The Pork Roll at Golden Bear Station’s breakfast pop-up in Kenwood. The East Coast bacon, egg and cheese (BECSPK) roll is another favorite, along with espresso drinks. (Heather Irwin / The Press Democrat)
California’s obsession with the breakfast burrito is well-known, but East Coast transplant Josh Smookler of Golden Bear Station in Kenwood found himself craving something more familiar. And so, his version of the BECSPK — bacon, egg and cheese on a kaiser roll (or bagel), with salt, pepper and ketchup — was born.
The griddled, foil-wrapped sandwich is a staple at most New York City neighborhood bodegas, a warm, grab-and-go sandwich beloved by the subway crowd. Think of it as an edible handwarmer.
After months of trial and error, Smookler and his wife, Heidy He, now serve their take on the classic each Wednesday through Sunday morning at their new outdoor breakfast pergola. Don’t expect to stick around, though — there are no tables or seats, and everything is served to-go.
Three weeks in, fans are already lining up for their BECSPK fix, alongside its breakfast roll sibling, the New Jersey Pork Roll, as they head to work or take in the growing crowd of people waiting for their orders.
A bacon, egg and cheese sandwich — or BEC — made on a fluffy plain bagel from a local New York City bagel shop in Brooklyn, New York. Kenwood’s Golden Bear Station now serves its own version of the East Coast classic. (Getty Images / iStockphoto)
The Garden State version swaps bacon for the uniquely regional Taylor ham, paired with egg and cheese on a kaiser roll. While the salty, sweet and spiced processed pork product may seem similar to Spam to West Coasters like me, Jersey locals would likely slap you silly for that comparison.
Smookler calls it a “fermented ham” (though the FDA doesn’t officially allow it to be labeled as such); it’s cured with lactic acid and curing salts. He’s surprised to find that his pork roll has even more devotees than the classic bacon, egg and cheese.
On a Wednesday morning, Smookler carefully toasts the buns and bagels on the grill while cracking eggs one-handed, cooking them to a medium-over consistency with a jammy center. American cheese, thick slabs of bacon or ham are piled on top, then wrapped up and sliced to order. You might have to wait a minute or two, but it’s well worth it.
For Smookler, the new venture is a kind of high-low culinary adventure at his Golden Bear Station restaurant, which otherwise serves destination-worthy dishes like wood-fired Dover sole ($75 for two), dreamy cacio e pepe ($22) and Italian-Korean tteok-bokki (Korean rice cakes with pesto and Bolognese sauce, $20), as well as a splurge-worthy porterhouse steak ($205) for the table.
Owner and chef Joshua Smookler finishes and checks each plate before delivering to the tables at the Golden Bear Station Thursday, Jan. 11, 2023, on Highway 12 in Kenwood. (John Burgess/The Press Democrat)
Though the breakfast sandwiches have only been available for less than a month, word is already spreading. Cars are steadily pulling up, even on quiet Wednesday mornings.
The BEC Kaiser is $7, the bagel version is $10, and the Pork Roll is $12. Additional breakfast items include top-tier espresso drinks ($4 – $6.50 for matcha-infused coffees), a contender for the best kouign-amann (a buttery, caramelized sugar pastry made in-house, $6) and a croissant from Acme Bread ($5). The couple plans to offer more grab-and-go breakfast items in the future.
Open 7-11 a.m. Wednesday to Friday, and 8 a.m. to noon Saturday and Sunday. 8445 Sonoma Highway, Kenwood, Instagram.com/spkandcoffee
A selection of pastries and baked goods from Water Street Bistro Thursday, Aug. 29, 2025 in Petaluma. (John Burgess / The Press Democrat)
People often ask me about my favorite restaurants, and I rarely have a great answer in the moment. I can tell where I ate last, but pulling from the mental archives on demand? Not so easy. As someone who eats (and writes about) food for a living, there’s just too much to sift through.
So, I took some time to dig in and curate my can’t-miss local foodie adventure guide, broken into two parts. First up: my top picks in Sebastopol, Santa Rosa and Petaluma. In two weeks, I’ll share part two, featuring my favorite foodie destinations in Healdsburg, Sonoma Valley and on the coast.
A summer slice with potato and dill at Psychic Pie in Sebastopol. March 16, 2022. (Erik Castro/for Sonoma Magazine)
Psychic Pie
Think outside the slice with Roman-style pizzas. A thick, sourdough crust is cut into fat rectangles with seasonal toppings like chevre with fresh lemon and herbs; potato with chile oil, mozzarella and crème fraîche; or hot coppa with Estero Gold cheese, mozzarella and hot honey. Traditionalists fear not — pepperoni and plain cheese are always on the menu. Sold by weight rather than slice, you can mix and match a few flavors. Just don’t forget the housemade ranch dressing. 980 Gravenstein Highway S., Sebastopol, 707-827-6032, psychicpie.com
Redwood Wine Bar
Natural wines are their calling card, but this under-the-radar restaurant turns out some truly tasty dishes. The smoky baba ganoush with warm pitas is a standout, along with seasonal salads, grilled maitake mushrooms with pistachio za’atar, and a braised lamb shank for the table. 234 S. Main St., Sebastopol, 707-861-9730, theredwoodwine.com
Almond Olive Oil Cake with tangerines, orange blossom yogurt and a drizzle of tangerine tarragon syrup from The Redwood chef/owner Geneva Melby Thursday, Feb. 27, 2025, in Sebastopol. (John Burgess / The Press Democrat)A burger from Lunch Box in Sebastopol. (Lunch Box)
Lunch Box
My ultimate smashburger, the Burger Harn, gets everything right — from a juicy patty and classic Thousand Island-style sauce to shredded iceberg lettuce, American cheddar and a dill pickle. The soft Costeaux brioche bun takes it right over the top. Plus, hoagies, fried chicken sandwiches, chicken Parmesan sandwiches and tasty fries. 128 N. Main St., Sebastopol, lunchboxsonomacounty.com
A&M BBQ
Real. Barbecue. Long-smoked, dry-rubbed, killer sides. Sonoma County-meets-Deep South meat and three. Expect a long line and a no-frills “when we’re out, we’re out” vibe. Brisket is a specialty. 495 S. Main St., Sebastopol, Instagram.com/ambbqllc
Texas Toast, cornbread muffins, pork ribs, links, brisket and tri-tip, barbecue chicken, baked beans, coleslaw and collard greens at A&M BBQ in Sebastopol. (Heather Irwin/The Press Democrat)A “Roots and Shoots” bowl with sprouted lentils, roasted delicata squash, grilled celery root, trumpet mushroom conserva, chicory and apple salad, with a pomegranate, pumpkin seed tahini, and topped with Estero Gold Cheese. Photo taken at Handline in Sebastopol Wednesday, Feb. 12, 2025. (Beth Schlanker / The Press Democrat)
Handline
