Ballet Folklorico’s Posada Navideña stage show at Luther Burbank Center celebrates the holidays in vibrant style.
Many holiday cultural traditions have come down to us over centuries from Europe — Charles Dickens’ “A Christmas Carol,” George Frideric Handel’s “Messiah,” Peter Ilyich Tchaikovsky’s “The Nutcracker” — but one perennial favorite originated much closer to home.
For 400 years, Mexico has celebrated Posada Navideña, inspired by the pilgrimage of Mary and Joseph before the birth of Jesus Christ, with nightly processions for the nine days leading up to Christmas.
Everyone remembers their search for shelter in Bethlehem, repeatedly being told there was no room at the inn, ending with Christ’s birth in a stable.
A decade ago, the Luther Burbank Center for the Arts introduced its own annual Posada Navideña stage show celebrating the holiday tradition with authentic music and dance in a lavish, live production.
Dancers in brightly colored floorlength dresses swirl to the music, accompanied by a chorus of guitars and violins.
In December, the Ballet Folklorico de Sacramento — marking its own 40th anniversary this year — returns to perform at the LBC.
“Ten years ago, in partnership with our Latino Advisory Council, we presented our first Posada Navideña,” said Rick Nowlin, president and CEO of the arts center. “All of us with the center are thrilled and delighted that it has grown into a beloved holiday tradition that welcomes everyone, especially families, to the LBC.”
The show has proved a favorite, drawing a broad, multigenerational audience.
“One of the most rewarding parts of volunteering with our Latino Advisory Council has been helping produce the annual Posada Navideña,” said Santa Rosa City Councilman Ernesto Olivares, who also serves on the LBC board of directors.
“It is an important holiday tradition, as well as an important cultural tradition,” Olivares added, “and I’m proud that the LBC is able to provide this experience for the community.”
POSADA NAVIDEÑA
WHEN: December 9, 7 p.m.
WHERE: Luther Burbank Center for the Arts, 50 Mark West Springs Road, Santa Rosa, 707-546-3600, lutherburbankcenter.org
TICKETS:$10 for adults, $5 for children, and $2 lap pass for children younger than 2 years old. tickets.lutherburbankcenter.org
Alexis Lenahan and Desirae Braga pose for Facebook pictures in the Petaluma Pumpkin Patch and Amazing Corn Maze in Petaluma. (Photo by John Burgess)
Sonoma County, land of world-class wineries and fancy farm-to-table food, can be a Garden of Eden for visitors and locals. But what if you’re a student on a budget, or you’ve just landed your first job and sharing a tiny flat with friends? We’ve listed some priceless local activities for young people in Sonoma County — that won’t break the bank. Did we miss one of your favorites? Please add it in the comments!
Take a Hike
One of the cheapest, and most rewarding, things you can do in Sonoma County is to enjoy the natural beauty — while getting some exercise and storing up endorphins. On weekends, the younger crowd hits the local trails — sporting cool caps, multicolored outfits, and green and purple accents in their hair. Some popular parks with panoramic views include Annadel State Park (also a mountain bike destination), Taylor Mountain Regional Park(which features disc golf) and Sugarloaf Ridge State Park.
Tom Robinson, Mark Tukman and Joan Schwan hike through Annadel State Park. (Photo by Kent Porter)
If you’re a regular regional park visitor, it’s worth investing in a Sonoma County Regional Parks Membership. A one-year membership is $69 and includes parking at more than 50 parks and trails, one night of camping, discounts on parks events, and a number of membership deals – including a one-week fitness pass at Sonoma County’s Family YMCA and two-for-one bike tours and rentals at Get Away Adventures.
Annadel State Park in Santa Rosa is a mountain biker’s mecca. (Photo by Erik Castro)
Go “Clubbing” at La Rosa
The Lounge at La Rosa Tequileria & Grille in Santa Rosa is Sonoma County’s closest thing to San Francisco clubbing. With reasonably priced drinks — including classic Margaritas and Tequila shots — and a killer dance floor, this is your younger crowd go-to spot. Check out upcoming nights on their Facebook site.
