cafe Archives - Sonoma Magazine

Pop-up at New Aroma de Cafe Spot Features Top Healdsburg Chef

Heather Irwin — Wed, 27 Aug 2025 17:08:28 +0000

By day, Aroma de Cafe is a lively breakfast and brunch spot. By night, it transforms into a hidden supper club run by one of Wine Country’s rising culinary stars.

Chef Carlos Mojica of Healdsburg’s buzzy Guiso Latin Fusion has quietly brought his passion for culinary mashups to Santa Rosa — in an unexpected location with an even more unexpected menu.

The pop-up is a collaboration between Mojica and the owners of the recently relocated Aroma de Cafe (not to be confused with nearby A’Roma Roasters Coffee & Tea at 95 Fifth St.).

Spicy empanadas at chef Carlos Mojica’s dinner pop-up at Aroma de Cafe in Santa Rosa. (Heather Irwin/The Press Democrat)

The bustling brunch business has taken over the former 19Ten, which closed in late 2024. Thanks to a $1 million renovation by its previous owners, the expansive space features soaring ceilings, stylish light fixtures, two dining areas and a renovated bar.

Aroma owners Luis Rodriguez and Alejandra Bravo have put the hollandaise on the Benedict with their wildly Instagrammable floral decor and supersized murals. But come evening, Mojica puts away the toasters and pulls out the kitchen tweezers Tuesday through Sunday.

A fusion-forward menu with family recipes

Braised beef birria and strozzapreti (a hand-twisted pasta) with Parmesan, capers and tart cherry tomatoes. At chef Carlos Mojica’s dinner pop-up at Aroma de Cafe in Santa Rosa. (Heather Irwin/The Press Democrat)

Raised in a Salvadoran household and trained in Italian cuisine, Mojica creates dishes that feel personal and make perfect sense, such as a fusion of braised beef birria and strozzapreti (a hand-twisted pasta) with Parmesan, capers and tart cherry tomatoes ($29). As does a crispy pork carnitas pizza with salsa de tomatillo, queso fresco, roasted corn and pickled onions ($26).

The through line in the story he tells through his food is family — a Latin-style tomato sauce made from his grandmother’s secret recipe, Salvadoran pupusas inspired by his mother’s daily cooking, Mexican butter cookies in a deconstructed tiramisu.

Deconstructed tiramisu at chef Carlos Mojica’s dinner pop-up at Aroma cafe in Santa Rosa. (Heather Irwin/The Press Democrat)

Panzanella Latina at chef Carlos Mojica’s dinner pop-up at Aroma cafe in Santa Rosa. (Heather Irwin/The Press Democrat)

It’s all a combination of hard work and finesse. One moment, you’ll find Mojica pulling pizzas from the oven. The next, he’s carefully placing tiny edible flowers on the Panzanella Latina ($17), with heirloom tomatoes, queso panela, basil, cilantro leaves and balsamic vinaigrette.

Best bets (though menu items change frequently) include focaccia with fresh herbs and truffled salt ($9), Hola Caesar, with boquerones, spiced croutons and Aleppo chili dust ($17), and tacos de asada, a homemade corn tortilla topped with grilled skirt steak, huitlacoche cream and roasted scallions ($23).

Hola Caesar salad at chef Carlos Mojica’s dinner pop-up at Aroma de Cafe in Santa Rosa. (Heather Irwin/The Press Democrat)

On the left, the Bellevue Club cocktail with gin, lemon, lemongrass and raspberry hibiscus foam. On the right, the Vamos à la Playa with coconut oil-washed tequila, passion fruit, kiwi, lime and chili salt. At chef Carlos Mojica’s dinner pop-up at Aroma de Cafe in Santa Rosa. (Heather Irwin/The Press Democrat)

The elevated cocktail menu includes stunners like Vamos à la Playa ($16) with coconut oil-washed tequila, passion fruit, kiwi, lime and chili salt.

Dinner is served from 4:30-9 p.m. Tuesday through Thursday; 4:30-10 p.m. Friday and Saturday; and 4:30-9 p.m. Sunday. Aroma de Cafe is at 115 Fourth St., Santa Rosa, 707-293-9246, aromadecafesr.com

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

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Soft Medicine Sanctuary Makes Perfect Sense for Bohemian Sebastopol

Carey Sweet — Fri, 14 Feb 2025 01:06:39 +0000

This cafe, tea house and yoga studio in downtown Sebastopol, which opened in 2022, is all about organic wellness, with a “food as medicine” philosophy that includes vegan dishes and healing kavas, cacaos, matcha drinks, herbal teas and elixirs.

The concept makes perfect sense for Sebastopol, a town where the bohemian vibes are strong. But at this time of year, full of fresh starts and good intentions, the cafe’s healthy focus is a terrific choice for all kinds of diners.

The grain bowl is a plentiful, colorful creation piling on rice, mung beans, veggies, kraut, peppery winter greens and a lake of bright green pesto bound with Ayurvedic spices. Tacos are full of flavor and texture, featuring two corn tortillas stuffed with avocado, roasted veggies, greens, vegan cheese and spicy kimchi. And the “Kitcharito,” a hearty burrito of seasoned local rice, beans, cheese, avocado, crisp sprouts, and tart sauerkraut with salsa and vegan spicy mayo, is a standout.

The Nori Wrap with quinoa, avocado, kimchi, veggies, sprouts and vegan spicy mayo with a Passiflora cold elixir with vanilla raspberry almond milk, valerian, skullcap and passionflower from Soft Medicine Sanctuary Friday, Nov. 22, 2024, in Sebastopol. (John Burgess / The Press Democrat)

Throughout the menu, there are options to customize dishes to suit different dietary preferences: an aromatic vegetarian lentil soup with fresh herbs and greens, for example, can get a boost from ghee, a shot of miso or curry-infused bone broth. The cafe sources more than 80% of its produce from within 200 miles, uses only local grains and olive oils, and doesn’t use any seed oils, fillers, refined sugars or GMO products.

No alcohol is served, but the cafe does have a strong selection of kavas, cacaos and drinks made with nut milks and spices. Co-owner Jonathan Pinkston, an Ayurvedic practitioner and acupuncturist, says the sprawling, temple-like space also hosts late-night dance parties with music in the upstairs yoga studio.

“We’re here to sell food and drinks, of course, but the main thing is that we’re giving people a cultural space to meet new beautiful people and feel naturally good,” he says.

186 N. Main St., Sebastopol. 707-827-8130, softmedicinesebastopol.com

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Holiday Guests Coming? Here Are 4 Perfect Sonoma County Day Trips

Sofia Englund — Fri, 22 Nov 2024 23:00:54 +0000

When you live in Sonoma County, you’re never lonely for out-of-town visitors. Family, friends, college roommates, even casual acquaintances are all eager to catch up with you and take in all that the region offers.

Now through New Year’s is high season for house guests, with the number of invading out-of-towners larger than the kids’ gift lists. For local hosts, it can be a challenge deciding where to take restless visitors, especially those on a budget. Farm-to-table restaurants and taquerias are a given. Winery tasting rooms? Natch.

Go any direction in Sonoma County, and you will wind up somewhere intriguing. You’re never far from good food, natural beauty and wine tasting. But with so many choices, we’ve creamed off a few foolproof excursions that will fill up a day and make your guests’ stay in Sonoma County more memorable.

Click through the gallery for a four-day itinerary that includes some not-so-obvious explorations of Sonoma County, guaranteed to please your guests as much as you.

Meg McConahey contributed to this article.

Walk among centuries-old redwoods at Armstrong Woods State Park in Guerneville. (Kent Porter/The Press Democrat)

Day 1: Into the Armstrong Woods and to the coast

Armstrong Redwoods State Natural Reserve in Guerneville is a great place to introduce visitors to the natural superlatives of Sonoma County. Magnificent, 1,200-year-old Sequoia sempervirens, commonly known as coastal redwoods, tower in a way that makes humans feel very small and very serene. Redwoods are among the natural wonders of the world and among the planet’s oldest living organisms. And they’re an easy drive from anywhere in the county.

The Armstrong reserve features a 1½-mile, ADA-accessible trail, making this an easy outdoors experience for everyone in your group. Arrive early and with jackets to combat the marine chill. At 7:45 a.m., you’ll find an empty parking lot and the quiet woods, sans Segways and smartphone selfie-taking hordes. By contrast, visitors to Marin’s Muir Woods have to make a reservation.

After an hour among the gentle giants, depart as the parking lot begins to fill. Those arriving have had their breakfast, so now it’s time for yours. Coffee Bazaar in Guerneville provides house-roasted coffee and pastries. Or drive a little farther west, along the Russian River, to Duncans Mills’ Gold Coast C offee and Bakery.

Luis Algredo bakes fresh pizza at Gold Coast Coffee and Bakery in Duncans Mills on Tuesday, Sept. 13, 2011. (Beth Schlanker/ The Press Democrat)

The Duncans Mills General Store has survived for a century serving its community. (John Burgess/The Press Democrat)

Founded in 1877, Duncans Mills is a quaint station on the way to the coast from the river towns, with a charming general store and a depot museum next to where the Northwestern Pacific Railroad once ran. If you still have Christmas shopping to do, then Duncans Mills is a good place to browse. Don’t miss Jim Raidl’s Jim and Willies, a real curiosity shop of quirky antiques and curios with a friendly proprietor.

On the road again, continue west. For some sea air and wide-open ocean views to amaze visitors from land-locked places, stop at the Vista Trail in Jenner at the mouth of the Russian River. If you’re lucky, you’ll spot some harbor seals.

