Planning to take your mom out for a Sonoma brunch on Mother’s Day? Here’s a list of spots worth checking out, along with menu details. Most of these places are also regular brunch faves as well. Did we miss a favorite? Let us know in the comments below. #sonomabrunch
SANTA ROSA
Walter Hansel Wine Bistro$48 prix fixe menu includes baby beet salad, Akaushi flat iron steak, grilled wild Alaskan halibut, Valrhona chocolate mousse. 3535 Guerneville Rd., Santa Rosa.
Emily’s Kitchen Eggs Benedict with housemade pastrami gravy, carrot cake French toast and more. 8a.m. to 4p.m., Montgomery Village.
WINDSOR
Charlie’s at the Windsor Golf Club A best-kept secret, head for Mom’s day champagne brunch on (or at least overlooking) the green. 1340 19th Hole Dr,. Windsor.
Fiona Grimm, 7, holds an apple cranberry crostata with a cinnamon topping and creme anglaise during a spring brunch class at Ramekins. (BETH SCHLANKER/ The Press Democrat)
SONOMA
Breakaway Cafe Mother’s Day Bellini with white peach puree, Dungeness crab cakes and avocado Benedict, chocolate chip waffle with lemon mascarpone. Saturday and Sunday, 19101 Sonoma Hwy, Sonoma.
Ramekins Seatings at 10a.m., 12:30p.m. $65 brunch buffet includes blue corn waffles with macerated berries and lavender whipped cream, omelet station, salads, herb-crusted leg of lamb, wood fired pizzas, petite quiches.ramekins.com to register. 450 W. Spain St., Sonoma.
A Spiritworks Sloe 75 made by bar manager Fred Johnson at Zazu Kitchen and Farm in Sebastopol. (Crista Jeremiason / The Press Democrat)
SEBASTOPOL
Gypsy Cafe Weekend brunch featuring Gypsy Fried Chicken and Waffles with sriracha cream (um, yes please). 162 North Main St., Sebastopol.
Zazu Kitchen + Farm $29 prix fixe includes sour cream pancakes, wild Gulf shrimp and grits, shortrib tostada , black pig bacon, cheddar biscuits with pepper jelly. 6770 McKinley #150, Sebastopol.
VALLEY FORD
Rocker Oysterfeller’s OMG $35 brunch for mom? Prix fixe includes blackened shrimp and grits, duck and andouille sausage gumbo, vanilla bean donut holes, fried chicken and bacon cornmeal waffles, crab cake Benedict, strawberry rhubarb French toast. 14415 Hwy. One, Valley Ford
HEALDSBURG
Mateo’s Cocina LatinaBrunch or dinner on the lovely patio. $45 prix fixe lunch includes beef tartare with quail egg, little gem lettuce with blue cheese vinaigrette, beef hash with poached duck egg, Huevos Rancheros with house made tostada, Downtown Bakery sticky bun. Dinner is $65 prix fixe with choice of Dungeness crab cake, Shrimp Louie, roasted Boedga wild King salmon, pork chop with savory bread pudding, Alive & Healing Sonoma County Co. tempeh with pumpkin seed-bell pepper sauce.214 Healdsburg Ave., Healdsburg.
Relish Culinary Adventures Mother’s Day Brunch hands-on cooking class. We have had requests for several years to do a hands-on class on Mother’s Day, and here it is. We’ve added all the bells and whistles to the menu for this class, so guests will make Crab Cakes, smoke Arctic Char, poach Eggs, bake Banana Bread, saute skillet potatoes, and more. We’ll pour coffee, mimosas and wine with our meal, and we’re adding special touches to the Relish Culinary Center to celebrate Mom. 14 Matheson St., Healdsburg.
Dry Creek Kitchen Treat Mom to a day in the idyllic Sonoma County town of Healdsburg on on Mother’s Day w/ dishes like Smoked Salmon. Brunch 11am-2:00pm, $49pp; Dinner 6-9pm, $65pp; 3 courses
Conchinita Pibil, by Mateo Granados, at Mateo’s Cocina Latina in Healdsburg, served with a rhubarb inspired margarita. The dish features slow-roasted pork marinated in annatto seed with homemade tortilla and cinnamon-cured red onions. (Christopher Chung / The Press Democrat)
Happy Mother’s Day weekend! Whether you are a mom or you know one, here are a few things you can do for fun this weekend. Included in our list is the Human Race in Santa Rosa, Meals on Wheels Derby Day in Kenwood and the Matsuri! Japanese Arts Festival in Santa Rosa on Saturday. Other events include a film fest, a tour of art studios, a chili cook-off and more. It’s all in our list of things to do.
FRIDAY, May 6
Laguna Garden Volunteer Day This Friday, grab your gardening gloves and head over to Laguna Environmental Center to help maintain and enhance their “outdoor classroom.” Weather permitting, volunteers can be a part of what makes the center’s landscape beautiful, taking part in planting, weeding, spreading wood chips and general cleanup. Tools and snacks will be provided, bring water, gloves and friends.
The Matsuri! Japanese Arts Festival is on Saturday, May 7 in Juilliard Park, Santa Rosa (Crista Jerimiason / The Press Democrat)
SATURDAY, May 7
Human Race On Saturday, thousands of do-gooders will be raising funds for the charity of their choice by taking part in a 3K and 10K run or walk through Howarth and Spring Lake Parks. The race starts at 8 a.m. at Herbert Slater Middle School. The event will also include a pancake breakfast, free bike valet, live music, a marketplace and more.
Meals on Wheels Derby DayWear your Derby-inspired apparel and compete for prizes at the 17th annual Meals on Wheels Derby Day this Saturday, 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. at Chateau St. Jean Winery in Kenwood. The event includes live streaming of the Kentucky Derby, a silent and live auction, live music, a raw oyster bar and more. Tickets start at $250 and benefit the Council on Aging.
Matsuri! Japanese Arts FestivalCelebrate Japanese arts this Saturday when this annual festival comes to Juilliard Park. From 11 a.m. to 5 p.m., the free event will include art exhibits, martial arts demonstrations, Taiko drumming performances, origami and other Japanese crafts, traditional food and clothing and more.