View from the booth while DJ Sykwidit, 30, of Santa Rosa keeps the dance floor moving at The Lounge at La Rosa Tequileria & Grille in downtown Santa Rosa. (Photo by Erik Castro)
Hang Out at the Music Store
If you’re college-age, you may not remember a time before iTunes and Spotify; that fantastic feeling of a pristine album in your hands, staring at the ceiling to the sound of your new CD or vinyl, or leafing through the album booklet to learn every lyric by heart — and its meaning…
But just because you were born in the 90s, doesn’t mean you can’t appreciate the real record store deal — available in its ultimate form at Santa Rosa’s The Last Record Store. From the latest homegrown talent and niche oddities, to epic limited edition live recordings and only the best new releases, this music mecca is as diverse as it is thorough and deep-cut. You’llleave the store with a rare record you never knew existed — but that you’ll soon wonder how you could ever have lived without. The second hand selection is extensive, wide-ranging, and the prices are right — and browsing is, of course, free!
Tall Toad Music in Petaluma. (Photo courtesy of Tall Toad Music)
If listening to some new sounds inspire you to try your hand at the art of tune-smithing, head directly to Tall Toad Music in Petaluma to check out their collection of new, used and vintage guitars and mandolins. If you buy an instrument and then get deep into it, you’ll have hours and hours of free entertainment (after the initial outlay).
A variety of guitars on display at Tall Toad Music in Petaluma. (Photo by Beth Schlanker)
Hit the Beach
Spending time at the beach Sonoma-style isn’t so much about getting tanned under summer sun as it is further south on the California coast. Northern California beach culture is more about taking in the scenery, and some fresh sea air, year-round.
Friends taking a hike along the Sonoma Coast. (Photo by John Burgess)
Bring a few friends for a walk along a Bodega beachcliff, or hike down to explore one of the many tide pool spots, then take a hot cocoa break on a blanket and watch the surfers angle for an incoming wave. Complete your outing by taking a stroll around the town ofBodega Bay, filling a bag of multicolored saltwater taffy at Patrick’s and picking up a colorful kite at Candy & Kitesor Second Wind. Finish your day with a bowl of clam chowder at Stud Point Crab Company or a crab sandwich at next-door Fisherman’s Cove.
At Fisherman’s Cove, enjoy a crab sandwich, or oysters, with some local crafts beer at on of the communal tables overlooking the bay. (yelp.com)
Do Some Window-Shopping
If you’re a vintage kind of gal or a fashion fanatic, there’s plenty of pretty things to look at in Sonoma County. Historic downtown Petaluma is host to a number of cute clothing stores — check out boho chic Ooh La Loft, and quaint vintage shops like Chick-A-Boom and The Thrifty Hippy. For additional vintage options, head to Santa Rosa’s Railroad Square and take a peek at second-hand goldmines Hot Couture and Skirt Chaser. If you’re hooked on hats, check out Portobello Hats in Santa Rosa and Bella – All Things Beautifulin Healdsburg.
Hot Couture Vintage Fashion in Santa Rosa is a second-hand goldmine. (Photo courtesy of Hot Couture)
Go for Brunch
What could be better than a relaxing brunch with friends after a week of classes, essays and exams? On weekends, students and 20-somethings fill local local brunch spots like the Tea Room Cafe in Petaluma, The Spinster Sisters in Santa Rosa and Sunflower Caffe in Sonoma, sharing plates and sipping on each other’s drinks.
Customers dine at The Spinster Sisters restaurant in Santa Rosa. (Photo by Charlie Gesell)
Don’t hesitate to hover over your brunch plate get the best angle for your Instagram feed…
The Cinnamon French toast topped with butter, fresh whipped cream, organic raspberries and real maple syrup at Estero Cafe in Valley Ford is well worth the trip. (Photo by Alvin Jornada)
Take a Fun Class
We’re talking Yoga, Zumba, Pilates and other energy-boosting classes, no homework involved. The YMCA in Santa Rosa offers young adult membership rates (18-24 years old), other popular spots include Annadel Dance & Fitness Studio in Santa Rosa and the “hot yoga” sessions at Bikram Yogain Petaluma — the room is heated, making for a great sweat session and safer and deeper stretching (get 2 months for $99).
Take a fun class like Zumba – no homework involved!
