have their quality items available for sale. Shop for hand-crafted holiday décor, jewelry, foods, bath and body products and more!
Open House is December 3 and 4, 10:00 a.m. – 4:00 p.m. at Santa Rosa & Sonoma Avenues, Downtown Santa Rosa.
Crafts Fair is December 3, 9:00 a.m. – 5:00 p.m. and December 4, 10:00 a.m. – 4:00 p.m. at Finley Community Center, 2060 W. College Ave, Santa Rosa, CA 95401.
Wine Country Winter Festival
Get into the holiday spirit at the 1st Annual Wine Country Winter Festival. This event includes lots of arts and crafts, three stages of entertainment, wine, beer and spirits tasting, a gingerbread house competition, and plenty of food! Shop for special gifts for everyone on your list while celebrating the holidays. December 3, 10:00 – 6:00 p.m. and December 4, 10:00 a.m. – 5:00 p.m. at Santa Rosa Fairgrounds, 1350 Bennett Valley Road, Santa Rosa, 95404.
Sip, Stroll and Shop The Glen Ellen Block
Join Laurel Glen Vineyard, Korbin Kameron, Kivelstadt, and Talisman for their 3rd annual Glen Ellen Holiday Stroll. Shop for great gifts and enjoy wine, treats, and lots of holiday cheer, including caroling, in a quaint small town setting. December 3, 12:00 p.m. – 5:00 p.m. in Downtown Glen Ellen.
Petaluma Downtown Holiday Open House
The annual Merchant’s Holiday Open House “From Petaluma With Love” includes festive holiday treats, shopping, horse and carriage rides from Putnam Plaza, balloon art, face painting and more. Holiday fun for every age! December 3, 11:00 a.m. – 5:00 p.m. in Downtown Petaluma.
Santa Paws
Take Fifi and Fido on a holiday shopping trip to the Pets Lifeline of Sonoma Santa Paws event at Cornerstone. Enjoy mulled cider and cookies, have your pets photo taken with Santa, then shop the festive boutiques at Cornerstone with your four-legged kids. Register for your photo appointment and get more information at Pets Lifeline.December 4, 10:00 am – 3:00 pm at Cornerstone, 23579 Arnold Drive, Sonoma, 95476.
Sip, Savor and Shop Local with G3
Would you like to become a more conscientious consumer this holiday season? Join G3 and Liz Jenks for this talk about the importance of being a careful and caring consumer at The General’s Daughter in Sonoma. A fun and diverse shopping experience follows the discussion, which includes over 30 local vendors offering products and services you will feel good about purchasing. A percentage of proceeds will go to local charities. Also enjoy local wines, tasty bites, and the company of other fabulous women. Purchase tickets at G3 Sonoma. December 7, 6:30 p.m. – 8:30 p.m. at The General’s Daughter, 400 West Spain St. Sonoma, 95476.
Visit the links above for ticket information and any event updates.
It’s the season for showing family members, friends and pets just how much they are appreciated and loved. We’ve scoured Sonoma to come up with gifts that are bound to leave an impression long after they’re unwrapped.