Tour Oakmont Artist Studios This Saturday and Sunday, Oakmont Art Association artists are opening their studio doors to visitors, allowing a personal look at their art process and works of varying media. More than 30 artists will be represented at 24 studio locations. Also May 8th.
FilmFest Petaluma With a chance of showers this weekend, it’s a great time to catch a movie — or 38 of them. The Mystic Theatre in Petaluma is venue to the 8th annual Film Fest Petaluma, showing more than three dozen short films from over 15 countries. Following the shows, filmmakers will take part in post-screening discussions. Show times are noon, 3 p.m., 7:30 p.m. and 10:30 p.m. Tickets are $10 for each showing, or $30 for an all-day pass.
Great Petaluma Chili Cook-OffBring your appetites to the Sonoma-Marin Fairground this Saturday to attend the 19th annual Great Petaluma Chili Cook-Off, Salsa and Beer Tasting event. From 1-5 p.m., enjoy music, dancing and, of course, delicious samples of chili, salsa and beer. Tickets are $25-$45, $10 for kids 5-11 and free for kids under 5.
Celebrate Mother’s Day in Sonoma County (Courtesy / korbel.com)
Mother’s Day Open Garden Bring Mom and the family to the Russian River Rose Company in Healdsburg this Saturday to tour the gardens, peruse the rambling roses and maybe even select a fragrant blossom for Mom to take home. Doors open at 10 a.m. Admission is a $2 donation or $10.95 for tours, and moms will receive a small gift.
Chosen Spot Plant Expo At the Luther Burbank Home & Gardens this Sunday, tour the spring gardens and home, buy plants and bouquets, and learn about plants and bugs at this educational and entertaining expo. The SSU Biology Outreach will conduct a bug hunt for kids, and budding artists can paint clay pots. There will also be live dance performances and more. Admission is $2, or free for kids under 12. Bring a picnic to enjoy on the grounds.
Champagne at KorbelTreat mom to champagne on Mother’s Day. Korbel Champagne Cellars is offering free champagne tasting for moms on Mother’s Day, and will also offer tours of the garden.
Astronaut Lullabies On Mother’s Day, Jim and Kathy Oceans will perform “Astronaut Lullabies” — a star-filled experience at the SRJC Lark Hall Greenhouse (near the Planetarium) that combines live music with a visual space exploration. The adventure starts at 3 p.m., and admission is $10-$15.
More Upcoming Events…
The WGAS Monster Truck Spring Nationals is on Friday, May 6 at the Sonoma County Fairgrounds in Santa Rosa. (Beth Schlanker / The Press Democrat)
FRIDAY, May 6
Monster Trucks: WGAS Monster Truck Spring Nationals, 7:30 p.m. (gates open at 6 p.m.), Sonoma County Fairgrounds, Santa Rosa. $12-$19.98. (530) 745-0100, wgasmotorsports.com.
Yuja Wang: World-renowned 27-year-old classical pianist, 7:30 tonight, Weill Hall, Green Music Center, Rohnert Park. $40-$90. 866-955-6040, gmc.sonoma.edu.
Kathleen Madigan: ‘The Mermaid Lady Tour’ stand-up comedy, 8 tonight, Luther Burbank Center, Santa Rosa. $35. 546-3600, lutherburbankcenter.org.
‘Bob – A Life in 5 Acts’: One man’s genuine-yet-comedic search for ‘greatness,’ opens 8 tonight, Main Stage West, Sebastopol. $15-$25. 823-0177, mainstagewest.com.
‘My Fair Lady’: Triumphant musical opens 8 tonight, 6th Street Playhouse, Santa Rosa. $15-$37. 523-4185, 6thstreetplayhouse.com.
SATURDAY, May 7
Cinco de Mayo Fiesta: Live music and entertainment, Mexican street food and beer, 11 a.m.-5:30 p.m. Saturday, Carneros Brewing Co., Sonoma. Free admission. 938-1880, facebook.com/carnerosbrewing.com.
Moonalice: Psychedelic, roots-rock band, plus Sebastopol hometown band Dream Farmers, 8:30 p.m. Saturday, HopMonk Tavern, Sebastopol. $12. 829-7300, hopmonk-sebastopol.ticketfly.com.
SUNDAY, May 8
Mother’s Day Piano Concert: Jack London Piano Club with vocalist Laura Benward, 2-4:30 p.m. Sunday, Jack London State Historic Park, Glen Ellen. $20 includes parking. 938-5216, jacklondonpark.com.
Mother’s Day Champagne Brunch: Tours aboard the African Queen or brunch only, 10 a.m. and 1:30 p.m. Sunday, Safari West, Santa Rosa. $18-$75. 579-2551, safariwest.com/wild-about-mom.
‘On the Wing’: Sonoma Bach program of poetry and music depicting birds and angels, plus avian guests, 3 p.m. Sunday, Saturday Afternoon Club, Santa Rosa. $15-$25. sonomabach.org.
Occidental Community Choir: ‘A West County Home Companion’ of song and stories, 3 p.m. Sunday, Glaser Center, Santa Rosa. $15-$20. 874-8622, occidentalchoir.org.
MONDAY, May 9
Santa Rosa Symphony: ‘Jazzy Impressions’ with pianist Gabriela Martinez, 8 p.m. Monday, Weill Hall, Green Music Center, Rohnert Park. $20-$80. 546-8742, srsymphony.org.
TUESDAY, May 10
Connie Guttersen: Registered dietitian and ‘The Love Diet’ co-author, 7 p.m. Tuesday, Book Passage, Corte Madera. Free. (415) 927-0960, bookpassage.com.
WEDNESDAY, May 11
‘Wines & Sunsets in Paradise’: Weekly outdoor music series opener, through Oct. 26, 5:30 p.m.-sunset, Wednesday, Paradise Ridge Winery, Santa Rosa. $10-$15. 528-9463, prwinery.com.
Jazz Orchestra: Sonoma State University Jazz Orchestra and Santa Rosa Junior College Jazz Band, 7:30 p.m. Wednesday, Green Music Center, Rohnert Park. $8. 866-955-6040, gmc.sonoma.edu.