Go Happy Hour Hopping
In your twenties in Sonoma County, Thirsty-Thursdays is your day to barhop away. A college student favorite is the Cotati Crawl: start at The 8 Ball and then move on to The TradeWinds and Spancky’s Bar and last stop, Friar’s Tuck Pub. Or hit up the Happy Hours at Santa Rosa’s Jackson’s Bar & Oven (happy hour is 3-6 p.m. Monday through Friday), or Petaluma’s Roaring Donkey (happy hour is Monday-Saturday 4p-6pm).
Dr. Cocktail #7 at Spoonbar restaurant in Healdsburg. (Photo by Heather Irwin)
Beer lovers from around the world stood in line for their chance to taste Pliny the Younger at Russian River Brewing Company in Santa Rosa on Friday. (JOHN BURGESS / The Press Democrat)
Study at the Coffee Shop
Looking to perk up your study sessions? Acre Coffee in Petaluma, Flying Goat Coffee in Santa Rosa or Healdsburg, and Taylor Maid Farms in Sebastopol serve up pour-overs with a punch to energetic beats. Take a break from the books and caffeine-infused discussions, browse some magazines or play some boardgames — there’s plenty at Brew Coffee & Beer in Santa Rosa.
Students often come to Taylor Maid farms for the drinks and atmosphere to do homework. (Photo by John Burgess)
Browse Independent Bookstores
If you feel like a change of pace from “required readings” — or just looking for some inspiration, visit an independent bookshop like Treehorn Books in Santa Rosa, Levin & Coin Healdsburg (which also has a great music selection), orCopperfield’s Books in Santa Rosa, Petaluma, Sebastopol or Healdsburg. Pick out a good (and decently priced) second hand read and support a good business!
Treehorn books in Santa Rosa. (Photo by Erik Castro)
Tacos at La Texanita in Santa Rosa. (Photo by Heather Irwin)
Take Photos at Petaluma Pumpkin Patch
Come October, and the Sonoma County autumn hype is in full swing — and for good reason; it really is an incredibly cozy and pretty time of year. For a prime time pumpkin photo shoot, head to Petaluma Pumpkin Patch, walk through the corn maze, grab a pumpkin, pose on a hay-bale or next to a sunflower —and find your inner kid.
Many local wineries offer free wine-tastings. Cheers! (Photo by John Burgess)
Sip On (Free) Wine
Being short on cash while surrounded by world-class wineries can be a dilemma. Thankfully, there are ways to enjoy the Sonoma County wine scene on a budget as many local wineries offer free wine-tasting — including Alexander Valley Vineyardsin Healdsburg, Cline Cellars in Sonoma, Francis Ford Coppola Winery in Geyserville, J Rickards Winery in Cloverdale, Korbel Champagne Cellars in Guerneville and Rodney Strong Vineyards in Healdsburg. After wine-tasting, enjoy an afternoon walking around the vineyards, your pockets still full.
Take a Walk Around Sonoma Plaza
If you’re looking for something to do on a Saturday, Sonoma Plaza serves up plenty of activities for the young crowd. Get a scoop of ice cream at Sweet Scoops, channel your candy-loving kid at The Chocolate Cow, pick up a trinket at Harvest Home or J. James Sonoma, then picnic in the park or learn about Sonoma history — up close and personal— by touring Mission San Francisco Solano, the Blue Wing Inn, Sonoma Barracks, the Toscano Hotel, the Servants Quarters (the remains of La Casa Grande) and Lachryma Montis (less than a mile west of the plaza).
The ice cream selection at Sweet Scoops in Sonoma.
Go Barrel Tasting in the Spring
A cult classic for Sonoma County college students, the annual two-weekendBarrel Tastingevent gives you the chance to enjoy tasting at 100+ local wineries at a fixed (reasonable) price and explore the Alexander, Dry Creek, and Russian River Valleys.This is a great excuse to dress up in trendy tasting attire, celebrate the arrival of spring — and an end to exams. March 3-5 and March 10-12, 2017.
The 37th Annual Wine Road Barrel Tasting in the Russian River, Dry Creek and Alexander Valleys. (Photo by John Burgess)
During winter, there’s plenty of music and open mic nights to enjoy at Sonoma County’s live music venues and bars (some of it free), check out some of our favorites here.
Concert crowd at BottleRock Napa Valley. (Photo by Kent Porter)
Float Down the Russian River
Relax in real Russian River style by spending a day on the river in a floaty, cool drink in hand. For a more adventurous day, rent paddle boards or kayaks at Burke’s Canoes or Rubicon Adventures. The Forestville Farmers Market is the place to relax and recharge after a day on the river, June through October.
