Page 60 – Sonoma Magazine

Guide to Fourth of July in Sonoma and Napa counties 2024

June 2024

By Ana Fingerson

Stacy Allegro, left, Scott Lane, Dillon Clower and Cameron Lane participate in the Kenwood 4th of July Hometown Parade, in Kenwood, on Monday, July 4, 2016. (Christopher Chung/ The Press Democrat)

Looking for something to do for the Fourth of July? This year, Sonoma and Napa counties will host parades, firework shows, outdoor barbecues and more.

Fireworks will be available to view in Sebastopol, Windsor, Rohnert Park, Petaluma and Sonoma.

Check out our roundup below of July Fourth weekend celebrations planned for Sonoma and Napa counties.

Sonoma County

Wednesday, July 3

Sebastopol: The Sebastopol Kiwanis club will host the annual “3rd of July Fireworks and Music Extravaganza” with live music from The Soul Section, School of Rock, DJ Chris W and more along with a flag ceremony and fireworks show. The event will be held at the Analy High School football field. Lawn chairs are welcome, camping chairs are prohibited. Gates open at 5 p.m. with firework show being the last event at 9:30 p.m. $17 with early bird tickets available until June 30. $20 general admission. $5 for youth ages 6-11, free for kids 5 years and or younger. 6950 Analy Ave., sebastopolkiwanisclub.org

Windsor: Celebrate Independence Day with the Town of Windsor’s “Windsor Kaboom.” This event will have live music, food, activities for the family and a fireworks show to end the night at Keiser Park. The event will benefit children’s programs through the Active 20-30 Club. 4-10 p.m. $10 for those 13 years or older. $5 for those ages 3-12. Free for anyone under 3. 700 Windsor River Road, windsorkaboom.com

Cloverdale held its first Fourth of July parade on the 150th anniversary of the founding of the town Monday, July 4, 2022. (John Burgess / The Press Democrat) — Cloverdale held its first Fourth of July parade on the 150th anniversary of the founding of the town on Monday, July 4, 2022. The third annual Fourth of July Parade in downtown Cloverdale will be held at 10 a.m. on July 4, 2024. (John Burgess / The Press Democrat) (John Burgess / The Press Democrat)

Thursday, July 4

Cloverdale: Attend the third annual Fourth of July Parade held in downtown Cloverdale. Parade starts at 10 a.m. on West Third Street, making its way down to Railroad Boulevard. The event will be accompanied with live music, parade floats, food and drinks. Free. East First Street and Cloverdale Boulevard, cloverdalechamber.com. Cloverdale has suspended all sales and prohibited use of fireworks due to extreme fire danger.

Forestville: The Forestville Chamber of Commerce will host a Fourth of July kick-off barbecue with lunch and music from noon to 4 p.m. under the oaks. 6990 Front St., forestvillechamber.org

Healdsburg: Join families and kids for the annual “4th of July Kids Parade and Duck Dash,” presented by the Rotary Club of Healdsburg Sunrise and the City of Healdsburg. Free lemonade, hot dogs, snow cones and more. There will be games, duck races and live music from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. at the Healdsburg Plaza. Admission is free. Matheson Street and Healdsburg Avenue, healdsburg.ca.us

Healdsburg: Prune Packers will play the Athletic Edge for a Fourth of July baseball event. All ages welcome. 6 p.m. at Recreation Park. $9 for those 12 years and older. Purchase tickets at tix.com. 515 Piper St., prunepackers.org

Kenwood: Register early for the Fourth of July Hometown Parade at Plaza Park. Runners participating in the Empire Runners Club 3K or 10K footrace will start at 7:30 a.m. Footrace registration prices are $45 for youth under 18 running in the 3K and $60 for adults. $62 for youth running in 10K and $72 for adults. A pancake breakfast at Kenwood Community Church and silent auction in Plaza Park will start at 8 a.m., followed by a parade at 10:30 a.m. and Rotary Shindig with live music, food and drinks at noon. The Rotary Club of Glen Ellen-Kenwood is sponsoring the barbecue and live music. The event will wrap up at 3 p.m. 170 Warm Springs Road, kenwoodparade.org

Petaluma: Join the Petaluma Historical Library and Museum and other community members in celebration of the “4th of July Choral Concert and Bell Ringing.” Enjoy music, history and ringing the historic Korbel Bell. 10-11:15 a.m. Free. 20 Fourth St., petalumamuseum.com

Petaluma: Petaluma Parks and Recreation presents another year of “Stars & Stripes Dogs & Bikes.” There will be a bike parade, dog costume contest, farmers market, jump houses and more. 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. Free. 320 North McDowell Blvd., cityofpetaluma.org

Petaluma: Fireworks will be launched from the Petaluma Fairgrounds creating a show for those watching from surrounding neighborhoods and permitted areas. The Petaluma Fairgrounds will be closed for public safety. Show starts around 9:30 p.m. For more information and to see a map of places to view the fireworks, go to cityofpetaluma.org.

