16 Favorite Restaurants and Bars with Live Music in Sonoma County

By Maci Martell
Lynzie Brodhun, left, and her sister Lexi Brodhun drink beer and listen to live music at Brewster’s in Petaluma on Sunday, September 9, 2018. (Beth Schlanker/ The Press Democrat)

Locally made craft beer and seasonal cuisine are already a perfect match. Throw in some live (mostly free) music, and you’re in store for a great night out.

From brewpubs and beer gardens to roadside diners and artsy cafes, check out our list of over a dozen places in Sonoma County to eat local cuisine while listening to live music.

Brewsters Beer Garden

With fire pits, heat lamps and ample room for dancing, this open-air restaurant and beer garden is a great venue to enjoy free, weekly live music and Southern-style barbecue. Bands play from 5-8 p.m. on Thursday and Friday; from 1-4 p.m. and 5-8 p.m. on Saturday; and from noon to 3 p.m. and 4-7 p.m. on Sunday. The family-friendly restaurant also has a kids play area and welcomes dogs on the outdoor patio. 229 Water St., Petaluma, 707-981-8330, brewstersbeergarden.com

Lagunitas Brewing Co.

This local brewhouse has over a dozen house beers on tap and a simple menu of classic American cuisine, all best enjoyed outdoors while taking in the annual Live at Lagunitas summer concert series, with shows happening every weekend from June to September. Most shows are free but require tickets to reserve a spot; tickets can be purchased on Eventbrite. There’s also music bingo from 6-8 p.m. every Thursday. 1280 N. McDowell Blvd., Petaluma, 707-778-8776, lagunitas.com

Visitors lounge on the amphitheatre lawn before the evening's concert at Lagunitas Brewing Company in Petaluma on Tuesday, August 9, 2016. (Alvin Jornada / The Press Democrat)
Visitors lounge on the amphitheater lawn before the evening’s concert at Lagunitas Brewing Company in Petaluma. (Alvin Jornada / The Press Democrat)
live music at The Big Easy
Enjoy a variety of live music every night at The Big Easy while snacking on late night food from its sister restaurant, Speakeasy. (Alvin Jornada/The Press Democrat)

The Big Easy/Speakeasy

Enjoy a variety of live music every night at The Big Easy while snacking on late night food from its sister restaurant, Speakeasy. The nightly live bands at The Big Easy typically start around 7-8 p.m. and the cover charge ranges from free to $20. Speakeasy’s full dinner menu, including a selection of local wines and craft beers, is available from opening to 10 p.m. Sunday through Thursday, and until midnight Friday and Saturday. 128 American Alley, Petaluma, 707-776-7163, bigeasypetaluma.com; 139 Petaluma Blvd. N., Suite B, Petaluma, 707-776-4631, speakeasypetaluma.com

The Block

Petaluma’s food truck hub and beer garden also serves as an event venue featuring regular live music in addition to open mics and DJ nights. Bands typically perform from 6-9 p.m. Fridays and Saturdays. 20 Grey St., Petaluma. 707-775-6003, theblockpetaluma.com

The Block Petaluma beer garden and live music venue
Sharing the summertime vibe at The Block in Petaluma. (Beth Schlanker/The Press Democrat)

HenHouse Brewing Co.

In addition to trivia and DJ nights, HenHouse throws rocking shows to enjoy with a pale ale in one of its colorful taprooms. The Santa Rosa location is hosting a release party to celebrate the return of its Avian Surveillance Division IPA — featuring a lineup of Sonoma County punk rock bands — from 6-10 p.m. Friday, Aug. 8. Later this month, HenHouse’s Palace of Barrels taproom in Petaluma will host the Howling Coyote Tour during its Northern California stop, from 2-5 p.m., Aug. 31. Make a trip to the Novato location (1301 Grant Ave.) for its monthly music showcase featuring local musicians, held 5-8 p.m. on the first Tuesday of every month. 1333 N. McDowell Blvd., Petaluma, 322 Bellevue Ave., Santa Rosa, henhousebrewing.com

At HenHouse Brewing's Palace of Barrels taproom in Petaluma. (Sonoma County Tourism)
A live music event at HenHouse Brewing’s Palace of Barrels taproom in Petaluma. (Sonoma County Tourism)
Ricky Ray performs at Hopmonk Tavern in Sebastopol on Wednesday, March 24, 2021. (Christopher Chung/ The Press Democrat)
Ricky Ray performs at Hopmonk Tavern in Sebastopol on Wednesday, March 24, 2021. (Christopher Chung/ The Press Democrat)

HopMonk Taverns and Twins Oaks

Come for the craft beer and elevated pub grub, stay for the lively concerts held every week. Most of HopMonk’s live music can be enjoyed in the charming beer garden, enhanced with stringed lights, fire pits and space heaters, while some other shows are played inside the cozy, rustic tavern. Twin Oaks Roadhouse, owned by HopMonk, also hosts live music concerts as well as free karaoke nights every Wednesday. HopMonk Sebastopol: 230 Petaluma Ave., Sebastopol, 707-829-7300; HopMonk Sonoma: 691 Broadway, Sonoma, 707-935-9100; Twin Oaks Roadhouse: 5745 Old Redwood Highway, Penngrove, 707-795-5118, hopmonk.com

Brew Coffee and Beer House

Aside from some occasional live music pop-ups (keep an eye on the cafe’s Facebook for upcoming events), Brew hosts weekly open mic nights featuring local musicians, comedians and poets. Open mics are from 5-8 p.m. every Tuesday. 555 Healdsburg Ave., Santa Rosa, 707-303-7372, brewcoffeeandbeer.com

Shady Oak Barrel House

Live music, comedy shows, trivia and paint nights are in store at this taproom, which also includes a rotating roundup of food trucks to match local cuisine with craft brews. Upcoming events can be found online. Most live concerts are free and happen from 7-10 p.m. 420 First St., Santa Rosa, 707-575-7687, shadyoakbarrelhouse.com

The Shady Oak Barrel House in Santa Rosa on Friday, October 22, 2021. (John Burgess/The Press Democrat)
The Shady Oak Barrel House in Santa Rosa. (John Burgess/The Press Democrat)

Flagship Taproom

For good times with friends and family, Flagship’s Santa Rosa location is the spot to enjoy craft beers, barbecue, Wednesday trivia nights and live bands on weekends. 446 B St., Santa Rosa, 707-541-6716, flagshiptaproom.com

Belly Left Coast Kitchen & Taproom

The popular downtown Santa Rosa taproom hosts free live music on the outside patio on select nights. Check for upcoming events online. 523 Fourth St., Santa Rosa, 707-526-5787, bellyleftcoastkitchenandtaproom.com

At Crooked Goat Brewing's taproom in Petaluma. (Sonoma County Tourism)
At Crooked Goat Brewing’s taproom in Petaluma. (Sonoma County Tourism)

Crooked Goat Brewing

Locally sourced food, brews and tunes are on tap at Crooked Goat. The Sebastopol location is hosting a free summer concert series, with bands playing from 5-8 p.m. every Saturday, Aug. 2 through Sept. 13. There are also a number of events held at both Petaluma and Sebastopol locations each month, including bingo, open mics, speed dating and trivia nights. 120 Morris St., Sebastopol, 707-827-3893; 110 Howard St., Petaluma, 707-559-5691, crookedgoatbrewing.com

Altamont General Store

The Altamont Yard, Altamont General Store’s outdoor lounge area, is a bohemian space to snack, sip and enjoy live music from 6-8 p.m. every Friday. Learn about upcoming acts from Altamont’s event calendar. 3703 Main St., Occidental, 707-874-6053, altamontgeneralstore.com

Little Saint

Healdsburg’s premier plant-based restaurant hosts free live music starting at 7 p.m. every Thursday at its upstairs event venue, The Second Story. Guests can enjoy cocktails and vegan bites while watching a show, curated by music director Jonny Fritz. While most shows are free, some bigger-name acts are ticketed, such as the upcoming Beck solo show (Aug. 10) and Rufus Wainwright solo show (Sept. 9). Find Little Saint’s music lineup here. 25 North St., Healdsburg, 707-433-8207, littlesainthealdsburg.com

Live music event at Little Saint
Boygenius fans line up before a sold-out show at Little Saint in Healdsburg. (Emma K Creative)
Boygenius plays at Little Saint in Healdsburg. (Emma K Creative)
Boygenius plays at Little Saint in Healdsburg. (Emma K Creative)

The Elephant In the Room

This 21-and-over-only watering hole in Healdsburg is known for its speakeasy vibe, long beer list and weekly live music shows. The August music roster is filled with Bay Area bands spanning genres from rock and blues to hip-hop and psychedelic funk. Shows typically start between 6-8 p.m. and tickets range from free to $20. 177 Healdsburg Ave., Healdsburg, elephantintheroompub.com

La Tequila Mexican Restaurant

For the past three years, local Latin jazz quartet The Rice & Bean Project has been performing fan-favorite jazz, reggae and oldies from 5:30-8:30 p.m. every Friday at Cloverdale’s La Tequila. Savor Mexican eats while enjoying the band’s easy listening sounds either on the outdoor patio or inside by the fireplace on colder evenings. 134 N. Cloverdale Blvd., Cloverdale, 707-669-2363, mexicanrestaurantcloverdale.com

Geyserville Gun Club

Enjoy bar bites and seasonal cocktails while taking in free, local live music, starting at 8 p.m. on Saturdays. No cover charge. 21025 Geyserville Ave., Geyserville, 707-814-0036, geyservillegunclub.com

Point Reyes Family Says Goodbye to Cherished Ranch After Years of Legal Battles

By John Beck
Rancher Kevin Lunny opens a gate in preparation for his family’s final roundup of cattle, Saturday, May 17, 2025, at Point Reyes National Seashore. (Kent Porter / The Press Democrat)

Early dawn on Point Reyes brings another sunrise without a sun, the May fog shrouding this Saturday as winds whip up like they often do out on the peninsula.

“It’s all I’ve ever known,” says rancher Kevin Lunny. He’s talking about the wind, the light, the smell of cows, the scent of salted air off the sea — almost every detail in his life — as he drives a 4×4 into the pasture where his grandfather first set foot in 1946.

An executive at Pope and Talbot in San Francisco, Joe Lunny Sr. was a steamship man, not a farmer. But after buying a run-down dairy on the Historic G Ranch, he learned, often the hard way, from old family ranchers nearby, like the Kehoes and the Mendozas, who had worked the land long before he arrived. His son, Joe Lunny Jr., who was 17 at the time — he’s now 94 — remembers, “I came out here as greenhorn as you can be.”

With daughter Ginny Cummings, Joe Lunny waves to family as they arrive for the family’s last cattle roundup, Saturday, May 17, 2025. (Kent Porter / The Press Democrat)
With daughter Ginny Cummings, Joe Lunny waves to family as they arrive for the family’s last cattle roundup, Saturday, May 17, 2025. (Kent Porter / The Press Democrat)

Over these past few weeks, everything Kevin Lunny does, whether closing a pasture gate or fixing a fence wire or taking an evening walk down to Abbotts Lagoon with his wife Nancy — he keeps asking himself, will this be the last time?

Today, at least, one thing appears sure: This is the final cattle roundup at Lunny Ranch. The last time he’ll ever bring cows into corrals and separate them. He’s known this day might arrive sooner than later, for years now.

