Napa’s culinary superstars are coming out, again, for BottleRock Napa Valley 2017. Announced today are the nearly 50 restaurants and food trucks who’ll make this annual wine, music and food festival a destination for eaters. Nearly all have participated in past years, so this ain’t their first rodeo. More may be added in the next weeks. One of the most entertaining aspects of the food lineup, the Williams-Sonoma Culinary Stage (which has featured the likes of Snoop Dogg, Cheech and Chong and Chef Michael Voltaggio) will be announced in the coming weeks.
Here’s the lineup:
Morimoto
Estate Events by Meadowood
Bouchon Bakery
La Toque
Mustards Grill
La Taberna
Oenotri
Redd
Ca’Momi
Cole’s Chop House
Miminashi
Hurley’s
The Bounty Hunter Wine Bar
Smokin BBQ
Tarla Grill
Bistro Don Giovanni
The Q Restaurant and Bar
Goose & Gander
Norman Rose
Angéle
Napa Palisades Saloon
Eiko’s
1313 Main
Fumé Bistro
Ristorante Allegria
Eight Noodle Shop
Bui Bistro
Jax White Mule Diner
Il Posto Trattoria
Gerard’s Paella (Sonoma County)
Smoke Open Fire
Taqueria Rosita
The Farmer’s Wife (Sonoma County)
The Chairman
Me So Hungry
Too Dabba
Drewski’s
Curry Up Now
Kara’s Cupcakes
The Pop Nation
Sweetie Pies Bakery
KRAVE Jerky
Pinup Girl Coffee Co. (Sonoma County)
Homeslice Pizza
Ben & Jerry’s
The event features four stages and some 80 bands over three days, May 26-28 at the Napa Valley Fairgrounds. Tickets are nearly sold out, so if you’re going, get going.
And to drink? Craft brews feature a mix of fan favorites and brews from premium brewers and distillers, including Lagunitas Brewing Company, Heineken, Golden State Cider, Napa Palisades, Green Flash Brewing Company, Heretic Brewing Company, Ninkasi Brewing Company, 21st Amendment Brewery, Ballast Point Brewing Company, Tannery Bend Beerworks, Berryessa Brewing Company, Stone Brewing, North Coast Brewing Company, Ruhstaller, Sonoma Springs Brewing Company, Fort Point Beer Company, Almanac Beer Company, Drakes Brewing Company, 101 North Brewing Company, New Belgium Brewing Company, Knee Deep Brewing Company, Saint Archer Brewery, and Henhouse Brewing Company.
Joining festival sponsor JaM Cellars are top Napa and Sonoma wineries including Miner Family Winery, Silver Oak Cellars, Del Dotto Vineyards, Rombauer Vineyards, Cakebread Cellars, Chappellet, Blackbird Vineyards, Chandon, Etude, Brown Estate, Clos Du Val, The Prisoner, Rutherford Hill, Sofia, Virginia Dare Winery, Piazza Del Dotto, Meiomi, Black Stallion Estate Winery, Starmont Winery, Ménage a Trois, and Smith Devereux Wines, with more to be announced soon. Platinum guests will enjoy rare and cult wines presented by Master Sommeliers and wine experts.
Sonoma entrepreneur Sal Chavez imports mezcal and other liquor products from his parents’ homeland, Michoacan, Mexico, with his company Puente Internacional. (Christopher Chung)
Sonoma entrepreneur Sal Chavez imports mezcal and other liquor products from his parents’ homeland, Michoacan, Mexico, with his company Puente Internacional. (Christopher Chung)
As Sonoma entrepreneur Sal Chavez successfully grows his business, he gives back to the community – and never forgets his roots.
Sonoma entrepreneur Sal Chavez imports mezcal and other liquor products from his parents’ homeland, Michoacán, Mexico, with his company Puente Internacional.
At the young age of 30, Sal Chavez has already launched a restaurant and a spirits distribution business and has been elected board chair of the Sonoma Valley Unified School District. But even as he rapidly builds on the success he’s already enjoyed, he never forgets what it took to get here.
“I am the son of immigrants whose intention, like so many other parents, was to come here and make a better life for their children,” Chavez says. He takes his parents’ goal seriously, and as a first-generation American he’s using both his entrepreneurial spirit and his belief in public service to lead the life they envisioned for him.
In 2009, while completing his economics degree at Sonoma State University, Chavez collaborated with his parents to open Picazo Cafe, a hot spot in Sonoma Valley where business is bustling and locals frequently bump into someone they know. “There was a ‘for lease’ sign on the door, and we had a hunger to do something,” he recalls. He wrote a business plan that turned out to be on target. In the early days the entire Chavez family worked at the cafe, greeting everyone with a genuine warmth that made those getting a take-out latte or an eat-in burger feel like guests, not customers. Friendliest of all was Sal, and his enthusiasm and hard work did not go unnoticed.
The genial nature and drive for success he showed to those who walked through the cafe doors began in turn to open doors for him. One customer he became friendly with was Camerino Hawing, a UCLA-educated Sonoma County architect and native of Mexico, who after seven years was resigning early from his post as a trustee on the Sonoma Valley school board.
Sal Chavez speaks to a group of Sonoma Valley High School students, as part of a career panel, in Sonoma. (Christopher Chung)
Hawing encouraged Chavez to apply and fulfill his hope that a Latino would replace him representing the El Verano school area. Chavez had attended the school as a boy and still lives in the neighborhood.
Chavez was taken aback. But in 2012, at age 26, he took the leap and applied for what was at first an appointed position replacing Hawing. He interviewed with the board and was chosen over a man decades older, with a lifetime of experience in the business world. When his term expired in 2014, Chavez ran as an unopposed incumbent and retained his seat. He was chosen as board president last year.
What he is most passionate about is helping parents understand that they need to be seriously involved in their children’s education in order for them to succeed. He is always encouraging parents to get to know the teachers, check that homework is complete and understand that it is not just the school’s responsibility to ensure their children are learning.
“Once I was on the school board, I was approached by five or six nonprofits to serve on their boards,” says Chavez.
He chose La Luz, an advocacy group that assists Mexican immigrants in establishing successful lives in their new country, knowing that the contribution La Luz makes to the Latino community aligned with his true calling. “I love trying to help.” He was part of the team that established a Family Resource Center at El Verano Elementary, which helps the parent community by offering parenting, English and exercise classes as well as mental health services.