Rohnert Park: Celebrate the Fourth of July with live music, family games, food, drinks, a baking contest, inflatable fun zone, outdoor escape room, robot rumble and eight-person video gaming. Noon to 4 p.m. Free entry. 5401 Snyder Lane, rpcity.org

Rohnert Park: The Santa Rosa Symphony and Transcendence Theater Company will perform at the “4th of July Fireworks Spectacular,” held at Weill Hall and Lawn at Sonoma State University. 7:30–10 p.m. This family friendly concert will be followed by a post-concert fireworks show. Tickets for lawn seating are $40 and $20 for youth. Tickets for outdoor table seating are $80. Indoor seating ranges from $45-$75 depending on seating zone. 1801 East Cotati Ave., sonoma.edu

Sonoma: Watch the parade make its way around the historic Plaza of Sonoma at this year’s “Hometown 4th of July Parade, Celebration and Fireworks Show.” An old-fashioned festival with food, drink and game booths by nonprofit organizations in Sonoma will follow the parade. 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Free. 453 First St. East, sonomavolunteerfirefighters.org

Guests enjoying picnics and family events on the lawn during the Santa Rosa symphony performance at the 4th of July Fireworks Spectacular at Sonoma State University's Green Music Center in Rohnert Park, California on July 4th, 2018. (Will Bucquoy / For the Press Democrat) — Guests enjoying picnics and family events on the lawn during the Santa Rosa symphony performance at the 4th of July Fireworks Spectacular at Sonoma State University’s Green Music Center in Rohnert Park on July 4, 2018. This year’s 4th of July Fireworks Spectacular will be held from 4:30-7 p.m. at SSU’s Weill Hall and Lawn. (Will Bucquoy / For the Press Democrat)

Sunday, July 7

Penngrove: This year marks the 48th annual Penngrove Parade, “The Biggest Little Parade in Northern California,” which will start at 11 a.m. sharp on Main Street in downtown Penngrove. A barbecue, kid’s games and music will follow the parade. No dogs allowed. Outside food and drinks prohibited in Penngrove Park. This event is a fundraiser to benefit community. 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. Free entry. 11800 Main St., penngrovesocialfiremen.org

Napa County

Thursday, July 4

Napa: The Sunrise Rotary Parade will start off at the intersection of Second Street and School Street, making its way downtown with floats, classic cars and more. Parade starts at 9:30. Free to watch. donapa.com

Napa: Wind down at Oxbow Commons after Fourth of July morning events with activities for all ages, like kids’ inflatables and Carnival games, local cuisine, beer and wine, and live performances from local artists. 3-10 p.m. Free to enter. 1268 McKinstry St., fourth-july.com

Napa: Take a break from fireworks with the more eco-friendly “Napa Drone Show.” This show will consist of up to 400 drones flying in formation to create 16 3D displays similar to a fireworks show. Some places to watch the show are Oxbow Commons, First and Third Street Bridges, Veteran’s Memorial Park, China Point, Riverfront Green and Riverfront Promenade. 9:30 p.m. Free to watch. donapa.com

American Canyon: Take part in American Canyon’s 4th of July Parade, Festival and Fireworks. The parade will start at 3 p.m. on American Canyon Road and Elliott Drive and make its way down Elliott Drive towards Amarillo Drive. At the end of the parade, a festival will begin at 4 p.m. with music, free activities and food vendors. A fireworks show will start at dusk with visibility from the Community Park II located on the corner of Donaldson Way and Benton Way. americancanyon.gov.

Local Designer Uses Japanese Design Principles to Transform Santa Rosa Home

June 2024

By Karen Kizer

The COVID-19 pandemic was a difficult time for Santa Rosa emergency physician Dr. Omar Ferrari and his family, who were forced to spend a lot of time apart for health and safety reasons.

After that prolonged stressful period, Ferrari and his wife, Brenda, decided a home transformation was in order. They tapped Sonoma-based designer Andrea Halkovich to renovate their Rincon Valley ranch home in hope of creating, in Halkovich’s words, “a tranquil haven.”

“After so much stress from (fire) evacuations and then COVID, I really was motivated to create a space for this beautiful family that was really peaceful,” says Halkovich. “(Now) they feel so much lighter in their home and that is what is so powerful about design. It has such an ability to change us.”

Halkovick melded Omar’s love of modern minimalism with Brenda’s preference for bohemian and “Japandi” styles (a combination of Japanese and Scandinavian aesthetics).

“I think it is so important for everyone to feel seen and represented in a space. It is what gives us all that sense of home,” says the Sonoma-born designer.

The result is a mix of contemporary simplicity with heavily patterned touches, all guided by Japanese design principles that are visible throughout the home.

In the kitchen, Halkovick took color cues from the Japanese age-old method of Shou Sugi Ban, wherein wood is charred and takes on a gray-to-black hue.