THURSDAY, May 12
Popovich Comedy Pet Theater: Thirty-plus performing pets, from cats and dogs to mice and geese, 6:30 p.m. Thursday, Luther Burbank Center, Santa Rosa. $12-$17. 546-3600, lutherburbankcenter.org.
‘The 16TH ’: The Imaginists’ production, 8 p.m. Thursday, The Imaginists, Santa Rosa. $5-$25; sold out. Five more shows through May 21. 528-7554, arts-people.com.
FRIDAY, May 13
Pilobolus: Diverse modern dance company known for its ‘Shadowland’ production, 8 p.m. Friday, Luther Burbank Center, Santa Rosa. $20-$50. 546-3600, lutherburbankcenter.org.
Holly Near: Singer-songwriter and social activist, plus musicians Barbara Higbie and Jan Martinelli, 8 p.m. Friday, Occidental Center for the Arts. $20-$23. 874-9392, occidentalcenterforthearts.org.
‘Secrets’: Opening night of the Santa Rosa Junior College Spring Dance Show, 8 p.m. Friday, Burbank Auditorium, Santa Rosa campus. $10-$17. 527-4343, santarosa.edu/dance.
Friedman/Hart Quartet: Jazz standards and Latin jazz at ‘Jazz in the Neighborhood,’ 6 p.m. Friday, Copperfield’s Books, Healdsburg. Free. 433-9270, copperfieldsbooks.com.
‘Godspell’: Cinnabar Young Rep production of the timeless musical, opening night 7:30 p.m. Friday, Cinnabar Theater, Petaluma. $10-$15. 763-8920, cinnabartheater.org.
SATURDAY, May 14
‘Sunset Celebration Weekend’: Tours of new Sunset Test Gardens/Outdoor Kitchen, home, travel, food and garden seminars, 11 a.m.-5 p.m. Saturday, Cornerstone, Sonoma. $35-$125. sunset.com.Jura Margulis: World-renowned virtuoso pianist performs on restored 1899 concert grand piano, 8 p.m. Saturday, Petaluma Historical Library & Museum. $25-$40. 778-4398, petalumamuseum.com.
The Blues Session: Monthly live blues performances, 7:30 p.m. Saturday, Cloverdale Arts Alliance. $5. 894-4410, cloverdaleartsalliance.org.
Planning to take your mom out for a Sonoma brunch this Mother’s Day (May 8, 2016)? Here’s a list of spots worth checking out, along with menu details. Most of these places are also regular brunch faves as well.
Did we miss a favorite? Let us know in the comments below. #sonomabrunch
Santa Rosa
Walter Hansel Wine Bistro: $48 prix fixe menu includes baby beet salad, Akaushi flat iron steak, grilled wild Alaskan halibut, Valrhona chocolate mousse. 3535 Guerneville Rd., Santa Rosa.
Emily’s Kitchen: Eggs Benedict with housemade pastrami gravy, carrot cake French toast and more. 8a.m. to 4p.m., Montgomery Village.
Windsor
Charlie’s at the Windsor Golf Club: A best-kept secret, head for Mom’s day champagne brunch on (or at least overlooking) the green. 1340 19th Hole Dr,. Windsor.
Sonoma
Breakaway Cafe: Mother’s Day Bellini with white peach puree, Dungeness crab cakes and avocado Benedict, chocolate chip waffle with lemon mascarpone. Saturday and Sunday, 19101 Sonoma Hwy, Sonoma.
Fiona Grimm, 7, holds an apple cranberry crostata with a cinnamon topping and creme anglaise during a spring brunch class at Ramekins on Sunday, April 17, 2016 in Sonoma, California . (BETH SCHLANKER/ The Press Democrat)
Ramekins: Seatings at 10a.m., 12:30p.m. $65 brunch buffet includes blue corn waffles with macerated berries and lavender whipped cream, omelet station, salads, herb-crusted leg of lamb, wood fired pizzas, petite quiches.ramekins.com to register. 450 W. Spain St., Sonoma.
Petaluma Della Fattoria: Three course dinner includes spring onion and garlic tart, Alaskan halibut with English peas, French vanilla bean creme brulee, $65, 6-9p.m., reservations required.
Sebastopol
Gypsy Cafe: Weekend brunch featuring Gypsy Fried Chicken and Waffles with sriracha cream (um, yes please). 162 North Main St., Sebastopol, gypsy-cafe.com.
A Spiritworks Sloe 75 made by bar manager Fred Johnson at Zazu Kitchen and Farm in Sebastopol, Friday, {month name} 27, 2014.(Crista Jeremiason / The Press Democrat)
Zazu Kitchen + Farm: $29 prix fixe includes sour cream pancakes, wild Gulf shrimp and grits, shortrib tostada , black pig bacon, cheddar biscuits with pepper jelly. 6770 McKinley #150, Sebastopol.
Valley Ford
Rocker Oysterfeller’s: OMG $35 brunch for mom? Prix fixe includes blackened shrimp and grits, duck and andouille sausage gumbo, vanilla bean donut holes, fried chicken and bacon cornmeal waffles, crab cake Benedict, strawberry rhubarb French toast. 14415 Hwy. One, Valley Ford
Healdsburg
Mateo’s Cocina Latina in Healdsburg
Mateo’s Cocina Latina: Brunch or dinner on the lovely patio. $45 prix fixe lunch includes beef tartare with quail egg, little gem lettuce with blue cheese vinaigrette, beef hash with poached duck egg, Huevos Rancheros with house made tostada, Downtown Bakery sticky bun. Dinner is $65 prix fixe with choice of Dungeness crab cake, Shrimp Louie, roasted Boedga wild King salmon, pork chop with savory bread pudding, Alive & Healing Sonoma County Co. tempeh with pumpkin seed-bell pepper sauce.214 Healdsburg Ave., Healdsburg.