After watching waves crash in the fresh sea air, you’ll be ready for the drive south on Highway 1 to Bodega Bay. This is the classic Sonoma Coast scene of crashing waves, and trails along the bluff are accessible to most people. Check out the whimsical wind spinners at Candy & Kites, the colorful array of saltwater taffy at Patrick’s and the Japanese prints at Ren Brown Collection Fine Art Gallery.

Patrick’s Salt Water Taffy in Bodega Bay, Wednesday, May 17, 2023. (Chad Surmick / The Press Democrat)

Cinnamon French toast made from Village Bakery brioche topped with butter, fresh whipped cream, organic raspberries and real maple syrup with orange slices, sparkling wine and a cappuccino at Estero Cafe in Valley Ford. (Alvin Jornada/The Press Democrat)

Start heading inland for a hit of Alfred Hitchcock in the tiny town of Bodega. Snap a “The Birds” selfie outside the old Potter School, immortalized in the scene where schoolchildren run screaming and flailing from their classroom. It’s a private residence, so stay on the road. Then swing by the nearby Saint Teresa of Avila Church, also featured in the film.

You’ll be hungry by now. For lunch, consider the Estero Cafe in Valley Ford just a few minutes’ drive away. The restaurant pays homage to local farmers with its hand-lettered chalkboard menus and homestyle food. Its inventive brunches, sandwiches and salads make it one of the county’s top foodie destinations.

Day 2: Healdsburg for the holidays

Start your day by taking in one of the most spectacular gems of Sonoma County — Lake Sonoma. Then head to Healdsburg (a 10-minute drive) for a leisurely breakfast at Costeaux French Bakery.

Avocado Toast with artisan bread, pepitas, hard-boiled eggs, chile flakes, radishes, pickled red onion and pea shoos from chef Jorge Flores at Costeaux Bakery in Healdsburg. Photo taken Wednesday, June 28, 2023. (John Burgess / The Press Democrat)

Costeaux French Bakery is a frequent winner in baking competitions, and its fresh breads are served in Sonoma restaurants. But not many people know that Costeaux serves great breakfasts and lunches.

After breakfast, let the bookworms and audiophiles in the group browse the fiction, vinyl and CD selection at Levin & Company. Take the stairs to the mezzanine for its collection of local art, jewelry and crafts. Next, visit the antique markets — like Shoffeitt’s Off the Square and Antique Harvest — all within easy walking distance of the plaza.

No Healdsburg visit is complete without a winery stop, or two. Lambert Bridge boasts a tasting room with a large fireplace, making it a cozy place for sipping wines in colder months. The Healdsburg Bubble Bar, nestled in a quaint 1906 Queen Anne Victorian near the plaza, offers a wide assortment of sparkling wines.

Aaron Rosewater, co-owner of Levin & Company, organizes the shelves at his bookstore in Healdsburg on Tuesday, August 21, 2018. (Beth Schlanker/ The Press Democrat)

The Bubble Bar tasting room in Healdsburg will focus on champagnes, sparklers, cavas, proseccos and all things bubbles. Photo taken Monday, Feb. 5, 2024. (John Burgess / The Press Democrat)

As the sun goes down, head to Barndiva for a craft cocktail and dinner, and watch the outdoor lights twinkle over the quirky art on the patio. Don’t miss the eclectic collection of British Cigarette Cards at the Gallery Bar.

Day 3: In search of lost time, and more wine, in Sonoma Valley

Winter is a good time to check out the new museum exhibit in Jack London State Historic Park. Even if it’s too cold or wet to hike, you can take cover in the House of Happy Walls museum dedicated to the great writer and his wife, Charmian.

Right outside the park gate, Benziger Family Winery offers vineyard tram tours that will get you out of the tasting room and among the vines, which have their own sculpted beauty in winter.

The House of Happy Walls museum at Jack London State Historic Park in Glen Ellen. (Courtesy Sonoma County Tourism)

Make it an outdoorsy day at Sonoma Botanical Garden, one of Sonoma County’s secret spots. Few travel writers have discovered it, meaning you may have this 20-acre garden of rare Asian plants all to yourself. Easy paths wind past ponds and through dense plantings of trees and shrubs with something of interest in every season. There is a nice gift shop for garden lovers as well as golf cart tours by arrangement for those with mobility problems.

In the town of Sonoma, the walkable square offers places to sip, shop and dine. For celebratory sparkles during the holidays, there’s SIGH Champagne bar. No reservations needed, and they always offer three flights of French, Californian and other tantalizing sparklers. If you have teetotalers or beer drinkers in your party, this is a great tasting room option. They also offer draft beer, regular wine and non-alcoholic beverages, as well as snack-sized bites, both savory and sweet.

Sonoma Plaza offers holiday cheer and attractions for history buffs, from the Sonoma Mission to the barracks and Toscano Hotel, all within two blocks. There’s a big parking lot behind the barracks on First Street East.

Marinated mussels, marinated vegetables, goat stew with fingerling potatoes and fried piri piri potatoes at Tasca Tasca in Sonoma. (Erik Castro/for The Press Democrat)

When you’re ready for a bite to eat, consider Tasca Tasca (TT Tapas). Tasca stands for tavern or pub in Portugal. Chef Manuel Azevedo offers updated Portuguese tapas with a fresh Sonoma spin. They’re also open late. Or head down Broadway to HopMonk Tavern for bar bites and beer, washed down with live music on the weekends.

Day 4: Petaluma, Sebastopol and a farm-to-table finale in Forestville

The age of Petaluma, settled in the 1850s, might not impress visitors from Europe, but the downtown’s quaint storefronts, heritage homes and retro memorabilia will make even your English uncle or Swedish aunt melt. But first, start with breakfast at Della Fattoria, one of the country’s finest bread bakers, famous for its Meyer lemon rosemary boule. Try the breakfast toast with ricotta cheese, banana slices, toasted pecans and honey.

Della Breakfast Toast with ricotta cheese, banana slices, toasted pecans, honey and salt at Della Fattoria in Petaluma. (Beth Schlanker/The Press Democrat)

A variety of dishes from Farmstand at Farmhouse Inn in Forestville. (Aubrie Pick)

Downtown, check out the vintage guitars and mandolins at Tall Toad Music and the 1,800 varieties of heirloom seeds at The Seed Bank, owned by Baker Creek, one of the country’s leading purveyors of heirloom seed.

For the afternoon, get behind the wheel and drive the 17 miles to Sebastopol’s The Barlow. Designed to look like old farm industrial buildings — without the dirt and rust — this marketplace is good for browsing. Watch local makers in action at restaurants, wineries, breweries and cideries, and art, jewelry, glass, crafts, design and clothing studios.

If you want to arrange for a farm-to-table grand finale, you could make reservations at Farmhouse Inn’s upscale but surprisingly low-key Michelin-starred restaurant in Forestville. For a more affordable but still delicious option, Farmhouse Inn’s casual eatery Farmstand serves woodfired dishes and pizza.

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Acorn Cafe Opening at Healdsburg’s Former Oakville Grocery

Heather Irwin — Fri, 08 Dec 2023 01:02:01 +0000

According to an Instagram post by Shop Local Healdsburg, a new cafe is opening in the former Oakville Grocery space on the Healdsburg Plaza. The new owner is Chef Beryl Adler, who is well-known in the community as the general manager of Black Oak Coffee Roasters in Healdsburg.

See the updated menu for the August opening.

Adler is a longtime chef who headed the culinary program at W Hotel in Bali and Ritz-Carlton locations in Half Moon Bay and Grand Cayman. He also helped create the in-house menu at Black Oak in Healdsburg. Black Oak Coffee Roasters, however, are not part of the Oakville Grocery ownership team.

Though Adler confirmed the project in a phone call on Wednesday, he said he is waiting until the project progresses before giving more details.

The owners of Oakville Grocery hinted that new ownership was already in the works before they closed in mid-November after 25 years.

“A respected member of the Healdsburg community will soon unveil exciting plans for this beloved site, bringing their enthusiasm and passion to the forefront,” said an Instagram post on Nov. 15.

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Italian-style cafe Stellina Alimentari elevates sandwiches to art

Heather Irwin — Wed, 22 Nov 2023 22:45:15 +0000

In a nutshell: Part sandwich shop, part Italian grocer, part deli, part bottle shop — Stellina Alimentari defies easy explanation. Owner Christian Caiazzo aptly describes the narrow, brick-lined, mosaic-tiled eatery as having a New York Attitude with Italian Soul. Don’t miss the Il Michelangelo porchetta sandwich, fried risotto balls, panzarotti potato cakes, and antipasti. 160 Petaluma Blvd. N., Petaluma, stellinaalimentari.com.

I knew I had to get to Stellina Alimentari, the new cafe from the owners of Stellina Pronto, when a local chef described their porchetta sandwich with such wistfulness it was almost heartbreaking — the Della Fattoria lemon rosemary bread, the salsa verde, the porchetta juice that runs down your wrists.

Chefs always have a thing about porchetta — a boneless pork roast wrapped like a jelly roll with crispy skin inside and out.

It didn’t disappoint. Called Il Michelangelo ($18) on the sandwich board inside the Italian-style cafe and deli, it’s brought, wrapped in paper, to whichever lucky seat (there are only about four in the whole place) you’ve grabbed. Other sandwiches like the La Bellucci ($16) with grilled artichoke relish, roasted mushrooms, truffle pecorino cream and mushroom pate come on the house-baked schiaccita (think focaccia).

Inside the new Stellina Alimentari in Petaluma. (Emma K Creative)

The sandwich board at Stellina Alimentari in Petaluma. (Emma K Creative)

There are tasty Italian-style salads, antipasti and charcuterie boards, along with fried risotto balls with chile aioli and the Panzarotti (little potato cakes with Parmesan, mozzarella and mint) as well. I’m not doing it justice, but until I can get back another three or 10 times, this little taste will have to suffice. 160 Petaluma Blvd. N., Petaluma, stellinaalimentari.com. Open 11 a.m. to 7 p.m. Monday through Saturday.