“But it’s still hard,” he says.

More than a decade ago, when he lost a long-shot bid to renew the federal lease inside Point Reyes National Seashore for his Drakes Bay Oyster Company, he had a premonition this day might come. After the seashore was created in 1962, with provisions for pastoral and wilderness lands, the longtime ranching families were reluctant to sell their land to the federal government, even with agreements to lease the land back.

Kevin Lunny’s pants bear the brunt of ranch work at Point Reyes
Kevin Lunny’s pants bear the brunt of ranch work at Point Reyes National Seashore, Saturday, May 17, 2025. (Kent Porter / The Press Democrat)

Over the decades, those agreements came increasingly under fire from environmental groups who want more of the park turned over to wilderness and wildlife. After years of lawsuits and mediation between ranchers, environmental groups, and the National Park Service, which owns the land, the park is effectively shutting down the farm Lunny grew up on, one of a dozen set to close by next year under a voluntary buyout brokered by The Nature Conservancy.

Lunny, a frontman in many of the biggest fights over the seashore in the past decade, doesn’t want to argue over the details anymore. He held out as long as he could. Finally, his father came to him and said, “I think we have to come to a yes. I don’t want to see it kill you.”

In January, he was the last of 12 ranchers to sign the settlement, which includes a reported $30-million payout to the ranchers who agreed to leave the land forever by next spring.

Now, Lunny looks out on the pasture where his grandkids, other family, and old friends make wide sweeps on dirt bikes, horseback, and 4x4s, leading the cattle toward the corrals.

Bob Lunny, son of Kevin Lunny at Point Reyes National Seashore, drinks coffee prior to his participation at the last roundup on the Lunny Ranch, Saturday, May 17, 2025. Bob made the trip from his home in Memphis for the gathering. (Kent Porter / The Press Democrat)
Bob Lunny, son of Kevin Lunny at Point Reyes National Seashore, drinks coffee prior to his participation at the last roundup on the Lunny Ranch, Saturday, May 17, 2025. Bob made the trip from his home in Memphis for the gathering. (Kent Porter / The Press Democrat)
roundup of cattle on the Point Reyes ranch
Callie, 11, and her mom Kristen Cummings move cattle in to a pen during a last roundup of cattle on the Lunny Ranch at Point Reyes National Seashore, Saturday, May 17, 2025. (Kent Porter / The Press Democrat)

“We’ve never had this many people to gather cows in our life,” he says. “It’s really kind of everybody in the family coming together. It’s very emotional for everybody. It shows you how this place has been meaningful for generations.”

His daughter Brigid Mata, who has worked the farm since she was a child, says she originally thought maybe the last roundup should just be small and super-intimate. “But my dad said, you know, everyone has memories here. Everyone wants to be a part of it.”

On this final roundup, there are 90 mother cows, 30 bred heifers, 85 calves — many that will relocate to a pasture in southern Oregon for now. And 55 2-year-olds going to slaughter.

Lunny Ranch
Cattle are pushed through a gate for a pregnancy check and electronic tag, Saturday, May 17, 2025, during a last roundup of cattle on the Lunny Ranch at Point Reyes National Seashore. (Kent Porter / The Press Democrat)
Joe Lunny and daughter Pamela Lunny react as Joe hangs on to his hat during a windy last roundup of cattle, Saturday, May 17, 2025. (Kent Porter / The Press Democrat)
Joe Lunny and daughter Pamela Lunny react as Joe hangs on to his hat during a windy last roundup of cattle, Saturday, May 17, 2025. (Kent Porter / The Press Democrat)

Over the next few hours, friends and family from as far and wide as Tennessee, Washington and all over California, will lend a hand helping sort cattle while a vet does pregnancy checks on mother cows. Mata will attach new ear tags on the cows going to Oregon, and Nancy Lunny will log every detail from the vet checks in her notebook. Eventually, empty boxes of doughnuts make way for an open-pit barbecue firing up. It feels like a family reunion, with all the hugs and back-slapping and kids running around.

“On the outside we might be laughing and smiling and carrying on, but on the inside, everyone is sad,” says Kevin Lunny.

His father, Joe Lunny Jr., is taking it the hardest. He’s watching from afar, on the patio of the main house. As people park and walk up the driveway, they stop to pay their respects as if giving their condolences at a funeral. Joe leads them through a room with walls filled with family photos and deer mounts. Nearby, framed on the wall, an old Press Democrat story headline reads, “Ranching in Paradise.”

Over the years, it became anything but that.

Family photos at the Lunny Ranch, Saturday, May 17, 2025, at Point Reyes National Seashore. (Kent Porter / The Press Democrat)
Family photos at the Lunny Ranch, Saturday, May 17, 2025, at Point Reyes National Seashore. (Kent Porter / The Press Democrat)
Lunny Ranch
Family and friends of the Lunny family have their portrait made during a last roundup of cattle, Saturday, May 17, 2025. (Kent Porter / The Press Democrat)

“I thought I would die here one day,” says Joe Lunny Jr., choking back tears as he reaches out to the land with one arm.

Will he ever return to visit?

“Why would I?” he says.

By this time, in the thick of summer, Kevin and Nancy Lunny plan to be settled down in their new home on 10 acres near Auburn. His father will split time with them and his sisters, who live in Penngrove and McCloud near Mt. Shasta.

On the farm outside Auburn, there’s a pond stocked with bass and bluegill that his grandkids love to fish. Kevin Lunny thought he would have a hard time adjusting to such a quiet place, without the constant sound of the ocean and harsh winds he grew up with in Point Reyes. But a creek running through the property “that babbles year-round” has filled any void. He also kept a few cows, because he says it would be hard to live without them, and he has a barn.

Lunny Ranch
Kevin Lunny runs to secure a gate during the last roundup of his family’s cattle, Saturday, May 17, 2025, at Point Ryes National Seashore. (Kent Porter / The Press Democrat)

Lunny has promised to stay involved in the ongoing battle over ranching in the park and help other ranchers in need. Lately, there have been rumblings that bureaucrats in Washington might reverse the deal that ended ranching in the park. If that happened, would he be interested in coming back to Point Reyes?

“In a heartbeat,” he says. “We’d do it in a second.”

But he already spent the money.

“We signed a contract,” he says. “We committed never to come back.”

The Best Beer Gardens in Sonoma County

By Heather Irwin
The Block
The outdoor area of The Block in Petaluma. Photographed on Wednesday, April 17, 2025. (Crissy Pascual/Petaluma Argus-Courier)

Summer is for beer gardens. Fortunately, Sonoma County has them in abundance, with the Wine Country bonus of excellent beer and top-notch food. Here are some favorites if you’re craving an afternoon of brews with your crew.

Twin Oaks Roadhouse

Twin Oaks beer garden
The fried chicken sandwich at Twin Oaks Roadhouse on Old Redwood Highway in Penngrove. (Kent Porter/The Press Democrat)

In continuous operation since 1926, this ramshackle-looking roadhouse and watering hole is one of Sonoma County’s best-kept secrets. Owned by HopMonk Tavern, well-known for its beer gardens in Sebastopol, Sonoma, and Novato, Twin Oaks has kept its historic charm while offering stellar fried chicken sandwiches and live entertainment for those who appreciate its charms. (The property is currently listed for sale.) 5745 Old Redwood Highway, Penngrove. 707-795-5118, hopmonk.com/twin-oaks

Lagunitas Taproom

Lagunitas Brewing Company beer garden
Visitors lounge on the amphitheater lawn before the evening’s concert at Lagunitas Brewing Company in Petaluma. (Alvin Jornada / The Press Democrat)

Sink into the trippy scene that is Lagunitas, through and through. The tap room and “beer sanctuary” is a casual spot hidden in the shadows of the brewery complex. There’s great pub grub, a swag-filled gift shop, a small music venue, and the hoppy IPAs that have made them famous. 1280 N. McDowell Blvd., Petaluma. 707-284-1020, lagunitas.com

Brewsters Beer Garden

The most beer-garden-y beer garden in Sonoma County. Big enough for an Oktoberfest crowd with loads of picnic tables, live music, plenty of beer (and cocktails), with kids and dogs welcome. Plus, solid eats. 229 Water St., Petaluma. 707-981-8330, brewstersbeergarden.com

Brewsters Beer Garden
Brewsters Beer Garden in Petaluma is ready for Oktoberfest on Wednesday, Sept. 25, 2024. (Crissy Pascual / Petaluma Argus-Courier)
Old Caz Beer
At Old Caz Beer in Rohnert Park. (Old Caz Beer)

Old Caz

Most breweries are bare-bones places with a funky college-dorm aesthetic and sticky tables — and we like it that way! But Old Caz has upped its game with a swanky new spot with high ceilings, matching chairs, hand-built tables, and usable bathrooms. Wow! The lunchtime bar menu and top-notch food trucks are the cherry on top. Don’t worry, the butt-kicking IPAs keep it real. 1500 Valley House Drive, Suite 110, Rohnert Park. 707-665-6668, oldcaz.com

Russian River Brewing

If there’s a heaven for beer drinkers, it’s at the 85,000-square-foot Russian River brewery in Windsor. Book a guided tour and tasting, then head to the outdoor beer garden where you can choose from roughly 20 signature brews on tap and a full pub menu. The dog- and kid-friendly patio is a great spot to hang out and dream of next year’s release of Pliny the Younger. 700 Mitchell Lane, Windsor. 707-545-2337, russianriverbrewing.com

Amy and Nathan Booth enjoy drinks while taking in the sunset on the patio at Russian River Brewing Company in Windsor. (Alvin Jornada/The Press Democrat)
Amy and Nathan Booth enjoy drinks while taking in the sunset on the patio at Russian River Brewing Company in Windsor. (Alvin Jornada/The Press Democrat)
The Block
The outdoor area of The Block in Petaluma. Photographed on Wednesday, April 17, 2025. (Crissy Pascual/Petaluma Argus-Courier)

The Block

Hidden behind an auto parts store in an industrial part of Petaluma, The Block is a tiny-but-mighty beer garden with nearly 30 taps and a full cocktail menu. Tacos Don Pepe and Jackie Boy’s Barbecue are on a rotating lineup with Fire Slice pizza served six days a week. 20 Grey St., Petaluma. 707-775-6003, theblockpetaluma.com

Tisza Bistro

Tisza Bistro's Beer Garden
At Tisza Bistro’s Beer Garden in Healdsburg. (Heather Irwin/The Press Democrat)

Though it’s just a handful of stout wooden tables and bistro seats beneath draping twinkle lights and Weihenstephan pennants (Germany’s oldest brewery), Munich is in the air at chef Krisztian Karkus’ German and Central European eatery. Grab a Bavarian pretzel, currywurst, or a Weiner schnitzel sandwich and choose from five German beers on tap, plus cans of Stiegl Radler (grapefruit juice and lager) and malty Korbinian. Prost! 165 Healdsburg Ave., Healdsburg. 707-291-5193, tiszabistro.com

Best Places to Camp From Mendocino to Marin, According to Hipcamp

By Angela Ramirez
Located on the 400-acre Salmon Creek Ranch in Bodega, Eagle’s Nest Treehouse features a wraparound deck, queen bed, bathroom and modern amenities. (Salmon Creek Ranch)

Each year, campsite booking platform Hipcamp honors standout camping destinations across the country. In the recent 2025 Hipcamp Awards, the North Bay made a strong presence. From glamping getaways to rustic farm stays, six properties from Sonoma, Marin and Mendocino counties were recognized this year.