To evoke the Japanese concept of Ma, which values taking pauses, Halkovich put a window above the sink to create visual rest between twin appliance garages. The window overlooks the Ferrari’s outdoor koi pond, creating a connection with nature — the Japanese method of Shakkei (“borrowed scenery”). To restate the indoor-outdoor connection, the kitchen island gets its earthy green color from the pond.

The relaxed space is contrasted with a super-veiny quartzite backsplash that Omar prizes for its “heartbeat”-like appearance.

Powder room. (Luis Costadone) — Powder Room. (Luis Costadone)

More heavy-pattern contrast was added to the powder room via a House of Hackney floral wallpaper. To blend the saturation of color with the rest of the home, Halkovich ensured the black background of the florals was present in the kitchen (on the counters and cabinets) and bathrooms (cladding in the shower). The room’s earthy green wainscoting is pulled from the koi pond and kitchen island color.

The use of several square and rectangular windows and light fixtures provide interest, albeit quietly thanks to their clean-lined geometry. The repetition of shapes creates a pleasing rhythm, as light and shadow are cast onto empty interior spaces of the floors and walls. This was intentional, owing again to the Japanese concept of Ma. A large square window over the tub framing nearby trees doubles down beautifully on Shakkei.

“There is a whole science behind design and surrounding ourselves with nature,” says Halkovich. It has a “very positive impact on our well-being, including reduced stress and stronger immune systems — this really struck a chord with my clients.”

Contact Andrea Halkovich, of Sonoma Interiors, at 707-322-6719, andrea@sonomainteriors.com.

Modern Home in Santa Rosa Foothills Listed for $2,745,000

June 2024

By Karen Kizer

This modern three-bedroom, three-and-half-bathroom situated on ten acres in Santa Rosa is listed for $2,745,000. (Steven Magner)

Situated on 10 acres in the northeast foothills of Santa Rosa is a modern three-bedroom, three-and-half-bathroom for sale. The asking price is $2,745,000.

The 2,800-square-foot dwelling at 7784 Foothill Ranch Road is sleekly designed with slate board and batten siding and a series of single sloped roofs.

The interior benefits from vaulted ceilings and bucolic views. The floor plan is open-concept, with an airy great room that includes the kitchen, dining area and living room.

Other amenities include a wine cellar, a study, and a pool and terrace that’s perfectly perched and minimalist to give focus to the spectacular surroundings of nature.

For more information on 7784 Foothill Ranch Road in Santa Rosa, contact listing agent Bob Pennypacker, of Sotheyby’s International Realty, at 707-799-6032, 707-395-0656, 7784foothillranch.com

New Sebastopol Wine Tasting Room Is a Family Affair Decades in the Making

June 2024

By Dana Rebmann

The Kanzler Estate tasting room in Sebastopol. (Courtesy of Andrew Jess)

In 1992, Stephen and Lynda Kanzler purchased 20 acres in Sebastopol covered with abandoned apple trees and blackberry brambles. They had a dream, but it had nothing to do with wine.

“My parents were accidental farmers,” says Alex Kanzler. “They liked the community, they liked the schools and they built the house.”

As Alex and his sister grew up, his parents debated what might take root in the fields surrounding the family home. After a short stint growing raspberries, and with some advice from a friendly neighbor, Perry Kozlowski of Kozlowski Farms, the family set their sights on wine grapes.

The first of what would grow to nearly 15 acres of Pinot Noir was planted in 1996. There was never a plan to make wine. But when the popularity of Pinot exploded in the early 2000 (remember the movie Sideways?) and local vintners began commanding high scores for wines made from the Kanzler vineyard it was hard not to consider making wines.

Kanzler family of Sebastopol's Kanzler wines — The Kanzler family, from left to right: Lynda, Alex, Breauna and Stephen Kanzler. (Courtesy of Andrew Jess)

The moment that made the family finally decide to pursue winemaking was when Stephen Kanzler made a half-barrel of Pinot Noir for his daughter’s wedding, with the vineyards as a backdrop. When the festivities concluded, there wasn’t a drop left.

2004 marked Stephen Kanzler’s first commercial vintage. Not long after, Alex also found his way into the industry, earning his stripes in cellars and tasting rooms near and far. He took over the family winemaking responsibilities in 2011, moving back into the family home, first with roommates, and then with his wife, Breauna, who is from Petaluma.

In the beginning, the couple held tastings on the fly in their kitchen, dining room and eventually beneath a rustic pergola built with the help of some friends. Over time, they moved out of the two-story, four-bedroom family home and into an apartment they constructed over the garage, so they could host farm stays. It was a hustle and, in the middle of it all, they grew a wine club 400 members strong.

“We knew people resonated with the property and we enjoyed hosting people here,” says Alex Kanzler.