Sal Chavez, left, talks about a bottle of bourbon with his friend and business partner Aiki Terashima as they taste a variety of liquor at Chavez’s home in Sonoma. Also at the table, from left, are Swiss exchange student Alexia Raccio who is staying with the Chavez’s, Kina Chavez and Hillary Terashima.(Alvin Jornada)
Chavez married his longtime girlfriend, Kina, in 2010 and the now have two sons, Salvador Picazo Chavez, who shares his name with his father and grandfather, and Maximus.
“Sal has always been ambitious, Kina says. “He’s a hardworking, smart guy, but he used to be shy. Now he is not shy at all – he’s unstoppable – but he’s still Sal. That’s why I love him.” She adds that when he’s at home, he puts everything else aside and is 100 percent husband and dad.
As Picazo Cafe’s business continued to grow the family brought in a partner, Aiki Terashima, and Chavez’s mind began churning on what his next venture would be. He read a news item about mezcal’s status as a new and fast-growing liquor category in the U.S and knew it was a perfect fit. He would start a company distributing mezcal made in Michoacán, Mexico, his parents’ homeland. “I liked the idea primarily because it’s so rich with culture,” he says.
Sal Chavez, left, and his wife Kina play with their eight-month-old son Maximus at their home in Sonoma. (Alvin Jornada)
The Parental Influence
Chavez credits his parents for raising him with an emphasis on education and hard work, and he has also had the advantage of meeting people of influence who have recognized a spark in him. Picazo has become a cultural crossroads of sorts, a place where the Latino community is embraced and wealthy residents stop by from their homes straight up the hill. One of those people is Marcelo Defreitas, a Picazo regular who is the chairman of the La Luz board but has known Chavez since long before he joined the board.
When Chavez shared his mezcal idea with Defreitas and his husband, Scott Smith, a prominent San Francisco investment banker and venture capitalist, they were impressed enough with Chavez’s savvy that they invited him to present his business plan to a group of potential investors at their Sonoma home. The movers and shakers liked Chavez’s proposal, and the necessary capital was raised.
Chavez started a spirits distribution business, Puente Internacional, traveling to the mountains of Michoacán to find a mezcalero who produces what Chavez calls “the smoothest” organic mezcal available, and securing all the other details of starting the new business — including coming up with the tagline: “When the stars are out, reach for La Luna mezcal.”
He’s added Michoacán-made Gustoso Aguardiente rum to the product line, and Puente now owns a 50 percent stake in Gran Dovejo tequila, which is made in Jalisco. Responsible for two companies and serving on two boards, he currently works about 65 hours a week.
Recently Chavez sent a status report on Puente to his investors, full of good news. One of the investors who has taken a personal interest in Chavez is Les Vadasz, an engineer and retired Intel executive who was part of the team that started the powerful high-tech company.
“Les came by after my update went out and asked me, ‘What needs to be fixed?’” Chavez explains that Vadasz told him he should send two sentences about what’s going well, and then focus on the problems and how he’s addressing them. Vadasz also mentioned that if he knew what wasn’t on track, he just might have some advice for Chavez.
As a young man, something that Chavez has learned earlier than many is to listen to those who are older, who have learned from life and are willing to share their knowledge. His mentors and their advice have fueled his trajectory.
Last June, Chavez was the commencement speaker at his alma mater, Sonoma Valley High School, the first Latino speaker in a largely Latino school. He told the graduates that success means waking up every day and loving the work you do. He also told them to be willing to work hard, ask questions and to be grateful to those who help them, ready to encounter hindrances and resilient enough to overcome obstacles.
Chavez’s parents were surely top of mind as he spoke those words, given what they overcame to become U.S. citizens so they could pursue the American dream — and help their son and his young family carry that dream forward.
A sketch of what Russian River Brewing Co.’s new brewery and brewpub in Windsor will look like when it opens in 2018. (COURTESY OF RUSSIAN RIVER BREWING CO.)
A sketch of what Russian River Brewing Co.’s new brewery and brewpub in Windsor will look like when it opens in 2018. (Courtesy of Russian River Brewing Co.)
Russian River Brewing Co.’s new Windsor brewery and brewpub will feature an exterior design that has the style of an urban industrial complex with farmhouse-like elements, according to new renderings released Tuesday.
The more than $30 million structure, which is scheduled to open in late summer 2018, is the one of the most eagerly anticipated projects for beer lovers across the world. Work is scheduled to begin in late March.
A beloved cult brewery, Russian River’s downtown pub and brewery attracts 300,000 visitors annually. Owners Vinnie and Natalie Cilurzo decided last year to open up a new location on a 16-acre parcel primarily to cater to those outside Sonoma County who visit the typically packed restaurant that only seats 175 people.
“This is exactly what we wanted. This is something that is not a concrete box,” said Natalie Cilurzo. “Our business model has now become so focused on hospitality.”
A sketch of what Russian River Brewing Co.’s new brewery and brewpub in Windsor will look like when it opens in 2018. (Courtesy of Russian River Brewing Co.)
One sketch, viewed from the west side of Mitchell and Conde lanes, shows a stone structure within part of the complex. It would house a koelschip, an open-top fermentation vessel used to collect wild yeasts for spontaneously fermented beers like its popular Beatification label.
Under the process, Cilurzo said, brewers would fill the vessels with hot beer wort (the liquid extracted during brewing’s mashing process) up to 10 inches deep and let it sit overnight. It is then moved into wine barrels for fermentation. The brewing process can only be done in the winter because it needs cool temperatures.
“It’s not something that makes us a lot of money, but it’s something we are passionate about,” Cilurzo said of the sour-style beers.
The facility also will allow for open-top fermentation for its other more popular beers such as STS Pils and Blind Pig IPA.
The brewpub will offer self-guided and guided tours as well as an outdoor bar where customers could bring their dogs and a large area to park bicycles and motorcycles. There will also be restroom facilities that can be accessed for those waiting in line, which will be especially valuable during its crowded Pliny the Younger release every February.
The Cilurzos are also considering providing their own shuttle from the Airport Boulevard train station for those customers taking Sonoma Marin Area Rail Transit trains.
A sketch of what Russian River Brewing Co.’s new brewery and brewpub in Windsor will look like when it opens in 2018. (Courtesy of Russian River Brewing Co.)
The Dragon Roll with shrimp tempura, crab, BBQ eel, avocado and unagi sauce from the Boathouse Asian Eatery in the Graton Casino. (John Burgess)
The Dragon Roll with shrimp tempura, crab, BBQ eel, avocado and unagi sauce from the Boathouse Asian Eatery in the Graton Casino. (John Burgess)
When I heard that Boathouse Sushi was taking over the former M.Y. China slot in the Graton Resort & Casino several months ago, I wasn’t impressed. It seemed like an odd choice for such a grand, two-story space, and not fitting as a flagship restaurant for the new $175 million hotel that opened next to the gambling hall in November.