Salmon Creek Ranch, Bodega

A repeat winner in this year’s awards, Bodega’s Salmon Creek Ranch earned two titles: Best Treehouse and Best Hipcamp in California. Set on a 400-acre working ranch just outside Bodega Bay, the property offers a secluded tree house with sweeping forest views, a cozy wood stove and a private deck. Guests can explore redwood groves, visit livestock and enjoy farm-fresh produce during their stay.

Salmon Creek Ranch treehouse
A tree house with a view at Salmon Creek Ranch in Bodega. (Silas Fallstich)

The private preserve has an on-site farm store, featuring products such as grass-fed beef sausages and organic duck eggs. There’s also a private picnic area with a firepit and Weber barbeque grill. A stay at Salmon Creek Ranch starts at about $120 per night and goes up to $399 for the unique Eagle’s Nest Treehouse Farmstay — a premium glamping spot. 1400 Bay Hill Road, Bodega, 707-775-9604, salmoncreekranch.com

Finley Camp, Bodega

Also honored in the Best in Every U.S. State category, Finley Camp sits right along Finley Creek in west Sonoma County, just 20 minutes inland from Bodega Bay. The camp features 13 sites with firepits and picnic areas, as well as access to nearby hiking trails. It’s a peaceful base great for groups looking to explore Sonoma County’s coastal charm.

Camp site
Each campsite at Finley Camp in west Sonoma County includes a firepit and picnic table. Well-behaved dogs on a leash are welcome. (Sonoma County Tourism)

The camp is located on an active cattle ranch, with grass-fed beef available for purchase. The farm also offers orchard tours where guests can pick apples, pears or blueberries (when in season). A stay at Finley Camp starts at around $85–$95 per night. The exact address will be provided after booking to respect the host’s privacy, according to Hipcamp. hipcamp.com

The Deck and Cozy Container, Albion

The Mendocino Coast at Albion. (Joel Shawn / Shutterstock)
The Deck and Cozy Container in Albion is a short drive from the Mendocino Coast. (Joel Shawn / Shutterstock)

Near the remote Mendocino coast, The Deck and Cozy Container offers a pared-down, off-grid experience with forest views and ocean air. The converted shipping container, complete with a 2,000-square-foot redwood deck, was named one of Hipcamp’s best in the state this year. Amenities include showers, potable water and cooking equipment, including a kitchenette with a fridge. It’s a low-key escape designed for quiet mornings, coastal hikes and nights under the stars.

A night with four guests at The Deck and Cozy Container is $143. The exact address will be provided after booking to respect the host’s privacy, according to Hipcamp. hipcamp.com

Estero San Antonio Wonderland, Tomales

The Estero de San Antonio flows into the Pacific at Dillon Beach Ranch, part of the 466 acres returned to Graton Rancheria. (David Dines/Western Rivers Conservancy)
Camp guests at Estero San Antonio Wonderland in Tomales can bring their own kayak and paddle down the Estero de San Antonio to Dillon Beach, only 3.5 miles away. (David Dines/Western Rivers Conservancy)

Recognized as one of the Best Farmstays in the country, this Marin County site sits on a serene ranch near the Estero de San Antonio waterway. Guests can camp in furnished bell tents or pitch their own, with access to farm animals, peaceful pastures and kayak trips down the river. There are six campsites as well as a farm store.

A stay at Estero San Antonio Wonderland ranges from $67–$94 per night. Learn more about the campsites from host True Grass Farms. The exact address will be provided after booking to respect the host’s privacy, according to Hipcamp. hipcamp.com

Heartwood Mendocino, Mendocino

This camping destination earned a nod in Hipcamp’s Best Glamping Sites category. Located in the hills outside Mendocino, Heartwood blends nature with thoughtful design. The site features three tent/RV sites and eight cabins — each with expansive forest views. Amenities include heated beds, luxe linens, a bath house with redwood tree shower and an outdoor camp kitchen, plus cooking equipment. Trails, rivers and the charming coastal town of Mendocino are all within reach. A night at Heartwood Mendocino goes from $76–$190. 40500 Little Lake Road, Mendocino, heartwoodmendocino.com

Forest camping
Heartwood Mendocino is surrounded by redwood forest with direct access to hiking and biking trails. (Salil Bhatt / Getty Images)
Waterfall Camp
Waterfall Camp is nestled on the edge of redwoods and pygmy forests, adjacent to Russian Gulch State Park. (John Burgess)

Waterfall Camp, Mendocino

One of the newest additions to Hipcamp’s roster, Waterfall Camp in Mendocino earned a spot in the Newcomers category for its quiet, back-to-nature charm. Hidden deep in the redwoods and accessible only by a short trail, the camp offers walk-in tent sites beside a gentle creek and a communal fire circle for evening gathering. The namesake waterfall is just steps away, offering a cool, shaded retreat after a day of hiking. With no cell service or crowds, it’s the kind of place that invites you to slow down, listen to the trees and fully unplug.

“Our goal is to make you feel right at home,” hosts Shay and Liz state on the booking site. A night’s stay at Waterfall camp starts at $90. The exact address will be provided after booking to respect the host’s privacy, according to Hipcamp. hipcamp.com

Want to camp right on the beach? Check here for beachfront camping in Sonoma, Mendocino and Marin. Check here for more favorite camping spots in Sonoma County.

Healdsburg’s Jimtown & Then Sum Finally Has Dim Sum

By Heather Irwin
Shrimp and pork shumai from dim sum specialist Michelle Wood, the new owner of Jimtown Store, at her home in Santa Rosa, Friday, Jan. 24, 2025. (John Burgess / The Press Democrat)

It took Michelle Wood nearly two years to reopen the former Jimtown Store after purchasing the Alexander Valley property in 2023. Nestled along a quiet stretch of Highway 128, the 132-year-old general store has been a gourmet pit stop for meandering cyclists, curious tourists and vineyard workers for decades. Its weathered plank walls, well-worn wood floors and shady front porch have graced countless Instagram feeds.

In early June, Wood debuted Jimtown & Then Sum, merging her longtime dim sum catering business with the Jimtown legacy. Fans of her handmade dumplings eagerly anticipated shu mai, potstickers and bao at the new location.

But when the doors opened, there was no dim sum at Jimtown & Then Sum.

The daily process of folding, filling and steaming dumplings proved too demanding in the early days of operation. But three weeks after this month’s grand opening — with the new business running smoothly — they are now on the menu.

Jimtown and Then Sum
Shrimp and pork shumai from dim sum specialist Michelle Wood, the new owner of Jimtown Store, at her home in Santa Rosa, Friday, Jan. 24, 2025. (John Burgess / The Press Democrat)
The colorful banh mi sandwich at the new Jimtown & Then Sum in Healdsburg's Alexander Valley. (Heather Irwin / The Press Democrat)
The colorful banh mi sandwich at the new Jimtown & Then Sum in Healdsburg’s Alexander Valley. (Heather Irwin / The Press Democrat)

From 11 a.m., the lunch menu features a section dedicated to steamed dumplings, spring rolls, bao buns and a poke bowl, served until sold out, which typically happens within a few hours. The menu also includes a barbecue pork banh mi sandwich and matcha cheesecake bites with honey and ginger.

Traditional deli sandwiches, including Italian subs, muffulettas and chicken curry, are also available, along with morning pastries and cookies.

On a recent Friday during the lunch rush, customers hovered over Wood’s Asian-inspired menu with curiosity. The most frequent question: “What’s an open-faced steamed bao?” (It’s a fluffy, sweet cousin to the taco.)

Jimtown and Then Sum dim sum
Shu mai and open-faced bao with tofu at the new Jimtown & Then Sum in Healdsburg’s Alexander Valley. (Heather Irwin / The Press Democrat)

By 11:45 a.m., Wood was busy steaming dumplings as the dim sum orders began streaming in.

Standout dishes include her signature shu mai ($14 for six), filled with seasoned pork and shrimp; potstickers ($17 for six), stuffed with vegetables, chicken, or kimchi and tofu; and the open-faced steamed bao ($15), topped with braised pork belly or tofu and finished with hoisin sauce.

There’s also Vietnamese-style spring rolls with rice noodles, Thai basil and shrimp, served with sweet chili or peanut sauce ($14 for three), or veggie-only rolls ($12 for three). A poke bowl with seasoned ahi tuna over sticky rice is $23.

Jimtown & Then Sum in Healdsburg
Shrimp rolls with peanut sauce at the new Jimtown & Then Sum in Healdsburg’s Alexander Valley. (Heather Irwin/The Press Democrat)

But it’s the pillowy barbecue pork bao buns ($6 each) that make me weak in the knees. Light, squishy and slightly sweet, they’ve got all the starchy satisfaction of Wonder bread, only better. Other fillings include Thai basil chicken, or broccoli and tofu.

Early birds and morning bicyclists will find pastries like apple-cinnamon coffee cake, muffins and scones, along with avocado toast, a breakfast burrito and coffee drinks.

But it’s Wood’s dim sum I’m coming for — finally.

Jimtown & Then Sum, 6706 Highway 128, Healdsburg, 707-756-5022, jimtown.com

You can reach Dining Editor Heather Irwin at heather.irwin@pressdemocrat.com. Follow Heather on Instagram @biteclubeats.

Historic Sonoma County Restaurants That Are Still Going Strong

By Heather Irwin and Maci Martell
1/21/2012: B1: PC: Jamie Spaletta, prepares to take an order, Friday Jan. 20, 2012 at Volpi’s Ristorante and Historical Bar in Petaluma. (Kent Porter / Press Democrat) 2012

In the restaurant business, it’s saying something to make it through the first year and rare to last more than 10. But in Sonoma County, there are more than a dozen restaurants that have survived well past their 30th year and a handful which have outlasted generations of diners, stretching back more than a century.

These are well-worn eateries that have a proven formula. Most share a common heritage: They were built by Italian immigrants and have continued to serve hearty family-style meals at approachable prices for decades. It’s not a stretch to say that the farms, timber mills, railroads and vineyards of Sonoma County were built on pasta and meatballs. And maybe a steak or two.

We pay homage to several tried and true local restaurants that have stood the test of time and are still going strong.

Stormy’s Spirits and Supper, 1854

Established as a roadhouse, Stormy’s has hosted generations of Sonoma County diners. The restaurant turned into a steakhouse in the early 1970s and remains a family-style dining destination in Bloomfield. Open limited hours Friday through Sunday. Call or check Stormy’s Facebook page for updates. 6650 Bloomfield Road, Petaluma, 707-795-0127, stormysrestaurant.com

Historic Washoe Roadhouse restaurant in Petaluma, Sonoma County
Washoe Roadhouse in Petaluma. (Photo by Chris Hardy)
Personalized dollar bills hang from the ceiling at Washoe House in Petaluma on Wednesday, November 21, 2018. (Beth Schlanker / The Press Democrat)
Personalized dollar bills hang from the ceiling at Washoe House in Petaluma on Wednesday, Nov. 21, 2018. (Beth Schlanker / The Press Democrat)

Washoe House, 1859

A former stagecoach stop connecting Petaluma, Santa Rosa and Bodega, this historic roadhouse is best known for two things: Dollar bills pinned to the bar ceiling and The Battle of the Washoe House. According to legend, following the 1865 assassination of president Abraham Lincoln, a group of Petaluma militia were intent on creating trouble for Southern-leaning Santa Rosans. Their thirst got the best of them and the group ended up getting drunk instead of rabble-rousing. 2840 Roblar Road, Petaluma, 707-795-4544, washoehouse.site

Union Hotel, 1879

This Occidental restaurant has been around for 146 years. What began as the Union Saloon and General Store grew into a family business, with four generations managing the restaurant over the years. The restaurant serves salads and pizza as well as a fan-favorite bruschetta. Open 4-8 p.m. Friday and noon to 8 p.m. Saturday and Sunday. (Note: The Union Hotel in Santa Rosa has separate ownership and is open daily.) 3731 Main St., Occidental, 707-874-3555, unionhoteloccidental.com.