Relish Culinary Adventures: Mother’s Day Brunch hands-on cooking class. We have had requests for several years to do a hands-on class on Mother’s Day, and here it is. We’ve added all the bells and whistles to the menu for this class, so guests will make Crab Cakes, smoke Arctic Char, poach Eggs, bake Banana Bread, saute skillet potatoes, and more. We’ll pour coffee, mimosas and wine with our meal, and we’re adding special touches to the Relish Culinary Center to celebrate Mom. 14 Matheson St., Healdsburg. Details at relishculinary.com.
Dry Creek Kitchen: Treat Mom to a day in the idyllic Sonoma County town of Healdsburg on on Mother’s Day w/ dishes like Smoked Salmon. Brunch 11am-2:00pm, $49pp; Dinner 6-9pm, $65pp; 3 courses
Napa
Ninebark: Amazing new brunch menu is tops for mom. Plus will be serving a very special Mom-mosa for all moms, starting at the very respectable 10aa.m.812 Main St., Napa, ninebark-napa.com.
A group of wine experts considered 11 of the best wine regions in America to visit, ranking Sonoma #3 and Napa #4.
What can you make of this? I think Sonoma has the edge in this competition because of its diversity and enticing unknowns. The palate loves a little mystery, don’t you think?
While the link to the entire story is below, we’ll give you a snapshot of what this piece has to say about Sonoma and Napa. First up, though, is a peek at the expert panel:
Heath Porter, owner/operator of Uvaggio, one of Miami’s best wine bars David Boyle, head sommelier at Chandlers Steakhouse (the best steakhouse in Idaho!) Wes Narron, chief wine ambassador of City Wine Tours in Boston and New York City Brian Grandison, head sommelier at Hakkasan at the Fontainebleau Miami Beach Ryan Robinson, sommelier at Ruth’s Chris Steak House Patrick Olds, sommelier at the Four Seasons St. Louis Daniel Toral, wine director at 50 Eggs, Inc. restaurant group
Now for the unveiling:
# 3: Sonoma County, CA
Must-hit wineries: Wind Gap, Red Car Wine Co., Martinelli
Though some world-renowned experts in weekend fun named Santa Rosa — the county seat of Sonoma County — the 17th-best US city to spend the weekend, it’s also a top-tier wine-tasting destination. “The quality level of the wines coming out of the western part (of Sonoma) is really, really high right now,” says Toral. “And there are great restaurants in Healdsburg, which itself is strikingly beautiful.” Cycling through the valley has been a Bay Area weekend escape for decades, but the breweries, antique shops, and historic buildings make for a complete visit.
# 4: Napa Valley, CA
Must-hit wineries: Honig Winery, Opus One
“Napa is like the Vegas of wine,” says Grandison. “Everyone knows about it, you’ll drop a ton of cash, you’ll have to deal with the crowds, but you also fly home thinking to yourself: ‘Yeah, that was a great time.’” The big names in American wine are all in Napa — Joseph Phelps, Duckhorn, Mondavi, Opus One — and that’s probably why it produces about 4% of all the juice nationwide. But the big names in food are here too — from the French Laundry to La Toque — and if you’re willing to spend the cash, it’s tough to beat. Plus, it’s home to the limousine wine tour, so you’ll be sharing your tasting room with at minimum two bachelorette parties!
Michelin-starred chef Ron Siegel has taken over the popular Western Room at Rancho Nicasio.
He’ll be offering a “seasonally-driven contemporary American menu” five nights a week in the newly remodeled space. Most recently Executive Chef at Michael Mina in SF, the menu is a stunner, with dishes including crispy panisse with smoked salmon ($6), tortelloni of braised rabbit with kale and parmesan ($15), duck breast with golden raisins and lemongrass ($30), ribeye steak with king trumpet mushrooms ($33) and creme fraiche cake.
Haven’t yet decided how or where to celebrate Cinco de Mayo 2016? Here are some marvelous margaritas, magnificent Mexican eats and seriously Cinco events to get you started. Did we miss one of your Sonoma County favorites? Please share them in the comments section below!
MARVELOUS MARGARITAS
Frozen, fruity or on the rocks – no matter how you stir them, Sonoma County’s got the spots to get your ‘rita on.
La Diabla at La Rosa Tequileria, 500 4th St., Santa Rosa
Slow and steady spice from jalapeño gives this glass quite a kick, but sweet Sonoma strawberries help to temper the fire.
Maya Margarita at Maya Restaurant, 101 E. Napa St., Sonoma
A simple salted rim 100% blue agave Margarita. For a Reposado Tequila twist and a float of Grand Marnier, make it “Top Shelf.”
La Reyna on the Rocks at Agave, 1063 Vine St., Healdsburg
Served on the rocks with Herradura silver tequila, fresh hand-squeezed lime juice and Grand Marnier – this is Agave’s “distinctive margarita of choice.”
MAGNIFICENT MEXICAN EATS
It’s tough to narrow down the best Sonoma County Mexican restaurants. From homegrown cheap eat taquerias to upscale modern innovative establishments, we’re lucky to be saturated with some of the best Mexican cooking north of the border. Here’s a small sample of some favorite Cinco de Mayo eateries:
Upscale… Mateo’s Cocina Latina, 214 Healdsburg Ave., Healdsburg
Chef Mateo Granados’s soulful Mexican food has garnered a devoted following since the establishment of his Healdsburg restaurant in 2011. On Cinco de Mayo, Mateo’s will celebrate the pride of Mexican culinary craftsmanship by roasting Winkler Farms’ heritage Mangalitsa pigs, serving it up with oysters, four sides and salad ($35). Dinner starts at 5 p.m.; a complimentary chicharron bar will take drink orders from 2 p.m. (highlights include Preston Farms Strawberry Margarita, a traditional Margarita de Casa, and a spicy Margarita Calienta – each $10 + Tequila and Mezcal tastings on the patio – $20 per person).
An upscale Napa option…La Toque – “El Toque, 1314 McKinstry St., Napa
On Cinco de Mayo, this French bistro transforms into “El Toque” to showcase a five course meal with family recipes from its kitchen staff. The menu will include guacamole and family salsas, Coctel de Mariscos, chile relleno, “staff tacos” duck confit with mole and tres leches cake with roasted pineapple, pina colada ice cream and cajeta. ($75 per person). A portion of the proceeds will be donated to the Puertas Abiertas Community Center in Napa.
