Page 443 – Sonoma Magazine

Sonoma Chocolate: Locals do it best

February 2016

By biteclub

In Sonoma chocolate is a thing. Like wine, beer and food, we’ve got a special talent for mixing cocoa, sugar and milk. Here are some of our favorite Sonoma chocolatiers…

New: Eye Candy Chocolatiers: Chocolate is Dr. Sonja Schluter’s happy place. The Sonoma ophthalmologist spends her days working with patients facing serious vision problems, primarily glaucoma. So her off-time passion for making beautiful chocolate truffles has become an outlet of beauty, precision and, of course, deliciousness.

But after 20 years practice (and giving most of her chocolate creations to friends), she’s finally opened a tiny retail shop at Sebastopol’s Gravenstein Station called Eye Candy.

Jewel-like truffles of every size and shape line the case, with flavors like passionfruit, guava, Earl Grey tea, chai coconut and cinnamon cardamom, making decisions difficult. What we love is the bitterness balancing act. Schulter uses a chocolate that’s between 54-64 percent cacao (milk chocolate has as little as 10% and extra-dark is around 80%), easing up on some of the intense bitterness of other dark chocolates.

Each of the truffles is made in the shop, with a mix of precision and creativity. “It fits my personality,” said Schluter, who has culinary training from the Ecole Chocolat in Vancouver and Callebaut Academy in Chicago. Crediting her mom, Tamara Suslov, M.D. (who founded the Eye Center in Sebastopol) for her tenacity and inspiration, Sonja brings her two worlds of chocolate and ophthamology together by donating a portion of her candy proceeds to the Glaucoma Research Foundation.

“Its a beautiful balancing act,” she said. 6761 Sebastopol Ave, Sebastopol. Open Monday through Saturday from 11a.m. to 4p.m.

CLOSED Cocoa Planet: Someone just answered your prayers. Rich, creamy, dark chocolate with “pearls” of flavor (mint, mandarin orange, vanilla espresso, salted caramel, deep dark truffle. Turns out you can get incredible flavor without all the sugar and just 96 calories per disk. This is a Chocolate Revolution! Available at Oliver’s Market, 461 Stony Point Road, Santa Rosa, (707) 284-3530 or at cocoaplanet.com.

CLOSED Recherche de Plaisir: For more than 20 years Sonoma County native Lucy Gustafson has been giving away chocolates confections by the dozens of dozens for appreciative friends and family. After making more than 500 truffles for Christmas a few years ago, Gustafson decided to enroll herself in the Ecole Chocolat’s professional chocolatier program and make her part-time passion a full-time calling.

Her popular Recherche du Plaisir, a Parisian-style confiserie (aka a sweet shop) in Santa Rosa (3401 Cleveland Ave., Suite 9, 843-3551) features truffles (white chocolate with ginger cinnamon and honey; milk chocolate with peppermint; Calvados infused dark chocolate ganache among them), butter caramels, French style macarons and an ever-growing number of other goodies. This is Sonoma chocolate at its best!

Sonoma Chocolatiers: Chocolatier David Gambill of Sonoma Chocolatiers is the guy behind some of the county’s most unusual truffles: Garlic, cheddar white truffle and rosemary goat cheese. In his Sebstopol sweets laboratory, he frets over each hand-made flavor. But rest assured, there are plenty of more approachable combinations including rose, lavender, Chambord, cherry kirsch, coconut almond, jasmine green tee and orange cardamom caramels. Sonoma Chocolatiers, 6988 McKinley Street, Sebastopol, (707) 829-1181.

Firefly Chocolates: Bean-to-bar chocolate made in Windsor. Small batch, artisan, dark chocolate made by Jonas Ketterle. Available at Community Market.

Sjaaks: Vegan, organic chocolates made in Sonoma County.

Wine Country Chocolates: Chocolate with a local flavor, this Sonoma chocolateria fills their truffles with Cabernet, Zinfandel, Port and champagne. Not into wine? How about the Elvis, a peanut butter truffle with banana ganache or a boysenberry gananche with blackberry honey? Tasting rooms at 14301 Arnold Drive, Glen Ellen, 966-1010 and on the Sonoma Plaza, 414 First St. East, Sonoma.

Patisserie Angelica: We’ll let you decide whether the creamy, decadent Better Than Sex Hot Fudge Sauce at this Sebastopol bakery actually is. What we can say is that loading it on top of ice cream or eating it right into the jar is a heaping helping of deliciousness. 6821 Laguna Park Way, Sebastopol, 827-7998, open Friday and Saturday from 10am to 5pm.

Chocolate Cow: Lots of truffles, fudge and other chocolate treats, some made in-house. 452 First St., E. Sonoma, 935-3564.

In Napa, there are a number of high-end chocolatiers as well. We especially love…

Woodhouse Chocolate: 1367 Main St, St Helena, (707) 963-8413
Kollar Chocolates: 6525 Washington St., Yountville, 738-6750.
La Foret: 3261 Browns Valley Rd., Napa, 255-1787

Best and Worst Valentine Chocolate Smackdown

February 2016

By biteclub

Russell Stover Private Reserve Fine Assorted Chocolates

You forgot about Valentine’s Day? Strike one.

Then you tried to salvage it by buying your sweetie a heart-shaped box of chocolates from a store that also sells hairspray and antifreeze: Strike two.

Before you strike out, let us step in and give a hand when it comes to last-minute chocolate buying at, say Target, CVS, or really anywhere besides a chocolate shop. Not all chocolate is created equal, and when you’re spending less than $15 for a half-pound or more, chances are it’s a game of roulette as to whether its even palatable.

We’ve done the legwork by tasting seven different brands of Valentine chocolates ranging from $6.99 to $14.99 available at most large retailers.

They’re the names you know: Ghiradelli, Whitman’s, Lindt, Godiva, Hershey’s. Nothing fancy or artisan, just mass-produced chocolates that many Valentines are destined to receive this year. Among them are a few surprising standouts, completely uninspired standbys and horrifying stinkers we wouldn’t even foist on our boss.