The tortillas are handmade, the oysters super fresh, the burgers are great, but I go for the veggies. Esquites (grilled corn with lime) are a summer staple. Broccolini with mushroom aioli and pickled mustard seeds is another favorite. The Roots & Shoots salad features an ever-changing lineup of seasonal vegetables, sprouted lentils, arugula, basil pesto and sesame hummus. 935 Gravenstein Ave. South, Sebastopol, handline.com
Santa Rosa
Beef cheek Bourguignon with classic garni and pommes purée from Augie’s French Tuesday, Nov. 28, 2023, in Santa Rosa. (John Burgess/The Press Democrat)
Augie’s
Approachable bistro-style French classics like hearty onion soup, braised boeuf Bourguignon with creamy potatoes and bowls of steaming mussels swimming in creamy Dijon sauce that’s begging to be soaked up with a crusty baguette. Augie’s is a truffle-buttered kiss, where the Champagne starts flowing at 3 p.m. and the skinny fries come in a gold-handled rondeau pan because they can. 535 Fourth St., Santa Rosa, 707-531-4400, augiesfrench.com
Stark’s Steak & Seafood
If you’re craving fat steak, a ridiculously decadent burger or the ultimate happy hour, this is your spot. ‘Nuff said. 521 Adams St., Santa Rosa, 707-546-6100, starkssteakhouse.com
The build-it-yourself burger is served with a glass of Russian River Brewery beer at Stark’s Steak & Seafood in Santa Rosa. (John Burgess/The Press Democrat)Louisiana Hash with onions, bell peppers, bacon, potatoes, cheddar, eggs, herbs, mushrooms and spicy seasoning from J & M’s Midtown Cafe, Thursday, Jan. 18, 2024, in Santa Rosa. (John Burgess / The Press Democrat)
J&M’s Midtown Café
Diner-style breakfast nirvana. Though the menu and the space are casual, the food is top-notch, including the world’s best Benedicts. Pull up a counter seat if you’re dining solo. Lunch classics like a classic tuna melt and a pastrami Reuben are standouts. 1422 Fourth St., Santa Rosa, 707-545-2233, jm-midtowncafe.com
Dierk’s Parkside Cafe
If you know, you know. Most of Santa Rosa has spent a lazy Sunday morning or quiet lunch at chef Mark Dierkhising’s legendary cafe. 404 Santa Rosa Ave., Santa Rosa, 707-573-5955, dierksparkside.com
Eggs Benedict at Dierk’s Parkside Cafe in Santa Rosa. (John Burgess/The Press Democrat)The enormous lasagna with a stagionale salad of arugula, roasted butternut squash puree, sliced almonds, topped with pecorino cheese, in an orange mustard and extra-virgin olive oil dressing from L’Oro di Napoli in downtown Santa Rosa March 24, 2023. (John Burgess/The Press Democrat)
L’Oro Di Napoli
Their Neapolitan-style pizzas have thin centers and signature charred crusts that require little more than a few toppings — the Margherita is a winner. I come for the deep-dish lasagna with layer after layer of thick pasta, Bolognese, béchamel and San Marzano tomato sauce. Sitting upstairs is cozy and intimate, perfect for a date night. The new Petaluma location (208 Petaluma Blvd. North) features an expanded menu that includes additional pasta dishes and larger entrees, such as whole branzino and steak. 629 Fourth St., Santa Rosa, 707-541-6394, lorodinapolica.com
Mitote Food Park
An immersive experience of eating and drinking in Sonoma County’s epicenter of Mexican culture. Food trucks circle a permanent outdoor patio (tented and enclosed) with home-style tacos, tlayuda, birria and tortas. 100 Sebastopol Road, Santa Rosa, mitotefoodpark.com
Chicken Panuchos from Yucamami, a food truck in Mitote Park specializing in Yucatecan street food, Wednesday, June 5, 2024, in Santa Rosa. (John Burgess/The Press Democrat)
Petaluma
Table Culture Provisions
After “scrappy beginnings,” according to the 2025 California Michelin Guide, this tiny restaurant with just a handful of seats offers one of my favorite tasting menus in Sonoma County. A mix of hyper-seasonal ingredients, French technique and a little humor, the menu reflects the personal journeys of Haitian-born Stéphane Saint Louis and his co-chef Steven Vargas. 312 Petaluma Blvd. S., Petaluma, 707-559-5739, tcprovision.com
Table Culture Provisions chef Stéphane Saint Louis serves a collage of late spring bites for two, including squid-ink madeleines, asparagus cappuccino, and golden orbs of Indian pani puri filled with Dungeness crab salad. (Kim Carroll)Swedish meatballs, frankfurters and more at Stockhome restaurant in Petaluma. (New Rev Media)
Stockhome
A family-friendly ode to Swedish cuisine with outstanding Swedish pancakes, meatballs and mashed potatoes (with lingonberry jam, of course) and gut-busting street food like the Tunnbrod Rulle, a mashup of Smoked German sausage, mashed potatoes, ketchup, mustard, iceberg lettuce and tomatoes inside a rolled Swedish flatbread. Plus, beef kebabs. 220 Western Ave., Petaluma, 707-981-8511, stockhomerestaurant.com
Stellina Pronto
There’s (almost) always a line at this Italian bakery and pizzeria, which is saying something in sleepy Sonoma County. Michelin-quality pastries filled with hazelnuts, cream and plenty of panache are the opener for Neapolitan-meets-New York wood-fired gourmet pizzas. Limited seating. 23 Kentucky St., Petaluma, stellinapronto.com
Nutella cornetto filled with creamy chocolate and hazelnut spread, drizzled with chocolate ganache, and topped with whole toasted hazelnuts, at Stellina Pronto in Petaluma. (Courtesy Stellina Pronto)Grouper with smoked corn butter, figs, tomatoes, serrano and chimichurri sauce at Street Social in Petaluma. (Courtesy Street Social)
Street Social
Street Social feels more like having dinner at a friend’s house than dining in a formal restaurant — and that’s exactly how owners Jevon Martin and Marjorie Pier want it. It’s hard to resist chatting with fellow diners in such a convivial space. Martin’s ever-changing menu is a celebration both of season and place, inspired by what’s perfectly ripe or fresh from the ocean. Farm-to-table isn’t just a label — it’s a manifesto — and that’s why you’ll rarely find the same dish twice on the menu. 29F Petaluma Blvd. N., Petaluma, streetsocial.social
Duck Confit with endive and spinach and a glass of wine in a sunny window seat at Water Street Bistro Thursday, Aug. 29, 2025, in Petaluma. (John Burgess / The Press Democrat)
Water Street Bistro
Sitting outside by the Petaluma River with a warm latte is about as good as it gets. This friendly, come-as-you-are French-inspired cafe also has charm and excellent bistro cuisine. Grab a croissant, quiche or kouign-amann in the morning. Lunch is a heartier proposition with seasonal salads, their signature duck confit and irresistible butterscotch pot de crème or the devilishly delicious duck egg flan. 100 Petaluma Blvd. North, Petaluma, 707-763-9563, waterstreetbistropetaluma.com
Dot Wine winemaker Lise Asimont and her husband/co-owner Shawn Phillips walk in a Shone Farm vineyard July 22, 2025 where they source some of their grapes for their 2025 North Coast Wine Challenge Sweepstakes winners. (John Burgess / The Press Democrat)
When Lise Asimont of Dot Wine learned she’d been named Winemaker of the Year at the 2025 North Coast Wine Challenge, she was stunned.