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Cotati’s Down to Earth Cafe: Best Poutine Ever?

biteclub — Thu, 30 Aug 2018 21:54:25 +0000

For the last 18 months, Down to Earth Cafe has been a cheerful neighborhood cafe with a fairly straightforward menu of sandwiches, salads and entrees. It doesn’t scream for attention by fussing over how their house-cured pastrami takes 16 days to make or how their butterscotch pudding is made with cream and butter and not butterscotch chips. There’s no indication that chef/owner Chris Ball has worked in some of the best restaurants in Europe, and has worked for years to perfect his shatteringly good fish and chips. Which is exactly why it’s escaped the radar for this long.

Strawberry salad at Down to Earth Cafe in Cotati. Heather Irwin/PD

When the dazzle of six-figure restaurant makeovers, precious farm-to-table menus and a never-ending lineup of pedigreed Wine Country chefs is a constant, simpler neighborhood cafes can be lost in the shuffle. Also, they’re also usually not run by a Lark Creek Inn and Fish (Sausalito) alum, so there’s that.

“I just want to feed people,” says Ball, as we chat for nearly two hours on a Saturday afternoon between services. He’s been freshly featured on Guy’s Grocery Games on the Food Network, a local chef honor not uncommon since it is filmed in Santa Rosa, but Ball also worked for nearly a year with Fieri on a seasonal menu for Tex Wasabi’s when it was shelved during ownership changes.

“He is stunningly knowledgeable about food,” says Ball of the Food Network chef.

Down to Earth is housed in the former Nicolino’s in downtown Cotati (and briefly Stax), revamped from kitschy Italian to a cozy walk-up cafe where service and the menu are casual, but the technique behind the food is anything but.

Fish and chips at Down to Earth Cafe in Cotati. Heather Irwin/PD

Take the fish and chips — something I rarely order after years of flabby, greasy, anvil-heavy disappointments.

“Most of them are like sad pancakes on bad fish,” he says sensing my trepidation. Here, fresh North Coast rock cod is dipped in a light beer batter (and plenty of cornstarch) giving it a lacy, fizzled crispness that’s crackles in your mouth rather than laying there like a sodden blanket.

The fish is clean and whisper light rather than a rubbery mess smelling of low tide. It’s a bit of a revelation served with hand-cut fries (pretty much no one goes to the trouble of making fries anymore), spicy remoulade, a wedge of grilled lemon and coleslaw.

And Ball knows his fish. “We used to bring in fish two times a day,” says Ball of his time at Scotland’s most famous restaurant, the Witchery. During his stint at Sausalito’s Fish Restaurant, he would be awakened before dawn with day boat captains ready to drop their entire catch within a few hours.

Chef Chris Ball of Down to Earth Cafe in Cotati. Heather Irwin/PD

The Grand Rapids, Michigan native, however, doesn’t feel the need to overcomplicate things at the 49-seat restaurant.

“It’s like turning a carrot into a carrot,” he says of his time in fine dining, where a simple carrot would be manipulated 20 times to become, well, a carrot, albeit with foams and gels and pumpernickel “dirt”.

“This is Cotati, I’m trying to feed people here. I want to make really good food. I want everything to be what it is, with just a few components that go together, and you have to put love into food,” says Ball.

Best Bets

Strawberry Balsamic Salad ($9.50/$11.50): This is a popular seller for a good reason. Sweet ripe strawberries are the star of this simple salad that plays ping pong on your palate with sweet candied pecans, pickled onion, creamy herbed goat cheese, peppery arugula, bitter frisee and a sweet, sour balsamic reduction.

Pastrami Reuben ($14): Ball’s house-cured pastrami is thinly sliced and slightly crisped, stacked with sauerkraut, Swiss and spicy remoulade on marbled rye. Each element of this sandwich plays nicely with its neighbor, rather than anyone trying to steal the show.

Shells and cheese at Down to Earth Cafe in Cotati. Heather Irwin/PD

Slow-Braised Short Rib Poutine ($13/$19): This is the show-stopper. Throw out everything you know about Canadian gravy fries, because this is possibly the most elevated dish on the menu. Handcut Kennebec fries, Cabernet gravy that I have contemplated writing an ode to, blue cheese cracklings and a chunk of slowly braised short ribs so sweet and tender you’ll want to send it a Hallmark card. Speaking of which, if you’re more of an entree kind of person, you can get a giant plate of short ribs, mashed potatoes and grilled veggies for $19.50.

Shells and Cheese with House-Cured Bacon ($13): Check out the Yelp reviews. You’ll see a particularly loving review or two of this blockbuster for good reason. Let’s just say Ball knows his way around a Béchamel sauce. A throwback with the addition of a grilled hot dog for us 70s kids.

Butterscotch pudding at Down to Earth Cafe and Deli in Cotati. Heather Irwin/PD

Butterscotch Pudding ($7): Like we said, no melted butterscotch chips, which tend to give short-cut puddings a gritty texture. Smoother than Michael Buble doing a Sam Smith cover in silk pajamas.

Needs Work

Fried Chicken Sandwich ($13): It’s not that I didn’t like this lovely little torpedo roll with crisp fried chicken, but both times I tried it, the use of chicken tenders, rather than the whole breast made the whole thing unwieldy. Java BBQ with Pt. Reyes Blue Cheese also got a little heavy handed.

We’ll Be Back For

Sunday brunch is simple, but Pastrami Hash ($13.50) with crispy potatoes, piquillo pepper and eggs has our name all over it, especially with a side of Meyer Lemon Hollandaise.

Overall: Chris Ball is a top-notch chef who uses his classic training to create comfort classics with a light touch and an earnest heart. A Cotati sleeper that’s snoozing no more.

Open daily. Monday through Thursday, 11a.m. to 8 p.m., Friday and Saturday to 9 p.m., Sunday 9 a.m. to 8 p.m. Catering available. 8204 Old Redwood Highway, Cotati, 707-753-4925, dtecafe.com.

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101 Things To Eat, Drink & Do in Sonoma County

Sonoma Magazine Staff — Fri, 03 Feb 2017 19:15:49 +0000

Accentuate the positive and downplay the negative with our list of 101 must-dos in Sonoma County.

Savvy on First in Cloverdale. (Chelsea Kurnick)

1. Check out Cloverdale!

2. Munch scones at Wild Flour Bakery in Freestone, crunch toast at Petaluma’s Della Fattoria or select from the Pugliese loaves at Raymond’s Bakery in Cazadero.

Toast at Della Fattoria in Petaluma. (Beth Schlanker)

3. Speed your car (lawfully) at Sonoma Raceway in Sonoma…

4. …Or race miniature model cars on slotted tracks, steered by hand-held controllers at Slot Car Raceway in Rohnert Park.

A driver heats up his tires for more traction at the starting line during Wednesday Night Drags at Sonoma Raceway in Sonoma. (Alvin Jornada)

5. Watch whales at Bodega Head.

The peak months for whale watching are January through May. (Christopher Chung)

6. Sample Wine Country cocktails at County Bench in Santa Rosa.

Mixologist Paul Ammerman at County Bench in Santa Rosa. (John Burgess)

7. Behold Asian plant buds bursting, and the rare Acer Pentaphyllum thriving, at Quarryhill Botanical Garden in Glen Ellen.

Lilies at Quarryhill Botanical Garden in Glen Ellen. (Joshua Dylan Mellars)

8. Learn about Sonoma’s rich history with a docent guided tour of Sonoma State Historic Park.

Mission San Francisco Solano in Sonoma. (Crista Jeremiason)

9. Sign up for a community supported agriculture (CSA) box full of fresh fruit and veggies.

ISO Seo, 3, of Sebastopol samples raspberries while picking up a weekly veggie box with his mother at the Laguna Farm CSA in Sebastopol. (John Burgess)

10. Snap a selfie in front of the Sonoma map/art at the Fremont Diner in Sonoma.

11. Ogle classic cars as they cruise historic downtown Petaluma at the “Salute to American Graffiti.”

12. Re-inspire your garden with a visit to The Gardener in Healdsburg.

The Gardener Healdsburg. (Caitlin McCaffrey)

13. Glide your bike coast side on Coleman Valley Road in Occidental.

Coleman Valley Road. (Kent Porter)

14. Devour a traditional all-beef wiener dog at Roy’s Chicago Dogs at the Yard in Petaluma.

15. View a local indie film, or submit your own, at the Sonoma International Film Festival.

16. See Sonoma from above at Hood Mountain in Santa Rosa.

17. Farm tour “natural process agriculture” at Green String Farm in Petaluma.

Green String Farm offers free tours every Saturday, but visitors are welcome to stop by anytime.

18. Pat the miniature pony out for his morning walk along the Sonoma Plaza.

Peanut Butter, a tiny horse, is a big hit in Sonoma. (Kent Porter)

19. Cut the rug at a Sebastopol Grange dance party.

20. Take in the beauty of the Sonoma landscape, free falling at 120 mph, with NorCal Skydiving.

21. Experience tulips and daffodils flowering in spring at Ferrari Carano Vineyards and Winery in Healdsburg.

Tulips at Ferrari Carano Vineyards and Winery in Healdsburg.

22. Float the Russian River by raft, canoe, rowboat or inner tube.

People float down the Russian River by various methods of transport towards Johnson’s Beach in Guerneville. (Alvin Jornada)

23. Take in a concert from the Green Music Center lawn in Rohnert Park.

24. Sample wines while picnicking at Sonoma’s Bartholomew Park.

The Bartholomew Park mansion. (Photo courtesy of Bartholomew Park)

25. Fulfill your fruit and farm animal fix at Gravenstein Apple Fair in Sebastopol.

26. Celebrate Petaluma heritage with a counterculture steampunk vibe at the Rivertown Revival Festival.

Rivertown Revival Festival in Petaluma. (John Burgess)

27. Sail Spring Lake in Santa Rosa.

28. Go “clubbing” at The Lounge at La Rosa Tequileria & Grille in Santa Rosa.

The Lounge at La Rosa Tequileria & Grille in Santa Rosa.