So in this admittedly unscientific tasting of Valentine chocolate samplers, we’ve done the difficult and calorically dangerous work for you (mostly in bed, watching romantic movies). Benchmarks included whether or not there was a map of the chocolates (so to avoid the dreaded nougat), sweetness, calorie-to-worth-it ratio, consistency, packaging, appearance and whether we’d feel special getting one of these boxes.

Here are the results…

Want to read about great LOCAL chocolatiers? Me too. So click here for their stories.

Lindt Classic Assorted Chocolates, $9.99, 10 pieces

Lindt Classic Assorted Chocolates Valentine Chocolates

Our inner 12-year-old loved the pretty pink box, but was disappointed at the paltry packaging to chocolate ratio. If you’re a fan of Lindt’s truffles, you’ll be familiar with the sweet, creamy chocolate flavor.
Map: Yes
Calories for the Whole Box: 766
Fave Flavors: White chocolate, hazelnut, dark raspberry cream truffles
Love-O-Meter: He so gets me. Is there a ring inside somewhere? Cause the answer is yes.

Ghiradelli Sweet Hearts Premium Chocolate Assortment, $9.99, 12 pieces

Classy packaging and artisan-looking truffles neatly packed inside. They look and taste more expensive than they are, and the chocolate is not overly sweet or grainy, like other inexpensive chocolate brands.
Map: Yes
Calories for the Whole Box: 685
Fave Flavors: Chocolate hazelnut cream with toffee bits
Love-O-Meter: I’m worth it.

Russel Stover Private Reserve, $12.99, 16 pieces

This saucy heart with satin and black lace was surprisingly tasty, though heavy on the fruit creams. With a whopping 16 pieces, however, it was an impressive spread of chocolate with white, milk and dark chocolate.
Map: Yes
Calories for the Whole Box: 1,103
Fave Flavors: Raspberry caramel, honey caramel, lemon souffle
Love-O-Meter: Let’s eat these together. In bed.

Ferrero Collection, $6.99, 10 pieces

If you’re a fan of these chocolate hazelnut truffles with crunchy wafers, you’ll be stoked on this petite box. We tend to be big on white chocolate and coconut, so the Raffaello bon bons are a big fave. Interestingly, each of the flavors is made in a different country: Germany, Poland or Canada.
Map: Yes
Calories for the Box: 600
Fave Flavors: Rondnoir, Raffaello
Love-O-Meter: Kiss me, Romeo!

Godiva Assorted Chocolates, $12.99, 15 pieces

This was the biggest bummer of the lot, since I expected some pretty decent chocolate from Godiva. First off, it was impossible to tell which chocolate was what, though the flavors include milk, dark and white chocolate ganache, strawberry cheesecake and creme brulee. I’m not a gambler when it comes to mystery chocolates, but the two I did taste were overly sweet while still somehow tasteless.
Map: No
Calories for the Whole Box: 950
Fave Flavors: None
Love-O-Meter: Let’s melt these down and paint each other with chocolate.

Hershey’s Pot of Gold Premium Collection, $6.99, 13 pieces

Pretty box designed by Academy of Art University students. But who puts 13 pieces of candy in a box? Unlucky, for sure, because I was loathe to taste even one of these mystery “assorted” chocolates. The one I did was grainy, unpleasant, and fake tasting. It went back half-eaten.
Map: No
Calories for the Whole Box: 650
Fave Flavors: None
Love-O-Meter: Are you trying to break up with me?

Whitman’s Sampler, $12.99, 26 pieces

Oh, Whitman’s. From previous experience, my expectations were well managed, but even then I was disappointed. I mean, “I need to spit this out” disappointed. Only vaguely chocolate tasting, grainy, ridiculously sweet. Plus, the box was a disaster when I opened it, with several chocolates out of place. I don’t feel special.
Map: Yes
Calories for the Whole Box: 1,733
Fave Flavors: None
Love-O-Meter: I hate you, too.

Where to Eat Now in Sonoma County

February 2016

By Heather Irwin

Mushroom and Truffled Bruschetta cream canapes at Bistro 100 in Petaluma. (Heather Irwin / The Press Democrat)

From new to well-aged, where to eat right now

Delhi Belly Indian Bistro

It was a bold move to name this restaurant after a term sometimes used for an exotic travelers’ affliction (to put it gently). But the food and vibe here are nothing but delightful. Focused heavily on Northern Indian cuisine, Dehli Belly’s menu has a familiar lineup including palak paneer, daal and naan, and tandoori and tikka masala for traditionalists. But the real buzz is about the less-familiar dishes: roti and paratha (wheat breads), hariyali mali kofta (a cheese dumpling with spinach and vegetables in tomato sauce) and butter chicken. Often confused with tikka masala, butter chicken has a little more spice, a little less cream and a lot more butter. It’s tikka masala’s classier cousin.

520 Broadway, Sonoma, 707-343-1003, visit on Facebook

Hana Japanese Restaurant

For 25 years, this unassuming little sushi restaurant has served the North Bay’s most authentic Japanese meals. Working with fish flown in weekly from Toyko’s famed Tsukiji market, chef and owner Ken Tominaga is something of a sushi legend, despite the rather cramped quarters his restaurant had long occupied in Rohnert Park. Tominaga, however, recently doubled the space, adding a casual sake bar that serves some of the region’s finest sakes from throughout Japan. Hana is one of the few restaurants with its own sake sommelier, and flights of the rice wine are popular. Maybe the highest praise is that this is a trusted source for fresh uni (sea urchin) and ankimo (steamed monkfish liver), delicacies that can go very wrong in untrained hands.

101 Golf Course Drive, Rohnert Park, 707-586-0270, hanajapanese.com

Walter Hansel Wine & Bistro

The menu is Wine Country French featuring de Gaulle-era classics such as Coquilles St. Jacques (scallops with a white-wine truffle cream sauce, naughtier than a night at the Moulin Rouge); Julia Child-worthy boeuf Bourguignon, lobster bisque en croute, and a proper tarte tatin (apples in a flaky crust) with homemade caramel. Prices are steep, but the large wine selection (including many Walter Hansel wines) is impressive. Service is spot-on at this restaurant. It’s perfect for a romantic splurge.