As senior vice president of Foley Family Farms, Asimont spends most of her time overseeing nearly 5,000 acres across California, Oregon, and beyond.
Yet this honor was for her passion project — Dot Wine, the small Healdsburg-based wine brand she co-founded with her husband, Shawn Phillips, in 2016.
“I’m really just a farmer at heart,” says Asimont, who has a master’s degree in viticulture from UC Davis. “I make wine because it makes me a better farmer. So being named Winemaker of the Year is an amazing honor.”
Dot Wine winemaker Lise Asimont won Double Gold for three of her wines she creates at J. Rickards Winery in Cloverdale Tuesday, July 22, 2025. (John Burgess / The Press Democrat)
Asimont, who produces about 800 cases of wine each year under the Dot Wine label, was chosen as Winemaker of the Year because of her impressive showing in April at the North Coast Wine Challenge, presented by The Press Democrat. The competition is exclusively for wines produced with grapes grown in Sonoma, Napa, Mendocino, Marin, Lake, and Solano counties. This year it received a record-setting 1,147 wine entries from 223 wineries. Four of those entries were from Dot Wine.
During the blind tasting, the judges whittled down the wines to a mere 38 finalists, which were judged again during the final sweepstakes round.
“I was completely blown away when I found out our Rosé, Sauvignon Blanc, and Grenache made the sweepstakes round,” Asimont says. “We only entered the competition because we were curious to see how they’d stack up against the others.”
Dot Wine’s 2024 rosé of Pinot Noir from the Russian River Valley — which the judges compared to “a Ferris wheel of fun” – was crowned the competition’s best rosé. All three wines were awarded Double Gold (a score of 95 points or better).
Dot Wine winemaker Lise Asimont won Double Gold for three of her wines she creates at J. Rickards Winery in Cloverdale Tuesday July 22, 2025. (John Burgess / The Press Democrat)
“Lise is the first winemaker to have three wines end up in the final sweepstakes round,” says Daryl Groom, the North Coast Wine Challenge’s chief judge. He was “elated” to learn of Asimont’s success. “Given she’s one of the most savvy viticulturists across the North Coast and an excellent winemaker, it’s no surprise she scooped up so many awards. She also happens to be one of the kindest, most respected people in the wine industry.”
Asimont, a Filipino-American whose mother emigrated to the U.S. mainland from Hawaii, is especially proud Dot Wine’s rosé rose to the top.
“The rosé has Filipino-Hawaiian representation on the label from artist Jackie Eitel of Paradise Now in Hawaii,” she says. “To have my culture represented means everything.”
Nine years after launching the brand, Asimont has gained “a tremendous amount of perspective” that she integrates into her role at Foley. “There’s nothing like trying to sell your own wine in a challenging market to give you a sense of humility,” she says. “It gives you an entrepreneurial edge that makes you a savvier winegrower.”
Dot Wine winemaker Lise Asimont and her husband/co-owner Shawn Phillips walk in a Shone Farm vineyard July 22, 2025 where they source some of their grapes for their 2025 North Coast Wine Challenge Sweepstakes winners. (John Burgess / The Press Democrat)
Michael Beaulac, Foley’s director of winemaking, was among the judges at this year’s North Coast Wine Challenge. When he learned Asimont had landed three wines in the sweepstakes round, he teasingly asked her if she was coming for his job.
“I reassured him I wasn’t,” laughs Asimont. “I told him I’m truly at my finest — my strongest — when I’m farming wine grapes. Winemaking allows me to complete the sentence I begin in the vineyard. That’s where I’m the happiest.”
At Compline restaurant and wine shop in Napa. (Compline)
In Wine Spectator’s latest issue, its editors invite readers to meet them at the wine bar — specifically, their 38 favorites across the United States, plus three international ones for good measure. The roundup features a dazzling selection of standout wine bars that provide guests with an unforgettable experience. And three of them, naturally, are in Wine Country.
As the cover story for Wine Spectator’s October issue, wine bars get the special treatment, with establishments segmented by region and given thorough reviews by in-the-know editors. The result is an itinerary-worthy lineup of places that are sophisticated yet approachable, lending to the evolution of modern wine bar culture.
Among its 10 favorite wine bars on the West Coast, Wine Spectator recommends one in Healdsburg and two in Napa. Here’s what you need to know to start planning your visit.
Healdsburg
At Maison Healdsburg wine bar. (Sarah Davis)
Maison Healdsburg
After Healdsburg’s highly acclaimed Bergamot Alley closed in 2018, the town went without a single wine bar for years. There have been upscale tasting rooms and cocktail bars aplenty, but no casual hub for wine lovers. That is, until SingleThread alums Evan and Jade Hufford, along with their business partner Ryan Knowles, opened Maison Healdsburg in 2023.