29. Whiff lavender scents in June at Matanzas Creek Winery, Lavender Bee Farm or Sonoma Lavender.

Lavender fields at Matanza’s Creek Winery.

30. Celebrate independence day with one of the best 4th of July parades in the country in Sonoma.

31. Lace up your trainers to run the Santa Rosa Marathon, Half Marathon or 5K.

32. Imbibe the vaudeville spectacle at Lagunitas Brewing’s Beer Circus in Petaluma.

Lagunitas Brewing’s Beer Circus in Petaluma. (Beth Schlanker)

33. Support locally produced food and see some fun agrarian games at Farmer Olympics.

Ariel Scholten takes the lead for the girls in the Compost Wheelbarrow race at the Farmer Olympics.(John Burgess)

34. Feast on Sonoma County Fair funnel cakes.

Once a year, funnel cakes at the Sonoma County Fair are available. The lines for these deep fried treats can sometimes be longer than the ride lines, but just one bite is powdered-sugar heaven. (Kent Porter)

35. Make your own u-pick BLT at the Zazu/Black Piglet pop-up, and sip some Pinot, at Davis Family Vineyards in Healdsburg.

BLTs off the vine? Black Piglet pop-up opens for the summer at Davis Family Winery in Healdsburg.

36. Enjoy the best of Broadway with The Transcendence Theater Company at Jack London State Historic Park.

Transcendence Theatre Company gather Broadway fans under the stars in Glen Ellen. (Alvin Jornada)

37. Make a splash at Healdsburg Water Carnival and Wine Barrel Racing on the Russian River.

A replica of the original swan, constructed partially of recycled water bottles is floating downstream with Mr. Healdsburg, Tejpal Singh Sekhon, during the Healdsburg Water Carnival. (Kent Porter)

38. Celebrate diverse international flavors and cultures at the Fort Ross Festival.

Russian dancers demonstrate ethnic dancing during the Fort Ross State Park’s Bicentennial celebration. (Kent Porter)

39. Tour scenic Highway 12 or Watmaugh Road and stop for fresh, sweet and summer warm, strawberries.

A bucolic scene on Highway 12 in the Valley of the Moon. (Kent Porter)

Fresh and sweet Sonoma strawberries. (Chris Hardy)

40. Indulge in funky-looking fruit, and other heritage food, at the National Heirloom Exposition at the Sonoma County Fairgrounds.

Shawna Kelly of the east bay holds a gete-oskosomin squash grown from ancient found seeds at the National Heirloom Exposition at the Sonoma County Fairgrounds. (John Burgess)

41. Quaff a cold beer at Ernie’s Tin Bar/auto garage in Petaluma – and get a free ride home.

Owner Ernie Altenreuther, left, talks with regulars at Ernie’s Tin Bar in Petaluma. (Conner Jay)

42. Provision cheeses, artisan breads, fresh fruits and vegetables and pair them with fine wines at the Valley of the Moon farmer’s market for a picnic on Sonoma Plaza’s lawn.

43. Wine taste around Sonoma Plaza, by bike.

44. Spend a night high in a treehouse.

The Swallowtail Treehouse, nestled securely in a multi-trunked 110-foot Eucalyptus tree in Petaluma, is one of several treehouses available for rent in Sonoma County.

45. Toss your shoes and stomp grapes at the Harvest Fair at the Sonoma County Fairgrounds.

Grape stomp at the Harvest Fair. (Photo by Beth Schlanker)

46. Go “glamping” in the Sonoma Serengeti at Safari West in Santa Rosa.

Interior of a luxury tent at Safari West. (Photo courtesy of hotels.com)

Safari West giraffe love. (John Burgess)

47. Commune with ribald spirits and soak up the country charm of iconic Sonoma roadhouses, like Washoe House or Twin Oaks Roadhouse.

The Washoe House in Petaluma. (Chris Hardy)

The fried chicken sandwich at the Twin Oaks Road House in Penngrove. (Kent Porter)

48. Ascend to float lightly in a hot air balloon over Wine Country vineyards.

A hot air balloon ascends over Windsor at dawn. (Kent Porter)

A hot air balloon floats over Windsor vineyards. (Kent Porter)

49. Browse the 15th to 19th-century culinary books at Ben Kinmont Bookseller in Sebastopol.

50. Spend a day at Lake Sonoma by hiking around the lake, boating or viewing the lake from above.

Lake Sonoma. (Crista Jeremiason)

51. Peruse and purchase local art at the Sonoma Plein Air Festival.

52. Shop handmade dolls and wood toys at Circle of Hands in Sebastopol.

Christine Schreier, right, helps customer Christine Badura at Circle of Hands – a Waldorf Collective, in Sebastopol. (Christopher Chung)

53. Get down and muddy at mountain bike mecca Annadel State Park in Santa Rosa.

Annadel State Park in Santa Rosa is a mountain biker’s mecca. (Erik Castro)

54. Roll bocce balls and enjoy wood-fired pizza at Campo Fina in Healdsburg.

Bocce ball players at Campo Fina in Healdsburg.

55. Stroll historic Petaluma houses on the Heritage Homes and Landmarks Tour.

56. Sip local craft beer, furry friend at your feet, at dog-friendly Fogbelt Brewing in Santa Rosa.

Dog-friendly Fogbelt Brewing in Santa Rosa.

57. Examine Japanese prints at Ren Brown Collection Fine Art Gallery in Bodega Bay.

58. Learn to play ukulele, mandolin or guitar at Tall Toad Music in Petaluma and check out their vintage instruments.

A variety of guitars on display at Tall Toad Music in Petaluma. (Beth Schlanker)

59. Take a West County trip and brunch at Estero Cafe in Valley Ford.

60. Taste the best Mexican food in Sonoma County at El Roy’s Taco Truck in Petaluma.

El Roy’s Mexican Grill has been voted the best food truck in Sonoma County. (Christopher Chung)

61. Attain cedar enzyme zen at Osmosis Day Spa Sanctuary in Freestone.

Osmosis Day Spa & Sanctuary in Freestone.

62. Study the 1,800 varieties of heirloom seeds at The Seed Bank in Petaluma.

The Seed Bank in Petaluma. (Conner Jay)

63. Meet local artists and artisans, and see their work, at the Sonoma County Art Trails or in SOFA Artwalk.

Artist Taunee Callahan flips through a magazine as she waits for people to visit her gallery during the SOFA Artwalk in Santa Rosa. (Beth Schlanker)

64. Explore Jack London State Historic Park and the Valley of the Moon on horseback.

Triple Creek Horse Outfit offers guided horseback rides through Jack London State Historic Park.

65. Browse the fiction, vinyl, CD and crafts selection at Levin & Company in Healdsburg.

66. Grab a bunch of Buttermilk Onion Rings at Backyard in Forestville.

Buttermilk onion rings at Backyard in Forestville.

67. Bring the kids, and your inner child, to a Halloween stroll along McDonald Avenue, passing the Mableton Mansion, in Santa Rosa.

Mermaids cheer as Peter Pan makes Captain Hook walk the plank during Halloween at the McDonald Mansion in Santa Rosa. (Alvin Jornada)

68. Line-up with thousands of bike nerds for Levis Granfondo…

7500 bicycle riders crowd the start of Levi Leipheimers King Ridge Gran Fondo. (Kent Porter)

69. …Or queue with hundreds of beer acolytes for the latest Pliny the Younger release.

Beer enthusiasts from around the world line up for the annual debut of Russian River Brewing Company’s Pliny the Younger. (John Burgess)

70. Fly a kite on Doran Beach and then warm up with a cup of clam chowder at Spud Point in Bodega Bay.

Fly a kite on Doran Beach.

Clam chowder at Spud Point in Bodega Bay.

71. Gather four friends and a one-day pass at Francis Ford Coppola Winery in Geyserville for poolside fun.

The Francis Ford Coppola Winery pool in Geyserville.

Swimming Under the Stars at Francis Ford Coppola Winery in Geyserville. (Alvin Jornada)

72. Jazz it up the speakeasy way with a live gig at the Big Easy in Petaluma.

Wayne De La Cruz preforms with his band at The Big Easy bar and night club in Petaluma.
(Jeremy Portje)

73. Browse Life Magazine’s decades and other vintage treasures at Whistlestop Antiques in Santa Rosa.

A mural of a steam engine on the side of Whistlestop Antiques serves as the defacto entrance to the Historic Railroad Square district in Santa Rosa. (Kent Porter)

74. Take a beekeeping, cheesemaking, fermenting, ramen-making, or pickling class at the SHED in Healdsburg.

A bowl of homemade soup at a ramen workshop at SHED in Healdsburg. (Beth Schlanker)

75. Have cannoli at Canetti Roadhouse in Forestville.

Cannoli at Canneti Roadhouse in Forestville.

76. Zip line above redwoods and deep ravines with Sonoma Canopy Tours near Occidental.

Sarah Chou lets out a yell as she careens down a zipline. (Christopher Chung)

77. Sip a cup of coffee and catch a movie at Rio Theater in Monte Rio.

Rio Theater in Monte Rio. (Alvin Jornada)

78. Have an arts & crafts cocktail day at the Gallery Bar at Barndiva in Healdsburg.

Barndiva Gallery Bar in Healdsburg.