People float down the Russian River by various methods of transportation toward Johnson’s Beach in Guerneville. (Photo by Alvin Jornada)
See Guest Speakers at SSU
Get a little more (pop) cultured, or see your favorite celebs in person, by attending one of Sonoma State’s guest speaker talks. Recent speakers include MythBuster’s Adam Savage, actor and comedian Nick Offerman, and “Orange is the New Black” actress Laverne Cox. Upcoming speakers, rapper and actor Ice-T and stand-up comedian Dave Coulier, are sure to bring a millennial crowd.
Players dance on the court after finishing their game during bocce league play at Campo Fina restaurant in Healdsburg. (Photo by Alvin Jornada)
Play Bocce
The ancient game of bocce is having a revival in Sonoma County – and there’s plenty of places to to have a ball. Campo Fina restaurant in Healdsburg has a bocce ball court on the back patio and hosts bocce ball leagues, this is a great spot for pairing cocktails and some friendly competition.
Go Bowling
Sonoma County bowling alleys roll a strike with disco nights and greasy comfort food.Windsor Bowling Alleyin Windsor puts on Rock n’ Glow on Monday, Friday and Saturdays nights between 5 and 10 pm: bowling is only $10 per person (shoes included) and there’s a wide variety of beer, wine and spirits served. AMF Boulevard Lanes in Petaluma feature a variety of weekly nighttime specials: Two-Dollar Tuesdays with $2 games, show rentals and PBR beers, After Party Fridays with unlined bowling for under $11 after 10 p.m. Double Decker Lanes in Rohnert Park has free, themed, bowling nights first Thursdays of the month (for SSU students)
Lounge Around the Francis Ford Coppola Winery Pool
Looking for some summer fun with friends, but too hot for a hike? Gather a group of four and get a one-day pass at Francis Ford Coppola Winery in Geyserville which includes 4 chaise lounge chairs, a private shower, 4 towels, up to 4 Sofia Mini singles, and a deck of Coppola playing cards. Though the day pass is a bit pricey, the view from the pool deck is priceless.
Nam Doran, left, of Healdsburg and Nikki Newsom of Santa Rosa at Francis Ford Coppola Winery in Geyserville. (Photo by Alvin Jornada)
Check Out Bowla Wednesdays at Tex Wasabi
If you look up Tex Wasabi’son Instagram, you’ll find a roll of photos of millennials happily holding a giant half-gallon fishbowl-style glass (“bowla”) filled to the brim with a brightly colored cocktail. On Wednesdays, when bowlas are half price, this Santa Rosa sushi spot is brimming with students enjoying appetizer specials and shared drinks.
Sonoma State University students Kelsey Miller, left, and Gabriella Catalli share one of the signature Bowlas drinks at Tex Wasabi’s in Santa Rosa, California on Wednesday, April 6, 2016. (Alvin Jornada / The Press Democrat)
Quaff a Beer and Munch some Appetizers at the Jaded Toad
This tiny – hugely popular – Cotati restaurant, located in the parking lot of Oliver’s Market, offers year-round outdoor seating, cozy fire pits, sports on big screens, killer cocktails and comforting small plates, including pork sliders and garlic fries. Starters are 25% off, drafts $4, and speciality drinks $5, Monday to Friday, 3-6 p.m.
Crowds flock to the Santa Rosa Wednesday Night Market. (Photo by Kent Porter)
Go Foraging through Farmers Markets in Summer
Spending time at the many Sonoma County farmers markets is a classic activity during the warmer months. Santa Rosa’s Wednesday Night Marketand Forestville Farmers Marketare popular among the 20-something crowd with homemade ice cream, live bands, and food ranging from brats to barbecue.
Marty O’Reilly, of Marty O’Reilly and the Old Soul Orchestra, performs during the Wednesday Night Market, in downtown Santa Rosa. (Photo by Christopher Chung)
Catch an Outdoor Movie at the Green Music Center
My personal favorite is outdoor movies at Sonoma State’s outdoor theater: its a good excuse to indulge in copious amounts of popcorn, candy, and hot dogs. Make sure to bring your warmest blankets to snuggle up with your friends or significant other and settle down to watch your favorites. Past showings have included Finding Nemo and Finding Dory, Pitch Perfect, and Jurassic Park marathons. Check out the GMC website for screening information.