“Maison is a place to truly geek out,” said Healdsburg native Aaron Romano, Wine Spectator’ssenior editor of its Napa tasting department, in his review. Romano noted the wine bar’s 600-bottle list of mostly California coastal wines, along with rare bottlings and a healthy dose of global selections. Maison also pours over 40 rotating wines and sakes by the glass. Additionally, Maison offers wine seminars, blind tastings and food pop-ups featuring renowned chefs from Wine Country and beyond. 210 Healdsburg Ave., Healdsburg, maisonwinebar.com
Napa
A wall of wine bottles for sale at Bounty Hunter Wine Bar & Smokin’ BBQ in Napa , Monday, Dec. 18, 2023. (Beth Schlanker / The Press Democrat)The beer can chicken is a Cajun-spiced whole free-range bird perched on a Tecate beer can at Bounty Hunter Wine Bar & Smokin’ BBQ in Napa, Monday, Dec. 18, 2023. (Beth Schlanker / The Press Democrat)
Bounty Hunter Wine Bar & Smokin’ BBQ
Founded 30 years ago in an 1880s-era building in downtown Napa, Bounty Hunter embodies an Old West theme while marrying award-winning barbecue with a 400-bottle list of mostly Californian wines. MaryAnn Worobiec, Wine Spectator’s senior editor and Napa Bureau Chief, described Bounty Hunter as “one of the original wine bars, with a formula and vibes that prove popular with locals and tourists alike after all these years.”
Bounty Hunter is for the casual wine consumers who want a side of whimsy and comfort food with their glass. It features cheeky wine flights to suit all tastes, like the “Killer Cabernet” and “Pinot Envy.” Worobiec highlighted such menu favorites as the signature beer-can chicken, wood-smoked St. Louis pork ribs and a Southern-style pimento cheese dip. 975 First St., Napa, 707-226-3976, bountyhunterwinebar.com
Compline restaurant and wine bar in downtown Napa. (Compline)The cheeseburger and duck-fat fries at Compline Restaurant in Napa, Thursday, Jan. 25, 2024. (Beth Schlanker / The Press Democrat)
Compline
After veteran sommeliers Matt Stamp and Ryan Stetins opened Compline in 2017, it soon became a hot spot for excellent wine and dining. The wine bar and restaurant became a quadruple threat when the founders added a separate wineshop and tasting bar in 2022. Compline has an impressive 1,000-bottle wine list, featuring a vast international selection along with California wines.
In her review, Worobiec highlighted Compline’s “wine-friendly menu with delectable pastas … seasonal produce and shareable plates.” Plus, find “top-notch burgers,” daily rotating wine flights, a shady outdoor patio and events with visiting vintners. 1300 First St., Suite 319, Napa, 707-492-8150, complinewine.com
A West Wine Tours Volkswagen bus stops at Marilyn’s Vineyard in Kenwood. (John Burgess / Sonoma Magazine)
Home to the historic town of Sonoma, along with charming Glen Ellen and Kenwood, Sonoma Valley has relaxed, family-friendly appeal combined with rolling vineyard landscapes and walkable downtowns. Along with Sonoma Valley’s signature Cabernet Sauvignon, the region is known for Carneros Pinot Noir and Chardonnay.
Taste
Wines from Hamel Family Wines in Sonoma. (Sonoma County Tourism)
Hamel Family Wines
Dramatic views are always on the menu at this 124-acre estate at the base of the Mayacamas Mountains, set among century-old olive trees. Book the Estate Experience for a tour of the expansive winery and underground wine caves followed by a seated tasting in the sleek Estate House, or splurge for the Chef’s Experience, featuring gourmet bites from the resident chef. Hamel’s signature wines — including Cabernet Sauvignon, Grenache, and Sauvignon Blanc — are shaped by volcanic soils. Reservations required. 15401 Sonoma Hwy., Sonoma. hamelfamilywines.com
Hanzell Vineyards
Hanzell Farm & Vineyards in Sonoma. (Eileen Roche/for Sonoma Magazine)
Set on a steep hillside, Hanzell is home to the historic Ambassador’s 1953 vineyard — Sonoma County’s oldest continuously producing Chardonnay site. The winery is known for its “firsts” — this was the first winery in the world to use stainless steel tanks and the first in California to use all French oak barrels — as well as its incredible, subtly oaked Chardonnay and Pinot Noir. The winery’s newly updated tasting experience includes a tour of the caves and the original 1950s Hanzell winery, which now serves as a museum. Reservations required. 18596 Lomita Ave., Sonoma. hanzell.com
More wineries worth seeking out
Sample co-fermented blends made with Rhône varieties at Abbot’s Passage. The “Shuffleboard Social” experience includes game time on the vineyard court. Reservations encouraged. 777 Madrone Road, Glen Ellen. abbotspassage.com
Abbot’s Passage Winery & Mercantile, an experiential winery located on a historic property in the heart of the Sonoma Valley. (Abbot’s Passage)Obsidian Base Camp tasting room in downtown Sonoma. (Obsidian Wine Co.)