79. Take an evening walk along Florence Avenue in Sebastopol to see a selection of Patrick Amiot’s sculpture junk art.

Patrick Amiot’s distinctive sculptures decorate yards on Florence Avenue in Sebastopol. (Rebecca Chotkowski)

80. Sample farm fresh gourmet food on the porch at the Dry Creek General Store in Healdsburg.

81. Have a cream-filled cronut at Bright Bear Bakery in Petaluma.

Cronuts, morning bun, croissants, and other pastries from Bright Bear Bakery in Petaluma. (Heather Irwin)

82. Spend some solitary time among gentle giants at The Grove of Old Trees in Occidental.

Grove of Old Trees, Occidental. (John Burgess)

83. Browse the vintage and rare vinyls at The Last Record Store in Santa Rosa.

84. Settle your stage nerves with 1/2 off drinks, then sing your heart out at Stout Brother’s Karaoke Night in Santa Rosa.

85. Have a pour-over with a punch, then while away the hours playing boardgames at Brew in Santa Rosa.

There’s more to brew than coffee and beer – there’s also plenty of boardgames and Tuesday Night trivia. (Heather Irwin)

86. Treat Fifi or Fido (and yourself) to a feast at Howard’s Station Cafe in Occidental.

87. Winter camp, away from the summer crowds, on a Sonoma Coast beach.

Tent campsite Bodega Dunes Campground. (Photo courtesy of parks.ca.gov)

88. Play cribbage with bartender Helga at time-warp watering hole Andresen’s Tavern in Petaluma.

89. Salsa on Sundays at Flamingo Conference Resort and Spa in Santa Rosa.

90. Sip Melon & Mint Gin at Hellocello & Prohibition Spirits at Cornerstone Sonoma.

91. Stock up on spiritual supplies and magic potions at Lucky Mojo in Forestville.

Shop for magic potions at Lucky Mojo Curio Co. in Forestville ( Beth Schlanker)

92. Grow your whiskers – or check out other masterful mustaches – at Petaluma’s Whiskerino contest.

Aarne Bielefeldt of Willits wears his “octo-beard” during the Whiskerino contest in Petaluma. (John Burgess)

93. View Bodega Bay by the fireside, Sonoma wine in hand, at Drake’s Fireside Lounge.

Drakes Fireside Lounge at the Bodega Bay Lodge.

94. Spend a day reminiscing and reading Peanuts strips at Charles M. Schulz Museum in Santa Rosa.

95. Sip Pinot Noirs in the huge Adirondack chair at Holdredge Wines in Healdsburg.

Adirondack chair at Holdredge Wines in Healdsburg. (John Burgess)

96. Enjoy modernist architecture and rugged coastal landscape at The Sea Ranch.

Condominium One, Sea Ranch. (Chris Hardy)

97. Get a Mad Men worthy vintage dress, or a tapered classic suit, at Hot Couture in Santa Rosa.

Hot Couture Vintage Fashion in Santa Rosa is

98. Chase waterfalls at Sugarloaf Ridge State Park in Kenwood.

Waterfalls at Sugarloaf Ridge State Park. (John Burgess)

99. Holiday shop at women-owned West County artisan stores, then finish with a few scoops of ice cream at Nimble & Finn’s in Guerneville.

Commerce Fine Goods inside the Guerneville Bank Club. (Photo courtesy of Commerce Fine Goods)

Nimble and Finn’s Ice Cream. (Photo courtesy of Nimble & Finn’s)

100. Get in the holiday spirit by watching some lighted tractors (Geyserville), couches (Santa Rosa), boats (Petaluma) and snowmen (Sonoma).

Lighting of the Snowmen Holiday Festival at Cornerstone Sonoma.

101. …and, in case you’re worried about any accumulations of carbs and Cabs, enjoy Sonoma’s great outdoors by hiking all the regional parks!

The post 101 Things To Eat, Drink & Do in Sonoma County appeared first on Sonoma Magazine.

27 Things to Do for 20-Somethings in Sonoma County

Josephine Clements — Sat, 03 Dec 2016 18:43:24 +0000

Alexis Lenahan and Desirae Braga pose for Facebook pictures in the Petaluma Pumpkin Patch and Amazing Corn Maze in Petaluma. (Photo by John Burgess)

Sonoma County, land of world-class wineries and fancy farm-to-table food, can be a Garden of Eden for visitors and locals. But what if you’re a student on a budget, or you’ve just landed your first job and sharing a tiny flat with friends? We’ve listed some priceless local activities for young people in Sonoma County — that won’t break the bank. Did we miss one of your favorites? Please add it in the comments!

Take a Hike

One of the cheapest, and most rewarding, things you can do in Sonoma County is to enjoy the natural beauty — while getting some exercise and storing up endorphins. On weekends, the younger crowd hits the local trails — sporting cool caps, multicolored outfits, and green and purple accents in their hair. Some popular parks with panoramic views include Annadel State Park (also a mountain bike destination), Taylor Mountain Regional Park (which features disc golf) and Sugarloaf Ridge State Park.

Tom Robinson, Mark Tukman and Joan Schwan hike through Annadel State Park. (Photo by Kent Porter)

If you’re a regular regional park visitor, it’s worth investing in a Sonoma County Regional Parks Membership. A one-year membership is $69 and includes parking at more than 50 parks and trails, one night of camping, discounts on parks events, and a number of membership deals – including a one-week fitness pass at Sonoma County’s Family YMCA and two-for-one bike tours and rentals at Get Away Adventures.

Annadel State Park in Santa Rosa is a mountain biker’s mecca. (Photo by Erik Castro)

Go “Clubbing” at La Rosa

The Lounge at La Rosa Tequileria & Grille in Santa Rosa is Sonoma County’s closest thing to San Francisco clubbing. With reasonably priced drinks — including classic Margaritas and Tequila shots — and a killer dance floor, this is your younger crowd go-to spot. Check out upcoming nights on their Facebook site.

View from the booth while DJ Sykwidit, 30, of Santa Rosa keeps the dance floor moving at The Lounge at La Rosa Tequileria & Grille in downtown Santa Rosa. (Photo by Erik Castro)

Hang Out at the Music Store

If you’re college-age, you may not remember a time before iTunes and Spotify; that fantastic feeling of a pristine album in your hands, staring at the ceiling to the sound of your new CD or vinyl, or leafing through the album booklet to learn every lyric by heart — and its meaning…

But just because you were born in the 90s, doesn’t mean you can’t appreciate the real record store deal — available in its ultimate form at Santa Rosa’s The Last Record Store. From the latest homegrown talent and niche oddities, to epic limited edition live recordings and only the best new releases, this music mecca is as diverse as it is thorough and deep-cut. You’ll leave the store with a rare record you never knew existed — but that you’ll soon wonder how you could ever have lived without. The second hand selection is extensive, wide-ranging, and the prices are right — and browsing is, of course, free!

Tall Toad Music in Petaluma. (Photo courtesy of Tall Toad Music)

If listening to some new sounds inspire you to try your hand at the art of tune-smithing, head directly to Tall Toad Music in Petaluma to check out their collection of new, used and vintage guitars and mandolins. If you buy an instrument and then get deep into it, you’ll have hours and hours of free entertainment (after the initial outlay).

A variety of guitars on display at Tall Toad Music in Petaluma. (Photo by Beth Schlanker)

Hit the Beach

Spending time at the beach Sonoma-style isn’t so much about getting tanned under summer sun as it is further south on the California coast. Northern California beach culture is more about taking in the scenery, and some fresh sea air, year-round.

Friends taking a hike along the Sonoma Coast. (Photo by John Burgess)

Bring a few friends for a walk along a Bodega beach cliff, or hike down to explore one of the many tide pool spots, then take a hot cocoa break on a blanket and watch the surfers angle for an incoming wave. Complete your outing by taking a stroll around the town of Bodega Bay, filling a bag of multicolored saltwater taffy at Patrick’s and picking up a colorful kite at Candy & Kites or Second Wind. Finish your day with a bowl of clam chowder at Stud Point Crab Company or a crab sandwich at next-door Fisherman’s Cove.

At Fisherman’s Cove, enjoy a crab sandwich, or oysters, with some local crafts beer at on of the communal tables overlooking the bay. (yelp.com)

Do Some Window-Shopping

If you’re a vintage kind of gal or a fashion fanatic, there’s plenty of pretty things to look at in Sonoma County. Historic downtown Petaluma is host to a number of cute clothing stores — check out boho chic Ooh La Loft, and quaint vintage shops like Chick-A-Boom and The Thrifty Hippy. For additional vintage options, head to Santa Rosa’s Railroad Square and take a peek at second-hand goldmines Hot Couture and Skirt Chaser. If you’re hooked on hats, check out Portobello Hats in Santa Rosa and Bella – All Things Beautiful in Healdsburg.

Hot Couture Vintage Fashion in Santa Rosa is a second-hand goldmine. (Photo courtesy of Hot Couture)

Go for Brunch

What could be better than a relaxing brunch with friends after a week of classes, essays and exams? On weekends, students and 20-somethings fill local local brunch spots like the Tea Room Cafe in Petaluma, The Spinster Sisters in Santa Rosa and Sunflower Caffe in Sonoma, sharing plates and sipping on each other’s drinks.

Customers dine at The Spinster Sisters restaurant in Santa Rosa. (Photo by Charlie Gesell)

Don’t hesitate to hover over your brunch plate get the best angle for your Instagram feed…

The Cinnamon French toast topped with butter, fresh whipped cream, organic raspberries and real maple syrup at Estero Cafe in Valley Ford is well worth the trip. (Photo by Alvin Jornada)

Take a Fun Class

We’re talking Yoga, Zumba, Pilates and other energy-boosting classes, no homework involved. The YMCA in Santa Rosa offers young adult membership rates (18-24 years old), other popular spots include Annadel Dance & Fitness Studio in Santa Rosa and the “hot yoga” sessions at Bikram Yoga in Petaluma — the room is heated, making for a great sweat session and safer and deeper stretching (get 2 months for $99).