There’s already a fast food Boathouse Asian Noodles in the casino’s food court, after all, and frankly, it’s awful, with soggy chow mein, bland pho and sticky orange chicken.
There was the original Boathouse Sushi, a casual joint that for 12 years sat on Redwood Drive and Rohnert Park Expressway before relocating to the casino in October, and there is another Boathouse on Mendocino Avenue in Santa Rosa, serving weird stuff like fries smothered in bacon and cream sauce, and a burger topped in pineapple and avocado.
But call me surprised. This new place is really good.
Boathouse Asian Eatery in the Graton Casino. (John Burgess)
Partner owner and chef Catherine Do expanded the menu to other Asian cuisines, including traditional Chinese and Vietnamese cooking. She added fancier dishes like a whole salt and pepper crab, presented in a colorful assemblage of red onion, red, yellow and green peppers (market price); and nicely done authentic fare like congee, properly silky and studded with ground pork and preserved egg ($14). Appropriately, the restaurant bears a new name: Boathouse Asian Eatery.
The positive mood starts at the entry, as we scoot through the marble clad hotel lobby and into the eatery, where new floor-to-ceiling windows protect us from the cigarette smoke saturating the gaming rooms.
Salt & Pepper Crab with garlic, salt and black pepper from the Boathouse Asian Eatery in the Graton Casino. (John Burgess)
The M.Y. China floor plan was redone to welcome a centerpiece oyster and sushi bar, and a tall, uplit tree reaching toward the second floor loft. Gray banquettes and chairs are brightened with red and gold Japanese fabric pillows, dramatic pendant lighting is sophisticated, and a white brick wall is painted with a theatrical Japanese-style octopus mural. It feels like a big city escape, no matter that we’re actually dining in what was a cow pasture until the casino debuted three years ago.
My dining companion doesn’t care for sushi, which delights me. That means I can hog it all myself, with my favorite Rainbow roll, a California roll that’s draped with sashimi tuna, salmon, yellowtail, shrimp and snapper sprinkled in crunchy tobiko ($15). The fish can be pricey, for two pieces each of nigiri such as maguro ($7), sake ($6) and hamachi ($7), but they’re generous cuts, and we can also delve into more exotic bites like raw, well-marbled Wagyu ($9) and briny oyster ($7).
Duck Noodle Soup with duck leg, bok toy, egg noodle, pork and shiitake broth from the Boathouse Asian Eatery in the Graton Casino. (John Burgess)
Other Americanized rolls don’t appeal, such as the Crazy Monkey of coconut shrimp, grilled pineapple, spicy crab, avocado and spicy aioli ($15), or the Mexican roll of spicy crab, cucumber, ebi and avocado splashed with spicy jalapeño ponzu ($13). A Trumpzilla roll is flat-out frightening, a mess of tuna, tempura avocado, spicy crab, albacore, chile threads and pepper sauce ($15). There are way too many offbeat flavors tripping things up.
But then, I’m old school with my sushi and crave the pure stuff, like decadent chutoro nigiri ($16), the fatty tuna rich and needing nothing more than a dot of wasabi.
Many other dishes are pleasantly uncluttered, with bright, light sauces. Shaking beef delivers wok seared, cubed filet mignon tossed with bell pepper, onion and a touch of oil ($21), while shrimp fried rice ($14) is fluffy, clean tasting and not greasy as it too often is at other restaurants. I also like the refreshing touch of fresh lime in the barbecue pork belly fried rice sparked with kimchee amid the scrambled egg ($11).
From left, a sampler tasting of unfiltered plum wine, Itokoyama Junmai sake and unfiltered Negori sake from Boathouse Asian Eatery in the Graton Casino. (John Burgess)
On my first visit, the kitchen crafted ramen, the tonkatsu broth bobbing with chashu pork, bean sprouts, bamboo, corn, green onion, soft boiled egg and a dollop of blackened garlic mayu oil ($14). It was delicious, so I’m sad to see it removed from the menu on a second visit. Yet duck noodle soup is a superb meal, too, stocked with tender duck leg, roast pork, crunchy bok choy and egg noodles in earthy shiitake broth ($15).
The Assorted Sashimi Combo. a 15 piece chef’s selection of daily fresh fish from the Boathouse Asian Eatery in the Graton Casino. (John Burgess)
It’s easy to order a lot of food here, since the lengthy menu tempts with worthy bites like Vietnamese crepes made of rice-tumeric dough stuffed with shrimp, pork, onion and bean sprouts ($13), or an iron pot brimming with Chinese sausage, barbecue pork, chicken, king trumpet mushrooms and toasted rice ($16).
Yet portions are large, so it’s better to order one or two plates at a time and see how full you get (dishes are delivered as they’re ready, though my server asked on each visit if we would prefer pacing).
My only disappointment is with the bento boxes, which are expensive and skimpy. One my first outing, the build-your-own price was $15, and a few weeks later the cost had increased to $17. We choose two entrées, like chicken katsu and two pieces of shrimp tempura rounded out with miso soup, a tiny salad and scoop of steamed rice. I’d like to see artisanal Japanese pickles, at least.
Still, as the slot machines glitter through the restaurant glass and servers quickly bring amply poured glasses of wine, it feels like a party in this place. Well done, new Boathouse. We’re in for smooth sailing.
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.
A roaring fire warms a seating area at Benovia Winery in rural northwest Santa Rosa.
Wine Country’s chilly winter months call for warm and cozy surroundings in which to enjoy your favorite wines — and, with Valentine’s Day just around the corner, sparkling selections are certainly on the menu.
A roaring fire warms a seating area at Benovia Winery in rural northwest Santa Rosa.
Alexander Valley Vineyards
Alexander Valley Vineyards offers a wide array of wines grown both on the estate and sourced from select vineyards. Visitors can enjoy complimentary tastings as well as winery and cave tours for groups of less than 10, or you can book a private tour and reserve wine tasting ($15) or a wine and cheese pairing ($25) with advance notice. 8644 Highway 128, Healdsburg, 707-4337209, avvwine.com.
Bella Vineyards and Wine Caves
Best known for its Zinfandels, Bella also offers Chardonnay, Pinot Noir and Petite Sirah. Wine tasting in the cave is offered daily ($10) without reservations, or you can reserve a personal blending experience ($55) or “Unleash the Beast” cave tour featuring vineyard-designate wines — including Bella’s monster Zin, The Beast. 9711 West Dry Creek Road, Healdsburg, 707-473-9171, bellawinery.com.