Obsidian Base Camp’sJapanese garden oasis pours complex reds from an obsidian-laced vineyard in Lake County. Try the fun, experimental Rabbit Hole wines. Weekend reservations recommended. 441 First St. W., Sonoma. obsidianwineco.com
At Winery Sixteen 600 — tucked in an old farmhouse off the Sonoma Plaza — taste the Coturri family’s organically farmed wines in antique theater seats as vinyl records spin. Reservations required. 589 First St. W., Sonoma. winerysixteen600.com
Dine
Sonoma Eats Mexican Food & Café
Relish soulful Oaxacan fare in Boyes Hot Springs, where canned foods are banned and locally grown produce is everything. Founded by a former vineyard worker, Efrain Balmes, the restaurant team whips up chilaquiles and trés leches French toast in the morning, then moves on to must-have mole enchiladas and tacos for lunch. 18133 Sonoma Hwy., Sonoma. 707-3431141, sonoma-eats.com
Vegan and Al Pastor Tacos at Sonoma Eats restaurant in Sonoma. (Heather Irwin / The Press Democrat)Lacquered Duck with fresh and preserved berries, persimmon, burnt orange with a broth of grilled duck bones, Douglas fir and Meyer lemon from the multicourse tasting menu at Enclos in Sonoma, Thursday, Jan. 16, 2025. (John Burgess / The Press Democrat)
Enclos
A mere seven months after opening, this splurgy tasting menu destination landed not one, but two, coveted Michelin stars — as well as a Michelin Green Star for sustainable practices. On the plate, that translates to gorgeously presented dishes made with Sonoma-grown ingredients — from heirloom produce to responsibly raised meats. 139 E. Napa St., Sonoma. 707-387-1724, enclos-sonoma.com
Songbird Parlour
Dine in a plush and stylish Victorian-inspired salon at Jack London Village, where the menu reads like a love letter to Sonoma County farms and food purveyors. On Sunday nights, Songbird offers succulent, sweet-hot fried chicken at a bargain price. 14301 Arnold Drive, Suite 3, Glen Ellen. 707-343-1308, songbirdparlour.com
Hot honey fried chicken from Songbird Parlour in Glen Ellen. (Lumina Studio)Spread Kitchen, Sonoma chef/owner Cristina Topham’s mezze menu Thursday, April 3, 2025, is a selection of small savory plates with dips, marinated veggies, olives, breads, nuts and marinated feta shared by the table. (John Burgess / The Press Democrat)
Spread Kitchen
This casual, indoor-outdoor café from French-trained chef Cristina Topham whips up Lebanese-inspired dishes with a decidedly California spin. The dips are divine — try the hummus spiced with Aleppo pepper — as are lavash wraps ranging from classic lamb kofta to fried cauliflower drizzled with green tahini. 18375 Hwy. 12, Sonoma. 707-721-1256, spreadkitchensonoma.com
Explore
Take a break from winetasting and stroll the outdoor exhibits at Sculpturesite Gallery in Glen Ellen. (Sculpturesite Gallery)
The sculptureWALK exhibition showcases 30 outdoor statues and kinetic sculptures — crafted from metal, wood, stone, glass, and concrete — throughout Jack London Village. 14301 Arnold Drive, Glen Ellen. sculpturesite.com
Hitch a ride in a vintage VW bus with West Wine Tours and enjoy a relaxed day of wine tasting while drinking in Sonoma Valley’s vineyard views. Each charming Volkswagen in their fleet holds six to eight passengers, and there’s even an option to choose a color to set just the right vibe for a Wine Country cruise. 707-787-8141, westwinetours.com
A West Wine Tours Volkswagen bus stops at Marilyn’s Vineyard in Kenwood. (John Burgess / Sonoma Magazine)
Insider Tip
Stomp grapes at the Valley of the Moon Vintage Festival. Now in its 200th year, the weekend event is set for Sept. 25-27. valleyofthemoonvintagefestival.org
Give in to temptation at Pomme Cider Shop & Taproom. This apple-centric venue off the Sonoma Plaza is a haven for fans of natural ciders from near and far. 531 Broadway, Sonoma. pommecidershop.com
Entrance to the wine cave at Thomas George Estates in Healdsburg. (Thomas George Estates)
Though they might seem like just another visitor attraction at a winery, wine caves do serve a specific purpose — to store wine at a steady, cool temperature as it ages to perfection. And when it’s hot outside, these underground caverns also do a great job of keeping wine tasters comfortably chilled.
Here are a few favorite carved-out hillsides where you can taste wine and stay cool in the hot days ahead.
Gundlach Bundschu Winery
At Sonoma County’s second oldest family-owned winery, six generations of the Bundschu family have been busy making wine since 1858. The Underground Cave Tour is offered at 11 a.m. and 2:30 p.m.daily. Tour hosts guide guests through the wine cave — as well as the regenerative vineyards, weather permitting — while teaching them about Gundlach Bundschu’s family history, its winemaking and barrel-aging process, and sustainable vineyard practices. Tours last about 90 minutes. Limited to guests 13 and over. Reservations are required; reserve on Tock. $80 per person. 2000 Denmark St., Sonoma, 707-938-5277, gunbun.com
The cave experience at Gundlach Bundschu in Sonoma includes a stroll through the 10,000-square-foot caverns, sampling wines along the way. (wool + son / Gundlach Bundschu Winery)During the Barrel Tasting and Winery Tour at Buena Vista, guests learn about the founder of the historic winery, Count Agoston Haraszthy, and try a flight of wines, including a barrel tasting in the cave. (Buena Vista Winery)
Buena Vista Winery
Founded in 1857 as California’s first premium winery, Buena Vista is listed on the National Register of Historic Places. During the Barrel Tasting and Winery Tour, guests learn about the founder of the historic winery, Count Agoston Haraszthy, and try a flight of wines, including a barrel tasting in the cave. The tour is offered at 11 a.m. and 2 p.m. daily and lasts 90 minutes. $60 per person, $48 for wine club members. Reserve on Tock. 18000 Old Winery Road, Sonoma, 800-926-1266, buenavistawinery.com