Madrona Manor, 1881

The historic hotel underwent a major renovation in 2022, reopening as The Madrona. While the property has retained its Victorian past, the restaurant, mansion and guest houses have been infused with a modern, artistic sensibility. Chef Patrick Tafoya oversees the restaurant, offering an upscale dinner menu, relaxed lounge dining and a popular brunch.  1001 Westside Road, Healdsburg, 433-4321, madronamanor.com

Historic Swiss Hotel restaurant in Sonoma
Historic photos cover the walls in the bar of the Swiss Hotel on West Spain Street in Sonoma on Thursday, Aug. 4, 2022. (Robbi Pengelly/Index-Tribune)

Swiss Hotel, 1892

Sonoma’s history is etched into the walls of this historic inn, restaurant and bar. An Italian-focused menu reflects the generations of family ownership. 18 W. Spain St., Sonoma, 707-938-2884, swisshotelsonoma.com

Pick’s Drive In, 1923

One of the oldest hamburger joints in America, this Cloverdale drive-in has been serving up beefy burgers, hot dogs and shakes for over a century. The restaurant sources local produce and meat for its menu, and offers hand-scooped shakes, malts and soft serve with a modern twist. The historic drive-in is currently closed, but new ownership and upcoming renovations were announced in June. 117 S. Cloverdale Blvd., Cloverdale

Volpi’s Ristorante & Bar, 1925

Though it has operated as a grocery for most of its existence, Volpi’s major claim to fame was as a Prohibition-era speakeasy. Locals know that the “secret” bar is still in operation, with a convenient escape door to the alley in case of a raid. Or your ex-wife. The grocery became a full-fledged restaurant in 1992, though there’s still an old Italian grocery vibe with well-worn wooden floors and walls lined with Italian tchotchkes, accordions and candle wax-covered Chianti bottles. 124 Washington St., Petaluma, 707-762-2371, volpisristorante.com

Catelli's in Geyserville. April 25, 2012. (Jeff Kan Lee / The Press Democrat)
Catelli’s in Geyserville, April 25, 2012. (Jeff Kan Lee / The Press Democrat)

Catelli’s, 1936

Italian immigrants Santi and Virginia Catelli opened Catelli’s “The Rex” in tiny Geyserville as a humble family eatery, serving up spaghetti, minestrone and ravioli. After closing in 1986, the restaurant later reopened in Healdsburg, where it stood until 2004. In 2010, siblings Domenica and Nick Catelli reopened Catelli’s at the original Geyserville location, where it has been host to a number of celebrities, but remains an approachable family-style restaurant. Their paper-thin layers of lasagna noodles make Catelli’s version one of the best in the region. 21047 Geyserville Ave., Geyserville, 707-857-7142, mycatellis.com

Dinucci’s Italian Dinners, 1939

Though the building dates back to 1908, when it served train travelers, the current restaurant didn’t open until 1939. Owners Henry and Mabel Dinucci turned it into a welcome stop for hearty family-style Italian dinners. In 1968, Dinucci’s sold to the Wagner family, but some of Mabel’s original recipes are still in use today. The historic interior hasn’t changed much over the years, with red-and-white checkered tablecloths right out of the 1940s. 14485 Hwy. 1, Valley Ford, 707-876-3260, dinuccisrestaurantandbar.com

Flooded street in front of Pats Cafe, Guerneville, 1940. Three men paddling canoe and others standing at entrance. (Sonoma County Library)
Flooded street in front of Pat’s Cafe (now Pat’s International) in Guerneville, 1940. Three men paddling canoe and others standing at entrance. (Sonoma County Library)

Pat’s International, 1940

Pat’s in Guerneville has been a reliable Russian River eatery for over 80 years, weathering everything from floods to global pandemics. Late last year, owner David Blomster put the business up for sale, however, the restaurant continues to serve customers. 16236 Main St., Guerneville, 707-604-4007, patsinternational.com

Negri’s, 1942

This family-owned Italian restaurant began as a stopover for train travelers journeying from San Francisco to Eureka. According to restaurant lore, original owner Joe Negri Sr., an Italian immigrant, was once the personal chef for movie legend Rudolph Valentino. After moving to Santa Rosa, he opened Negri’s, which has served traditional Italian pasta dinners ever since, many made using original recipes from the 1930s. Open for dining in the attached Joe’s Bar from 4-8 p.m. Friday and Saturday and 3-8 p.m. Sunday, offering its famous ravioli, burgers, pizza, salads, sandwiches and housemade desserts. 3700 Bohemian Highway, Occidental, 707-823-5301, negrisrestaurant.com

Superburger, early 1950s

Opened as a modest burger shack on the corner of Santa Rosa’s College and Fourth streets in the early 1950s, Superburger has become one of Sonoma County’s go-to family spots for made-to-order char-grilled hamburgers, tater tots, onion rings and old-fashioned milkshakes. Two locations: 1501 Fourth St., Santa Rosa, 707-546-4016, and 8204 Old Redwood Highway, Cotati, 707-665-9790. originalsuperburger.com

People walk into Mac's Deli in Santa Rosa on April 23, 1987. Mac Nesmon opened the deli in 1952. (Timothy Baker / The Press Democrat file)
People walk into Mac’s Deli in Santa Rosa on April 23, 1987. Mac Nesmon opened the deli in 1952. (Timothy Baker / The Press Democrat, file)

Mac’s Deli, 1952

Mac’s bills itself as Sonoma County’s oldest continuously operating breakfast and sandwich café. Opened by Mac Nesmon in 1952 as a New York-style deli, it was purchased in 1970 by the Soltani family, who still run the restaurant today. Don’t miss the classic Reuben sandwich. 630 Fourth St., Santa Rosa, 707-545-3785, macsdeliandcafe.com

Mary’s Pizza Shack, 1959

Mary Fazio opened her first pizzeria in Boyes Hot Springs in 1959 using family recipes and her own pots and pans. Thought Fazio died in 1999, her legacy lives on in the family-owned restaurant chain with locations across the North Bay. maryspizzashack.com

Tide’s Wharf, around in different shapes and forms since the 1950s

Made popular by Alfred Hitchcock’s 1963 thriller “The Birds,” this Bodega seafood restaurant has been a coastal staple for more than 50 years. With sweeping bay views, it remains a magical spot. 835 Bay Highway, Bodega Bay, 707-875-3652, innatthetides.com/tides-wharf-restaurant

Pinky’s Pizza in Petaluma, established in 1962, is a hometown classic pizza joint loved by generations of Petalumans. (Pinky’s)

Pinky’s Pizza, 1962

A classic hometown pizza parlor, loved by generations of Petalumans. 321 Petaluma Blvd. South, Petaluma, 707-763-2510, facebook.com/pinkyspizzapetaluma

La Casa, 1967

Opened in the late 1960s, La Casa has seen Sonoma’s transformation from sleepy rural town to bustling tourist destination. The restaurant was purchased in 2015 by the Sherpa Brothers Group, Nepalese restaurateurs who’ve revitalized several local restaurants. La Casa continues to serve simple, traditional Mexican cuisine — if you go, don’t miss the margaritas. 121 East Spain St., Sonoma, 996-3406, lacasarestaurants.com

Betty’s Fish and Chips, 1967

Serving English-style fish and chips and the world’s best lemon pie, Betty’s has been a Santa Rosa favorite for over five decades. The restaurant got a face-lift in 1996 but remains true to its roots. 4046 Sonoma Highway, Santa Rosa, 707-539-0899, bettysfishandchips.com

At Costeaux French Bakery in Healdsburg, Brian Phipps takes a food order from father and daughter diners, Pat Dugan, right and Kelly Dugan, left. (Kent Porter/The Press Democrat)
At Costeaux French Bakery in Healdsburg, Brian Phipps takes a food order from father and daughter diners, Pat Dugan, right and Kelly Dugan, left. (Kent Porter/The Press Democrat, file)

Costeaux French Bakery, 1973

In 1973, French natives Jean and Anne Costeaux bought a 1920s-era French American bakery in Healdsburg and renamed it Costeaux French Bakery. Karl and Nancy Seppi purchased the bakery in 1981 with a vision to expand — and Jean taught them the art of bread baking. Today, Costeaux, with additional locations in Santa Rosa and Petaluma, is renowned for its sourdough baguettes, French macrons, princess cake and cinnamon walnut bread. 417 Healdsburg Ave., Healdsburg, 707-433-1913, costeaux.com

Blue Heron, 1977

The building that houses Blue Heron was originally built in the late 1800s, but the 1906 earthquake destroyed most of Duncans Mills. In 1976, a restoration project revived the town — and with it, the Blue Heron. The restaurant’s expansive menu includes local seafood, burgers, salad and chowder. 25275 Steelhead Blvd., Duncans Mills, 707- 865-2261, blueheronrestaurant.com

Don Taylor’s Omelette Express, 1977

Most weekends, Don Taylor can be found at the door of the original Omelette Express in Santa Rosa, greeting regulars who have made a breakfast at his restaurant a family tradition. Opened in 1977, the all-day breakfast spot has since expanded to Windsor and, in 2018, it went international with a location in JeJu City, South Korea — Santa Rosa’s sister city. Omelets remain a best bet, of course, but there’s plenty more to explore on the menu, including Benedicts, burgers, sandwiches and salads, plus some of the best coffee in town. 112 Fourth St., Santa Rosa, 707-525-1690; 150 Windsor River Road, Windsor, 707-838-6920, omeletteexpress.com

Old Chicago Pizza, historic restaurant in Petaluma
Old Chicago Pizza in Petaluma has been around since 1978, but the original building is from the 1870s with additions in 1911. (John Burgess / The Press Democrat)

Old Chicago Pizza, 1978

Opened by William Berliner in 1978 inside a historic 1870s building, Old Chicago Pizza has become a Petaluma fixture, known for its hearty, deep-dish pies served in a space that reflects the city’s historic charm and offers a second-floor view. 41 Petaluma Blvd. North, Petaluma, 707-763-3897, oldchgo.com

La Gare, 1979

Chef Roger Praplan relishes the fact that he’s now serving the grandchildren of some of La Gare’s early customers. His parents, Swiss-born Marco and Gladys Parplan, opened the restaurant in 1979 after purchasing the lot for $25,000 two years earlier. Though dining trends have come and gone since, La Gare has remained steadfast in its approach and was featured on KQED’s “Check, Please! Bay Area” last year for staying “true to its Swiss-French roots.” 208 Wilson St., Santa Rosa, 707-528-4355, lagarerestaurant.com

John Ash & Co. restaurant in north Santa Rosa, Friday, March 1, 2024. New owners of Vintner’s Inn will be shuttering the longtime restaurant and bar to remodel and rework the menu. (John Burgess / The Press Democrat)
The John Ash & Co. restaurant in north Santa Rosa, Friday, March 1, 2024. (John Burgess / The Press Democrat)

John Ash & Co., 1980

Long before “farm-to-table” became a culinary catchphrase, John Ash was sourcing local produce, dairy and meat for wholesome, seasonal dishes paired with excellent regional wines. His namesake restaurant helped define Sonoma County’s food identity and launched the careers of many local chefs and winemakers, including Jeffrey Madura, Dan Kosta and Michael Browne. Though Ash has stepped away from the restaurant kitchen, John Ash & Co remains a top dining destination with a recently revamped menu following the renovation of Vintners Resort (where the restaurant is located), now named Vinarosa. 4330 Barnes Road, Santa Rosa, 707-527-7687, vinrosaresort.com

Grateful Bagel, 1981

Founded by East Coast transplants yearning for New York-style bagels, Grateful Bagel opened in 1981 on Mendocino Avenue in Santa Rosa. Within a year, the bakery was distributing its bagels to delis and grocery stores from San Francisco to Fort Bragg. While the original location has since closed, Grateful Bagel locations can be found at 631 Fourth St. and 925 Corporate Center Parkway in Santa Rosa; 300 South Main St. in Sebastopol; 221 N. McDowell Blvd. in Petaluma; and 10101 Main St., Suite A, in Penngrove.