Take a fun class like Zumba – no homework involved!

Go Happy Hour Hopping

In your twenties in Sonoma County, Thirsty-Thursdays is your day to barhop away. A college student favorite is the Cotati Crawl: start at The 8 Ball and then move on to The TradeWinds and Spancky’s Bar and last stop, Friar’s Tuck Pub. Or hit up the Happy Hours at Santa Rosa’s Jackson’s Bar & Oven (happy hour is 3-6 p.m. Monday through Friday), or Petaluma’s Roaring Donkey (happy hour is Monday-Saturday 4p-6pm).

Dr. Cocktail #7 at Spoonbar restaurant in Healdsburg. (Photo by Heather Irwin)

For the best Brew-Hours, visit Santa Rosa’s Russian River Brewing Company in Santa Rosa (Monday – Friday 4-6:30 and all day Sunday), Brew Coffee & Beer (their two happy hours are from 4-6 p.m. and 8-10 p.m. daily) and Fogbelt Brewing Company (Monday-Friday 3-6 pm).

Beer lovers from around the world stood in line for their chance to taste Pliny the Younger at Russian River Brewing Company in Santa Rosa on Friday. (JOHN BURGESS / The Press Democrat)

Study at the Coffee Shop

Looking to perk up your study sessions? Acre Coffee in Petaluma, Flying Goat Coffee in Santa Rosa or Healdsburg, and Taylor Maid Farms in Sebastopol serve up pour-overs with a punch to energetic beats. Take a break from the books and caffeine-infused discussions, browse some magazines or play some boardgames — there’s plenty at Brew Coffee & Beer in Santa Rosa.

Students often come to Taylor Maid farms for the drinks and atmosphere to do homework. (Photo by John Burgess)

Browse Independent Bookstores

If you feel like a change of pace from “required readings” — or just looking for some inspiration, visit an independent bookshop like Treehorn Books in Santa Rosa, Levin & Co in Healdsburg (which also has a great music selection), or Copperfield’s Books in Santa Rosa, Petaluma, Sebastopol or Healdsburg. Pick out a good (and decently priced) second hand read and support a good business!

Treehorn books in Santa Rosa. (Photo by Erik Castro)

Taste the Tacos

Sonoma County’s many Mexican restaurants — offering great food at great prices — are popular college student hangouts (Taco Tuesdays are good days for a discount). Favorite local taco spots include: Taqueria Las Palmas, La Texanita, and Delicias Elenita Taco Truck in Santa Rosa, Cafe Salsa in Cotati, El Roy’s Mexican Grill in Petaluma, Tacos La Bamba in Sonoma, and Taqueria Guanajuato in Healdsburg.

Tacos at La Texanita in Santa Rosa. (Photo by Heather Irwin)

Take Photos at Petaluma Pumpkin Patch

Come October, and the Sonoma County autumn hype is in full swing — and for good reason; it really is an incredibly cozy and pretty time of year. For a prime time pumpkin photo shoot, head to Petaluma Pumpkin Patch, walk through the corn maze, grab a pumpkin, pose on a hay-bale or next to a sunflower —and find your inner kid.

Many local wineries offer free wine-tastings. Cheers! (Photo by John Burgess)

Sip On (Free) Wine

Being short on cash while surrounded by world-class wineries can be a dilemma. Thankfully, there are ways to enjoy the Sonoma County wine scene on a budget as many local wineries offer free wine-tasting — including Alexander Valley Vineyards in Healdsburg, Cline Cellars in Sonoma, Francis Ford Coppola Winery in Geyserville, J Rickards Winery in Cloverdale, Korbel Champagne Cellars in Guerneville and Rodney Strong Vineyards in Healdsburg. After wine-tasting, enjoy an afternoon walking around the vineyards, your pockets still full.

Take a Walk Around Sonoma Plaza

If you’re looking for something to do on a Saturday, Sonoma Plaza serves up plenty of activities for the young crowd. Get a scoop of ice cream at Sweet Scoops, channel your candy-loving kid at The Chocolate Cow, pick up a trinket at Harvest Home or J. James Sonoma, then picnic in the park or learn about Sonoma history — up close and personal— by touring Mission San Francisco Solano, the Blue Wing Inn, Sonoma Barracks, the Toscano Hotel, the Servants Quarters (the remains of La Casa Grande) and Lachryma Montis (less than a mile west of the plaza).

The ice cream selection at Sweet Scoops in Sonoma.

Go Barrel Tasting in the Spring

A cult classic for Sonoma County college students, the annual two-weekend Barrel Tasting event gives you the chance to enjoy tasting at 100+ local wineries at a fixed (reasonable) price and explore the Alexander, Dry Creek, and Russian River Valleys. This is a great excuse to dress up in trendy tasting attire, celebrate the arrival of spring — and an end to exams. March 3-5 and March 10-12, 2017.

The 37th Annual Wine Road Barrel Tasting in the Russian River, Dry Creek and Alexander Valleys. (Photo by John Burgess)

Catch Concerts in Summer (and Winter)

Sonoma County summers come with great concerts and festivals! Sonoma Country Summer, Napa’s BottleRock, and live music on the lawn at the Green Music Center, bring Bay Area millennials in hordes — but there’s also a lot of free summer entertainment to enjoy, including Tuesdays in the Plaza in Healdsburg, Friday Night Live at the Plaza in Cloverdale, Wednesday Night Market with live music in Santa Rosa, Summer Nights on the Green in Windsor, Rockin’ the River in Guerneville and Live at Juilliard in Santa Rosa.

During winter, there’s plenty of music and open mic nights to enjoy at Sonoma County’s live music venues and bars (some of it free), check out some of our favorites here.

Concert crowd at BottleRock Napa Valley. (Photo by Kent Porter)

Float Down the Russian River

Relax in real Russian River style by spending a day on the river in a floaty, cool drink in hand. For a more adventurous day, rent paddle boards or kayaks at Burke’s Canoes or Rubicon Adventures. The Forestville Farmers Market is the place to relax and recharge after a day on the river, June through October.

People float down the Russian River by various methods of transportation toward Johnson’s Beach in Guerneville. (Photo by Alvin Jornada)

See Guest Speakers at SSU

Get a little more (pop) cultured, or see your favorite celebs in person, by attending one of Sonoma State’s guest speaker talks. Recent speakers include MythBuster’s Adam Savage, actor and comedian Nick Offerman, and “Orange is the New Black” actress Laverne Cox. Upcoming speakers, rapper and actor Ice-T and stand-up comedian Dave Coulier, are sure to bring a millennial crowd.

Players dance on the court after finishing their game during bocce league play at Campo Fina restaurant in Healdsburg. (Photo by Alvin Jornada)

Play Bocce

The ancient game of bocce is having a revival in Sonoma County – and there’s plenty of places to to have a ball. Campo Fina restaurant in Healdsburg has a bocce ball court on the back patio and hosts bocce ball leagues, this is a great spot for pairing cocktails and some friendly competition.

Go Bowling

Sonoma County bowling alleys roll a strike with disco nights and greasy comfort food. Windsor Bowling Alley in Windsor puts on Rock n’ Glow on Monday, Friday and Saturdays nights between 5 and 10 pm: bowling is only $10 per person (shoes included) and there’s a wide variety of beer, wine and spirits served. AMF Boulevard Lanes in Petaluma feature a variety of weekly nighttime specials: Two-Dollar Tuesdays with $2 games, show rentals and PBR beers, After Party Fridays with unlined bowling for under $11 after 10 p.m. Double Decker Lanes in Rohnert Park has free, themed, bowling nights first Thursdays of the month (for SSU students)

Lounge Around the Francis Ford Coppola Winery Pool

Looking for some summer fun with friends, but too hot for a hike? Gather a group of four and get a one-day pass at Francis Ford Coppola Winery in Geyserville which includes 4 chaise lounge chairs, a private shower, 4 towels, up to 4 Sofia Mini singles, and a deck of Coppola playing cards. Though the day pass is a bit pricey, the view from the pool deck is priceless.

Nam Doran, left, of Healdsburg and Nikki Newsom of Santa Rosa at Francis Ford Coppola Winery in Geyserville. (Photo by Alvin Jornada)

Check Out Bowla Wednesdays at Tex Wasabi

If you look up Tex Wasabi’s on Instagram, you’ll find a roll of photos of millennials happily holding a giant half-gallon fishbowl-style glass (“bowla”) filled to the brim with a brightly colored cocktail. On Wednesdays, when bowlas are half price, this Santa Rosa sushi spot is brimming with students enjoying appetizer specials and shared drinks.

Sonoma State University students Kelsey Miller, left, and Gabriella Catalli share one of the signature Bowlas drinks at Tex Wasabi’s in Santa Rosa, California on Wednesday, April 6, 2016. (Alvin Jornada / The Press Democrat)

Quaff a Beer and Munch some Appetizers at the Jaded Toad

This tiny – hugely popular – Cotati restaurant, located in the parking lot of Oliver’s Market, offers year-round outdoor seating, cozy fire pits, sports on big screens, killer cocktails and comforting small plates, including pork sliders and garlic fries. Starters are 25% off, drafts $4, and speciality drinks $5, Monday to Friday, 3-6 p.m.

Crowds flock to the Santa Rosa Wednesday Night Market. (Photo by Kent Porter)

Go Foraging through Farmers Markets in Summer

Spending time at the many Sonoma County farmers markets is a classic activity during the warmer months. Santa Rosa’s Wednesday Night Market and Forestville Farmers Market are popular among the 20-something crowd with homemade ice cream, live bands, and food ranging from brats to barbecue.