Benziger Family Winery
Private wine tastings and dinners in the caves are available at Benziger Family Winery. The Tribute Estate Tour & Tasting includes a visit to the caves. Tours run approximately 90 minutes and are offered at 10 a.m., 11:30 a.m., 1 p.m. and 2:30 p.m. Thursday through Monday; and at 10:30 a.m. and 2:30 p.m. on Sunday. Reservations are required and tours are limited to guests 21 and over. $85 per person, $68 for wine club members. 1883 London Ranch Road, Glen Ellen, 707-935-3000, benziger.com
Private wine tastings and dinners in the caves are available at Benziger Family Winery. The Tribute Estate Tour & Tasting includes a visit to the caves. (Benziger Family Winery)The private Immersive Winery Tour at Bella Vineyards & Wine Caves starts next to the winery’s 100-year-old Zinfandel vines, but a majority of the time is spent underground in the wine caves. (Bella Vineyards & Wine Caves)
Bella Vineyards & Wine Caves
Bella’s Immersive Winery Tour starts next to the winery’s 100-year-old Zinfandel vines, but a majority of the time is spent underground in the wine caves. The experience ends with a seated private tasting of five wines, including small-lot Zinfandels. Allow up to two hours for the tour. $95 per person, 15% off for wine club members. Reserve on Tock. 9711 West Dry Creek Road, Healdsburg, 707-473-9171, bellawinery.com
Alexander Valley Vineyards
Complimentary cave tours are offered at noon and 2:30 p.m. daily. While exploring the 48,000-square-foot wine cave, guests learn about barrel selection and how it can impact a wine’s flavor. Reservations are required for groups of seven or more. Tours last about 20 minutes. The winery also offers an Immersive Cave Tour & Tasting Experience at 1 p.m. Saturday and Sunday. Guests will learn about the history of Cyrus Alexander, the valley’s namesake, as well as the Wetzel family, who helped shape the region’s winemaking. While exploring the cave, guests will have a chance to taste five estate wines. Tours are 90 minutes and are not available in September and October. Reserve all experiences on Tock. $45 per person. 8644 Highway 128, Healdsburg, 707-433-7209, avvwine.com
Complimentary cave tours are offered daily at Alexander Valley Vineyards in Healdsburg. (Alexander Valley Vineyards)Wine cave tasting room at Thomas George Estates in Healdsburg. (Thomas George Estates)
Thomas George Estates
This wine cave, completed in 2010, measures over 8,000 square feet, with nearly 2,000 square feet dedicated to hosting visitors. Guests can explore the entire cave, from production spaces with barrels and concrete vessels to the Wine Cave Library. The Single Vineyard Cave Tasting includes a seated tasting in the wine cave, tasting of six wines and a pizza for two. $75 per person, $90 per person for groups of nine or more. Reservations are recommended. 8075 Westside Road, Healdsburg, 707-431-8031, thomasgeorgeestates.com
Deerfield Ranch Winery
Guests can tour this 23,000-square-foot wine cave, shaped like a wine glass, during cave tastings held daily (by reservation only). The tour lasts about an hour and includes tasting of five wines. Guests learn about the advantages the subterranean space provides for aging wine and how extended barrel aging impacts the wine. $35 per person for the Signature Tasting in the cave, $75 per person for the Reserve Tasting. Reserve on Tock. 10200 Sonoma Highway, Kenwood, 707-833-5215, deerfieldranch.com
The wine cave at Deerfield Ranch in Kenwood. (Deerfield Ranch)Wine cave tasting room at Schug Carneros Estate Winery in Sonoma. (Schug Carneros Estate Winery)
Schug Carneros Estate Winery
During the Estate Cave Experience, guides welcome guests with a glass of sparkling wine then lead them on a stroll through the cave. The tour culminates in an intimate seated tasting. The tour lasts about 90 minutes. $65 per person. Reserve online. 602 Bonneau Road, Sonoma, 707-939-9363, schugwinery.com
Kunde Family Winery
Offered November through March, the Cave Tasting at Kunde includes a tasting of the estate’s library and reserve wines along with cheese and charcuterie bites while seated in Kunde’s hillside caves. Available at noon and 3 p.m. Thursday through Monday. Allow two hours for the experience. Reservations are required. $100 per person; exclusive discount price for wine club members. 9825 Sonoma Highway, Kenwood, 707-833-5501, kunde.com
The wine cave at Hamel Family Wines in Sonoma. (Sonoma County Tourism)
Hamel Family Wines
During Hamel’s Estate Experience, guests are led on a guided tour of the winery and adjacent wine cave while learning about the estate’s volcanic terroir and biodynamic farming philosophy. The tour includes a seated tasting of single-vineyard Sauvignon Blanc, library Cabernet Sauvignon and other estate reds, along with a seasonal snack. Allow up to two hours for the experience. $95 per guest. Maximum six guests per party. Reserve on Tock. 15401 Sonoma Highway, Sonoma, 707-996-5800, hamelfamilywines.com
Lemon pancakes with cottage cheese and syrup from Verano Cafe Thursday, June 13, 2024, in Sonoma. (John Burgess/The Press Democrat)
From ancient Romans to millennial brunchers, pancakes have long been a favorite breakfast-time tummy-warmer — and mimosa accomplice.
Pancakes are so popular, in fact, that there are several holidays that celebrate the dish. Shrove Tuesday, also called Pancake Day, is a Christian holiday that falls between February and March and involves a feast before the start of Lent. Also in spring is IHOP’s pancake day, on which customers receive a free short stack of pancakes, a tradition the breakfast chain started in 2006. And then there’s National Pancake Day on Sept. 26, just for fun.
Chefs all over Sonoma County are whipping up their own delectable versions of the breakfast classic. Here are nine of our all-time favorites to enjoy on National Pancake Day or anytime of year.