Worth the trip: Tony’s Seafood Restaurant, 1948

For nearly seven decades, this seafood shack overlooking Tomales Bay was run by a Croatian fishing family. By the time it changed hands in 2017, it was a fading relic, but a two-year renovation by the owners of Hog Island Oyster Co. brought new life to the space. Today, Tony’s is a vibrant, modern seafood house with panoramic bay views. 18863 Shoreline Highway, Marshall, 415-663-1107, tonysseafoodrestaurant.com

House of Flowers Keeps Blooming in Healdsburg

By Tina Caputo
Abby Jones, left, and Mary Lochala enjoy an afternoon of wine tasting in a cabana at Flowers Vineyards & Winery near Healdsburg on Friday, July 25, 2025. (Christopher Chung/The Press Democrat)

When people gush about cool-climate Pinot Noir and Chardonnay from Sonoma County, there’s a pretty good chance they’re fans of Flowers Vineyards & Winery. For more than 30 years, the producer has been wowing wine lovers with elegant estate bottlings from the windblown western Sonoma Coast.

The story

Flowers Vineyards & Winery Pinot Noir and Chardonnay, both 2023, near Healdsburg on Friday, July 25, 2025. (Christopher Chung/The Press Democrat)
Flowers Vineyards & Winery Pinot Noir and Chardonnay, both 2023, near Healdsburg on Friday, July 25, 2025. (Christopher Chung/The Press Democrat)

Walt and Joan Flowers had already established a successful nursery business in Pennsylvania when a classified ad in Wine Spectator caught their eye. The 1989 listing advertised a property for sale on the Sonoma Coast: Camp Meeting Ridge. Though the region was unproven for viticulture at the time, the couple bought the rugged, 327-acre site just two miles from the Pacific Ocean and planted Pinot Noir and Chardonnay. They launched Flowers Vineyards & Winery in 1991 and later acquired the Sea View Ridge vineyard site — this time, even closer to the ocean.

Shaped through the years by talented winemakers such as Steve Kistler, Hugh Chapelle and Ross Cobb, Flowers became a benchmark for cool-climate Pinot Noir and Chardonnay from the far reaches of the west Sonoma Coast. In 2009, Huneeus Vintners — the owners of Faust and Quintessa in Napa Valley, among other brands — purchased the winery and the Flowers retired from the operation.

The vibe

Colorful gardens surround the cabanas at Flowers Vineyards & Winery near Healdsburg on Friday, July 25, 2025. (Christopher Chung/The Press Democrat)
Colorful gardens surround the cabanas at Flowers Vineyards & Winery near Healdsburg on Friday, July 25, 2025. (Christopher Chung/The Press Democrat)

Flowers opened its striking Healdsburg tasting room, House of Flowers, in 2019 after a full renovation of the former VML winery space. Set among lush gardens and towering redwood groves, the 15-acre property includes a stylish hospitality house, a winemaking facility and leafy gardens dotted with cozy tasting cabanas. Open and spacious, the light-drenched tasting room combines natural driftwood hues with richly colored contemporary art pieces. (I believe this is what rich folk call “laid-back luxury,” and I’m here for it.) Wall-sized windows showcase impressive views of Mount Saint Helena. There’s not a bad seat in the house — or outside on the patio.

On the palate

Flowers Vineyards & Winery in Healdsburg
At Flowers Vineyards & Winery in Healdsburg. (Flowers Vineyards & Winery)
Local provisions plate included in the Sonoma Coast Journey experience at Flowers Vineyards & Winery near Healdsburg on Friday, July 25, 2025. (Christopher Chung/The Press Democrat)
Local provisions plate included in the Sonoma Coast Journey experience at Flowers Vineyards & Winery near Healdsburg on Friday, July 25, 2025. (Christopher Chung/The Press Democrat)

Like the tasting room, Flowers wines have an air of reserved elegance. Chilly vineyard sites and winemaker Chantal Forthun’s subtle use of oak combine to create wines that are vibrant yet texturally lush. The 2023 Sonoma Coast Chardonnay ($55) is a beautifully balanced wine with green apple and lime-Mandarin citrus notes. The 2023 Sea View Ridge Pinot Noir ($100) is simply gorgeous, with earthy forest aromas, fresh acidity and red berry character. If you’re a fan of deeper, more complex Pinots, go for the 2023 Fort Ross-Seaview Pinot Noir ($75), a woodsy wine with blackberry and currant flavors.

Tastings range from $75 for a three-wine flight of Sonoma Coast bottlings paired with a crudité and snack board to $130 for an immersion tasting of Camp Meeting Ridge and Sea View Ridge wines paired with fancy bites from the winery’s in-house culinary team.

Beyond the bottle

SingleThread Farm
At SingleThread Farm in Healdsburg. (John Troxell/Sonoma County Tourism)

Stop by the SingleThread Farm Store on the restaurant’s 24-acre farm for Michelin-star-worthy fresh produce and florals. You’ll also find Farm La-Yu and Ponzu sauces from the SingleThread kitchen, plus pantry staples, pottery and cookbooks. For a more immersive experience, you can book a farm tour, culinary workshop or falconry demonstration.

Flowers Vineyards & Winery is open Thursday through Monday by reservation. 4035 Westside Road, Healdsburg, 707-847-3661. flowerswinery.com

Tina Caputo is a wine, food, and travel journalist who contributes to Sonoma magazine, SevenFifty Daily, Visit California, Northern California Public Media, KQED, and more. Follow her on Bluesky at @winebroad.bsky.social, view her website at tinacaputo.com, and email her story ideas at tina@caputocontent.com.

The Celebrities Who Are Making Wine in Sonoma and Napa Wine Country

By Sonoma Magazine Staff
Salma Hayek and her husband Francois-Henri Pinault. (Denis Makarenko / Shutterstock)

Wine Country has long been a playground for the rich and famous. Drawn to the glamour of Napa Valley, or the laid-back, rural vibe of Sonoma County, celebrities are coming here to enjoy the good life — some of them are even making their own wine.

From rock stars to movie makers, race car drivers to football players, check out the VIPs who are making wine in Sonoma and Napa. Find more celebrity hot spots in Sonoma and Napa Wine Country here.

Meghan Markle — As Ever rosé

Actor and Los Angeles-born Duchess of Sussex Meghan Markle recently released a Napa Valley rosé as part of her “As Ever” lifestyle and kitchen products brand. The wine, released July 1 on the anniversary of Princess Diana’s birthday, is a Provençal-style rosé bottled at Kunde Family Winery in Kenwood. Markle’s 2023 Napa Valley rosé — As Ever’s first wine — is already sold-out online, but a Napa Valley sparkling wine and additional varietals will follow, according to the PR team.

As Ever wine
Meghan Markle’s lifestyle brand, As Ever, launches Napa Valley rosé. (As Ever)
Bottles of Prophet & Poet wine. The label, launched by actor Jessica Biel, her brother and Healdsburg winemaker Jesse Katz, was poured at a BottleRock event with Biel and Katz on hand Friday, May 23, 2025. (Prophet & Poet)
Bottles of Prophet & Poet wine. The label, launched by actor Jessica Biel, her brother and Healdsburg winemaker Jesse Katz, was poured at a BottleRock event with Biel and Katz on hand Friday, May 23, 2025. (Prophet & Poet)

Jessica Biel — Prophet & Poet

Earlier this year, actor Jessica Biel unveiled her locally made wine brand at BottleRock Napa Valley 2025. Her Healdsburg-based label, Prophet & Poet, currently offers a Cabernet Sauvignon, two Chardonnays and two blended reds. Biel’s wine label originated in 2019 when Jesse Katz, winemaker of Healdsburg’s Aperture Cellars, created a red wine blend as a wedding present for Biel’s younger brother, Justin Biel. Katz later suggested to the Biel siblings that they turn that wine into a label, and they were immediately on board. Katz tapped Christopher and Ariel Jackson, of Jackson Family Wines, to collaborate on the label’s inaugural release. Both Jessica Biel and Katz poured the label’s wine at this year’s BottleRock during a VIP Platinum Lounge event.

Max Thieriot — Senses Wines

Max Thieriot, the brainchild and star of the drama TV series Fire Country, co-founded Senses Wines with childhood friends Christopher Strieter and Myles Lawrence-Briggs in 2011. The Occidental winery sources grapes from the West Sonoma Coast and Russian River Valley, producing an array of Chardonnay and Pinot Noir, as well as a Napa Valley Cabernet Sauvignon.

Senses Wines
From left, Christopher Strieter and Max Thieriot of Senses Wines. (Jak Wonderly/Senses Wines)
Restaurateur, cookbook author and food television personality Ayesha Curry teamed up with her sister-in-law, Sydel Curry (Steph Curry's younger sister) and Napa's Coup de Foudre winery to launch wine label Domaine Curry Wine in 2018. (Instagram / @domainecurrywine)
Restaurateur, cookbook author and food television personality Ayesha Curry teamed up with her sister-in-law, Sydel Curry (Steph Curry’s younger sister) and Napa’s Coup de Foudre winery to launch wine label Domaine Curry Wine in 2018. (Instagram / @domainecurrywine)

Ayesha Curry — Domaine Curry wines

Restaurateur, cookbook author and food television personality Ayesha Curry teamed up with her sister-in-law Sydel Curry (Steph Curry’s younger sister) and Napa’s Coup de Foudre Winery to launch wine label Domaine Curry in 2015. The sisters-in-law share a love of wine and have been spotted sipping wine at Scribe Winery in Sonoma. Their wines include the Domaine Curry Cabernet and the Domaine Curry Sauvignon Blanc.