Benovia
Co-founders Joe Anderson and Mary Dewane and winemaker/coowner Mike Sullivan opened their visitor’s center, a former Russian River Valley ranch house, in 2011. The winery specializes in Pinot Noir and Chardonnay and also offers Zinfandel and Grenache. It’s open daily by appointment ($20) for intimate currentrelease tastings. 3339 Hartman Road, Santa Rosa, 707-921-1040, benoviawinery. com.
DeLoach Vineyards
A multitude of experiences are offered at Jean-Charles Boisset’s Russian River Valley winery, which specializes in Pinot Noir and Chardonnay. The Pinot by the Fire experience ($50) features wines grown in the estate’s biodynamic vineyard paired with select cheeses. It’s available by appointment on weekends until the end of February and takes place in the estate’s private guesthouse. 1791 Olivet Road, Santa Rosa, 707-755-3300, deloachvineyards.com.
Dutcher Crossing Winery
Relax next to the large outdoor fireplace while taking in the views and enjoying a picnic at Debra Mathy’s warm and welcoming winery featuring winemaker Kerry Damskey’s selection of vineyard-designate and blended offerings. Leashed dogs are welcome, and you might even get to meet Dutchess — Mathy’s golden Lab and the winery’s official greeter. Don’t forget to check out the penny-farthing bicycle in the tasting room. 8533 Dry Creek Road, Healdsburg, 707-4312700, dutchercrossingwinery.com.
Fog Crest Vineyard
From its perch atop Laguna de Santa Rosa, Fog Crest offers Pinot Noir, Chardonnay and rosé wines crafted by winemaker Jérôme Chéry. Open daily for wine tasting ($15), the intimate room features leather seating next to the fireplace as well as a patio where you can take in the view. Cheese plates ($25) are available, as are gourmet wine and food pairing lunches ($45) by appointment. 7606 Occidental Road, Sebastopol, 707 829-2006, fogcrestvineyard.com.
Fort Ross Vineyard & Winery
Overlooking the Pacific and miles of redwood forests, Fort Ross Vineyard & Winery offers estate-grown, singlevineyard Pinot Noir, Chardonnay and Pinotage (a South African grape planted by owners Linda and Lester Schwartz, who moved here from South Africa in the 1970s). It’s the closest winery to the coast in California — and well worth the drive. 15725 Meyers Grade Road, Jenner, 707847-3460, fortrossvineyard.com.
Fritz Underground Winery
Built into a hillside at the northern edge of Dry Creek Valley, Fritz Underground Winery offers a wide array of wines crafted by winemaker Brad Longton. All wines are estate-grown or sourced from Sonoma County vineyards. Sample current releases ($15) and reserve wines ($20), or reserve an underground winery tour to see where the magic happens ($30; by appointment on weekends). 24691 Dutcher Creek Road, Cloverdale, 707-894-3389, fritzwinery.com.
Guests attend Gloria Ferrer’s annual Holiday Crab Feed at Gloria Ferrer Caves & Vineyards in Sonoma. (Jeremy Portje)
Gloria Ferrer Caves & Vineyards
Nestled on a ridge featuring expansive views of Sonoma County’s Carneros AVA, Gloria Ferrer is best known for its sparkling wines. Try a flight of both still and sparkling offerings ($25-$33), or opt for a glass ($7-$20). Various tours and experiences are available by appointment, including “Bubbles and Bites” ($60), which includes an educational tour followed by a seated wine tasting paired with seasonal nibbles. 23555 Highway 121, Sonoma, 707933-1917, gloriaferrer.com.
Imagery Estate Winery
Imagery is known for crafting wines from uncommon varieties and for its obvious appreciation of the visual arts. Consider experiencing this sublime mix of art and wine with a visit to Imagery’s large tasting bar or with a private estate tasting featuring premier wines. You can peruse the winery’s art collection and try to find the Parthenon likeness that appears in every work displayed. 14335 Sonoma Highway, Glen Ellen, 800969-8890, imagerywinery.com.
Iron Horse Vineyards
Perched atop a ridge overlooking Green Valley of Russian River Valley (and beyond), the Sterling family’s intimate outdoor tasting room offers stunning views — the ideal location for a romantic toast. VIP behind-the-scenes tours ($30) featuring reserve wines are available weekdays by appointment, and reservations to visit are a must on weekends. 9786 Ross Station Road, Sebastopol, 707-887-1507, ironhorsevineyards.com.
Lambert Bridge
Specializing in Bordeaux varieties, Lambert Bridge also boasts a tasting room featuring a large fireplace, vaulted ceilings and a bar made of a single felled redwood tree. Glass walls provide a view into the barrel room, where you can enjoy reserved tastings ($35-50), or you can stay at the bar and choose your flight ($15-$25). 4085 West Dry Creek Road, Healdsburg, 800-9750555, lambertbridge.com.
Lambert Bridge Winery on West Dry Creek Road near Healdsburg has a cozy tasting room with a fireplace.
Longboard Vineyards
It’s all about wine, waves and soul at Longboard’s surf lounge. Owner and winemaker Oded Shakked crafts an assortment of varieties from Sauvignon Blanc to Syrah (and many in between) and has most recently added dry sparkling to his menu. The casual tasting room is adorned with a collection of surfboards and has a large flat-screen television featuring surf videos — but the wine and hospitality still take center stage here. 5 Fitch St., Healdsburg, 707-433-3473, longboardvineyards.com.
Pangloss Cellars
Located in a lovingly restored 114-year-old building, Pangloss Cellars was created to celebrate the positive things in life. Winemaker Erich Bradley focuses on wines grown in Sonoma Valley, and visitors can enjoy them at the bar ($25); in the expansive wood-and-stone lounge ($30-$50 with food pairings); or at a private seating by appointment in the cellar ($35 with charcuterie plate). 35 E. Napa St., Sonoma, 707-933-8565, panglosscellars.com.
Paradise Ridge Winery
The Byck family’s Paradise Ridge Winery has two locations (Santa Rosa and Kenwood). The Santa Rosa estate’s warm and welcoming tasting room overlooks the city and beyond. The estate hosts all sorts of events and features a stunning sculpture garden. The Kenwood location has a palatepleasing herb-infused artisan chocolate and wine pairing experience that’s both unique and delicious. 4545 Thomas Lake Harris Drive, Santa Rosa, 707528-9463; 8860 Sonoma Highway, Kenwood, 707-282-9020, prwinery.com.