3535 Guerneville Road, Santa Rosa, 707-546-6462, walterhanselbistro.com

Guiso Latin Fusion

Caribbean meets Salvadoran at this Healdsburg jewel box. The tiny kitchen at the former Ravenous can be slow, but the food is made with love. Jamaican jerk chicken with mango and pineapple salsa makes for tasty tacos; the Salvadoran take on the Cubano sandwich offers pulled pork marinated in citrus, with Swiss cheese, pickles and mustard. Heartier fare includes pescado con coco (fish sautéed with coconut) and slow-braised pork ribs. Don’t miss the pupusas stuffed with pork, chicken or vegetables and topped with elotitos — sliced pieces of corn roasted in jerk, butter and garlic. Save room for the quesadillita con helado, a mashup of rice and cheese bread with vanilla ice cream and hibiscus sauce.

117 North St., Healdsburg, 707-431-1302, guisolatinfusion.com

Soban Korean Cuisine

A sizzling pot of rice that continues to cook while you eat it? That’s bibimbap, a Korean comfort food. Meaning “mixed rice,” bibimbap is so hot you can cook an egg on it. It’s a signature dish at Soban in Petaluma, a recent entrant to the restaurant scene that locals say is as authentic as it gets, with homemade kimchi, pan-fried Korean pancakes, beef and pork bulgogi (marinated meats in a spicy sweet sauce), and the bibimbap made in a sizzling stone pot with pickled vegetables, seafood, kimchi, beef or chicken. Soban Chicken was just as good as a midnight snack as it was right out of the bowl.

255 N. McDowell Blvd., Petaluma, 707-796-3112, sobanpetaluma.com

Bistro 100

Comfort classics with a French twist are the signature of this cozy Petaluma bistro. Everyone knows everyone here, and if they don’t, the bistro tables lend themselves to casual conversation and knowing nods of approval as lusty plates of short ribs arrive. Most of the ingredients (and wine) are sourced from within 20 miles, giving diners a true taste of the county. Best bets include mushroom and truffled bruschetta cream canapés, Sonoma County terrine, and Cabernet-braised short ribs.

140 Second St., Suite 100, Petaluma, 707-981-8228, bistro100petaluma.com

Ca’ Momi Osteria

This “obsessively Italian” Napa newcomer focuses on authentic regional specialties. Travel through Italy with grilled rock octopus with lemon vinaigrette, inspired by Venice’s seafood bounty; imported burrata cheese from Puglia with roasted vegetables and olive oil; and oxtail stew with tomato, rigatoni, soffritto, pine nuts and raisins from the pastoral Lazio region surrounding Rome. Spaghetti is offered only “alla bottarga,” a briny dish that gets a shaving of cured fish roe — a specialty of Sardinia. Certified-authentic Napoletana pizza is cooked for exactly 90 seconds in a 900-degree wood-burning oven, dressed with simple toppings of San Marzano tomatoes, garlic and oregano, or more luxurious porcini mushrooms with white truffle cream and basil.

1141 First St., Napa, 707-224-6664, camomi.com

Basilico Cucina Italiana

This new trattoria comes from the owners of Cucina Paradiso in Petaluma. The menu is very similar, with a nice antipasti plate, exceptional beef tartare, fresh pastas and swoonworthy gnocchi with Gorgonzola-walnut sauce. Even if you’re not a veal fan, it’s worth trying the scaloppine al Marsala — a thin cut of tender veal with porcini mushrooms and Marsala wine sauce. The room can be loud and crowded with locals on weekends, but that speaks to its popularity and approachable dishes.

4776 Sonoma Highway, Santa Rosa, 707-539-0260, basilico-cucina-italiana.com

Sonoma Grille

With a nod to its past as Meritage Oyster Bar and Grill, the menu at this reborn surf and turf restaurant features many of the same dishes fans craved before. That also means a slog of more than 30 items (fewer than the previous menu) from which to choose. From fresh oysters and hefty seafood platters to pasta, roast chicken and steaks, there’s something for every taste. A new kitchen, bar and beer garden bring fresh vigor to this venerable spot.

165 W. Napa St., Sonoma, 707-938-7542, sonomagrilleandbar.com

Canneti Roadhouse Italiana

Marrying his own Tuscan culinary traditions with the best of Sonoma’s farms and fields, chef Francesco Torres has created a menu that’s both rustic and refined, capturing the best of west county’s bounty. In winter, hearty braised boar, local mushrooms and chestnut-flour gnocchi with cauliflower sauce shine. In warmer months, dishes include zucchini and mint over ricotta goat cheese and vegetable sugo with housemade pasta. Canneti boasts one of the most enchanting outdoor patios in Sonoma. Word is now out that this Forestville spot, with its modern interior and chatty bar, is worth the drive.

6675 Front St., Forestville, 707-887-2232, cannetirestaurant.com

Wine Pairings for Everything from Oysters to Valentine’s Day

February 2016

By Virginie Boone

Seasonal Sonoma Wines for Winter

Winter doesn’t mean drinking only red wines. The season also calls for refreshing whites, whether they’re to pair with local Dungeness crab and seafood stews, or to fill a longing for the taste of impending spring. Of course, it’s also the time for romantic meals and the biggest Sunday on television – the Super Bowl — when we eat and drink with abandon.

Sauvignon Blanc for Oyster Season

If you like: Halleck Vineyard 2014 Little Sister Russian River Valley Sauvignon Blanc ($35)
From the Ritchie Vineyard, a superb source for Sauvignon Blanc and Chardonnay, Little Sister is flinty and full of citrus and orange blossom character. The minimal time the wine spends in neutral oak allows the fruit to shine while adding depth. Crisp and dry, the wine has a lilting salty brine that begs for drinking with fresh oysters.