The lawn at the Green Music Center in Rohnert Park. (Photo courtesy of the Green Music Center)
Watch the Sunset at Gravity Hill
Gravity Hill is the very best place in SSU proximity to watch the sun setting over Sonoma’s rolling hills. Make sure to grab a jacket, some friends and take spectacular pictures to record the occasion.
Try Some SRJC Favorites
SRJC has a full spectrum of Junior College competitive games: football, basketball, and soccer that are always entertaining for the avid sports fan. Take in a game then try lunchtime favorite Ike’s Place for a ridiculously good sandwich. After dark, Gary’s at the Belvedere caters to JC Students for weekend drinks and socialization.
Gary’s At the Belvedere in Santa Rosa. (Pio Alfredo Valenzuela / The Press Democrat )
Visit Weaver’s Winter Wonderland
Ring in the Christmas spirit on Cielo Court in Rohnert Park by taking pictures next to the house that won an ABC Christmas Lights contest. Decorated with Disney characters, the bright and cheery scene at Weaver’s Winter Wonderland always brings in the younger crowd for a photo op to celebrate the holidays. This is the last year Scott Weaver will put on this extravagant holiday display – so don’t miss it!
Hundreds of people showed up a day after Scott Weaver’s Rohnert Park home was featured on ABC’s “The Great Christmas Light Fight” in 2014. Weaver won the competition that came with a $50,000 prize. (Photo by Crista Jeremiason)
Sonoma Springs Kolsch and Subliminal Gold IPA in 22oz Bombers
Sonoma Springs Brewing Company bottle release. (Photo courtesy of Sonoma Springs Brewing Co.)
After eight years of brewing and serving craft beers in the town of Sonoma, Sonoma Springs Brewing Company is now releasing its first retail bottles; the award-winning Sonoma Springs Kolch and Subliminal Gold IPA, in 22 ounce Bombers.
The Kolsch is the Sonoma Springs’s most popular beer and serves as the base beer for some of the brews in their barrel aged program. The Subliminal Gold IPA is the brewery’s best selling IPA, a true West Coast-style IPA with flavors of gooseberry, passion fruit, and citrus. A hop-head is sure to fall in love with this one.
“I am thrilled with the bottle release of these beers, allowing more consumers to gain access to our craft,” said founder and brewmaster Tim Goeppinger. “The Kolsch has always been a favorite in the taproom, and is one of my favorites to sip on year round.”
The 22 ounce bottles will be available at the Sonoma taproom, as well as local bottle shops and speciality retailers across the Bay Area.
Sonoma Springs Brewing Company offers 20+ beers on tap at their Sonoma taproom. (Photo courtesy of Sonoma Springs Brewing Company)
Sonoma Springs Brewing was founded in 2008 by Goeppinger and Derek Brennan. The brewery first opened in a small location on West Napa Street and recently moved into a brand new taproom, also in Sonoma, which channels both the charm of a classic German beer hall and Wine Country style.
The brewery offers 20+ beers on tap, including hand crafted California ales, barrel aged brews and German style beers, allowing visiting beer connoisseurs the opportunity to try something a little different and special. In crafting the beers, Tim Goeppinger focuses on balance and flavor; he prides himself in producing a beer for every palate. Prior to opening Sonoma Springs, Goeppinger brewed for some of the biggest names in the industry including Goose Island Brewery, Firestone Walker Brewing Co., Lagunitas Brewing Co. and Russian River Brewing Co.
Tim Goeppinger, Founder and Head Brewer (photo courtesy of Sonoma Springs)
Sonoma Springs’ award winning core beers can be tasted daily at the Sonoma tap room:
Sonoma Springs Kolsch “The Kölsch style beer is light and dry, perfect for hot summer days. Our unique yeast produces dried fruit flavors of apricot.”
Lil Chief Strong Pale Ale “Our version of a California-style Strong Pale Ale is full of fresh lupulin, the bittering component in hops.”
Enchanted Forest “This brew is an interpretation of a new and emerging style from the Great Northwest. A hint of coffee, molasses, roast barley, and even burnt hop spice.”
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.