Salma Hayek — Eisele Vineyard

Salma Hayek and her billionaire husband François-Henri Pinault own Eisele Vineyard east of Calistoga. In October 2020, Hayek made a public announcement on Instragram, in which she thanked the firefighters who saved the Calistoga vineyard from the Glass Fire. “I can’t help but feel an immense sense of gratitude for all the first responders that came to the rescue of so many people, animals and properties,” she wrote.

Salma Hayek and her husband Francois-Henri Pinault. (Denis Makarenko / Shutterstock)
Salma Hayek and her husband Francois-Henri Pinault. (Denis Makarenko / Shutterstock.com)
The Bella Twins, former professional wrestling duo, who were the Grand Marshals of the 33rd Annual Toyota/Save Mart 350, record a video at Sonoma Raceway in Sonoma on Sunday, June 12, 2022. (Beth Schlanker/The Press Democrat)
The Bella Twins, former professional wrestling duo, who were the Grand Marshals of the 33rd Annual Toyota/Save Mart 350, record a video at Sonoma Raceway in Sonoma on Sunday, June 12, 2022. (Beth Schlanker/The Press Democrat)

Brie and Nikki Bella — Bonita Bonita

The former professional wrestling tag team known as the Bella Twins announced in October 2020 that they were moving with their families to Napa Valley, according to People magazine. The identical twins had started producing their own wine in 2017 in partnership with Napa’s Hill Family Estate, its proprietor Ryan Hill and award-winning winemaker Alison Doran. Their first wine was a Cabernet Sauvignon named “Belle Radici,” which means “beautiful roots” in Italian, and the bottle was adorned with a sleek label depicting the twins. From there, the twins launched their own winery in Napa, Bonita Bonita.

Tori Spelling — The Tori Collection at HALL Wines

Actor Tori Spelling brought 90210 to Napa Valley when she announced on Instagram in November 2020 that she had partnered with HALL Wines to put together The Tori Collection of wines. “Getting the chance to meet and work with HALL and wine legend and my spirit animal Kathryn Hall was really exciting,” she wrote. Spelling handpicked 11 wines to include in her collection — ranging from a rich Cabernet Sauvignon to light and fruity rosé to canned wine, according to People magazine.

Actress Tori Spelling brought 90210 to Napa Valley when she announced on Instagram in November 2020 that she had partnered with Hall Wines to put together The Tori Collection of wines. (Instagram / @torispelling)
Actor Tori Spelling brought 90210 to Napa Valley when she announced on Instagram in November 2020 that she had partnered with Hall Wines to put together The Tori Collection of wines. (Instagram / @torispelling)
Musician John Legend has teamed up with Jean-Charles Boisset of Raymond Vineyards to produce Legend's LVE wines (Photo courtesy of Boisset Collection)
Musician John Legend teamed up with Jean-Charles Boisset of Raymond Vineyards to produce Legend’s LVE wines. (Boisset Collection)

John Legend — LVE Collection Wines

Grammy, Golden Globe and Oscar-winning musician John Legend launched his LVE Collection Wines in 2015. Working with famed vintner Jean-Charles Boisset, Legend’s wines include sparkling rosé, as well as a Cabernet Sauvignon and a Chardonnay produced with fruit from Raymond Vineyards in Napa. Distributed nationally, the wines can be tasted at Raymond Vineyards and on tour with Legend.

Candace Cameron Buce — Bure Family Wines

“Fuller House” star Candace Cameron Bure and her husband, hockey player Val Bure, own Bure Family Wines in St. Helena. The couple began making wine in 2006, according to Wine Spectator. The couple likes to spend time in Wine Country and Candace Cameron Bure has been spotted at luxury restaurant SingleThread in Healdsburg. She shared in an Instagram post that she “brought a treat to drink” — a bottle of Screaming Eagle wine — when she took a friend to dinner at the restaurant in 2017.

Bure Family Wines
Actor Candace Cameron-Bure and her husband, hockey player Val Bure, own Bure Family Wines in St. Helena. (Willy Sanjuan/Invision/AP)
Housley Napa Valley winery
Actor Tamera Mowry-Housley, who got her start on the sitcom “Sister, Sister,” co-owns Housley Napa Valley with her husband, journalist Adam Housley. (Kathy Hutchins / Shutterstock.com)

Tamera Mowry-Housley — Housley Napa Valley

Actor Tamera Mowry-Housley, who got her start on the sitcom “Sister, Sister,” co-owns Housley Napa Valley with her husband, journalist Adam Housley. The tasting room is located in downtown Napa. The winery produces rosé, Chardonnay, Pinot Grigio, Cabernet Sauvignon, Zinfandel and Petit Sirah.

Guy Fieri — Hunt & Ryde

Guy Fieri bought a 5-acre vineyard of Pinot Noir grapes in the Russian River Valley appellation in 2013. In his first vintage, he sold his grapes to Jackson Family Wines for its La Crema brand and to Williams Selyem winery in Healdsburg. He then launched his own wine label, Hunt & Ryde, named for his sons Hunter and Ryder. Fieri collaborates with local vintner Guy Davis, of Davis Family Vineyards, to produce Pinot Noir, Zinfandel and a Cabernet “Trophy” blend.

Sonoma County celebrity chef Guy Fieri and rock 'n' roll frontman Sammy Hagar in a promotional image for Santo Tequila, which they founded in 2019. An estimated million of the tequila was hijacked earlier this month, according to the company. (Santo Tequila)
Sonoma County celebrity chef Guy Fieri and rock ‘n’ roll frontman Sammy Hagar in a promotional image for Santo Tequila, which they founded in 2019. Fieri has his own wine label, Hunt & Ryde, named for his sons Hunter and Ryder. (Santo Tequila)
Francis Ford Coppola Winery
Inside Francis Ford Coppola Winery in Geyserville, which includes a museum of memorabilia from his iconic films. (Sonoma County Tourism)

Francis Ford Coppola — Francis Ford Coppola Winery

Legendary film director, producer and screenwriter Francis Ford Coppola has been involved in the wine industry since buying Napa’s Inglenook Estate in 1975. Coppola expanded his wine empire to Geyserville when he opened his namesake winery in 2006. The winery includes a museum of memorabilia from his iconic films, such as The Godfather, Bram Stoker’s Dracula and Apocalypse Now. In 2015, Coppola bought a second winery, Virginia Dare. Both are open to the public.

John and Nancy Lasseter — Lasseter Family Winery

Lasseter Family Winery in Glen Ellen was founded in the early 2000s by Nancy and John Lasseter, the former chief creative officer of Walt Disney Animation Studios and Pixar. The winery produces rosé, Sauvignon Blanc and a variety of red blends.

John and Nancy Lasseter at a wine club event at their Glen Ellen winery (Photo courtesy of Lasseter Family Winery)
John and Nancy Lasseter at a wine club event at their Glen Ellen winery. (Lasseter Family Winery)
American screenwriter and paroducer Robert Kamen produces highly collectable Cabernet Sauvignon at Kamen Estate Wines (Photo courtesy of Kamen Estate Wines)
American screenwriter and producer Robert Kamen produces highly collectable Cabernet Sauvignon at Kamen Estate Wines. (Kamen Estate Wines)

Robert Mark Kamen — Kamen Estate Wines

When screenwriter and producer Robert Kamen (the Karate Kid series, Fifth Element, A Walk In The Clouds, Taken and Taken II) visited Sonoma County in 1980 to celebrate the sale of his first screenplay, he fell in love with the land. He purchased a 280-acre mountaintop property and eventually transformed it into a world-class vineyard producing estate wines. Pop into Kamen Estate Wines’ tasting room in downtown Sonoma or make an appointment to visit the mountaintop vineyards.

Les Claypool — Purple Pachyderm at Claypool Cellars

The bassist and lead vocalist of the rock band Primus, Les Claypool has been living in the Russian River Valley region of Sonoma County since 1994. His Claypool Cellars produces sparkling wine, rosé and Pinot Noir under the Purple Pachyderm label. Wine club members receive bottles signed by Claypool in their shipments and get invitations to exclusive concerts where they can party like (and with) rock stars. Taste the wines at their appointment only “fancy booze caboose” in Sebastopol.

Les and Chaney Claypool ham it up for the camera at the Feast Above the River, sponsored by the Russian River Chamber of Commerce, on Sunday, Oct. 6, 2019 in Guerneville. (WILL BUCQUOY/For The Press Democrat)
Les and Chaney Claypool ham it up for the camera at the Feast Above the River, sponsored by the Russian River Chamber of Commerce, on Sunday, Oct. 6, 2019 in Guerneville. (Will Bucquoy/For The Press Democrat)
Singer-songwriter Dave Matthews partnered with former Clos du Bois winemaker Sean McKenzie to launch Dreaming Tree Wines. (Photocarioca / Shutterstock)
Singer-songwriter Dave Matthews partnered with former Clos du Bois winemaker Sean McKenzie to launch Dreaming Tree Wines. (Photocarioca / Shutterstock)

Dave Matthews — Dreaming Tree Wines

Singer-songwriter Dave Matthews entered the winemaking game in 2000, when he opened Blenheim Vineyards winery in Charlottesville, Virginia. In response to demand from his fans, Matthews partnered with former Clos du Bois winemaker Sean McKenzie to launch Dreaming Tree Wines. Distributed nationally, and reasonably priced, they produce a Sauvignon Blanc from Sonoma County and other wines made with grapes from throughout California.

Jonathan Cain — Finale Wines

Musician and songwriter Jonathan Cain is the keyboardist and rhythm guitarist for Journey. (The keyboards on “Don’t Stop Believin’”? Yeah, that’s him!). When he isn’t touring the world, he’s enjoying his own wine journey with Sonoma County vintner Dennis De La Montanya. Proceeds from their Finale Wines, which include a rosé of Malbec and a Sonoma Coast Pinot Noir, benefit charity.

Wine lover Jonathan Cain (left) rocks out with Journey lead singer Arnel Pineda in San Francisco (Photo: Kelly A. Swift)
Wine lover Jonathan Cain (left) rocks out with Journey lead singer Arnel Pineda. (Kelly A. Swift)
NBA star Dwyane Wade partnered with his friend, Napa Valley vintner Jayson Pahlmeyer, to launch his own wine label, Wade Cellars, in 2015. (Wade Cellars)
NBA star Dwyane Wade partnered with his friend, Napa Valley vintner Jayson Pahlmeyer, to launch his own wine label, Wade Cellars, in 2015. (Wade Cellars)

Dwyane Wade — Wade Cellars

NBA star Dwyane Wade discovered his love of great Napa Valley wines while wining and dining with teammates Chris Bosh and Lebron James. The former professional basketball player partnered with his friend, Napa Valley vintner Jayson Pahlmeyer, to launch his own wine label, Wade Cellars, in 2015. Wade Cellars wines include a rosé and a Cabernet Sauvignon.

Yao Ming — Yao Family Wines

Former NBA All-Star Yao Ming fell in love with wine while playing for the Houston Rockets. Today, he owns and operates Yao Family Wines in St. Helena, producing age-worthy Cabernet Sauvignon. The ultra-modern tasting room features food and wine pairings and a touch of memorabilia from Yao’s career in sports. He’s not only selling wine in Napa Valley, but also to great success in China, including in his hometown of Shanghai.