The Classic
Dierk’s Parkside Café, Santa Rosa: Simple, fluffy pancakes served up with eggs and bacon at one of Santa Rosa’s fave breakfast spots. 404 Santa Rosa Ave., Santa Rosa, 707-573-5955, dierksparkside.com
Sleeper Hit
Fandee’s Restaurant, Sebastopol: Rich, fluffy lemon ricotta pancakes are one of my favorites, served with berries and vanilla crème anglaise. 7824 Covert Lane, Sebastopol, 707-829-2462, fandeesrestaurant.com
Acorn Cafe owner Beryl Adler’s Lemon Ricotta Hotcake with house lemon curd, ricotta, oat crumble and lemon lavender ice cream Wednesday, Feb. 19, 2025, in Healdsburg. (John Burgess / The Press Democrat)
Best Newcomer
Acorn Cafe, Healdsburg: The Acorn Cafe, opened last year in Healdsburg’s former Oakville Grocery, features a vegan lemon ricotta hotcake on its menu, served with house lemon curd, whipped ricotta, oat crumble and topped with a scoop of lemon lavender ice cream. 124 Matheson St., 707-955-7001, Healdsburg, acornhealdsburg.com
Big and Buttery
Jeffrey’s Hillside Cafe, Santa Rosa: Buttermilk pancakes as big as dinner plates, served with two eggs and choice of bacon, sausage or ham. 2901 Fourth St., Santa Rosa, 707-546-6317, jeffreyshillsidecafe.com
Brunch Favorite
Verano Cafe, Sonoma: Plate-size lemon pancakes are fluffed up with cottage cheese, eggs and lemon for a unique take on the traditional stack at this favored Sonoma cafe. Grab a fresh mimosa (passion fruit is a favorite) or a well-made cup of coffee while you wait. 18976 Sonoma Highway, Sonoma, 707-931-6837, veranocafesonoma.com
Paula Ledesma serves up pancakes to a family on a road trip from Georgia at the Verano Cafe Thursday, June 13, 2024, in Sonoma. (John Burgess/The Press Democrat)Dutch Baby, a German-style pancake with caramelized sugar, apples and a hint of nutmeg. Surrounded by, from left, the Sunshine with carrot, orange, ginger and turmeric; Prickly Pear Margarita; the Beet with carrot, celery, apple and ginger; and a Cafe Mocha on the menu at Brothers Cafe in Santa Rosa. Photo taken Thursday, April 27, 2023. (John Burgess / The Press Democrat)
Bavarian-Style
Brother’s Cafe, Santa Rosa: The owners behind Sebastopol’s popular Hole in the Wall opened twin restaurant Brother’s Cafe in 2022. The Santa Rosa cafe serves a similar breakfast menu to the Sebastopol outpost (all day). Don’t miss the Dutch Baby German pancake with caramelized sugar and apples. 3135 Cleveland Ave., Santa Rosa, 707-541-6345, brotherscafesr.com
Fill ’Er Up
Sax’s Joint, Petaluma: Open wide for a pancake the size of a pizza. Using a half-gallon of batter, it’s any child’s dream. 317 Petaluma Blvd. S., Petaluma, 707-559-3021, saxsjoint.com
Pancakes at Americana, which has locations in Santa Rosa and Sebastopol. (Americana)
Farm-to-Table
Americana, Sebastopol and Santa Rosa: Pancakes hot from the griddle are top-notch. Choose from classic, blueberry or chocolate chip pancakes, served with housemade vanilla cider maple syrup, whipped cream and seasonal fruit. 162 N. Main St. Sebastopol, 707-827-3309; 205 Fifth St., Suite A, Santa Rosa, 707-755-1548, americanasonomacounty.com
Best with Your Dog
Howard Station Cafe, Occidental: This dog-friendly, locomotive-themed cafe offers stacks of buttermilk, blueberry and banana walnut pancakes. 3611 Bohemian Highway, Occidental, 707-874-2838, howardstationcafe.com
The Sonoma Spritz, a low-alcohol, flavor-forward cocktail created for the 200th annual Valley of the Moon Vintage Festival in Sonoma. (Sonoma Valley Vintners and Growers Alliance)
Harvest in Sonoma County brings grapes, of course, but it also tends to usher in “Summer: The Sequel.” Often, some of the hottest days of the year don’t happen until fall is at our doorstep.
While much of the country is cuddled up with pumpkin spice lattes, we’re looking for something a little more refreshing. Make way for the Sonoma Spritz. This low-alcohol, flavor-forward cocktail was created for the 200th anniversary of harvest in Sonoma Valley, and has been popping up on menus and in tasting rooms all summer long. The fizzy sipper will be highlighted at The Great Spritz Off on Sept. 25 as local bartending pros compete to craft the most effervescent version.
Spritz cocktails, such as the Aperol spritz, have seen a surge in popularity, thanks in part to the sober-curious movement and their eye-catching presentation. The homegrown, wine-based Sonoma Spritz is no exception.
“It’s a way of making wine approachable and easy, it doesn’t have to be a formal tasting,” says Robyn Sebastiani, executive director of the Sonoma Valley Vintners and Growers Alliance, which presents the annual Valley of the Moon Vintage Festival.
The patio at Three Sticks Wines’ Adobe tasting room in downtown Sonoma, where The Great Spritz Off will take place. (Ken Fulk / Sonoma County Tourism)Three Sticks rosé is summertime in a glass. (Three Sticks Wines)
It’s also an easy drink to make at home for sipping on the patio while watching the sun dip a little earlier each evening.
The main ingredient in the Sonoma Spritz is rosé, an easy find at Sonoma Valley wineries, according to Sebastiani. “There are so many makers who make rosé throughout the valley, so choose your favorite.”
The other ingredients — freshly squeezed lemon juice and figs turned into jam or syrup — also incorporate the abundance of Sonoma Valley. Many have the luxury of plucking the fruit straight from a tree either in their own garden or from the tree of a generous neighbor, and if not there, they are easily found at local markets and farmstands this time of year.
The Sonoma Spritz
Makes 1 drink
1 tsp. fig preserve or caramelized fig syrup (such as Liber & Co.)
¾ ounces fresh lemon juice
¾ ounces simple syrup
3 ounces Sonoma Valley rosé wine
2 ounces soda water
Fresh rosemary sprig, for garnish
In a shaker, combine the fig preserve (or syrup), lemon juice, and simple syrup. Shake well, then strain into a glass filled with ice. Top with Sonoma Valley rosé and soda water. Stir gently to combine and garnish with a sprig of fresh rosemary.
The Great Spritz Off
When: 6 p.m., September 25
Where: Three Sticks Wines at the Adobe, 143 W. Spain St., Sonoma
Tuna Tostada bite with garden herbs and tatemada from the new prix fixe tasting menu at The Lodge at Dawn Ranch Thursday, September 4, 2025 in Guerneville. (John Burgess / The Press Democrat)
For more than a century, the 22-acre plot of redwood-shaded land along Guerneville’s Fife Creek has been a retreat from the hubbub of daily life. Founded as the family-friendly Murphy’s Guest Ranch, it later became the iconic gay resort Fife’s, and in 2005, it again transformed into Dawn Ranch.
Despite the resort’s epic natural beauty, with sun-dappled orchards, quiet groves and dock access to the river, its on-site dining hall (and later, restaurant) was never one of its main draws.
That changed when New York City-based Bridgeton Holdings purchased the property after its flood-related closure in 2019.
The company launched a three-year overhaul of the cabins, lodge and restaurant. When Dawn Ranch reopened in 2023, it aligned comfortably with Bridgeton’s portfolio of boutique resorts, which includes Marram Montauk in the Hamptons and the Walker Hotels in Greenwich Village and Tribeca.
The restaurant soon followed suit, first reopening as Agriculture Public House and later as The Lodge at Dawn Ranch, under the guidance of co-executive chefs Ignacio “Nacho” Zuzulich and Juliana Thorpe since 2023. Both are veterans of Michelin-starred kitchens.