You may also like: Dry Creek Vineyard 2014 Dry Creek Valley Sauvignon Blanc ($18)
This delicious wine is predominantly Sauvignon Blanc, with small amounts of Sauvignon Gris and Sauvignon Musqué added for accent. On the palate, waxy apple comes first, followed by edgy acidity that manifests itself as fresh-cut lemon and tangerine. Fermented in 100 percent stainless steel, finishes refreshingly.

Chardonnay for Roast Chicken Nights

If you like: Migration 2013 Charles Heintz Vineyard Sonoma Coast Chardonnay ($55)
Bright and balanced, this wine from an exceptional vineyard offers a lovely combination of elegance and complexity. Opulent aromas of caramel and quince lead to a layered, lengthy and viscous palate, ending with a touch of vanilla. It’s also a great choice for buttery fried chicken.

You may also like: Balletto Vineyards 2014 Teresa’s Unoaked Russian River Valley Chardonnay ($20)
Here is a crowd-pleasing quaffer that even Chardonnay naysayers will love. Pretty and pleasingly tart, it has a fresh-squeezed lemon flavor accompanied by hints of anise, caramel apple and pear. Crisp and dry, it’s a pure wine with a lasting finish.

Pinot Noir for Valentine’s Day

If you like: Davis Family Vineyards 2013 Dutton Ranch Russian River Valley Pinot Noir ($55)
Aromas of forest floor, truffle, black tea and cardamom make this a savory and wholly compelling wine. Orange blossom, orange peel, rose petal and a sensation of crushed rock add to the complexity of this intriguing Pinot. It’s a perfect pick for a romantic evening, paired with pork tenderloin with dried-cherry sauce.

You may also like: Roots Run Deep Winery Educated Guess 2013 Carneros Pinot Noir ($25)
Rich, dark and concentrated, this hearty red has power and velocity to spare. Layers of wild strawberry and earth are wrapped in solid oak. It’s a Pinot that will appeal to fans of full-bodied wines and will make for a fine nightcap.

Cabernet Sauvignon for Super Bowl 50

If you like: Ferrari-Carano 2012 PreVail Back Forty Alexander Valley Cabernet Sauvignon ($90)
Just right for grilled sausages and other meats, this wine has smoky cigar and toffee notes on the entry. Soft, thick and rich, this reserve-level bottling is sure to please fans of full-bodied reds. Blackberry and blueberry jam provide the fruit character that complements the savory elements.

You may also like: Stonestreet Estate Vineyards 2011 Alexander Valley Cabernet Sauvignon ($45)
This wine is quite an accomplishment in flavor and complexity, given the chilly vintage and price. From high-altitude vineyards atop the Mayacamas, it delivers peppercorn, herb and mellow oak notes, and fine, integrated tannins. Graphite and cedar also figure into the mix, long with black cherry and cassis. Pop the cork when the pigs in a blanket come out of the oven.

Wedding Experts: Planning Your Dream Honeymoon

February 2016

By Sonoma Magazine Staff

Advice from travel advisor, Leslie Bryant.

Travel is Leslie Bryant’s passion, and she prides herself on creating amazing travel experiences, journeys, and lasting memories for her clients no matter where their travels may take them. Designing and crafting honeymoon memories is an important part of Leslie’s business.

She has nearly 25 years of experience in the travel industry and has been traveling and exploring the world since then, bringing the knowledge gained on her journeys home to share with her clients. Leslie has created relationships with industry professionals throughout the world, and with these connections and her experience, she is able to take vacation dreams and turn them into reality, creating truly extraordinary trips.

What’s the best advice about honeymoon planning for a bride-to-be?

Your honeymoon is as important as your wedding. It’s the beginning of your life together and the start of many, many memories and shared experiences. Plan your honeymoon in advance—at least six months—for best pricing and availability. Start a discussion about the destinations you might want to visit, what you want to do, and how much time you have. Set your budget, and then contact your travel advisor.

How can the services of a good travel agent help?
An experienced travel advisor can set your mind at ease by offering personalized travel planning, value for your dollar, VIP treatment, and more. The Internet is a good source for research, but it can be extremely overwhelming and misleading with all the information and choices that are available. An advisor will assist you in cutting through all the clutter and will maximize the value of any trip through his or her connections and knowledge. You want your honeymoon to be perfect, and relying on pictures from the Internet compared to relying on a professional, who has firsthand knowledge of a destination and hotel, can make a world of difference. You do not want any surprises when you arrive at your destination.

When you collaborate with a professional travel advisor, he or she will draw upon firsthand experience to craft the perfect honeymoon based on your interests, passions, needs, and budget. As a travel advisor within the Virtuoso network, I am able to use my personal connections and relationships to get my clients special amenities and upgrades, as well as exclusive access to private tours, events, and more— all at the best value for your dollar. The global expertise I’ve developed through personal and business travels and the connections I have throughout the world offer my clients extraordinary experiences with once in a lifetime moments and memories.

What are the key things to consider when planning your honeymoon?

If you’re planning a big wedding, take into consideration the type of honeymoon experience you will enjoy directly following your special day. I most often find my honeymooners want to relax, and they find that an exotic beach destination is the best fit for that goal. If you’re active and are feeling a bit more adventurous and ambitious, other destinations may suit your desires. If you’re undecided on your destination, this is where a travel advisor can assist you to choose the best options based on your criteria and ultimate needs.

What are the most common honeymoon-planning challenges?

Finding the time to plan your honeymoon with all that wedding planning in front of you can be overwhelming. This is where your travel advisor can give you the peace of mind you need, saving you time, finding the best value, and designing a honeymoon based on your criteria. Once the initial planning has begun, you can relax and enjoy knowing that your advisor specializes in worldclass customer service, with 24/7 availability before, during, and after
your honeymoon!

What are the hottest destinations and/or types of honeymoons you’re seeing right now?

Exotic island destinations such as Tahiti, Fiji, and Thailand for their amazing beaches, private island experiences, and unique accommodations such as overwater bungalows and bures seem to be the most popular right now.