Cheap eat taquerias…
La Texanita, 667 Sebastopol Road, Santa Rosa
La Texanita is a perennially favorite taqueria for locals, with constantly changing daily specials.
Lola’s, 440 Dutton Ave # 17, Santa Rosa
Amazing carnitas, mole and pretty much anything else from dried chiles to pig’s feet.
Chilenos, 1079 Fourth St., Santa Rosa
Our food columnist’s (trusted) neighborhood taqueria: try the tacos dorados, ceviche and super burritos.
Taqueria Las Palmas, 415 Santa Rosa Ave, Santa Rosa
Their chiles relleno combination plate ($5.80) is a “deep-fried delight stuffed with cheese.”
El Farolito, 128 Plaza Street, Healdsburg / 8465 Old Redwood Hwy, Windsor
Fish tacos to die for.
SERIOUSLY CINCO EVENTS
The first commemoration of Cinco de Mayo took place in California in 1863, one year after a stunning Mexican victory over a much larger invading French army in the Battle of Puebla. Some 150 years later, Cinco de Mayo continues to be a cause for celebration — and Sonoma County offers a variety of opportunities to enjoy the day:
Rossi’s 1906 Cinco de Mayo Party, May 5, 5 p.m. to 11:30 p.m.
Inaugural Cinco De Mayo Party benefiting La Luz. The evening will include live music with Grupo Karma Norteno and a Licores Latinos launch party featuring mezcal, tequila and artisanal rum. A special menu will be served until 9:30 p.m. Tickets are $10 in advance or $12 at the door.
Roseland Cinco de Mayo Party, Sebastopol Road, Santa Rosa, May 5, 4 p.m. to 9 p.m.
The Roseland Cinco de Mayo Party attracts more than 10,000 visitors each year. The one-day festival features local entertainment (including mariachi, banda, fusion, salsa, ballet folklorico and danza Azteca), fun for the kids, informational booths, plethora of food choices, the crowning of the “Reina del Cinco de Mayo”and a low-rider car show. Rosie the Trolley will shuttle guests to and from the event.
Carneros Brewing Company Cinco de Mayo Festival, May 7, 11 a.m. to 5:30 p.m.
This Cinco de Mayo Festival includes piñatas for young and old, small batch hand-crafted beer on tap, authentic Mexican street food served by Barrio Marin, music and live entertainment.
A warm thank you to bon vivant Heather Irwin for food and drinks recommendations. Photography by Beth Schlanker, The Press Democrat.
The restaurant lineup includes haute Napa eateries Morimoto, Bouchon Bakery, Estate Events by Meadowood, Oenotri, La Toque, La Taberna, Ca’Momi, Mustards Grill, Angéle, Hurley’s, Bounty Hunter, Cole’s Chop House, REDD,Goose & Gander, Tarla Grill, Pizzeria Tra Vigne, Atlas Social, Bistro Don Giovanni, The Q Restaurant and Bar, Heritage Eats, Taqueria Rosita, Fumé Bistro, Ristorante Allegria, Napa Palisades Saloon, Il Posto, Eight Noodle Shop, Jax White Mule Diner, Bui Bistro, Gerard’s Paella and Smoke Open Fire.
Food trucks include Drewski’s, MeSoHungry, Seoul of Taipei,farmerbrown, El Porteño, Bowl’d Acai, Curry Up Now, The Middle Feast, Bacon Bacon, Wanna-E, Eureka! Street Cuisine, Pinup Girl Coffee Co. and Kara’s Cupcakes.
One of the most fun aspects of last year’s eat-a-thon included the culinary stage, where chefs and musicians teamed up for goofy cooking demos and general mayhem. This year, multi-Michelin Starred Chef Gordon Ramsay, Iron Chef Masaharu Morimoto and Food Network’sChef Tyler Florence will headline the Williams-Sonoma Culinary Stage, leading a star-studded lineup during thethree-day festival, May 27-29, 2016, in historic downtown Napa.
Heads up for additional culinary stars appearing on the stage including Michelin-Starred and James Beard Award-winning Chef Michael Mina, Top Chef Michael Voltaggio, Top Chef Masters winner Chris Cosentino of Cockscomb, Top Chef Mei Lin, Charles Phan of San Francisco’s Slanted Door, Michelin Starred Chef Ken Frank of La Toque, Michelin Starred Chef Mourad Lahlou of Mourad and Aziza in San Francisco, Maya Erickson of Michelin Starred restaurant Lazy Bear in San Francisco, Ari Weiswasser, Food & Wine Magazine’s “People’s Best New Chef”, Curtis Di Fede of Napa’s Miminashi and Sean O’Toole of Napa’s Torc, among others.
Joining the culinary talent on the Williams-Sonoma Stage are musicians Chad Smith of Red Hot Chili Peppers, Taylor Hawkins of Foo Fighters, Tre Cool and Mike Dirnt of Green Day,GROUPLOVE, Michael Franti, X Ambassadors, R5, Atlas Genius, The Pharcyde, Misterwives, Andrew McMahon and The Struts. Athletes including 49er great Dwight Clark, future Hall-of-Famer and former Oakland Raider Charles Woodson, former 49er Vernon Davis of the Washington Redskins, Mark Sanchez of the Denver Broncos and Oakland A’s and San Francisco Giants Legend Vida Blue.
Needed upgrades to the culinary stage include an expanded stage and viewing area, complete with upgraded audio and video capabilities to provide a close-up look at the cooking demonstrations and allow for maximum fan participation.
Lengua tacos at La Texanita in roseland, California. (Heather Irwin, PD)
Put down the burrito and just say no to the chimichanga. Here in Sonoma County, taqueria fare is as familiar as pizza or burgers, but have you really delved deeper into Latin cuisine?
Way beyond tamales and tacos is a world of authentic flavors from the unique regions of Mexico, Central America, South America and the Caribbean.