Marty O’Reilly, of Marty O’Reilly and the Old Soul Orchestra, performs during the Wednesday Night Market, in downtown Santa Rosa. (Photo by Christopher Chung)

Catch an Outdoor Movie at the Green Music Center

My personal favorite is outdoor movies at Sonoma State’s outdoor theater: its a good excuse to indulge in copious amounts of popcorn, candy, and hot dogs. Make sure to bring your warmest blankets to snuggle up with your friends or significant other and settle down to watch your favorites. Past showings have included Finding Nemo and Finding Dory, Pitch Perfect, and Jurassic Park marathons. Check out the GMC website for screening information.

The lawn at the Green Music Center in Rohnert Park. (Photo courtesy of the Green Music Center)

Watch the Sunset at Gravity Hill

Gravity Hill is the very best place in SSU proximity to watch the sun setting over Sonoma’s rolling hills. Make sure to grab a jacket, some friends and take spectacular pictures to record the occasion.

Try Some SRJC Favorites

SRJC has a full spectrum of Junior College competitive games: football, basketball, and soccer that are always entertaining for the avid sports fan. Take in a game then try lunchtime favorite Ike’s Place for a ridiculously good sandwich. After dark, Gary’s at the Belvedere caters to JC Students for weekend drinks and socialization.

Gary’s At the Belvedere in Santa Rosa. (Pio Alfredo Valenzuela / The Press Democrat )

Visit Weaver’s Winter Wonderland

Ring in the Christmas spirit on Cielo Court in Rohnert Park by taking pictures next to the house that won an ABC Christmas Lights contest. Decorated with Disney characters, the bright and cheery scene at Weaver’s Winter Wonderland always brings in the younger crowd for a photo op to celebrate the holidays. This is the last year Scott Weaver will put on this extravagant holiday display – so don’t miss it!

Hundreds of people showed up a day after Scott Weaver’s Rohnert Park home was featured on ABC’s “The Great Christmas Light Fight” in 2014. Weaver won the competition that came with a $50,000 prize. (Photo by Crista Jeremiason)

The post 27 Things to Do for 20-Somethings in Sonoma County appeared first on Sonoma Magazine.

85 Off-the-Beaten-Path Spots You Need to Visit in Sonoma County

Sonoma Magazine Staff — Sat, 26 Nov 2016 20:10:52 +0000

It may be a hole-in-the-wall eatery down a remote country lane. A delightful surprise tucked into a routine destination. The best little (fill in the blank) nobody else seems to know about. Or a great place to visit, right there in plain sight, yet never before noticed. These hidden things give Sonoma County its texture, its, substance, its je ne sais quoi. They’re what you find if you stay awhile, allow yourself to sink below the surface. And they’re yours for the seeking.

We’ve listed 85 brilliant off the beaten path treasures, carefully compiled with both seasoned locals and first-time visitors in mind:

FUN & ADVENTURE

Just because you’re making a trip to wine country doesn’t mean you have to spend all your time in tasting rooms. Here are a few fun alternatives.

Zip-A-Dee-Doo-Aah: Sonoma Canopy Tours
With your harness attached to a pulley on a heavy steel cable, soar above ancient redwoods and deep ravines at up to 25 mph on the zip lines at Sonoma Canopy Tours near Occidental. The seven lines are connected by platforms, two skybridges and a spiral staircase, providing an eco-friendly workout and thrill ride that ends with a rappel to the forest floor. Look down if you dare. $99-$109; discounts for ages 10 to 17 and seniors.

6250 Bohemian Highway, Occidental, 888-494-7868, sonomacanopytours.com

In summer, the cool water of the Russian River at Monte Rio is always a local favorite. (Photo by Kent Porter)

Johnson’s Beach Alternative: Monte Rio Beach
Guerneville’s Johnson’s Beach may have the history, yet Monte Rio Beach on the north side of the Russian River below the bridge in Monte Rio is a favorite spot for frolicking families and kayakers looking for a soft, shallow spot to put in for a paddle. The concession stand and boat-rental facility are located in the parking lot. In summer, when river levels drop, the Monte Rio Recreation and Park District installs a wood boardwalk that connects these facilities to the water’s edge.

Highway 116, Monte Rio, 707-865-0400, mrrpd.org/monteriobeach.html

Cut the Rug with Flamingos: Dancing at the Flamingo Lounge
Sunday nights are salsa (and bachata) nights in The Flamingo Lounge, the retro bar inside the Flamingo Conference Resort & Spa in Santa Rosa. Every week, local salsa bands take over the lounge and crank out live music for smartly dressed dancers. The party usually starts at 7 p.m., when dance pros offer an hour of salsa lessons ($10 a person). Open dancing ($8) begins at 9 p.m., and usually stretches late into the evening. Order food before 9 p.m. and get 10 percent off.

2777 Fourth St., Santa Rosa. 707-545-8530, flamingoresort.com

A Man of Many Faces: Actor & Historian George Webber
Sonoma’s George Webber isn’t really a defrocked Mexican generalissimo, though he plays one. Webber has for years made appearances at Sonoma events as the famous Gen. Mariano Vallejo, and expanded his “George Webber experience” to the Gen. Vallejo Walking Tour of the Sonoma Plaza. Webber’s got more than a beloved 19th-century land baron up his sleeve. He also brings to life Mark Twain, enologist Professor Vine and Count Agoston Haraszthy.

Visit on Facebook.

George Webber plays Count Agoston Haraszthy for Buena Vista Winery. He is the ambassador for the winery, bringing the founder of the winery to life. (Photo by Jeff Kan Lee)

Lawful Speeding: Sonoma Raceway
Wednesday night is a drag, we know. But this time it’s in a good way. The Wednesday Night Drags at Sonoma Raceway is a safe (and legal) opportunity for teenagers and seniors alike to channel their inner Jeff Gordon and drive their vehicles fast and furious down the raceway’s quarter-mile strip, supervised by Bay Area law enforcement officers. The season runs March through November, 4 to 10 p.m.

29355 Arnold Drive, Sonoma, 800-870-7223, racesonoma.com

Beer and Burlesque
What pairs well with a Lagunitas Imperial Stout? How about a sword swallower? The Daytime IPA goes great with a contorting burlesque dancer on a trapeze. Every August, Lagunitas Brewing’s Beer Circus in Petaluma celebrates steampunk weirdness, vaudeville spectacle and, of course, beer. More than 200 artists and performers, food purveyors and dozens of regional microbrews make this a can’t-miss festival, on Aug. 15 this year. Tickets sell out fast.

Lagunitas Brewing Co., 1280 N. McDowell Blvd., Petaluma, 707-284-1020, lagunitas.com/beercircus

Lagunitas Beer Circus (Photo by Beth Schlanker)

It’s You and Not the Sky That’s Falling: NorCal Skydiving
The beauty of the Sonoma landscape takes on an even more precious quality from above, when you’re falling from the sky toward the Alexander Valley at 120 mph. This is the experience with NorCal Skydiving, an outfitter whose planes take off from the Cloverdale Municipal Airport. Once you jump and your chute deploys, the experience is eerily quiet. On clear days, you can see Mount Shasta and the Pacific Ocean on the way down. Prices start at $179.

220 Airport Road, Cloverdale, 888-667-2259, norcalskydiving.com

NorCal Skydiving. (Photo by Jeff Kan Lee)

Lawful Speeding
Wednesday night is a drag, we know. But this time it’s in a good way. The Wednesday Night Drags at Sonoma Raceway is a safe (and legal) opportunity for teenagers and seniors alike to channel their inner Jeff Gordon and drive their vehicles fast and furious down the raceway’s quarter-mile strip, supervised by Bay Area law enforcement officers. The season runs March through November, 4 to 10 p.m.

29355 Arnold Drive, Sonoma, 800-870-7223, racesonoma.com

Groovy Racing: Slot Car Raceway
Slot-car racing didn’t die with America’s innocence in the 1960s. It’s alive and well in Rohnert Park, where Slot Car Raceway welcomes hobbyists to race their miniature model cars on slotted tracks, steered by hand-held controllers. While most enthusiasts leaped to more sophisticated iRacing on computers, Slot Car Raceway does it old school with its in-shop track and cases full of parts and equipment for home hobbyists. If you fondly recall your 1967 orange Manta Ray and spring-loaded plunger, this place is for you.

305 Southwest Blvd., Rohnert Park, 707-795-4156 scrhobbies.com

RESTAURANTS

A selection of locals’ favorite restaurants around Sonoma County. Bon Appétit!

The Fremont Diner in Sonoma. (Photo by John Burgess)

Chardonnay with Biscuits & Gravy: The Fremont Diner
Oozing Southern decrepitude, a heavy dose of John Deere chic and the irresistible lure of a butter-and pork-soaked menu that would bring a tear to grandpappy’s eye, the Fremont Diner in rural Sonoma is easy to miss, yet shouldn’t be. It’s everything good about, well, roadside diners; this one happens to be surrounded by vineyards. Here, “Praise the Lard” isn’t just a quirky tagline, it’s a mission. Open 7 a.m. to 4 p.m. daily. And don’t miss the fried pies.

2660 Fremont Drive, Sonoma, 707-938-7370, thefremontdiner.com

Pasta Passion: Canneti Roadhouse
Blink and you might miss Canneti Roadhouse, a tiny eatery in tiny Forestville. If you did, it would be a loss. At the heart of this Italian eatery is a pasta-making machine, which Italian-born chef Francesco Torre masters for handmade ravioli stuffed with hand-pulled mozzarella in clam sauce, and fresh-made pennette pasta with slow-braised rabbit ragout and porcini mushrooms. There’s even gluten-free pasta made from chickpeas or eggplant. Don’t believe there’s much difference between lovingly made noodles and store-bought? One bite of this al dente bliss will set you straight.