Soft adventure honeymoons have remained strong on the radar, especially to destinations such as Africa, Peru, New Zealand, and Costa Rica. For those not wanting to travel as far, U.S. and Canada–based honeymoons such as Montana and British Columbia offer “glamping” experiences and majestic natural beauty. Lastly, I’m also seeing a resurgence in cultural and historical destinations in Europe.

How to Agree on a Destination

Your honeymoon is a once-in-a-lifetime experience, and the destination you
choose should be well-thought-out and, of course, agreed upon. He may want a honeymoon full of activity and adventure, but she may be thinking of relaxation on the beach and spa time. Try to compromise, and choose a destination that will allow you to relax and regenerate for a few days after the wedding—because you will be exhausted! Then, seek your activity, touring, and adventure (after
some quiet time together). Think of your favorite things to do together
and places you’d like to explore that will include something you will each enjoy. You want your honeymoon to be romantic, special, and fun—as this is truly a new beginning for the two of you in your journey through life together.

Franchettis Wood Fire Kitchen, Santa Rosa

February 2016

By biteclub

Polenta with mushrooms at Franchetti's Wood Fired Kitchen in Santa Rosa. Photo: Heather Irwin. — Polenta with mushrooms at Franchetti’s Wood Fired Kitchen in Santa Rosa. Photo: Heather Irwin.

Two forks + one bite of polenta cake = friendship on the line.

Over a recent lunch nosh-fest my gal pal and I had nearly inhaled a plate of seared polenta with truffle porcini spread, mushrooms, arugula and tiny Peruvian sweet peppers ($14) at the new(ish) Franchettis Wood Fire Kitchen (1229 N. Dutton, Santa Rosa).

And that last bite? Things were about to get ugly between us. Fortunately she was easily distracted, and while I pushed her purse off the table, stole the final few crumbs to her horror.

(k)chetti’s spicy chicken with salsa verde and Calabrian chili paste at Franchetti’s Kitchen in Santa Rosa, California on 1/20/16. (Heather Irwin, Press Democrat). — (k)chetti’s spicy chicken with salsa verde and Calabrian chili paste at Franchettis Kitchen in Santa Rosa, California on 1/20/16. (Heather Irwin, Press Democrat).

That’s actually not at all what happened, because I’m a class act and I let her have the last bite, while secretly snarfing the rest of the crab fettucini and braised Brussels sprouts with cream and lemon olive oil ($9.75). I may have also shoved some of the spicier-than-Channing-Tatum (k)chettis’ spicy chicken (flash fried with salsa verde and Calabrian chili paste, $10) into my bag.

Chump.

Crab fettucine at Franchetti’s Wood-fired Kitchen in Santa Rosa, California on 1/16. Photo Heather Irwin — Crab fettucine at Franchettis Wood-fired Kitchen in Santa Rosa, California on 1/16. Photo Heather Irwin

Since parting ways with Rosso, Chef John Franchetti and his wife, Gesine, have been revamping their bistro menu with a lineup of small plates, salads and entrees that, frankly, are what we’ve always admired most about Franchetti’s cooking. Each day, a lineup of specials goes onto the chalkboard, so you never quite know what you’ll experience on any given day, though the fried chicken, arancini, wood-fired pizzas, roasted olives with burrata (which made me fall in love with Franchetti’s cooking way back in 2009), and breakfast skillets are in the regular rotation.

Cauliflower mac and cheese at Franchetti’s Wood-fired Kitchen in Santa Rosa, California on 1/16. Photo Heather Irwin — Cauliflower mac and cheese at Franchettis Wood Fire Kitchen in Santa Rosa, California on 1/16. Photo Heather Irwin

Gone are the rotisseries and focus on porchetta (which I like, but was a little limiting), instead focusing on whatever the Franchettis are getting in fresh that day.

Cheesekcake at Franchetti's Wood Fired Kitchen in Santa Rosa, California. Heather Irwin — Cheesekcake at Franchettis Wood Fire Kitchen in Santa Rosa, California. Heather Irwin

The bonus: Pastry chef Dominique Cortara rents space from the Franchettis, so her breakfast pastries and other sweets are always on the menu. Watch for her lemon cheesecake with blood orange curd ($5.75) that’s another friendship-ender.

So, just order two.

Brussels sprouts at Franchetti's Wood Fired Kitchen in Santa Rosa, California. Heather Irwin — Brussels sprouts at Franchettis Wood Fired Kitchen in Santa Rosa, California. Heather Irwin

Franchettis Wood Fire Kitchen, 1229 N. Dutton, Santa Rosa, 526-1229.
Hours: Breakfast and lunch: Monday through Friday, 9am to 2:30pm
Brunch: Saturday and Sunday: 9am to 1:30pm
Dinner: Wednesday through Sunday, 5pm to 8:30pm (last seating)
Happy hour: 4:30pm to 6pm

Valentine Dining: 10 Romantic Restaurants in Sonoma County

February 2016

By biteclub

Romantic Restaurants for Valentine’s Day in Santa Rosa and Sonoma County…

Taking your sweetie out for a romantic Valentine dinner is about the sweetest thing ever. So make sure you don’t screw it up.

Valentine’s Day (Sunday, Feb. 14) is the second most popular holiday for dining out, according to the National Restaurant Association (Mother’s Day is first). But not all Valentine dinners are created equal. With most of you heading out for a romantic evening to get those passionate engines revving over a glass of wine and a tasty meal, we’ve collected a handful of restaurants (and a couple bonus ideas) we think are worth the V-Day cost, either because of the food or their romantic atmosphere (or both).

Consider it our Valentine to you.

Note, unless specified, you’ll need to make an advanced reservation for all of these dinners or expect the maitre’d to (rightly) laugh hysterically in your face.