Patz & Hall
The Sonoma House at Patz & Hall is an elegant former residence-turned-tasting salon that’s open by reservation Thursday through Monday. Sit by the warm fireplace for one of the winery’s seated tastings ($35-$60; some include food pairings) and enjoy a selection of single-vineyard Pinot Noir and Chardonnay. 21200 8th St. E., Sonoma, 707-265-7700, patzhall.com.
Ram’s Gate Winery
Feel as though you’re in a mountain lodge while taking in the Carneros views at Ram’s Gate Winery. There are multiple experiences and spaces to enjoy by appointment ($40-$250; some are seasonal and many offer food pairings — highly recommended) Thursday through Monday, and each space is warmed by a roaring fireplace. 28700 Arnold Drive, Sonoma, 707-721-8700, ramsgatewinery.com.
Ram’s Gate Winery has the feel of a very elegant mountain lodge, with expansive views of its Carneros setting.
Sigh
Sigh Sonoma is a bubbles-only tasting bar and lounge conceived by owner and “bubble boss” Jayme Powers, who has curated an outstanding array of local and international sparkling selections. Stop in to enjoy wines by the flight, glass or bottle. Local cheeses are also available, and if you order a bottle, the staff will saber it for you upon request. 29 E. Napa St., Suite C, Sonoma, 707-996-2444, sighsonoma.com.
Thomas George Estates
Father-and-son team Thomas and Jeremy Baker’s Thomas George Estates focuses on site-specific Chardonnay and Pinot Noir crafted by winemaker John Wilson. Drop in for a casual tasting ($20-$40) or go for a tour and tasting ($30) by appointment Thursday through Sunday, to explore the production facility, winery and cave. 8075 Westside Road, Healdsburg, 707431-8031, thomasgeorgeestates.com.
Three Sticks Wines
Located in the meticulously restored, historic Vallejo-Casteñada adobe in downtown Sonoma, Three Sticks Wines features intimate wine tasting experiences ($35-$200; some with food pairings) that involve history, art and a true sense of home. There are several places throughout the property where you can enjoy the signature Chardonnay, Pinot Noir and Cabernet Sauvignon crafted by winemaker Bob Cabral. 143 W. Spain St., Sonoma, 707-996-3328, threestickswines.com.
Walt
Walt focuses on vineyard-specific Pinot Noir and Chardonnay. Its tasting room just off the Sonoma square is located in a redesigned residence and offers wine tasting with or without an appointment ($30) for groups of six or less — or you can reserve one of a handful of special tastings, some of which include small bites by local purveyor the girl & the fig. Consider spoiling yourself with the Chardonnay & Caviar experience ($50-$100). 380 1st St. W., Sonoma, 707933-4440, waltwines.com.
Artist Jaynee Watson next to one of her installations at the “Discovered: Emerging Artists from Sonoma County” exhibit at the Petaluma Arts Center. (Estefany Gonzalez)
For local artist Jaynee Watson, another person’s trash is her treasure. Using discarded objects and materials she finds on the street, Watson creates unique and captivating three-dimensional art pieces. Her intent is to acknowledge that each object she uses had a purpose before she found it and to honor, even glorify, that purpose in order to make viewers reconsider what art is or can be.
“Most people would just consider these objects trash or something they can discard. When I see [an object], I think ‘this thing had a life,’” she says. “It’s like I’m preserving its history but also adding to it.”
One of Jaynee Watson’s installations at the “Discovered: Emerging Artists from Sonoma County” exhibit at the Petaluma Arts Center. (Estefany Gonzalez)
While Watson’s style can be a little hard, even uncomfortable, to digest for some viewers, it did not put off the judges of the “Discovered: Emerging Artists from Sonoma County” program – on the contrary. Watson is one of five women, out of 49 applications and 12 finalists, who was recently awarded a shared exhibit at Petaluma Arts Center and a $2000 stipend from the program.
One of Watson’s favorite objects, used in her upcoming show, is a plastic drain cover made from Elmer’s Glue. She encountered it on a street in San Francisco and it immediately caught her attention. The man who made the glue cover (in order to keep the metal drain from getting stolen from his front yard) saw how excited Watson was about the cover and decided to give it to her.
One of Jaynee Watson’s installations at the “Discovered: Emerging Artists from Sonoma County” exhibit at the Petaluma Arts Center. (Estefany Gonzalez)
Items like the glue cover stand out to Watson because they make her think of things she’s read and seen in books about forensic pathology. The glue cover reminded her of skin slippage, a process which happens to the body around seven days after death.
“With that kind of stuff, I feel like people will think about it more at a later date and try to figure out why they felt uncomfortable or weird while looking at my work,” she said.
Watson’s passion for art developed when she was a child. She would often ask her parents for markers, crayons, and other art supplies during the holidays. “None of my friends were into art, so it wasn’t something I talked about with people,” she said. “I just kind of kept it to myself.”
Visitors to the “Discovered: Emerging Artists from Sonoma County” exhibit at the Petaluma Arts Center mingle and take in the different art installations. (Estefany Gonzalez)
Despite Watson’s early interest in art, it wasn’t until college that she realized she could make a career out of her passion. She started as an art history major, and for a while she considered becoming a museum curator or an art historian, but when she took a studio art class as part of her degree at Sonoma State University, she rediscovered her love for making art.
“I realized I would rather be the person making [the art] than the person writing about it,” Watson said. “I don’t ever really want to do anything else.”
Watson’s passion for making art is so strong that she sometimes will work through the night into early morning. “I’ll look up at the time and say ‘It’s three in the morning I need to go to bed I have work at 8 am.,’” she said.
One of Jaynee Watson’s installations at the “Discovered: Emerging Artists from Sonoma County” exhibit at the Petaluma Arts Center. (Estefany Gonzalez)
While she remains passionate about making art, Watson is also considering pursuing a Master’s Degree to become a college art teacher. “My print teacher changed my life. I have so much respect and love for him as an artist,” she said. “ I want to be the person to do that for other kids.”
To view some of Watson’s art in person, visit the Petaluma Arts Center, 230 Lakeville Street, Petaluma. The “Discovered: Emerging Artists from Sonoma County” exhibit runs Jan. 24 – March 18. Open Tuesday through Saturday, 11am-5pm. Closed Sunday, Monday & holidays.
To learn more about the other women featured in the exhibit, visit pressdemocrat.com
Visitors to the “Discovered: Emerging Artists from Sonoma County” exhibit at the Petaluma Arts Center mingle and take in the different art installations. (Estefany Gonzalez)
Healdsburg’s Bear Republic Brewing Company, “house of honest ales and lagers,” just announced the release of fan favorites Hop Shovel and Cafe Racer 15 in six packs, adding the two beers to their year-round lineup.