Kanzler tasting room in Sebastopol — The new Kanzler Estate Tasting Room in Sebastopol opens on July 1. (Courtesy of Andrew Jess)

Seven years ago, in December 2017, the couple started the lengthy permitting and legal process to build a tasting room. On July 1, the new modern tasting space, filled with earthy furnishings and California-centric art, will open its doors to the public on the same scenic spot that once boasted a pergola.

“We filled the space with things that really resonate with us and the land,” says Breauna Kanzler. “We want people to feel comfortable and we want this space and the wines to feel approachable.”

Private wine tastings will be offered twice a day by appointment and, at least for now, the plan is for Breauna Kanzler to host all visitors. In addition to a flight of five wines — one rosé of Pinot Noir, one Chardonnay, and a trio of Pinot Noirs — time will be dedicated to walking in the vineyards to help guests connect with the relatively unknown wine growing region.

Private wine tasting at Kanzler in Sebastopol — Private wine tastings will be offered twice a day, Thursday through Monday, at the new Kanzler Estate Tasting Room in Sebastopol. (Courtesy of Yoni Goldberg)

Alex Kanzler is a founding member of the nonprofit Sebastopol Hills Winegrowers Association, along with Ted Lemon of Littorai Wines, John Balletto and Anthony Beckman of Balletto Vineyards, and Joe Rogoway of Rogoway Law Group (a Kanzler wine club member). The group has petitioned to establish a new Sebastopol Hills American Viticultural Area, or AVA.

“We’re kind of stewards of this place,” says Alex Kanzler. “We’re not working up and down the state and we’re not working across a bunch of different varietals. We try to stay at what we’re good at.”

Wine tastings cost $75 at the new Kanzler Estate Tasting Room; appointments are available Thursday through Monday. No kids or dogs are allowed. Enter the code KANZLERVIP in the comment section of the website’s booking request to reserve two wine tastings for the price of one. The offer is valid through 2024.

Farm stays at Kanzler are available for up to eight people. The nightly rate is $1,395, November through February, and $1,905, March through October. A two-night minimum stay is required.

2109 Sanders Road, Sebastopol. 707-827-3874, kanzlervineyards.com

Remember Ralph’s Hot Dog Cart? The Santa Rosa Food Institution Is Coming Back

June 2024

By Heather Irwin

Ralph Morgenbesser of Ralph’s Courthouse Classics has been selling hotdogs at Old Courthouse Square for 24 years and was selling them during the 123rd annual Luther Burbank Rose Parade & Festival held Saturday in downtown Santa Rosa. May 20, 2017.(Photo: Erik Castro/for The Press Democrat)

For four years, Ralph Morgenbesser’s Courthouse Square Classics hot dog cart was parked in his garage, gathering dust. The iconic weenie wagon (and its owner) were fixtures in Santa Rosa’s Courthouse Square for over 30 years.

He called his simple fare “soul food,” but it was as much his quick humor and stories that made a much-loved lunchtime oasis for lawyers, bankers, merchants and, often, those down on their luck.

In 2020, Morgenbesser hung up his apron and retired the cart, becoming a relished footnote in Santa Rosa’s culinary history. At 79, he was ready for retirement.

A few months ago, one of Morgenbesser’s former employees-turned-entrepreneur approached him with a plan.

Milli Cannata, now a real estate agent, wanted to buy the well-loved cart and turn it into a business incubator for kids. Turns out the old dogcart was about to learn some new tricks.

Ralph Morgenbesser of Ralph's Courthouse Classics hot dogs and Milli Cannata of SLYC Kidz pose in front of the iconic cart that he donated. (Photo: Milli Cannata) — Ralph Morgenbesser of Ralph’s Courthouse Classics hot dogs and Milli Cannata of SLYC Kidz pose in front of the iconic cart that he donated. (Photo: Milli Cannata)

Instead of selling it, Morgenbesser donated his self-contained hot dog business to Cannata’s charity, SLYC Kidz (Sustainable Living Youth Co-op), which offers after-school mentorship and teaches business skills to young people — the same skills Cannata learned from Morgenbesser as a teen.

“When I was a teenager and walking around downtown looking for jobs, he hired me and taught me how to run a business,” said Cannata of Morgenbesser’s other downtown food business, Santa Rosa Subs (closed in 2007).

“Opportunities like (working for Ralph) kept me off the streets,” she said.

A new west county home

Last Monday, with Morgenbesser’s blessing, the cart was transported to the Monte Rio Theater, a historic movie and music hall that’s one of the few entertainment venues in rural west county.

Though it needs significant work to get it re-permitted and in working order, the cart will be displayed at upcoming summer events to raise awareness and funds for the project.

“On Thursday nights, we’ll have it out for music events,” Cannata said. The first event will take place June 20, with future gatherings through the summer.

Hopefully Morgenbesser will make a guest appearance or two.