Mayo Family Winery Reserve Tasting Room features a 7-course wine pairing adventure perfect for Valentines. (Heather Irwin)

Feb. 11

Warm-Up to Love: Cheesemaking

Cheesemaker Sheana Davis hosts a sweetheart cheese class where you’ll not only learn how to make fresh ricotta (there is nothing better), but nosh on the fruits of your labor with raspberry rose petal jam. Also, winter salad with asparagus and lemon parsley vinaigrette, seared Sonoma duck with cherry reduction and rose water polenta cake with candied rose petals. Of course there’s plenty of bubbly to round out the fun. $95 per person, 6:30-9:30p.m., Ramekins, 450 W. Spain St., Sonoma, 933-0450, ramekins.com.

Feb 12-14

His and Hers Menu: Spoonbar

Husband and wife chefs, Casey and Patrick Van Voorhis duel for your tastebuds with each cooking two courses, and collaborating on dessert. Casey leads with caviar and egg cream, with Patrick doing a beet and coca sable appetizer, followed by Casey’s lobster with smoked butter and his lamb with asparagus. You decide who really wears the pants in their kitchen. Can be bustling, so factor that into your plans. $90 per person, 219 Healdsburg Ave., Healdsburg, 433-7222, website.

Dinner and Breakfast in Bed: Dry Creek Kitchen

Chef Charlie Palmer’s five course prix fixe for $89 per person is a stunner if you’re steppin’ out in style. Fennel-crusted ahi starts the show, followed by truffled parmesan risotto, sauteed quail and veal sweetbread with porcini puree, Kobe beef loin with bone marrow jus and a chocolate Madeleine cookie with milk chocolate sauce. Plus you’ll get “Breakfast in Bed” donuts to take with you. (Which ain’t a bad way to start a Monday morning). Quiet and romantic. Feb. 12 and 13, seatings from 5:30 to 10p.m.; Sunday from 5:30 to 9:30p.m., $89 per person, $79 for additional wine pairing. 317 Healdsburg Ave. Healdsburg, 431-0330, website.

Feb. 14

Early, early bird: Walter Hansel Wine & Bistro

Doors open at 3p.m. for early Valentines (which we think is kind of brilliant), with free corkage for the 3p.m. diners. Dinner goes until 8:30p.m, but frankly we’d rather be snuggling on the couch with our sweetie after dark. Dinner includes a champagne flight ($22), petite tender loin ($48) and a lobster tasting ($52) with lobster vol-au-vent and lobster risotto. Tres romantic. 3535 Guerneville Road, Santa Rosa, 546-6462, website.

Meaty Treats: Zazu Kitchen and Farm

The meaty focus of butcher-chefs Jon Stewart and Duskie Estes seems especially appropriate for a holiday focused on the heart, if you’re into taking the whole holiday literally. Three courses include fried oysters with sriracha aioli; duck with black rice and blood orange; aged ribeye with ruby chard or porchetta with black lentils. Non-carnivores can enjoy artichoke fritti, chestnut and ricotta ravioli with ruby beets and rhubarb-raspberry pie. Convivial atmosphere, maybe not as conducive to whispering sweet nothings. Perfect for a double date. $79 per person, 6770 McKinley #150, Sebastopol, 523-4814, website.

Tres Francais: Bistro 29

We love the Valentine menu for this charming French bistro that are hearty enough to keep you and your sweetie full and happy ’til sunrise. Prix fixe menu includes roasted beet and fennel soup, foie gras with fig compote, seared filet mignon and panko-crusted braised endive and potato terrine with Gruyere, Mornay and dandelion greens, $75 per person, $35 additional wine pairing. 620 Fifth St., Santa Rosa, 546-2929, website.

Guild The Lily: Madrona Manor

Don’t think of it as a dinner, think of it as an investment in your relationship. Osetra caviar on brioche, three freaking grams of Perigord truffle risotto(!), local black cod with oyster dashi, dry aged beef loin with fava leaves, chocolate mousse truffle. $165 per person, $80 for additional wine pairing, with 20 percent service charge added to all checks. Luxe, intimate, memorable. 1001 Westside Road, Healdsburg, 433-4231, website.

Panna Cotta with mango at Mayo Family Winery Reserve Tasting Room. The 7-course wine pairing adventure is perfect for Valentines. Photo: Heather Irwin

Swirl and Sip: Reserve Room at Mayo Family Winery

We fell a little in love with this sunny, cheery tasting room that features a luxe-yet-fun seven course wine and food pairing — mostly because of its new chef, Sam Frumkin. The millenial chef has serious cred after working at Eleven Madison Park and Sante at the Sonoma Mission Inn, as well as a sommelier certificate, but greets every guest with a smile and a glass of bubbly. Sans ‘tude. His winter menu includes small bites of corn bread and short ribs with zinfandel, chicken mole tostada with Petite Sirah and panna cotta with mango to pair with off dry Gewurtztraminer. There’s an additional dessert over Valentine’s weekend made with zinfandel port. The tasting is $40, or $25 for club members. Appointments strongly recommended at mayofamilywinery.com/reserve-room. 9200 Sonoma Hwy, Kenwood, 833-5504. Now, can we get some more of that mole to go?

Picture Perfect: Barndiva Restaurant and Gallery Cafe

Chef Ryan Fancher is one of the best Wine Country chefs that you don’t know. The former French Laundry and El Dorado Kitchen chef has been quietly turning out some of the most beautiful plates of food we’ve ever seen, using both local and exotic ingredients. On Valentine’s Day, he’ll be serving up chilled crab with potato and bacon salad, lobster tortellini with soy butter, filet mignon with artichoke ravioli and Meyer lemon frito misto and a fresh raspberry roulade for (we think), the very affordable V-day prix fixe of $87 per person. Next door, at the more casual gallery bistro, Fancher does vichyssoise, coq au vin and steak frites for $68. 231 and 237 Center St., Healdsburg, 431-0100, website.

No Prix Fixe: Willie’s Wine Bar

Willie’s Wine Bar, and all of the Stark Reality Restaurants (Bird & Bottle, Monti’s, Stark’s Steak & Seafood, Willie’s Seafood, Bravas) will serve their regular menus because really, how do you improve on filet mignon sliders, roasted Brussels sprouts with blue cheese, brown butter and Andouille sausage? Terri Stark said the move is intentional, letting people who go out on V-day order the familiar things they like, rather than a set menu. 4404 Old Redwood Hwy, Santa Rosa, 526-3096.