Each has evolved from the Spanish mother cuisine, an eclectic collection of flavors from Europe, Africa and the Middle East. But these Latin siblings have each incorporated indigenous ingredients and preparations with the food traditions of settlers, colonizers and slaves, creating an entirely new culinary canon.
So, for anyone who’s wanted to go beyond everyday fare and fully experience the exotic, enticing flavors of Latin culture, we’ve collected a few of our favorite dishes to get you started, or maybe just expand the borders of your palate.
Peruvian
Sazon Santa Rosa, ceviche mixto (Heather Irwin, PD)
Ceviche: If you like sushi, you’ll love ceviche. Chunks of raw tilapia or tuna is “cooked” in lime juice and salt, served cold, often with other seafood (prawns, clams, squid) and a side of Cuzco corn, sweet potato, onion and “Leche de Tigre,” the deliciously sour marinating liquid. Unlike Mexican ceviches which tend to have jalapeño and smaller dices of fish, we love the clean, light flavor of the Peruvian-style. Sazon Peruvian Cuisine, 1129 Sebastopol Rd., Santa Rosa, 707-523-4346.
Quinua Cocina Peruana Causa Colonial (Heather Irwin, PD)
Causa Colonial: Mashed yellow potatoes are another staple of Peruvian cuisine. Served cold with fried octopus on top and a crave-worthy sauce made with Aji amarillo chiles, cheese and a small slice of Heaven. Quinua Cocina Peruana, 500 Petaluma Blvd. South, Petaluma, 707-981-7359.
Cuban
Picadillos at Rumba Cuban Kitchen in Windsor, (Heather Irwin, PD)
Picadillo: Because Cuban cooking can be rare on the West Coast, it’s worth seeking out. A mix of Spanish, African, Caribbean and even Middle Eastern influences, richly spiced adobo, mojo and chimichurri sauces are more about flavor (citrus, chiles, garlic) than heat. While traditional roasted pork and beef are favorites, less well-known is picadillo, a savory ground beef entree with onions, peppers, olives, wine and tomato sauce. Served with rice and sweet plantains, it’s a homey, Sunday afternoon kind of meal to be savored rather than devoured. Rumba Cuban Kitchen, 8750 Old Redwood Hwy., Windsor, 707-687-5632.
Puerto Rican
A similar style of Caribbean cuisine, though with its own unique personality, is Puerto Rican, which also heavily depends on rice, beans, beef and plantains. Try the Canoa Con Carne Molida, a whole sweet plantain filled with ground beef and topped with cheese. El Coqui, 400 Mendocino Ave., Santa Rosa, 707-542-8868.
Mexican
Menudo, posole and birria: Friday night through Sunday afternoon, you’ll find entire families bent over bowls of steaming stew that promise to cure everything from homesickness and hangovers to the common cold. If you’re new to the genre, however, there’s a learning curve. You’ll want to start out with posole, made with hominy (dried corn), pork, onions and broth, and reminds me of a heartier, earthier version of chicken noodle soup. Next up, venture to birria, which is often served on Sunday mornings. Made with goat meat (or beef), dried chiles and plenty of garlic, it’s served with cilantro, lime and corn tortillas. Menudo is a tougher sell for the non-initiated, with tripe (beef stomach) and pig’s feet being key ingredients in this brothy soup. You love it, or you don’t. La Texanita, 1667 Sebastopol Rd., Santa Rosa, 707-525-1905.
Lengua tacos at La Texanita in roseland, California. (Heather Irwin, PD)
Lengua, pig stomach and cabeza tacos: Using the whole animal is an art. The leftover bits like tongue, head meat, tail and feet need a little extra TLC in the kitchen, but the hours of braising, seasoning and spices make offal highly prized in Latin cultures. It can make lots of folks squeamish, but you might be surprised at how tender and delicious this meat can be. Or, you may decide it’s not for you. Either way, it’s a fun culinary adventure. Available at most taquerias. Try the pig stomach at El Roy’s Mexican Grill and taco truck, 210 Edith St., Petaluma, 707-241-6534.
Mole at Agave Mexican Restaurant in Healdsburg (Heather Irwin, PD)
Mole Negro: With Aztec roots, this mystical black-brown sauce has somewhere between 12 and 30 ingredients, depending on the recipe. Passed down through the generations, it includes several types of dried chiles, garlic, peanuts, cinnamon, raisins, bread, tomatoes and Mexican chocolate. Most restaurants don’t have the time or expertise to make it by hand, but Octavio Diaz has a secret weapon — his mother’s recipe. Agave Restaurant & Tequila Bar, 1063 Vine St., Healdsburg, 707-433-2897 serves it over chicken. You can buy it at the nearby Casa del Mole, 434 Center St., Healdsburg, 707-433-4138 to take home.
Molcajete at La Texanita in Santa Rosa (Heather Irwin, PD)
Fresh Tortillas: You haven’t had a tortilla until you’ve had a fresh, handmade tortilla. One of the most passionate advocates for the iconic corn tortilla is Karen Waikiki, the founder of El Molino Central, 11 Central Ave., Boyes Hot Springs, 707-939-1010. She’s become renowned for revitalizing traditional methods of stone-grinding corn into masa, an art all but lost in Mexico. Each morning, around 11 a.m., staff members feed soaked corn — grown by a single farmer in Nebraska — into the specially-made grinding machine for the day’s tortillas and tamales.
Elote at Guiso Latin Fusion Kitchen in Healdsburg (Heather Irwin, PD)
Elote: Once you taste corn on the cob with a swipe of mayonnaise, butter, chili powder and cojita cheese, you’ll never be satisfied with it any other way. The best is from the Delicias Elanita Taco Truck, 799 Sebastopol Road, Santa Rosa, where they’ll pull a steaming hot ear from a small cart, slather it with deliciousness, then wrap it in foil to take home or eat right there under the awning. We love the upscale version at Healdsburg’s Guiso Latin Fusion, 117 W. North St., Healdsburg, 707-431-1302. Its elotitos are small slices of corn in Jamaican jerk seasoning with butter, garlic and chive crema.