“I’m so glad to get him out sharing his love and passion. He just has this way of lighting up a room,” she said.

Glad to see his old partner find new life, Morgenbesser recounted fond memories of his years under the redwood trees of Courthouse Square.

“I was the biggest thing to happen to Santa Rosa since they got a ZIP code,” he said of his food businesses. He’s clung to his blustery “I’m walkin’ here” Brooklyn accent since moving to California in 1967. But like many New Yorkers, his direct tone masks a marshmallow-soft heart.

“The cart was a sanctuary, and some days I gave away more food than I sold,” he said.

Ralph's Courthouse Classics,- Ralph Morgenbesser, owner, of chats with his regulars during the lunch hour. — Ralph Morgenbesser, owner of Ralph’s Courthouse Classics in Santa Rosa, chats with his regulars during the lunch hour, Friday, April 14, 2006. (Crista Jeremiason / The Press Democrat)

Helping those in need

As a longtime advocate for addiction recovery, Morgenbesser felt a kinship with people who faced challenging situations and frequently gave food to anyone hungry. For years, he shuttled people to recovery centers and 12-step meetings.

“I had troubles in my youth,” he said. “I wanted to give back what I learned. I always told people there was a life after drugs and alcohol. There’s always recovery.“

Even in retirement, old friends and patrons frequently recognize him around town.

“I gotta tell you, I see people, and they tell me stories about how I helped them,” he said.

Soon to turn 83, Morgenbesser said he’s been enjoying swimming, playing dominoes with friends and walking his dogs (the canine kind) — but can’t help advocating for the cart’s future hot dog vendors.

“Don’t be a meanie; buy yourself a weenie,” he said, echoing his favorite Courthouse Square sales pitch.

Verano Cafe Hits the Sweet Spot for Sonoma Brunchers

June 2024

By Heather Irwin

The Boarder Benedict with chorizo, onions, avocado on an English muffin with Hollandaise sauce from the Verano Cafe Thursday, June 13, 2024 in Sonoma. (Photo by John Burgess/The Press Democrat)

Living in a culinary mecca like Sonoma is great and all, but sometimes you just want a plate of hash that’s not covered in edible flowers and dehydrated sumac.

Local restaurateurs Beronica Peres and Carlos Rubio get it. Their recently opened Verano Cafe sits quietly wedged between an auto repair shop and McDonald’s along Highway 12 in the unincorporated town of El Verano. It’s not a spot most people would give a second glance. And that’s not necessarily a bad thing.

The Verano Cafe menu was designed with Sonoma residents in mind. An “if you know, you know” sort of place mostly discovered by word of mouth.

“My husband and I were thinking that in Sonoma, there is no breakfast place,” said Beronica Peres, who manages the casual breakfast, brunch and lunch restaurant in the former Animo space with Rubio.

While there are certainly a handful of breakfast restaurants in Sonoma — including the Sunflower Caffe, Basque Boulangerie, El Huerto, Valley Bar & Bottle and others — the point isn’t lost on locals who have long lamented not having heartier diner-style fare that caters to a broad swath of local tastes.

Paula Ledesma serves up pancakes to a family on a road trip from Georgia at the Verano Cafe Thursday, June 13, 2024 in Sonoma. (Photo by John Burgess/The Press Democrat) — Paula Ledesma serves up pancakes to a family on a road trip from Georgia at the Verano Cafe, Thursday, June 13, 2024, in Sonoma. (Photo by John Burgess/The Press Democrat)

The extensive list of choices includes everything from pancakes and fried chicken with Belgian waffles to chilaquiles, burgers and a croque-monsieur. It’s as diverse as the population of Sonoma County.

What sets Verano Cafe apart from standard diner fare, however, is a dedication to using locally sourced ingredients.

More than just lip service, Peres rattles off products and vendors, including bread from Basque Boulangerie and tortillas from nearby El Molino Central. She’s proud of the fact that corned beef for the hash is made in-house, along with pastrami for their Reuben, tangy rémoulade for the fish and chips and lush Hollandaise sauce blanketing their lineup of Benedicts.

“Our menu is very Sonoma-style,” Peres said. They get the local ethos of farm-to-table dining without being overly precious with their food.

As veterans of the local restaurant scene, Peres and Rubio know what locals like to eat. They also own Jacob’s restaurant on Broadway, focusing on Italian pasta, pizzas and risotto — another off-the-beaten-path local favorite.

The couple were also part-owners of Maya Restaurant and La Hacienda, and have well-oiled front-of-house experience. You’ll get that as soon as you walk in and are greeted warmly. Peres has hired several tried-and-true cooks from Jacob’s to run the large, open kitchen, and watching them hustle to put out dozens of plates at a time is impressive.

There are less than 10 tables inside, but the space feels airy and comfortable with homey wooden tables and chairs that make it feel lived in. Outside tables with broad umbrellas are highly coveted. Service is reliably friendly, and the wait times aren’t excessive, even on crowded weekends. Grab a fresh mimosa (passion fruit is a favorite) or a well-made cup of coffee while you wait.