A Little On The Side

Feb. 12

Adults Only at Montgomery Village

Put a little “Oh my!” in your Valentines plans with some saucy romance writers and the latest in, uh, let’s call it couples’ therapy from Spice Sensuality Boutique. The fun kicks off at Copperfields Bookstore at Montomery Village (775 Village Court, Santa Rosa) at 6p.m.. Not a couple? Relationship coach Kira Asatryan discusses human closeness from her book “Stop Being Lonely”, at the Petaluma Copperfield’s (140 Kentucky St., Petaluma) at 7p.m. on Feb. 12. Both events are free.

Better Than Sex Sauce: Patisserie Angelica

This fudgy chocolate sauce lives, quite possibly, up to its name. I mean, who would you rather wake up next to? Made with Callebaut chocolate, organic sugar, cream and butter, we suggest maybe painting a bit on your partner as part of the evening activities. Or, you know, on some ice cream. $17. Did we mention that their goodies are non-GMO and organic, along with a variety of gluten-free treats for your sweetie. Open Thursday through Sunday, 6821 Laguna Park Way, Sebastopol, 827-7998, website.

Kitchen 707 Coming From Nino Rabbaa

January 2016

By biteclub

A logo concept on Rabbaa’s Facebook page

No matter how fickle a mistress restaurant ownership can be, Sonoma County restaurateur Nino Rabbaa just can’t stay away. After closing two high-profile Santa Rosa eateries (Rendez Vous Bistro and Flipside Steakhouse) and selling a third (Flipside Burgers & Wings) in the last few years, he’s returning to the food biz with a two ambitious plans.

In February, Rabbaa plans to open Kitchen 707 in the former steakhouse location (138 Calistoga Rd, Santa Rosa). The restaurant, which he describes as “cuisine without borders” will be focused on a mashup of Armenian, Lebanese, French and California dishes — many of which come from his life experiences and heritage.

Could this dish, on Rabbaa's Facebook page, be on the menu of Kitchen 707? We'll see. — Could this dish, on Rabbaa’s Facebook page, be on the menu of Kitchen 707? We’ll see.

“It’s a marriage of all the food I liked growing up, said Rabbaa, whose mother is Lebanese and father is Armenian. “It’s what I like and what I represent,” said the former Parisian, who has made Sonoma County his home for more than a decade.

The Rincon Valley restaurant, he said, will be very focused on families and may even include a return of karaoke — a popular weekend attraction when the location was Rita’s Lounge.

Additionally, Rabbaa said he has plans to reopen the former Rendez Vous location on Fourth Street as, “Papa Nino’s”, after some renovations to the space. His goal is to have a seafood-focused restaurant with a beer garden and craft beers. No word yet on that opening.

Rabbaa told the Press Democrat in November 2015 he was getting out of the restaurant business after plans fell through for a proposed Rohnert Park brewery project and his New York investment partners put the brakes on further funding. Rabbaa said he is now without financial partnership and is, “doing it on my own”.

“I did not lose my appetite for opening new eateries,” said Rabbaa on his Facebook page in January.

More details as the opening of Kitchen 707 gets closer.

Comments temporarily closed until the pool-poopers get out and let the rest of us enjoy our afternoon swim.

Events to Celebrate Year of the Monkey in the North Bay

January 2016

By Diane Peterson

Keelyn Walker, right, peeks from under a lion costume while Brook Szczekocki greets guests arriving for a Chinese New Year celebration at the Veteran’s Memorial Building in Santa Rosa on Saturday, Feb. 21, 2015. The Redwood Empire Chinese Association hosted the event honoring the year of the Ram. (Jeremy Portje / For The Press Democrat)

The Chinese will welcome the Lunar New Year starting Feb. 8, and the unpredictable Year of the Monkey promises to be a lot more fun than the last 12 months of the steady, surefooted Goat.

Occupying the 9th position on the Chinese Zodiac, the Monkey is curious, mischievous, clever and playful. Those born in the year of the Monkey were born after early February in 1908, 1920, 1932, 1944, 1956, 1968, 1980 1992, 2004 and 2016. This is the year of the Fire Monkey (as was 1956), which is the most active and aggressive of the Monkeys.

“The influence of the Monkey puts everything into flux,” said predictions made by Astrology Club. “The Monkey’s gift is the ability to find unconventional solutions to old problems. Daring to be different can lead to success.”

Here in the North Bay, there are plenty of traditional and daring ways you can celebrate this colorful holiday, which always starts on the second new moon after the solstice and continues for 15 days.

We came up with eight ideas – considered a lucky number – that will give you an excuse to shout out “Gung Hay Fat Choy!” to family and friends.

1 — The Vietnamese Tet Festival, which follows a variation of the Chinese lunar calendar, will celebrate the clever Year of the Monkey at 4 p.m. Saturday, Jan. 30, at the Sonoma County Fairgrounds’ Grace Pavilion. The festivities kick off with Vietnamese food and games, a Lion Dance, song and dance performances by children and a History of Ao Dai Fashion Show, followed by dancing until midnight. Free admission, but seating costs $20 for VIP and $10 for a sponsor seat. sonomacountyfair.com.

2 — A Dragon dance team will roar through the Central Library in Santa Rosa at 1 p.m. Feb. 6 during a Chinese New Year celebration for the big and little monkeys in your family. Chinese crafts, calligraphy and fortune cookies will add to the cultural flair and flavor. 211 E. Street. 545-0831.

3 — The Chinese New Year brings new beginnings and good fortune. Why not try your luck at the Graton Resort & Casino in Rohnert Park? At 8 p.m. Feb. 9, there will be a traditional Lion Dance, accompanied by a red envelope giveaway and a Lucky Monkey Swipe & Win. gratonresortcasino.com.

4 — The Crushers of Comedy will present a Chinese New Year celebration – complete with magic show, wine and Chinese food – at 7 p.m. Feb. 13 at the Deerfield Ranch Winery Wine Cave in Kenwood. Advance tickets only: $40, at crushersofcomedy.com. 10200 Sonoma Highway. For 21 and over only.