NBA All Star Yao Ming at his winery in Napa (Photo courtesy of Yao Family Wines)
NBA All Star Yao Ming at his winery in Napa. (Yao Family Wines)
Former NFL football player Charles Woodson started his own label, Intercept Wines, in Napa Valley. (Charles Woodson's Intercept Wines)
Former NFL football player Charles Woodson started his own label, Intercept Wines, in Napa Valley. (Charles Woodson’s Intercept Wines)

Charles Woodson — Intercept Wines

Former NFL football player Charles Woodson fell in love with wine and decided to learn more about the winemaking process during spring training for the Oakland Raiders, which takes place in Napa Valley. After a successful career in sports, including winning the Super Bowl with the Green Bay Packers, Woodson started his own label, Charles Woodson’s Intercept Wines. Intercept Wines include a Chardonnay, Pinot Noir, Cabernet Sauvignon and a red blend.

Carmen Policy — Casa Piena

He might not have played on the field, but Carmen Policy helped bring the San Francisco 49ers four Super Bowl championships and was named “Executive of the Year” by the NFL and one of the “Most Influential People in Professional Sports” by GQ. Now retired, Carmen and his wife, Gail, operate Casa Piena (“Full House” in Italian) in Napa Valley, where they produce Cabernet Sauvignons that score high with Robert Parker. Wines are available on an allotment-only basis, with tastings available by appointment.

Former 49ers executive Carmen Policy and his wife, Carmen, operate Casa Piena in Napa. (Photo Mars Lasar)
Former 49ers executive Carmen Policy and his wife, Carmen, operate Casa Piena in Napa. (Mars Lasar)
The Vermeil Wines tasting room in downtown Napa. (Cody Krantz)
The Vermeil Wines tasting room in downtown Napa. (Cody Krantz)

Dick Vermeil — Vermeil Wines

As an NFL coach, Dick Vermeil led the St. Louis Rams to their only Super Bowl championship, and also coached for the Philadelphia Eagles and Kansas City Chiefs. Born in Calistoga, it is no surprise that Vermeil started his own winery upon retirement. Vermeil Wines has a tasting room in downtown Napa and produces varietals such as Cabernet Sauvignon and Zinfandel. Vermeil attends all wine member events, signing autographs and sipping the fruits of his labor.

Mario Andretti — Andretti Winery

Mario Andretti is considered one of the most successful race car drivers of all time. With that success comes not only a Ferrari (or two), but also a winery in Napa Valley that he co-founded in 1996. Wines run the gamut, from sweet Moscato and Riesling to beefy Cabernets and super Tuscans. Andretti Winery offers food and wine pairings in an Italian-inspired environment. Winery guests frequently brush elbows with Andretti and other race car drivers, especially when races take place at Sonoma Raceway.

Racing legend Mario Andretti co-founded his Napa Valley winery in 1996 (Photo courtesy of Andretti Winery)
Racing legend Mario Andretti co-founded his Napa Valley winery in 1996. (Andretti Winery)
Professional racecar driver and team owner Kevin Buckler owns Adobe Road Winery in Petaluma (Photo courtesy of Adobe Road Winery)
Professional race car driver and team owner Kevin Buckler owns Adobe Road Winery in Petaluma. (Adobe Road Winery)

Kevin Buckler — Adobe Road Winery

Race car driver and team owner Kevin Buckler has been producing wine in Sonoma County since 1995 at his Adobe Road Winery. Winner of Rolex 24 Hours of Daytona, 24 Hours of Le Mans and numerous championships, Buckler and his wife, Debra, produce a wide array of wines from well-known vineyards, including Cabernet Sauvignon from Beckstoffer. Taste the wines at Adobe Road’s downtown Petaluma tasting room, complete with racing memorabilia.

Randy Lewis — Lewis Cellars

Most race car drivers will never race in the famous Indy 500, but Randy Lewis has done it — five times. Lewis started Lewis Cellars in 1992 with his wife, Debbie, a longtime wine industry professional. Eventually the couple were joined by their son, Dennis. Their appointment-only Napa Valley tasting room features wines from throughout the region, which include Sauvignon Blanc, Syrah and a Cabernet Sauvignon-based Cuvée.

Race car driver Randy his wife, long-time industry professional Debbie Lewis, operate Lewis Cellars in Napa (Photo courtesy of Lewis Cellars)
Race car driver Randy Lewis his wife, long-time industry professional Debbie Lewis, operate Lewis Cellars in Napa. (Lewis Cellars)

Gavin Newsom — PlumpJack, CADE and Odette wineries

Gov. Gavin Newsom co-founded PlumpJack Winery in Oakville, CADE Winery in Angwin and Odette Estate in Napa.

No longer available / Not open to the public

Vince Neil — Mötley Crüe frontman Vince Neil launched his own “Vince” wine label in the early 2000s. Vince wines were produced by Adler Fels Winery in Santa Rosa, according to Wine Spectator.

Joe Montana — Iconic 49ers quarterback Joe Montana teamed up with winemaker Ed Sbragia to create Montagia, a Napa Valley Cabernet Sauvignon, according to Decanter. The wine was released in 1999, when Sbragia was the winemaker at Beringer Vineyards in St. Helena. In 2019, Montana listed his Napa estate for $28.9 million. It was later re-listed for $20 million less. The 503-acre ranch was originally priced at $49 million in 2009.

Dan Marino — Former Miami Dolphins quarterback Dan Marino put his name behind the Sonoma County-based Marino Estates Vintage “13” California Cabernet, which benefited the Dan Marino Foundation, according to Wine Spectator.

Nancy Pelosi — Rep. Nancy Pelosi and her husband, Paul, own a private vineyard on Zinfandel Lane in St. Helena.

Tommy Smothers — Late comedian Tommy Smothers — best known as half of the musical comedy duo the Smothers Brothers, alongside his younger brother Dick — owned Remick Ridge Vineyards in Kenwood.

Janet Balicki, Elissa Chudwin, Maci Martell and Sarah Stierch contributed to this article. 

Hidden Gem Breakfasts in Sonoma County

By Heather Irwin
Smoked Salmon Hash with house-smoked salmon, oven dried tomatoes, green onions and hash browns, two eggs any style and lemon horseradish sauce from J & M’s Midtown Cafe, Thursday, Jan. 18, 2024, in Santa Rosa. (John Burgess / The Press Democrat)

Scrambled eggs and toast won’t get me out of bed, but flash a sticky bun and some hollandaise my way, and I’m racing to the table.

In Sonoma County, the breakfast scene runs the gamut, from simple plates of pancakes to fancy caviar-blinged Benedicts to crackly croissants. And while better-known haunts get plenty of love, you might be surprised by some unexpected breakfast favorites from Petaluma to Cloverdale and everywhere in between.

Santa Rosa

Grossman’s Noshery & Bar: Of course, you’ll find great bagels and schmears at this Jewish-style deli, but insiders know to order the lox and latke Benedict with schmaltz hollandaise – because who needs English muffins when you have latkes? Add caviar if you’re feeling fancy. 308 Wilson St., 707-595-7707, grossmanssr.com

Lox and eggs Benedict
Lox & Latke Benedict with Caviar from Grossman’s Deli Friday, Oct. 11, 2024, in Santa Rosa’s Railroad Square. (John Burgess / The Press Democrat)
Marla Bakery
The Crebble (a croissant muffin) from Marla SR Bakery and Cafe in Santa Rosa, Nov. 16, 2023. (John Burgess/The Press Democrat)

Marla Bakery: Only you can make the decision between the maple sugar and sea salt-dusted crebble (a croissant muffin) or the finger-licking sticky bun. Go for broke and get both — and since you’re there, add a fudgy dark chocolate brownie for later. 208 Davis St., 707-852-4091, marlabakery.com

Dierk’s Parkside Cafe: This humble café has reached icon status in Santa Rosa for its chef-driven menu and twist on breakfast standards. The Country Benedict on a crispy baguette with roasted tomatoes will always be my favorite, but the hash and cinnamon-dusted pull-a-parts are a close second. 404 Santa Rosa Ave., 707-573-5955, dierksparkside.com

J&M’s Midtown Cafe: Former Ramen Gaijin chef Joel Shaw’s weekly specials (like Hot Cross Bun sliders that sell out in minutes) are always a treat, but for traditionalists, the French toast is a winner — fresh ciabatta baguette dipped in egg, milk and cinnamon batter, leaving the inside soft and custard-like and the exterior crisp. 1422 Fourth St., 707-545-2233, jm-midtowncafe.com

hash with eggs
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)
Concha Breakfast Sandwich from Tia Maria Panaderia y Pasteleria in Santa Rosa Thursday, December 22, 2022. (John Burgess/The Press Democrat)
Concha breakfast sandwiches from Tia Maria Panaderia in Santa Rosa Thursday, Dec. 22, 2022. (John Burgess/The Press Democrat)

Tia Maria: At this neighborhood bakery and cafe, a sweet concha roll stuffed with scrambled egg, melty cheese and thick strips of bacon is pressed in a sandwich grill for a sweet, salty, creamy handheld breakfast sando like no other. Grab a Mexican hot chocolate for the road. 44 Sebastopol Ave., 707-540-9864, tiamaria.world

Brother’s Café: Most folks whiz by this setback cafe, located between a motel and a Mountain Mike’s on a nothing-burger stretch of Cleveland Avenue. Seek it out for the sticky-crunchy Dutch baby German pancake with caramelized apples. Also excellent are the biscuits with mushroom gravy. 3135 Cleveland Ave., 707-541-6345, brotherscafesr.com

Hank’s Creekside Cafe: Expect to sit around reading the paper on Saturday and Sunday mornings waiting for a table at this quirky Santa Rosa breakfast institution. Fluffy pancakes as big as your head, sausage, eggs and huevos rancheros, all served with a side of local cred and a homemade touch. Biscuits are made from scratch, eggs are fresh and the cottage fries are “Oh, my God” good. 2800 Fourth St., 707-575-8839, hanks-creekside.com

Guy Fieri tries blueberry pancakes at Hank's Creekside in Santa Rosa. (John Burgess/The Press Democrat)
Guy Fieri tries blueberry pancakes at Hank’s Creekside Cafe in Santa Rosa. (John Burgess/The Press Democrat)
vegetable hash with eggs
Grilled vegetable hash at Jeffrey’s Hillside Cafe in Santa Rosa. (Scott Manchester)

Jeffrey’s Hillside Café: Former John Ash & Co. chef brings Wine Country dining to breakfast. Don’t miss their chilaquiles, Southern-inspired biscuits and gravy, sticky bun French toast and cheese blintzes with lemon curd. Lines can get long on weekends, so put on your patient hat — it’s sooooo worth the wait. 2901 Fourth St., 707-546-6317, jeffreyshillsidecafe.com 

Criminal Baking Co: You can smell the buttery goodness even before you head inside. Sinful Sandos are a must, as is the Fun Guy, with mushrooms, bacon, spinach, goat cheese, basil and arugula pesto, lemon curd and a baked egg. Plus, burritos, granola, quiche and daily pastries. Owner Dawn Zaft and her team also make plenty of gluten-free bagels and vegan pastries. 808 Donahue St., 707-888-3546, criminalbakingcompany.com