As the front door swishes open and closed with orders headed for the patio, it is clear that Peres and Rubio have hit upon a winning combination of well-made food that doesn’t need silly frills to attract a grateful local audience.

Tourists are welcome at Verano Cafe. However, in a county with plentiful upscale dining options, this Sonoma secret seems like a respite from gourmet acrobatics and sky-high prices.

Corned Beef Hash with potatoes, onion, bell pepper, cheddar and eggs from the Verano Cafe Thursday, June 13, 2024 in Sonoma. (Photo by John Burgess/The Press Democrat) — Corned Beef Hash with potatoes, onion, bell pepper, cheddar and eggs from the Verano Cafe, Thursday, June 13, 2024, in Sonoma. (Photo by John Burgess/The Press Democrat)

Best bets

Corned Beef Hash, $21: Made in-house, this corned beef is crisp and flavorful, topped with a poached egg and microgreens (a little unnecessary, but they add some tasty greens). Potatoes, onions and Cheddar cheese round out the mix, along with a heavy dose of green peppers. Once you spear the egg, the soft yolk coats the whole mess deliciously. Easily the best dish on the menu.

Lemon Pancake, $12: Plate-size pancakes are fluffed up with cottage cheese, eggs and lemon for a unique take on the traditional stack.

Boarder Benedict, $18: Chorizo is the surprise guest on the traditional eggs Benedict with slices of avocado and creamy Hollandaise. Served with seasoned potatoes.

Lemon Crepes, $11: Neatly folded crepes are filled with rich lemon mascarpone and berries, topped with a strawberry drizzle. The generous portion is not overly sweet, though we would have liked more lemon zing.

Reuben, $17: Buttery sourdough toast is a departure from the usual rye. Housemade pastrami, sauerkraut and actual Gruyere (rather than the usual Swiss swap-out) makes the sandwich. A side of rémoulade sauce is a must for dipping crusts and fries.

18976 Sonoma Highway, Sonoma, 707-931-6837, veranocafesonoma.com. Open from 8 a.m. to 2 p.m. Tuesday to Sunday. Seating is first-come, first-served.

Free Outdoor Movie Nights Is a Summer Highlight at Sonoma County Wineries and Parks

June 2024

By Dana Rebmann

Movies on The Lawn at The Madrona, Healdsburg

Movies under the stars are one of many great summer pleasures in Sonoma County. Whether it’s a beloved classic or modern blockbuster, the season offers the opportunity to relax and enjoy your favorite films in favorite haunts like wineries, parks and luxe hotels.

We’ve put together a list of some of our favorite summer showings to make organizing your calendar easy. Some have a fee, but many are free! So grab your family, friends and a blanket or two, and make a date for some Hollywood magic in the great outdoors.

Summer on the Square

June 17, 24; July 1, 8, 15, 22

Now through July, every Monday night is movie night on Courthouse Square in downtown Santa Rosa. A combination of new and old family-friendly films, up next on the schedule is the 2023 release of The Little Mermaid, on June 17. Summer on the Square is going old-school for its final night, July 22, with the 1977 film Star Wars: Episode IV – A New Hope. Summer on the Square will be held from 5-8 p.m. on Mondays through July. See the entire movie lineup here. Food and drink will be available from local vendors. Admission is free.

Courthouse Square, Fourth Street and Santa Rosa Avenue, Santa Rosa, downtownsantarosa.org

Movies in the Park

Aug. 16, 23, 30; Sept. 6, 13

Just as Summer on the Square winds down, Movies in the Park — Howarth Park, that is — kicks into high gear. Movies play on the lower lawn by the Land of Imagination Playground. There’s a seating area up front for those with blankets to sit on. Guests are welcome to bring a chair, but will have to sit further back or to the sides. The free movie series kicks off Aug. 16 with the animated film, Migration. Movies start on Fridays at dusk, around 8 p.m., with various pre-movie activities on the lawn starting an hour before the showing. Food vendors, such as Lucky Pop Kettle Corn and Buns y Garnachas, will be available each night. See what’s playing through September here.

630 Summerfield Road, Santa Rosa. 707-543-3298, srcity.org

Franco-American Movie Night

July 13

Let the family-friendly flick Ratatouille take you on a culinary journey through Paris, without leaving the lawn at DeLoach Vineyards in Santa Rosa. Bring your own blanket or low lawn chair. Wood-fired pizza can be purchased from the Oakville Grocery food truck and wine will be available by the bottle or glass. Doors open at 7 p.m. for wine and food purchases, and the movie starts at 8:30 p.m. Tickets, which include a complimentary bag of popcorn, must be purchased by July 7. $20 for adults, children under 12 are free. Reserve a spot on Tock.