5 — The Redwood Empire Chinese Association will hold its annual celebration of the Lunar New Year at 5 p.m. Feb. 20 at the Santa Rosa Veterans Memorial Building in Santa Rosa. The evening includes Lion dancing, a parade with a 250-dragon and traditional holiday food. Tickets are $25 adults, $12 for kids 12 and under, available at G&G Supermarket or Asia Mart, both in Santa Rosa. recacenter.org

6 — The Donum Estate has installed an outdoor sculpture exhibit, “Circle of Animals – Zodiac Heads,” by renowned Chinese artist Ai Weiwei, at the winery in Sonoma’s Carneros region. The outdoor sculpture feature 12, bronze Zodiac Heads that stand on bronze columns atop marble bases in a perfect circle. Each head and base is about 10 feet high and weighs nearly 1,000 pounds. Weiwei – an activist, architect, filmmaker and China’s most famous artist – recently held an exhibit on Alcatraz Island. The winery is open for tasting by appointment only. thedonumestate.com or 939-2290.

7 — If you want to experience the most authentic Chinese New Year, head to San Francisco for the annual downtown parade, which roars to life at 5:15 p.m. Feb. 20. The parade was launched in the 1860s and remains one of the few night illuminated parades in the country. Crowds are entertained with elaborate floats, costumes, exploding firecrackers and a spectacular 268-foot Golden Dragon. Get there early for a parking space. chineseparade.com.

8 — The Chinese New Year requires eating specific culinary dishes believed to bring good luck in the New Year. Check with your favorite Chinese restaurant to see if they are serving any of these (rice cakes, whole fish, Buddha’s Delight, etc.). You can also go the DIY route – after all, this is the year of the clever Monkey – and order a Peking Duck with plum sauce from G&G Supermarket. Steam up some mu shu pancakes (available in the freezer section) and serve with some sliced bok choy, scallions and chile peppers. The duck must be ordered a day in advance. 1211 W. College Ave.

Staff writer Diane Peterson can be reached at 521-5287 or diane.peterson@pressdemocrat.com. On Twitter @dianepete56.

Things To Do This Week In Sonoma County

January 2016

By Crissi Langwell

Mensona Kennel Club: This weekend at the Lyttle Cow Palace at the Sonoma County Fairgrounds, watch a few dozen smart dogs take part in agility trials. This entertaining event is free to attend, and takes place 8 a.m. to 4 p.m. Find out all the details at mensona.org. (PD FILE)

Tuesday, Feb. 2

Jessica Lea Mayfield: Singer-songwriter. 7:30 p.m. Tuesday. HopMonk Tavern, Sebastopol. $10-$12. 829-7300, hopmonk.com.

Wednesday, Feb. 3

‘West Side Stories’: Five-minute true stories live onstage. 7:30 p.m. Wednesday. Sonoma Portworks, Petaluma. $8. westsidestoriespetaluma.com.

Thursday, Feb. 4

‘Into the Woods’: Live musical opens at 7:30 p.m. Thursday; closes Feb. 14. Person Theatre, Sonoma State University. $10-$17. 664-4246, sonoma.edu.

Friday, Feb. 5

David Joy: Copperfield’s Books presents the author of ‘Where All Light Tends to Go’ at 7 p.m. Feb. 5 at Jamison’s Roaring Donkey, Petaluma. Free. copperfieldsbooks.com.

‘The Taming of Katy Lou’: Spreckels Youth in Art musical stage production. 7 p.m. Feb. 5-7; plus 1 p.m. matinee Feb. 6. Spreckels Performing Arts Center, Rohnert Park. $10-$15. 588-3400, rpcity.org.

Earth Crisis: New York metal band. Sworn Vengeance opens at 7:30 p.m. Feb. 5. Phoenix Theater, Petaluma. $13-$16. 762-3565, thephoenixtheater.com.

One Great City Duo: Two guitarists, one of them also a soprano. Classical chamber music. 7:30 p.m. Feb. 5. Schroeder Hall, Green Music Center. $8. 866-955-6040, gmc.sonoma.edu.

Saturday, Feb. 6

Young Dubliners: Celtic rock. 8:30 p.m. Feb. 6. Mystic Theatre, Petaluma. $17-$20. 765-2121, mystictheatre.com.

Lisa Fischer & Grand Baton: Rock, pop & jazz. 7:30 p.m. Feb. 6. Weill Hall, Green Music Center. $40 & up. gmc.sonoma.edu, 866-955-6040.

Rumi’s Caravan: Poetry, live music & dance. 2 and 7 p.m. Feb. 5. Glaser Center, Santa Rosa. $25 for matinee; $35 for evening show; $50 for 5 p.m. feast. facebook.com/Rumi.Caravan.

Great Sonoma Crab & Wine Fest: Sonoma County Farm Bureau’s 27th annual event. Reception, 4 p.m. Feb. 6, with dinner at 6:30 p.m. Sonoma County Fairgrounds, Santa Rosa. sonomafb.org

‘Black & White Jazz Goes Latin’: Jazz series spotlights Latin style. 7:30 p.m. Feb. 6. $15. Sonoma Community Center, Sonoma. $15. sonomacommunitycenter.org.

Pato Banton: British reggae star. 9 p.m. Feb. 6. Redwood Cafe, Cotati. $20. redwoodcafe.com/music.

‘Saint & Sinners Ball’: Live Zydeco music with T-Luke & the Tight Suits and Dixie Giants Brass Band. 8 p.m. Feb. 6. Rossi’s 1906, Sonoma. $10 in advance; $15 at the door. 343-0044, rossis1906.com.

Sunday, Feb. 7

‘Laugh Sabbath’: Stand-up comedian Miles Weber. 8 p.m. Feb. 7. This live comedy series runs the first Sunday of every month. HopMonk Tavern, Sebastopol. $10. 829-7300, hopmonk.com.

Crissi Langwell contributed to this report.