Americana: Farm-to-table breakfasts from the owners of Estero Cafe in Valley Ford — all day! Top-notch dishes include fried chicken with country gravy, omelets, a lovely breakfast sandwich with Estero Gold cheese on a fresh ciabatta, yogurt parfait and pancakes with tasty fresh strawberry mimosas. Find them in Sebastopol (162 N. Main St.) as well. 205 Fifth St., 707-755-1548, americanasonomacounty.com

Yogurt parfait is on the Early Bird menu at Americana in Sebastopol. (Heather Irwin/The Press Democrat)
Yogurt parfait is on the Early Bird menu at Americana in Sebastopol and Santa Rosa. (Heather Irwin/The Press Democrat)
Chilaquiles with eggs
Chilaquiles at Chila-Killer Cafe in Rohnert Park. (Heather Irwin / The Press Democrat)

Rohnert Park

Chila-Killer Café: The name riffs on the restaurant’s signature dish, chilaquiles, a hearty breakfast (or hangover helper) of fried corn tortillas soaked in red or green salsa and topped with eggs, cheese, crema and pork carnitas. Killer portions will either break you or fuel you. 5979 Commerce Blvd., 707-595-1779, instagram.com/chila.killer.cafe

Petaluma

Sarmentine: Brunch with a French accent includes salmon-laden croissants with hollandaise, a side of gratin potatoes that put home fries to shame and bread pudding in a pool of crème anglaise. You’ll also want to leave with a fresh baguette and croissants for dinner. 840 Petaluma Blvd. N., 707-623-9595, sarmentine.com

Sax’s Joint: Giant cinnamon rolls and pancakes the size of a small hubcap are the signatures of this 1950s-style café. Run by sassy sisters, it’s raucous fun but can be hectic on weekends. 317 Petaluma Ave., 707-559-3021, saxsjoint.com

Fried chicken and waffles at Sax's Joint in Petaluma. (Chris Hardy/for Sonoma Magazine)
Fried chicken and waffles at Sax’s Joint in Petaluma. (Chris Hardy/for Sonoma Magazine)
Nutella cornetto filled with the creamy chocolate and hazelnut spread, drizzled with chocolate ganache, and topped with whole toasted hazelnuts, at Stellina Pronto. (Courtesy Stellina Pronto)
Nutella cornetto filled with the creamy chocolate and hazelnut spread, drizzled with chocolate ganache, and topped with whole toasted hazelnuts, at Stellina Pronto in Petaluma. (Courtesy Stellina Pronto)

Stellina Pronto: Trying to order a pastry or two at this Italian bakery is futile. You will leave with thousands of calories more than you planned, and that’s absolutely OK. They are that good. Kouign-amann (caramelized, laminated pastries filled with fruit curd) and weekend cinnamon rolls with cream cheese frosting are top picks, but grab at least one cream puff, a Nutella cornetto and a slice of frittata. 23 Kentucky St., 707-789-9556, stellinapronto.com

Sonoma

Baker and Cook: Fresh buttermilk biscuits and sausage gravy are legendary at this Boyes Hot Springs café. Originating in 19th-century lumberjack camps, this gut-stuffing breakfast warms the heart and fills the belly for a long day of timbering — or couch rotting. A side salad makes the whole thing almost healthy. 18812 Highway 12, 707-938-7329, bakerandcooksonoma.com

Sebastopol

Wild Poppy: The rambling outdoor patio of this family-owned Sebastopol restaurant is the place to be on sunny summer days. The Cosmic Queso with vegan cheese is a favorite, and vegetarians will find plenty of options here. A mix of housemade pastries, including scones, focaccia and Anya’s chocolate chip cookies are ideal companions for a day at the beach or an afternoon snack. 9890 Bodega Highway, 707-503-6332, thewildpoppycafe.com

Cookies, scones and other baked items from the The Wild Poppy Cafe along the Bodega Highway west of Sebastopol Friday, May 3, 2024. (John Burgess/The Press Democrat)
Cookies, scones and other baked items from the The Wild Poppy Cafe along the Bodega Highway west of Sebastopol Friday, May 3, 2024 (John Burgess/The Press Democrat)
Shakshuka with poached eggs
Shakshuka — a Middle Eastern dish of poached egg, zesty tomato sauce, onions and a side of hummus and puffy pita bread — at Lightwave Coffee and Kitchen in Monte Rio. (Daniel Beck/Sonoma County Tourism)

Monte Rio

Lightwave Coffee & Kitchen: Follow the signs to the Monte Rio skate park, where you’ll find a curious walk-up café. You’ll want to order the warming breakfast shakshuka with tomato-y eggs and whatever pie is on the menu. 9725 Main St., 707-865-5169, lightwavecafe.square.site

Valley Ford

Estero Café: The “classic American farm-to-table” menu has made it a popular stop for diners headed to the coast. Serving locally sourced breakfast and lunch daily, dishes like chicken-fried Stemple Creek Ranch steak with country gravy and greens, Dungeness crab roll and King trumpet mushroom melt with Estero Gold cheese are local favorites. 14450 Highway 1, 707-876-3333, esterocafe.com

Healdsburg

Acorn Cafe: This cute-as-a-bug morning stop is staking a syrup-soaked claim on Healdsburg’s breakfast void with its over-the-top menu. Best bets are tiramisu French toast, a brown butter hollandaise Benedict and quite possibly the world’s most inspired fried chicken sandwich. A tasty low and no-alcohol and cocktail menu and wine list create a Sunday brunch feel even on weekday mornings. 124 Matheson St., 707-955-7001, acornhealdsburg.com

Tiramisu French toast with whipped mascarpone, raspberry, coffee ice cream and cocoa nibs on Goguette brioche and a Berry Bliss smoothie from the Acorn Cafe Thursday, October 3, 2024 in Healdsburg. (John Burgess / The Press Democrat)
Tiramisu French toast with whipped mascarpone, Raspberry, coffee ice cream and cocoa nibs on Goguette brioche and a Berry Bliss smoothie from the Acorn Cafe Thursday, October 3, 2024 in Healdsburg. (John Burgess / The Press Democrat)
Varieties of croissants available at Quail & Condor bakery Monday, Jan. 6, 2025, in Healdsburg. (John Burgess / The Press Democrat)
Varieties of croissants available at Quail & Condor bakery Monday, Jan. 6, 2025, in Healdsburg. (John Burgess / The Press Democrat)

Quail and Condor: Noted by The New York Times and the James Beard Foundation, this outstanding bakery is a must-try. Crisp, flaky croissants that are second-to-none with seasonal flavors include chocolate pumpkin, along with ongoing classics like almond, chocolate and plain. 149 Healdsburg Ave., 707-473-8254, quailandcondor.com

Parish Café: Best known for its Louisiana-style shrimp and grits, beignets and po’boys, Parish has a Southern-style breakfast with its standards (yes, you can eat shrimp and grits for breakfast) as well as bananas Foster French toast and a Benedict with fried Gulf shrimp and Tasso ham. Chicory coffee is a staple. 60A Mill St., 707-431-8474, theparishcafe.com

Cloverdale

Rockin’ A Adventure Café: You won’t find much food, but the thrill of choosing your drink adventure at this oddball coffee drive-thru is a lot more fun. Start with a base of coffee, matcha, chai tea or Red Bull, then add one of 40 different syrups. Clearly, they’re not breaking any new beverage ground, but the wacky shack and endless choices make it a great stop on your commute. 313 S. Cloverdale Blvd., Facebook.com/RockinAadventureCafe

You can reach Dining Editor Heather Irwin at heather.irwin@pressdemocrat.com. Follow Heather on Instagram @biteclubeats.

Nom Nom Cakes Sells Summer Sweets by the Sonoma Seashore

By Jennifer Graue
Baker Lana Mcintire rolls out her Barbie pink Nom Nom bakery cart filled with goodies in front of her Carmet home, just follow the signs off Highway 1. Friday, May 13, 2025, north of Bodega Bay. (John Burgess / The Press Democrat)

Early each Friday and Saturday morning in summer, Lana Mcintire rolls a cute-as-a-button, Barbie-pink cart in front of her Bodega Bay home and plants signs along Highway 1, pointing beachgoers and coastal cruisers to her summertime-only sweet stop. “I feel like people see pink and think dessert,” says Mcintire.

The mom of two launched her Nom Nom Cakes bakery cart last summer to supplement her year-round custom cake business. It was an instant success. It also happens to be Bodega Bay’s only bakery.

Laden with cookies, tarts, and Mcintire’s signature cake jars, the sweet car is just a short detour into a residential neighborhood a few minutes’ drive north of town. The clientele is a mix of neighbors, day-trippers and tourists staying in nearby vacation rentals, who pull up, browse the shelves, and peek into the cart’s two refrigerated coolers in search of the perfect dessert.

Nom Nom bakery
Baker Lana Mcintire fills her Barbie pink Nom Nom Cakes bakery cart with goodies Friday and Saturday mornings during the summer and wheels it to the front of her Carmet home. Just follow the signs off Highway 1. Friday, May 13, 2025, north of Bodega Bay. (John Burgess / The Press Democrat)

The Nom Nom cart operates on a self-serve, honor-based payment system, accepting cash or Venmo. Since cell service in the area can be spotty, Mcintire posts her Wi-Fi password to help customers pay online. She is usually nearby in her home — happily baking, and ready to bring in sweet reinforcements when supplies run low. Mcintire notes that the cart often sells out on busy holiday weekends.

Mcintire, a Los Angeles culinary school graduate with experience in high-end restaurants in L.A. and Las Vegas, moved to Sonoma County in 2014. Here she draws inspiration from seasonal fruits and rotates her cart menu each weekend. Her summer cake jars feature flavors like brown sugar peach, vanilla blackberry, and strawberry crunch. “I make my own strawberry crunch with Golden Oreos and freeze-dried strawberries,” she says. “It’s like that strawberry ice cream bar on a stick.”

That dessert is one of her most popular along with peanut butter cheesecake and a treat called the millionaire bar — a buttery shortbread crust layered with rich salted caramel, chocolate ganache, and a light sprinkling of sea salt. “It’s almost Twix on steroids,” says Mcintire.

Baker Lana Mcintire rolls out her Barbie pink Nom Nom bakery cart filled with goodies in front of her Carmet home, just follow the signs off Highway 1. Friday, May 13, 2025, north of Bodega Bay. (John Burgess / The Press Democrat)
Baker Lana Mcintire rolls out her Barbie pink Nom Nom Cakes bakery cart filled with goodies in Bodega Bay. (John Burgess / The Press Democrat)

This summer, Mcintire has added charcuterie boxes as a savory option, perfect for a beach picnic. Packages of homemade pancake mix are another new addition, tailored for travelers staying in the many Airbnbs in her neighborhood. Those temporary guests inspire some of the little extras she includes on the cart, like gift bags, candles and cake toppers — an instant party for those celebrating a special occasion. There are also s’mores kits and reusable marshmallow roasting sticks. As of June, the cart carries copies of her new, self-published cookbook, “Sweet Creations: Crafting Your Dream Desserts.”

Mcintire has become a bit of a celebrity in her seaside town. On a trip to the post office just before opening for the season, three different people recognized her as “the dessert cart lady” and shared stories about their favorite treats. “To have three people at the same time recognize me, I was like, wow,” she says. “I’m thankful that people support my small business and the good things we’re trying to do.”

Nom Nom Cakes, 390 Calle Del Sol, Bodega Bay, 805-350-0680, nomnombaking.com