Tamarind candy in Roseland (Heather Irwin, PD)
Tamarind Candy: This sweet, sour, salty, spicy candy is dangerously addictive. Made with the pulp of the tamarind fruit (a very sour legume popular in Indian, African, Asian and Latin cooking), it’s mixed with sugar, salt and chili powder as a candy. We love the soft Palebola Tama-Roca pops best of all. Dulceria Las Tapatias, 1630 Sebastopol Road, Santa Rosa, 707-536-9543.
Salvadoran
Pupusas and curtido at Homemade Tortilla in Santa Rosa, CA. Photo: Heather Irwin.
Pupusas: When you hear the slap, slap, slap of masa from the hands of abuelas, you know you’ve arrived at a Pupuseria. These little fried corn cakes are stuffed with cheese, vegetables, meat, beans and other goodies, arriving piping hot at the table with a side of cortida (a fermented slaw). Everyone has a favorite spot, but we’re really partial to Don Julio’s Rincon Latin Grill and Pupusas, 217 Southwest Blvd., Rohnert Park, 707-242-3160.
Brazilian
Rodizio: Brazil is cattle country, so it’s not a shock that much of its cuisine is based around beef. Lots and lots of beef. Rodizio is an all-you-can-eat show, where skewers of meat are brought to the table (filet mignon to pork, lamb or chicken) and sliced onto your plate. If you go, make sure to also get some Pao de Queijo, Brazilian cheese bread. Brasil BBQ, 5306 Old Redwood Hwy, Petaluma, 707-665-0644 or Brasa Churrascaria & Brewpub, 505 Mendocino Ave., Santa Rosa, 707-623-9382.
Mother’s Day is approaching quickly, and the local brunch spots will have lines out the door. Skip the crowds with these 15 alternative ideas on ways to give your mom a memorable Mother’s Day. From an African safari to a wine blending session, there are plenty of ways to gift Mom with a unique experience.
Did we miss one? Let us know in the comments!
1. Go wine tasting with Mom. Sonoma County has wineries in almost every corner of the county, so pick your favorite and have a relaxing afternoon tasting delicious wine. (Jeremy Portje / For The Press Democrat)2. Take Mom on a picnic. Beautiful Sonoma countryside and parks are perfect places to have a picnic with your mother. (Alvin Jornada / The Press Democrat)3. Gift Mom with a wine blending seminar. Several local wineries, like DeLoach Vineyards in Santa Rosa, B Cellars in Calistoga and Ravenswood in Sonoma, invite the public to unleash their inner winemaker with a blending session that ends with your very own personal blend of wine. (PD FILE)4. Take Mom on a journey through space: On Mother’s Day, Jim and Kathy Oceans will perform “Astronaut Lullabies” — a planetarium experience at the SRJC Lark Hall Greenhouse (near the Planetarium) — that combines live music with a visual space exploration. The adventure starts at 3 p.m., and admission is $10-$15. jimoceanmusic.com. (Kent Porter / Press Democrat)5. Take Mom on an African safari, right here in Santa Rosa. Mother’s Day Champagne Brunch: Tours aboard the African Queen or brunch only, 10 a.m. and 1:30 p.m. Sunday, May 8, Safari West, Santa Rosa. $18-$75. 579-2551, safariwest.com/wild-about-mom. (JOHN BURGESS / The Press Democrat)6. Mother’s Day Bubbles & BBQ: Spoil Mom with slow-cooked barbecue, sparkling wines and live music, noon-2 p.m. Sunday, May 8, Gloria Ferrer Caves & Vineyards, Sonoma. $45-$70. 933-1917, gloriaferrer.com. (Photo / Paige Green)7. Make Mom breakfast in bed. Here’s a way to sneak in brunch without waiting an hour for eggs. See some of our favorite recipes at pantry.blogs.pressdemocrat.com. (Christopher Chung/ The Press Democrat)8. Take a guided bike tour of Sonoma County. Sonoma Valley Bike Tours offers several tour options, including a half-day scenic tour of the Sonoma Valley, a cycling trip through the vineyards, a self-guided tour and more. Visit sonomavalleybiketours.com. (Courtesy / Sonoma Valley Bike Tours)9. Enjoy a theater production. On Sunday, take Mom to see “Disney’s The Little Mermaid” at Spreckel’s Performing Arts Center in Rohnert Park. The show starts at 1 p.m. on Mother’s Day, and tickets are $16-$26. Find out more at pd2go.net/LittleMermaid. Also on Sunday is a performance of Hamlet, presented by the SSU Dept. of Theatre Arts & Dance. The show starts at 2 p.m. at the Evert B. Person Theatre at SSU, and tickets are $10-$17. Visit sonoma.edu. (Photo by James Wirth)10. Pamper Mom with a spa day. Almost nothing compares to the feeling of being treated like a queen and catered to. Better yet, enjoy the pampering together. (Photo: Erik Castro/for The Press Democrat)11. Treat her to champagne. Korbel Champagne Cellars is offering free champagne tasting for moms on Mother’s Day, and will also offer tours of the garden. Visit www.korbel.com. (Courtesy / Korbel.com)12. Take Mom on a rose tour at the Russian River Rose Company in Healdsburg. On Mother’s Day, Mom can see rose petals transformed into rose water or rose oil, learn the history of rose oil and perfumes, and enjoy refreshments in the garden. Tour cost starts at $10.95, and reservations are required. Or you can just visit the gardens for a $2 donation. Visit russian-river-rose.com for more information. (Jeremy Portje / For The Press Democrat)13. Take Mom to one of the beautiful beaches along the Sonoma Coast. From Goat Rock Beach to Bodega Head, the Sonoma Coast offers stunning views. If the weather allows, pack up some food and wine for a beautiful day at the beach. (Conner Jay/The Press Democrat)14. Take a cooking class with her. Relish Culinary Adventures in Healdsburg is holding the event, “Mother’s Day Brunch,” where you and mom can learn to make a five-course brunch together while sipping mimosas. $108 per person, May 8, 11 a.m. for more details, see www.relishculinary.com. (Crista Jeremiason / The Press Democrat)15. Take Mom to West Wines Vineyard’s Hike & Wine Tasting. From 11 a.m. to noon, enjoy a walk around the vineyard while tasting their wines. $15 per person, see more information at www.westwines.com/events. (Courtesy / West Wines Vineyard)
Prickly Pear margarita at La Rosa Tequileria in Santa Rosa (Beth Schlanker)
Who’s got the best margaritas in Sonoma County? Let me know in the comments below…
Not like you need an excuse to hang out on the patio and drink margaritas all day, but hey, thanks to the victory of the Mexican army over the French some 150 or so years ago, you’ve got one. So grab a glass, some chips, a Cerveza or two and tap into the salsa and mariachi-filled love fest that surrounds. Ole!