The Bear Republic team will be showcasing the two brews at Oliver’s Market in Windsor‘s in-house Tavern on the Green tonight, at 5 p.m. As part of their “Pint Night,” Oliver’s in Windsor will also be pouring Bear Republic’s Short Shifter, a hoppy lager, and Tartare Rouge, an American wild ale. Oliver’s Market Windsor, 9230 Old Redwood Highway, Windsor 95492.
THE BREWS
Hop Shovel,a pale and hoppy IPA is brewed with high volumes of wheat and rye for a smooth, well-rounded mouthfeel. Significant amounts of Mosaic, Meridian, and Denali hops were added to create bold tropical and citrus notes in the finished brew. This beer has been a favorite among the brewing crew and local beer lovers alike since it was first released. Until now, it has only been available on draft.
“Hop Shovel is one of our favorite beers to brew. We are very happy to add this to our year round lineup and hope everyone enjoys it as much as we do,” says brewmaster Peter Kruger.
The release of theCafe Racer 15 in six-packs marks the official launch of Bear Republic’s DIPA series. This beer was brewed to celebrate the 15th anniversary of the Healdsburg brewery, and was named after brewmaster Richard Norgrove’s first racing bike, number fifteen. Cafe Racer 15 has aromas of bright citrus and resinous pine, derived from the generous use of 4C “old school” hops (Citra, Amarillo, Cascade, and Chinook), and is complemented by a dry malt finish. Cafe Racer 15 is one of the most sought-after Bear Republic brews and remains a limited production. It will be available in six-packs, 22 ounce bombers, and on draft, while it lasts.
Founders of Barrel Brothers Brewing Company (left to right) Tom Sather, Daniel Weber, and Wesley Deal. (Photo courtesy of Barrel Brother Yelp page)
With just six months under the belt, Barrel Brothers Brewing Company in Windsor continues to add brewed delights to the Sonoma County beer scene. In 2017, the brewery is gearing up to produce a series of sour beers and is currently serving up a raspberry framboise, “Gose,” and a brown sour on tap – both fantastic, well balanced, and worth writing home about.
Founded by brothers-in-law Daniel Weber and Wesley Deal with father-in-law, Tom Sather, Barrel Brothers is built on the simple principle “if you make good beer, and make people happy in the process, the rest will figure itself out.”
Barrel Brothers Brewing Company taproom in Windsor. (Tim Vallery)
Weber and Wesley started their careers like many other Sonoma brewers and brewery owners, in the wine industry. Weber enjoyed a career in sales, marketing, and hospitality, while Deal worked on the cellar side as the assistant winemaker of Thumbprint Cellars in Healdsburg. Their father-in-law has been a home brewer since his college dorm days at Stanford University – it was he who introduced Weber and Deal to the idea of home brewing.
Beers on tap at Barrel Brothers. Grab a pint or enjoy a sampler of several beers. (Tim Vallery)
After attending a beer brewing seminar together, Weber, Deal and Sather brewed hundreds of small bathes as home brewers and Deal enrolled in the brewing program at UC Davis. In December of 2015, following Deal’s graduation, the three secured a brewery location in the town of Windsor and the opportunity to flex their beer making muscles for a larger audience.
“It all fell into place, it wasn’t like jumping off a cliff, were doing this, type of thing” said Weber, “It all started organically.”
The Barrel Brothers’ Porter (Jess Vallery)
After a lot of hard work, the construction of the Windsor brewhouse was finalized in April 2016 and the first kegs were tapped in July of the same year. The brewery now offers growlers for guests to bring home their favorite brews, and core Barrel Brothers beers – Naughty Hops (a dry hopped IPA with a malty finish), Blonde Voyage (a blonde, Belgian Cream Ale) and Dark Sarcasm (a Porter with flavors of mocha and Madagascar vanilla bean) – are available in bottle and can be found throughout the Bay Area.
Barrel Brothers’ Blonde Voyage, a Belgian Cream Ale, at the Windsor taproom. (Photo courtesy of Barrel Brothers Brewing Company)
The Barrel Brothers Brewing Company, 399 Business Park Court # 506, Windsor, CA, 95492, (707)696-9487, Barrelbrothersbrewing.com, @BarrelBrothersBrewing, Taproom Hours: Fri 4-8PM and Sat & Sun 1-8PM
Barrel Brothers Brewing Company in Windsor. (Tim Vallery)
Want to kick-start your health in 2017? I’ve got five ways to amp up your wellness – mind, body and spirit – right here in Sonoma County!
Photo Courtesy of Hotel Healdsburg
Focus on You!
Start your new year off with a series of classes offered by Hotel Healdsburg. Designed with a focus on you, these classes will help to enhance and improve your overall mind and body wellness. Their annual Spa Month in January centers on nutritious food, fitness, personal wellbeing and fashion and includes special spa discounts, as well. Visit Hotel Healdsburg’s Spa Month calendar for a full list of January events.
Hotel Healdsburg, 25 Matheson Street, Healdsburg, (707) 431-2800
Photo Courtesy of Ramekins Cooking School
Cook and Eat Clean
Learn the latest healthy cooking techniques and information from Chef and Founder of JoyFoodly, Hollie Green and Certified Holistic Consultant, Mary Sheila Gonnella at the Clean Eating Series offered by Ramekins Culinary School in Sonoma. During the three-week course, which meets once a week, you will make homemade sauerkraut, create your own personal spice blend, learn to cook a perfectly moist chicken breast, get tips for boosting your immunity with foods, and much more. Classes begin January 12th. Visit the event’s page for more information.
Need to decompress and detox after the holidays? Refresh, renew and restore yourself with a Wine Country Detox Signature Treatment at the Garden Spa at MacArthur Place Hotel & Spa. This 100-minute treatment includes a dry brush exfoliation, detoxifying seaweed wrap, and an essential oil massage.
If a fitter and stronger you is on your list of resolutions for 2017, consider taking the 5-week New Year, New You Transformation Challenge in Sonoma, beginning January 23. This outdoor group bootcamp offers fitness training in a supportive and fun environment and includes recipes, weight loss tips and habit coaching. Visit the New Year, New You Transformation Challenge page for more information.
Serenity, fresh air and natural beauty await you at Quarryhill Botanical Garden, a Sonoma Valley treasure, which is celebrating its 30th anniversary this year.