1791 Olivet Road, Santa Rosa, 707-755-3300, deloachvineyards.com

Movies Under the Stars

June 21, July 13, 19; Aug. 3, 16; Sept. 6, Oct. 25

The Alexander Valley Film Society (perhaps better known as AVFilm) has a nostalgic lineup of free movies on this year’s Movies Under the Stars schedule. The Wizard of Oz, The Sandlot and Hocus Pocus, are just a few of our favorites.

Showings are offered select Friday and Saturday nights through October. Movies Under the Stars takes place in assorted locations throughout Healdsburg and Cloverdale, including Healdsburg Plaza and two drive-in movie theaters at the Cloverdale Municipal Airport. Bring your own blankets and chairs; movie theater goodies will be available for purchase. All movies begin at sundown.

Healdsburg and Cloverdale, avfilmpresents.org

Movies in the Park

June 21, July 19, Aug. 16, Sept. 27, Oct. 25

There’s a handful of outdoor movie showings in Petaluma to add to your summer calendar. All showings are free and take place at Lucchesi Park. Sing kicks off the series on June 21. View the 2024 lineup here. Food and beverage vendors will be on hand.

320 N. McDowell Blvd., Petaluma. 707-778-4380, cityofpetaluma.org

Family Movies on the Green

June 18, 25; July 9, 16, 23, 30; Aug. 6

Tuesday nights are movie nights in Windsor. Bring your own blanket or low-back chair, as showings will take place on the Windsor Town Green. All movies are free and begin 15 minutes after sunset. Barbie is the next blockbuster playing on the Town Green, on June 25. View the full schedule here.

701 McClelland Drive, Windsor. 707-838-1260, townofwindsor.com

Movies at the Green

July 6, 20; Aug. 11, Sept. 28

The Green Music Center at Sonoma State University offers a multitude of fun summer events. While there’s been a lot of chatter about this summer’s concert offerings by The Beach Boys and UB40, you don’t want to forget about the four Movies at the Green.

The season kicks off on July 6 with a double header of Finding Nemo and Finding Dory. Guests are welcome to pack a picnic to enjoy on Weill Lawn. Admission to Movies at the Green is $5 for adults and free for kids 12 and under. View the Movies on the Green schedule here.

1801 East Cotati Ave., Rohnert Park. 707-664-4246, gmc.sonoma.edu

Summer Movies in La Plaza Park

Aug. 6, Sept. 21

Movies begin at sunset, so it’s a good idea to arrive at Cotati’s La Plaza Park a bit early to get comfortable. Up next is Paw Patrol: The Mighty Movie on Aug. 6. All showings are free. Learn more and view the schedule here.

Old Redwood Highway and West Sierra Avenue, Cotati. 707-796-7301, cotaticity.org

Cinema in the Courtyard Series,

June 24, July 8, 22; Aug. 5, 19

Forestville’s Farmhouse Inn will serve up dinner and a movie this summer, only better. Pair classic flicks like Jaws and Casablanca with delicious menu specials, cocktails and wine from Farmhouse Inn’s casual eatery, Farmstand. Be sure to save room for the housemade s’mores. (You can thank us later.)

Movie nights at Farmhouse Inn take place twice a month, starting at 7:30 p.m., on Wednesday nights. Details are included on the hotel’s weekly activities calendar and on social media. A different local winery will be on hand pouring for every screening. Movie nights are complimentary for hotel guests; the public is welcome, but must have a dinner reservation at Farmstand to join in on the fun.

7871 River Road, Forestville. 70-887-3300, farmhouseinn.com

Movies on The Lawn

July 10, Aug. 7, Sept. 4, Oct. 2

All you have to do is show up. The folks at The Madrona in Healdsburg have thought of everything you might need for a stellar cinematic experience under the stars. Along with classic flicks and an outdoor tasting lounge with pours from local wineries, there’s cozy blankets and tufts to elevate the lawn-style seating.

Movie nights typically take place on the first Wednesday of the month. The next film on tap is Labyrinth, on July 10, and Flambeaux Wine will be on hand pouring. See the full lineup here. Each ticket includes admission, headphones, popcorn, a snack and a complimentary glass of wine from a rotating roster of local wineries. There will also be a chance to win a variety of prizes, ranging from wine tastings and hotel stays to assorted local products. Tickets are $50 per person. Reserve Movies on The Lawn tickets on OpenTable.

Want to spend the night? The code MOVIENIGHT offers guests 30% discount off hotel rooms on movie nights.

1001 Westside Road, Healdsburg. 707-395-6700, themadronahotel.com

Hot Summer Movie Night

Aug. 3

Savor your Sonoma County backyard on the silver screen during a showing of American Graffiti at Gundlach Bundschu winery in Sonoma. Famed director George Lucas filmed scenes from the nostalgic masterpiece in downtown Petaluma. Hot Summer Movie Night takes place from 6-10 p.m. on Aug. 3. Bring a blanket. The $15 entry fee includes popcorn and candy for the whole family. Kids under 5 are free. Food and wine by the glass and bottle will be available for purchase. Reserve tickets on Tock.