Brazilian chef Juliana Thorp, right, and her Argentinian husband chef Ignacio “Nacho” Zuzulich use tweezers to place the final touches on a dish in the kitchen at The Lodge at Dawn Ranch Thursday, Sept. 4, 2025, in Guerneville. (John Burgess / The Press Democrat)
Zuzulich hails from Argentina, where his family owns several well-known restaurants. Thorpe was raised vegetarian on her family’s farm in Brazil. The couple met while working at Lasai in Rio de Janeiro and later cooked at the wildly experimental Mugaritz in Spain and The Restaurant at Meadowood in St. Helena (now closed following the 2020 Glass Fire).
After what The Press Democrat critic Carey Sweet called a “confusing” start, the duo seems to have now found their footing with cohesive tasting menu-only dinners (seven to 12 courses) that draw from their South American heritage with influences from Spain and France. And there’s a lot to love.
“When we opened, we were not ready. The first year was really tough for us,” Zuzulich admitted.
Initially, Thorpe and Zuzulich were encouraged to lean into California-inspired cuisine rather than the eclectic Brazilian, Argentinian and Basque flavors they had spent the last decade perfecting.
“When we stopped listening to everyone and started cooking what we knew, everything changed,” he said.
Handmade Spot Prawn Pasta with dende oil and charcoal grilled bread from the new prix fixe tasting menu at The Lodge at Dawn Ranch Thursday, Sept. 4, 2025, in Guerneville. (John Burgess / The Press Democrat)t)
The Experience
Reaching the dining room is part of a curated experience that guides diners from beneath the redwood boughs in the parking lot up a steep flight of stairs to the lodge – a tree house among the soaring groves. Inside, vaulted ceilings and exposed beams give way to a modern lounge with a marble-topped bar and oversized chairs. The dining room itself has been pared down to highlight the natural elements of the space, with warm wood tables, low banquettes, soft lighting and willow branches woven into the rafters. The natural world never feels far away, adding to its otherworldly ambiance.
The Food
Thorpe and Zuzulich serve only tasting menus in the dining room, although a smaller à la carte selection is available in the lounge. With just 40 seats, the space lends itself better to the couple’s kind of cooking: a curated parade of tweezer-perfect bites rather than a 32-ounce steak.
The seven-course “This and That” menu includes both shared and individual plates, presented in four stages. But the 12-course “All That” ($140 per person) is the best way to truly experience the breadth of Thorpe and Zuzulich’s talent. And it begins with a flurry of finger foods — five dishes in total.
To start, a selection of bites from the new prix fixe tasting menu at The Lodge at Dawn Ranch Thursday, Sept. 4, 2025, in Guerneville. (John Burgess / The Press Democrat)
While sending out five of the 12 courses all at once may seem counterintuitive, Thorpe encourages diners to dive in, get their hands dirty and play with the textures and temperatures.
“We are constantly grabbing things with our hands and that’s how we like to eat,” she said, adding, “We want people to have fun.”
The first courses arrive on artful trays and plates and include a thousand-layer potato pavé with caviar and crème fraiche; a briny oyster topped with tiny orbs of watermelon; Brazilian dadinho de tapioca (tiny, chewy cheese bites); and a simple tuna tostada covered in brilliant garden herbs and flowers. A childhood treat inspired the “Smile,” a savory cookie sandwich of chicken pate and tomato relish.
Playfulness and childhood memories are infused in many of the dishes, making the experience light-hearted and personal.
“Eating those cookies is a fun memory from being a child. I want someone who has never eaten one before to smile,” said Zuzulich. “Food can be funny.”
Smile, a chicken pate with tomato relish bite from the new prix fixe tasting menu at The Lodge at Dawn Ranch Thursday, Sept. 4, 2025, in Guerneville. (John Burgess / The Press Democrat)Snake River Farm Picanha, a favorite cut of beef in Brazil, with wax beans from the new prix fixe tasting menu at The Lodge at Dawn Ranch Thursday, Sept. 4, 2025, in Guerneville. (John Burgess / The Press Democrat)
One by one, the dishes get better and better — a creamy corn pudding; spot prawn pasta in broth served with charcoal-grilled flatbread infused with rosemary smoke; and a concise slice of Mt. Lassen trout in butter sauce. The Snake River Farms picanha, a prized cut of beef (also known as culotte) beloved in Argentina, is a nod to the country’s Sunday asado tradition, where grilling meat and socializing make a leisurely, all-day event. Here, small bites of beef are grilled and served rare, accompanied by a sliver of yellow fat, roasted pepper and avocado purée.
Dessert is served on the patio, allowing diners to stretch their legs and take in the resort’s view. A trio of sweets — chewy Brazilian coconut cake, a quenelle of strawberry sorbet dotted with tiny berries, and dulce de leche cookies — is a cozy closing act.
The Wine
The Lodge at Dawn Ranch wine director Genaro Gallo Thursday, Sept. 4, 2025, in Guerneville. (John Burgess / The Press Democrat)
The restaurant’s new sommelier, Genaro Gallo, has created a whimsical handwritten sommelier’s notebook that’s worth perusing. The wine pairings are stunning and include a “blind tasting,” where guests are invited to guess the varietal, vintage and origin of the wine.
The Outlook
As for Michelin aspirations, Zuzulich and Thorpe are keeping their ambitions local, for now. Just being found in remote Sonoma west county is their first order of business.
“Guerneville is not the most well-known town because of its food,” said Zuzulich. “It’s beautiful and it’s growing and we have a really big potential. But for now, we would just love to be on the map.”
Louisiana-style po’boy sandwiches are now on the menu at Cajun Po’boys, Sonoma County’s newest mobile eatery.
Founded by Louisiana native John Gasquet in collaboration with War Pigs BBQ owner Larry Hillix, the food truck brings hearty sandwiches to local breweries and taprooms, including Rincon Valley Tap Room & Bottle Shop (4927 Sonoma Highway, Santa Rosa) and Parliament Brewing (5865 Labath Ave., Rohnert Park).
War Pigs BBQ owner Larry Hillix, right, is partnering with Louisiana native John Gasquet on Sonoma County’s newest mobile eatery, Cajun Po’boys. (Darryl Bush / For The Press Democrat)
Offerings include “beef debris” (a New Orleans-style shredded beef), fried shrimp and other Cajun staples. Muffulettas (think of them as a Cajun twist on the classic Italian sub) are expected to join the menu, along with pickled okra and freshly fried, Cajun-seasoned potato chips.