Meander along the many winding paths of this 25-acres Asian botanical garden, full of mature, flowering plants and trees.
The garden is always in flux. Each visit throughout the year will be different depending on the season. Right now, thanks to our recent rain, the waterfalls at Quarryhill are full, flowing and putting on quite a show! If you enjoy photography, be sure to bring your camera along.
Visit the gift shop while you’re there and browse their curated collection of nature-inspired home decor, jewelry, books, stationary, and more.
Two Birds One Stone has opened in St. Helena, Napa, with Michelin-starred chefs Douglas Keane and Sang Yoon. Heather Irwin
As we look forward to the new year, and the promise of many amazing new restaurants on the Sonoma County horizon, it’s hard not to take a peek back at some of the biggest openings and closings of 2016. It was a year of big changes and many surprises. Among the changes: More restaurants focused on healthier themes, family-friendly and fast casual. Farm-to-table style cooking is evolving into something more personal, with chefs getting back to basics, but with a new simplicity and focus. We saw more Japanese influences and a whole lot less bacon. Seafood is making huge strides, with more options than ever, and great pastry spots are on the rise.
One of the biggest surprises? Several ambitious, high-profile restaurants as well as old standbys shuttered unexpectedly, leaving some serious holes in the fine dining scene, though new projects and up and comers this year will keep Sonoma County on the Michelin map.
Here are some of the most significant restaurant openings and closings of 2016.
2016 Sonoma County Restaurant Closings
Interior of Revival Restaurant in Guerneville. Photo Kelly Puleio
Biggest Shocker Closing of 2016: Revival
This ambitious restaurant project by restaurateur Crista Luedtke and Chef Ben Spiegel was derailed only a few months after opening. Given high critical praise for its use of local products, fermentation, and stellar Wine Country cuisine, Revival was poised to become Michelin contender. However, owners of the Applewood Inn, where Revival was located, shuttered the restaurant without warning, shocking not only the kitchen staff, but a San Francisco critic who had a review of the restaurant planned for the coming week. Luedtke promised pop-ups of Revival, starting with a NYE party at Big Bottom Market. See the Revival review.
Santa Rosa Johnny Garlic’s: Guy Fieri walks away from California restaurants that made him. Flagship Johnny Garlic’s promptly closes.
Seed to Leaf, Flavor Bistro, Torch of India: Ongoing construction on the square may be the straw that broke the restaurants’ back as three restaurants shutter in the busy downtown area.
Brody’s Burgers: Cheap pints and solid burgers seemed a winning combination. But just months after adding fried chicken to the menu, the restaurant closed.
Barbecue Brisket from Rossi’s 1906 in Sonoma, California. The new menu features Cal-Tex bbq from chef Ari Weisswasser. Photo Heather Irwin
Sonoma Rossi’s 1906: A valiant effort to revive the former Little Switzerland included solid musical acts and a barbecue menu from Glen Ellen Star’s Ari Weisswasser. Owners are regrouping, with an Asian-style restaurant slated for this spring.
Petaluma Bistro 100: We were pulling for this little chef-run spot, but after a valiant effort, Chef Garrett Adair pulled the plug to concentrate on his catering biz. The good news: The restaurant was replaced by French comfort bistro Crocodile Cafe, one of our favorite openings of 2016. Also closed, longtime Thai spot, Thai Issan.
Ninebark in Napa is a conde nast reader favorite for 2016 (PD file)
Napa Ninebark: After much fanfare about the arrival of NYC chef Matthew Lightner, the restaurant lasted less than a year, despite strong critical praise. Restaurant management group AvroKo was behind both Ninebark and its previous resident, The Thomas. There were hopes to reopen, but so far that hasn’t materialized. Also shuttered Atlas Social.
Healdsburg Ralph’s Bistro: This Healdsburg square institution had revamped to become a martini bar, but owner Ralph Tingle closed the restaurant with plans for another restaurant project in the works. The space has been in construction limbo for months, but the space’s new owner, Bill Foley (Foley Wines, Chalkboard) has plans for a restaurant called Brass Rabbit.
2016 Sonoma County Restaurant Openings
Kyle and Katina Connaughton of Single Thread Farms Restaurant in Healdsburg at their farm. Photo: Jason Jaacks
Biggest Opening: Single Thread Farms + Restaurant
The anticipation for this haute Healdsburg dining experience was near frothing in the food world. Chef Kyle Connaughton worked on the concept for this seasonally-inspired omakase-style menu with his staff for more than a year during the build-out. Wife Katina runs the nearby farm, featuring hard-to-find fruits and vegetables that can hit the table just hours after being harvested. With prices of $295 per person and up (not including wine), diners are given a bespoke dining experience that can last hours, with intriguing preparations, beautiful service ware and a luxe kitchen-as-theater evening.131 North St, Healdsburg. Read my First Look at Single Thread Farms here.
Tucker’s Daily Harvest at Two Birds One Stone, opened by chefs Douglas Keane and Sang Yoon in St. Helena, Napa. Heather Irwin.
Biggest Napa Opening: Two Birds/One Stone
In Napa, every restaurant opening tends to be significant, but Top Chef Master’s winner Douglas Keane and LA celeb chef San Yoon’s new project was high on the Bay Area radar. Like the boisterous but culinarily disciplined Keane, Two Birds/One Stone is a wonderful tangle of contradictions: Flip-flop casual with white napkin service; a menu where creamed corn and soft-serve ice cream happily co-exist with cherry blossom gelee and Wagyu beef short ribs. Solid from the start. 3020 St. Helena Hwy. North, St. Helena, 707-302-3777, twobirdsonestonenapa.com. Biteclub’s First Look at Two Birds/One Stone
Most Interesting Town for Restaurant Openings in 2016: Petaluma
Some of the most exciting openings have happened in southern Sonoma County, where the restaurant scene just continues to explode. There are several more openings anticipated this spring.
Panisse with roasted vegetables and herbed fromage blanc at Crocodile Restaurant in Petaluma. Heather Irwin/PD
Crocodile Cafe: French comfort classics like steak frites and panisse, along with creative takes like pimento cheese Gourgeres and pumpkin croquettes. One of our favorite stops this year. 140 Second St., Suite 100, Petaluma, 707-981-8159, crocodilepetaluma.com. BiteClub’s First Look at Crocodile Cafe.
Quinua Cocina Peruana Causa Colonial (Heather Irwin, PD)
Quinua Cocina Peruana: New Peruvian restaurant with solid ceviches and authentic South American cuisine. 500 Petaluma Blvd. South, Petaluma, 707-981-7359. BiteClub’s First Look at Quinua Cocina Peruana.