2000 Denmark St., Sonoma. 707-938-5277, gunbun.com

RO Restaurant and Lounge From Chef Thomas Keller Opens in Yountville

June 2024

By Heather Irwin

What began as a pop-up caviar lounge in 2021 from French Laundry chef Thomas Keller is transforming into a full-fledged restaurant focused on Asian-inspired cuisine. The former Regiis Ova Caviar & Champagne Lounge in Yountville, which showcased Keller’s own brand of caviars, has become RO Restaurant and Lounge.

While caviar will still have a strong showing at the intimate indoor/outdoor Yountville destination, Chef de Cuisine Jeffery Hayashi has imagined a debut menu that includes Hokkaido Uni Toast, Artichoke Custard infused with almond wood-smoked pork belly, Wolfe Ranch BBQ brined in shio koji (a Japanese marinade) and Shave Ice, a Hawaiian favorite topped with huckleberry and dried hibiscus syrup. The restaurant menu is inspired by Hayashi’s roots in Hawaii, with California touches.

“We’ve listened to our guests looking for a local spot that highlights some of the best Asian flavors,” said Keller in a press release. Hayashi served as the Head Chef Candidate for Team USA Bocuse d’Or in 2019 and 2023 and has worked for several Michelin-starred restaurants.

Chef de Cuisine Jeffrey Hayashi. (David Escalante) — Chef de Cuisine Jeffery Hayashi. (David Escalante)

The restaurant menu is inspired by Hayashi’s roots in Hawaii, with California touches. (David Escalante)

At RO Restaurant and Lounge in Yountville. (David Escalante)

RO’s new cocktail menu will include a sipable version of Keller’s signature “Oysters and Pearls,” a luxurious dish of pearl tapioca with fresh oysters and caviar served at The French Laundry. For the drink, three grams of Royal Caviar are paired with butter-washed Beluga vodka and dry vermouth infused with roasted oyster shells.

Live music performances on Friday and Saturday evenings will include a rotation of Bay Area musicians.

Keller, whose French Laundry restaurant has three Michelin stars, founded Regiis Ova (“Royal Egg” in Latin) in 2017 with caviar expert Shaoching Bishop, the former CEO of Sterling Caviar and Tsar Nicoulai Caviar.

RO Restaurant and Lounge is open Wednesday through Friday from 3 to 11 p.m. and Saturday and Sunday from noon to 11 p.m. Reservations are available on Resy, and walk-ins are accepted. 6480 Washington St., Yountville. More details at rorestaurantandlounge.com.

6 Favorite Winery Patios in Sonoma County

June 2024

By Sonoma Magazine Staff

The Mountain Top Tasting at Kunde Family Winery in Kenwood. (Timm Eubanks/Kunde Family Winery)

Sip in the sun this summer at one of Sonoma County’s stunning winery patios, where sun-dappled outdoor spaces give way to breathtaking panoramic views of vineyards and valleys.

Check out our roundup of six favorite winery patios in the county to try this summer, from enchanting mountain-top tastings to coastal spots with Pacific views.

Healdsburg

Bacchus Landing

Home to more than a half dozen small, family-run wineries pouring their wines in five separate tasting rooms, each has lovely outdoor patio space—plus, there are bocce courts and places to picnic. 707-395-0697, bacchuslanding.com

MacRostie Winery

Enjoy photo-worthy panoramas from one of three patios at the MacRostie Estate House. The winery’s Signature Experience includes five wines, with a focus on single-vineyard Chardonnay and Pinot Noir from the Russian River Valley and Sonoma Coast. 707-473-9303, macrostiewinery.com

Jenner

Fort Ross Vineyard & Winery

On clear days, the back deck at this coastal winery offers dreamy views of the Pacific Ocean, coastal redwoods, and lush meadows. Wine tastings are accompanied by small bites prepared by the estate chef. 707-847-3460, fortrossvineyard.com

Kenwood

Kunde Family Winery

Enjoy vineyard and water fountain views from the valley floor on the Kinneybrook Patio. Or head up to the summit: The mountain top tasting is totally worth it, with views for miles. 707-833-5501, kunde.com

Santa Rosa

Paradise Ridge Winery

It’s hard not to fall in love with the views from this winery patio, with a sprawling large-scale outdoor sculpture garden and some of summer’s best live music, the popular Wine & Sunsets series. 707-528-9463, prwinery.com

Sonoma

WALT Wines

Just steps from the historic plaza, WALT touts Pinot Noir and Chardonnay from vineyards throughout California. Our favorite here is the wine and chocolate pairing, with the delightful sugar rush coming courtesy of Windsor’s Fleur Sauvage Chocolates. 707-933-4440, waltwines.com