MARGARITAVILLE
I’m far from a margarita purist, but I can appreciate a simple on-the-rocks salted rim with plenty of good tequila drink. I’m also pretty fond of the blended type. Either way, here are a few spots to get your ‘rita on.
La Rosa Tequileria: 500 4th St., Santa Rosa, 707.523.3663. Best. Margaritas. No contest. The La Diabla ($9) with muddled strawberries and jalapeno peppers on the rocks is picante’riffic.
Cornerstone Gardens: from 4 to 7 p.m. on Thursday, May 5, with food and margaritas. Registration in advance gets you a free margarita. Ramekins.com/friends-of-ramekins. 23570 Arnold Dr., Sonoma.
Rossi’s 1906: Inaugural Cinco De Mayo party benefiting La Luz from 5 to 11:30 p.m. The evening will include live music with Grupo Karma Norteno and a Licores Latinos launch party featuring mezcal, tequila and artisanal rum. A special menu will be served until 9:30 p.m. Tickets are $10 in advance or $12 at the door. 401 Grove St, Sonoma, (from the Sonoma Index-Tribune)
Agave: Grab a mole and an Agave margarita with fresh lime juice and agave nectar. 1063 Vine St., Healdsburg.C
Maya Restaurant: Great tequila and margaritas. 101 E. Napa St., Sonoma
YOUR FAVES: From my BiteClub Facebook Peanut Gallery, here are some great ones…
Geyserville Gun Club:New spot in Geyserville from Dino Bugica. Tres chic. 21025 Geyserville Ave., Geyserville.
The Starling: Brand new spot for seasonal cocktails in the former Blue Moon. “Watmaugh strawberry margarita and the Fresno pickled pepper margarita” 19380 CA-12, Sonoma.
El Farolito: Oaxacan-influenced dishes & an ample list of tequilas. 128 Plaza St., Healdsburg and Windsor.
Low Brow…
El Torito: Hit the bar and get yourself some paper bull-horns (kids usually get them free with dinner). Let the hilarity ensue. Pitchers tend to be a little light on the tequila. So order several. 5090 Redwood Dr., Rohnert Park, 707.206.9100. Outdoor seating: Ole!
Chevy’s: Let the kids in on the Cinco-vibe! Hands-down my rugrats’ favorite spot for, uh, chicken nuggets and balls of raw tortilla dough, Chevy’s does the faux margarita oh-so-well. With whipped cream, and in a glass the size of your head. 24 Fourth Street Santa Rosa, 571.1082 Outdoor seating: Ole!
Mateo’s Cocina Latina
Preston Farms strawberry margarita, a traditional margarita de casa, or spice it up with jalapeño (each $10). Plus, special tequila and Mezcal flights on the patio ($20 per person). They’ll also be roasting one of Winkler Farms’ heritage Mangalitsa pigs and serving it up with oysters, four sides, and salad, $35. Complementary chicharron bar begins with drink orders at 2p.m.; dinner starts at 5p.m. 214 Healdsburg Ave., Healdsburg.
La Toque, Napa becomes “El Toque”
We love the idea of this upscale French bistro showcasing a five course meal with family recipes of the Hispanic kitchen staff of the restaurant. The menu will include guacamole and family salsas, Coctel de Mariscos, chile relleno, “staff tacos” duck confit with mole and tres leches cake wiht roasted pineapple, pina colada ice cream and cajeta. A portion of the proceeds donated to the puertas Abiertas Community Center in Napa. 1314 McKinstry St., Napa, $75 per person, latoque.com.
Everyday Mexican Eats…
La Texanita: Located on Sebastopol Ave., Texanita is a perennial taqueria favorite for locals, with constantly changing daily specials. Weekends are for serious eaters, with posole, menudo and goat on the menu. 1667 Sebastopol Road, Santa Rosa, 707.576.8805
Chilenos: My neighborhood taqueria, we love the tacos dorados, ceviche and super burritos. 1079 Fourth St., Santa Rosa.
Taqueria Las Palmas: Chiles relleno combination plate ($5.80): Deep-fried delight stuffed with cheese. 415 Santa Rosa Ave, Santa Rosa, 707.546-3091
El Farolito: Fish tacos to die for. 128 Plaza Street Healdsburg, 707.433.2807
Lola’s: Amazing carnitas, mole and pretty much anything else from dried chiles to pig’s feet. 440 Dutton Ave # 17, Santa Rosa, 577.8846, or 1680 Petaluma Hill Rd, Santa Rosa, 571.7579.
SERIOUSLY CINCO EVENTS
The 11th annual Roseland Cinco de Mayo Festival happens from 4-9p.m. Thursday, with an estimated 10,000 plus people in attendance. Non-smoking, no alcohol, family-friendly. Awesome live music, mariachi, Ballet Forklorico, plus nearly 100 booths to visit with children’s activities, local organizations, and Latin eats including tacos, pupusas, pambazos, turkey drumsticks, fruta, paella, and kettle corn. Don’t miss the Classic Car Show from 5 – 7 p.m. and La Reina del Cinco de Mayo. santarosacincodemayo.org.
Windsor Town Green: Family-friendly event with live music, Ballet Folklorico Sarita, food, alcohol for sale from 5-8p.m.
– Robledo Family Winery: Wine, traditional Mexican dishes, Mariachi and folk dancers, $45, reservations required, robledofamilywinery.com on Saturday, May 7.