The Shuckery in Petaluma opened in July 2016
The Shuckery: A project of the venerable Oyster Girls (sisters Aluxa and Jazmine Lalicker), oysters obviously get top billing here, each hand-shucked behind the bar. But seafood dishes like ceviche and calamari relleno make it destination-worthy. 100 Washington St., Petaluma, 707-981-7891, theshuckeryca.co. Biteclub’s First Look at the Shuckery.
Bright Bear Bakery in Petaluma features luxe pastries, cronuts, croissants and morning buns in Petaluma. Photo: Heather Irwin/PD
Bright Bear Bakery: The buzz about this incredible little bakery got out fast, as news of cream-filled cronuts (a cross between a croissant and a donut that’s too decadent not to eat), morning buns and fresh breads made the rounds. But when we tried the twice baked croissants? Love in pastry form.2620 Lakeville Hwy., Suite 350, Petaluma, 707-291-10181, facebook.com/brightbearbakery. Biteclub’s First Look at Bright Bear Bakery.
Santa Rosa
Executive Chef Bruce Frieseke and Chef de Cuisine Ben Davies at The County Bench in Santa RosaExecutive Chef Bruce Frieseke and Chef de Cuisine Ben Davies at The County Bench in Santa Rosa. Heather Irwin/PD. Heather Irwin/PD
County Bench: A significant opening, with notable local chefs Bruce Frieseke and Ben Davies heading up the kitchen. We’re huge fans of the food and the cocktails, but some service slips and staff turnover (including Frieseke’s departure) have kept the restaurant from really hitting its stride. We hope 2017 is their year. The County Bench Kitchen + Bar, 535 Fourth St., Santa Rosa, 707-535-0700, thecountybench.com. Biteclub’s First Look at County Bench.
Polenta with mushrooms at Franchetti’s Wood Fired Kitchen in Santa Rosa. Photo: Heather Irwin.
Franchetti’s Wood Fire Kitchen: We’ll go out on a limb and say that this is probably the best restaurant success story of the year. Though the restaurant existed as part of the Rosso empire previously, a split let Chef John Franchetti really spread his wings in 2016. A new menu, expanded hours and unfalteringly great food using local ingredients is what has always made us love John and his wife Gesine. Finding success in a rather remote office park location makes it even more impressive. 1229 N. Dutton, Santa Rosa, 707-526-1229, franchettis.com. BiteClub’s First Look at Franchetti’s.
Focaccia with pea shoots, asparagus and cream cheese at The Pharmacy. (Heather Irwin)
Pharmacy Cafe: Delicious, healthy, intentional food is what’s on the menu at this tiny cafe. The twist: It actually tastes incredible. Chef Jennifer McMurry (formerly of Viola Pastry Cafe) has created a breakfast and lunch menu of food with a conscience. 990 Sonoma Ave. #1, Santa Rosa, 707-978-2801, thepharmacysonomacounty.com. Biteclub’s First Look at Pharmacy.
Tomatina Italian Restaurant in Santa Rosa (courtesy photo)
Tomatina: Though chain-style eateries aren’t usually worthy of much discussion, we’re fans of this fast-casual Italian restaurant with good, approachable Italian-American cuisine at reasonable prices. 2323 Sonoma Ave. in Montgomery Village, Santa Rosa, 707-583-0035, tomatina.com. Biteclub’s First Look at Tomatina
Healdsburg
Sonoma Cider Taproom and Restaurant in Healdsburg. Courtesy photo
Sonoma Cider Taproom: More than a 5,500 square foot cider taproom, this Healdsburg addition includes a solid cafe of sandwiches, soups and charcuterie perfect for pairing. 44 Mill Street, Healdsburg, 707-723-7018, sonomacider.com. Biteclub’s First Look at Sonoma Cider Taproom.
Interior of Duke’s Spirited Cocktails in Healdsburg. Photo Nat and Cody Gantz.
Duke’s Spirited Cocktails: Keeping up the 90-year tradition of successive bars at the location (it was formerly John & Zeke’s), cocktails are king at this bar, but with a modern twist. Duke’s is all about seasonal craft libations, aka farm-to-glass drinks that include herbs, fruit vinegars, fruit purees and top shelf artisan booze. 1112 Plaza St., Healdsburg, 707-431-1060. Biteclub’s First Look at Duke’s.
Sebastopol
Smoked trout salad at Handline Restaurant in Sebastopol. Heather Irwin/PD
Handline: Focused on “Coastal California” cuisine, the owner of Peter Lowell’s in Sebastopol, this is another spectacular opening.You’ll find plenty of seafood ranging from raw and grilled oysters to fried rockfish tacos, fisherman’s stew, halibut ceviche, and a killer salad with house smoked trout, pickled onion, apple and buttermilk dressing. Best of all: Homemade corn tortillas. 935 Gravenstein Hwy. South, Sebastopol, 707-827-3744, handline.com. Biteclub’s First Look at Handline.
Sonoma
Tapas at Tasca Tasca in Sonoma. Heather Irwin/PD
Tasca Tasca: The third restaurant for Chef Manuel Azavedo (La Salette, Cafe Lucia), this Portuguese tapas bar is by far one of our favorites. Sit at the casual bar, or grab a table, and order from dozens of authentic small plates. 122 W. Napa St., Sonoma, 707-996-8272, tascatasca.com. Biteclub’s First Look at Tasca Tasca.
Starling Bar: This new craft cocktail bar in the former Blue Moon is everything a neighborhood bar should be, but with really good cocktails. 19380 Hwy. 12, Sonoma, 707-938-7442, starlingsonoma.com.
New Haven Apizza in Sonoma. Robbi Pengelly, Sonoma Index-Tribune
New Haven Apizza: Mexican bakery by day, New Haven-style pizzeria by night. Fernando Garcia, whose family owns Garcia Mexican bakery learned about this East Coast style of pizza after working in a New Haven restaurant for 15 years. 555 Fifth St. West, 707-931-4694, newhavenapizzashop.com.
Cloverdale Trading Post: This long-anticipated Cloverdale restaurant is yet another feather in the cap of this emerging dining north county destination. Though the small bakery has been open more than a year, the main dining room officially opened Friday with a hearty Sonoma County-inspired menu that includes a house-ground burger on their own brioche, fried chicken thighs, Liberty Farms duck confit over seaweed, Blue Leg Farms roasted chicken, and porchetta. 102 S. Cloverdale Blvd., Cloverdale, 707-894-6483, thepostcloverdale.com.