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

Pasta dish at Canneti Roadhouse in Forestville.

Fish AND Cut Bait: Hana Japanese Restaurant
One of the best restaurants in Sonoma is tucked into an unlikely spot in the DoubleTree Plaza shopping mall in Rohnert Park. For the past 25 years, Hana Japanese Restaurant owner Ken Tominaga has sourced the best and freshest raw fish in the world to create mouthwatering nigiri, sushi and makimono rolls. The menu also includes a wide range of traditional Japanese dishes. Wash it all down with sake chosen by one of the few sake sommeliers around.

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

A Pie for the Ambivalent: Jackson’s Bar & Oven
There’s a certain feeling of trust when you walk into Jackson’s Bar and Oven in Santa Rosa and order the “Undecided” from the wood-fire pizza menu. It’s always made with undisclosed ingredients that could include heirloom tomatoes, wild mushrooms, chorizo and clams. Sometimes there’s red sauce, sometimes it’s white, and sometimes it’s olive-oil-based. The pizza is not quite as popular as the margherita and house-made sausage versions, but the “Undecided” has gained a following among folks who just want to have fun. Trust the chef.

135 Fourth St., Santa Rosa, 707-545-6900, jacksonsbarandoven.com

Italian Sausage Pizza at Jackson’s Bar and Oven in Santa Rosa. (Photo by Crista Jeremiason)

Meatville Outside of Eggtown: Angelo’s Meats
Drivers typically zip a thousand times past Angelo’s Meats, a workmanlike compound on pastoral Adobe Road east of Petaluma, before finally obeying the impulse to pull up to Angelo Ibleto’s shop. So many opportunities lost! Angelo’s is an unadorned gastronomical paradise of sausage, bacon and other smoked meats. Accept a taste of one of Ibleto’s jerkies, made with flank steak, and see how long you can go before stopping by again.

2700 Adobe Road, Petaluma, 707-763-9586, angelossmokehouse.com

Succulent Ceviche: Sazon Peruvian Cuisine
You’ll have to keep a sharp eye out for Sazon Peruvian Cuisine, a cocina secreted away on Sebastopol Avenue in southwest Santa Rosa. The beef-heart skewers, lomo saltado (Peruvian steak frites) and aji de gallina (pulled-chicken stew) are fantastic, but it’s the ceviche we crave. Leche de tigre (tiger’s milk) is the tart, briny, magical citrus marinade that “cooks” the raw seafood in ceviche. Packed with eye-popping flavor, it’s considered by Peruvians to be both aphrodisiac and hangover cure.

1129 Sebastopol Road, Santa Rosa, 707-523-4346, sazonsr.com

Ceviche mixto with leche de tigre from Sazon in Santa Rosa. (Photo by Heather Irwin)

Hansel & Gretel Bakery: Raymond’s Bakery
Hidden away amid the old-growth redwoods in the Russian River area, Raymond’s Bakery is a magical addition to the tiny Elim Grove bed-and-breakfast cottages. Baker and owner Mark Weiss crafts tantalizing rustic baguettes, Pugliese loaves, seeded sourdough, garlic-rosemary and Kalamata olive-rosemary breads, plus muffins, cinnamon rolls, buttermilk blueberry scones, croissants … anything, really, our hungry heart could desire. Friday night is party night, with wood-fire pizza, drinks and live music in the forest next to the creek.

5400 Cazadero Highway, Cazadero, 707-632-5335, raymondsbakery.com

Grilled Cheese, Please: Bergamot Alley
Hipsters adore the Bergamot Alley hideaway for its international wines and funky, live-music vibe contained by brick walls and bottle vaults. But you might never guess what else beckons: a delightful lineup of “gourmettish” grilled cheese sandwiches, with playful names such as Pigs in Space and the Miso Hungry. Try the vegan and dessert grilled cheeses, too, and be sure to ask about the perfect wine pairings for all that gooey goodness.

328 Healdsburg Ave., Healdsburg, 707-433-8720, bergamotalley.com

Bergamot Alley in Healdsburg. (Photo by Erik Castro)

Wiener Wonderland: Roy’s Chicago Doggery & Italian Beef
It’s a tiny, sit-at-the-counter joint remotely located on the grounds of the Petaluma Livestock Auction Yard, but Roy’s Chicago Doggery & Italian Beef offers more than 1,000 variations of Vienna Beef franks for aficionados of the meat form. Consider the traditional all-beef wiener, a half-pound “Home Wrecker,” a spicy fire dog or a Polish dog. Then load up with the 50 topping options, such as homemade pineapple mustard, Hell Fire sauce, shaved pastrami, chili, onion rings and blue cheese. Also worth howling about: homemade pies and deep-fried Oreos.

84 Corona Road, Petaluma, 707-774-1574, royschicagodogs.com

Itty Bitty Bakery: Wild Flour Bread
Man can live on bread, water and cheese, if that bread is the organic, sourdough-based loaves Jed Wallach fires in tiny Wild Flour Bread’s wood-burning brick oven. The water is pumped from the fresh spring wells surrounding the charming bakery’s gardens, and the cheese comes from Freestone Artisan Cheese next door. Cheesemonger Omar Mueller specializes in hyper-local, small-batch cheeses made from milk from local creameries. They’re divine with Wallach’s baguettes, goat-cheese flatbread and the Bohemian loaf studded with apricot, orange and pecan.

140 Bohemian Highway, Freestone, 707-874-2938, wildflourbread.com

Wild Flour Bread in Freestone serves up a different selection of breads every day. (Photo by Crista Jeremiason)

A Farmer Takes a Stand: Paul’s Produce Farmstand
Paul Wirtz has been quietly growing an array of crops in the Sonoma Valley for nearly a quarter of a century, from tasty padron and shishito peppers to tomatoes and melons. Following organic practices, he farms 10 acres of leased land on the former Romberg Dairy property, nurturing lettuces such as the Little Gem and Red Butter varieties highly prized by local restaurant chefs. His Paul’s Produce Farmstand is open on Saturday mornings, June through Thanksgiving.

19655 Arnold Drive, Sonoma, paulsproduce.me

Big-City Seafood at Small-Town Price: Seaside Metal
You had us at $1 oyster happy hour. Seaside Metal, an intimate little seafood salon and raw bar, is a treasure brought to Guerneville by the owners of San Francisco’s Bar Crudo, with the same top-notch cuisine. Think oysters from all across the Northwest; silky butterfish laced with Serrano ham, melon and salmorejo puree; lobster burrata salad, and creamy, bacon-stocked seafood chowder. Since it’s in this quiet river town, there are no big-city prices. Eat up.

16222 Main St., Guerneville, 707-604-7250, seasidemetal.com

Craving a chowder? Seaside Metal serves up superb seafood. (Photo by Alvin Jornada)

Fine Feast with Fido: Howard’s Station Cafe
Ask four-legged Fifi where she wants to go for breakfast and she’ll likely bark out, “Howard’s Station Café.” Sure, many Sonoma restaurants are dog-friendly, but how many offer a by-request, canine-only menu? Pups will drool over the doggie delights served on the restaurant’s porch, wagging as they scarf the bow-wow burger ($2.95), kibbles and sausage gravy ($2.25), a frozen Kong toy stuffed with peanut butter ($5.95) or an organic brown rice bowl with carrots and zucchini ($2.50) for vegetarian dogs. Hit the ATM first: Howard’s is cash only.

3611 Bohemian Highway, Occidental, 707-874-2838, howardstationcafe.com

Sweet and Savory Buns
Pastry worlds collide at East Wind Bakery, an off-the-beaten-path patisserie in west Santa Rosa, resulting in kimchee- and Chinese sausage-stuffed croissants, garam-masala-spiced sweet buns, Thai chicken pot pies and Japanese milk bread studded with Earl Grey tea. This beautiful little bakery owned by Doug Quick and Tony Tam is an East-meets-West labor of love. Go with a sense of adventure and a hungry belly, and don’t miss the “Sea Foam” coffee, made with a sweet, salty whipped cream and Asian spices.

3851 Sebastopol Road, Santa Rosa, 707-568-6081, eastwindbakery.com

Baked bao, kimchee sausage croissant, garam masala bun at East Wind Bakery in Sebastopol. (Photo by Heather Irwin)

For the Birds, and You: The Birds Cafe
Just off the western edge of Highway 1 in Bodega Bay is a perch, a charming roost on which to rest a spell and savor the scents and sensations of the ocean breeze, and the lofty view of Bodega Harbor. It’s the dining deck at The Birds Café. Order a beer and the fish tacos or artichoke fritters and let time, like the gulls, glide by.

1407 Highway 1, Bodega Bay, 707-875-2900, thebirdscafe.com

Mangia, Mangia: Mamma Tanino’s Ristorante
Good old spaghetti and meatballs from Gaetano and Kim Patrinostro await in an unlikely location, Mamma Tanino’s Ristorante in the Valley Mart Shopping Center in Sonoma. Chef Gaetano brings his Sicilian flavors to the strip mall, presented in a simple, cozy trattoria with a straightforward menu of classics such as chicken Marsala and linguine in clam sauce. The cheerful spot oozes charm and honest good flavors, and the $15 dinner offered from 5 to 5:30 p.m., Tuesday through Saturday, is an early-bird’s dream bargain. Choices might include prawns, chicken and stuffed pasta, served with salad and homemade bread.

500 W. Napa St., Suite 512, Sonoma, 707-933-8826, mammataninos.com

Halibut at Mamma Tanino’s in Sonoma. (Photo by Jeff Kan Lee)

Taco Trucks

Taco trucks have served up authentic street food in Sonoma since long before the first wave of hip, urban food trucks reached our byways and back roads. Here are a few perennial favorites, serving authentic tacos and tortas with a side of rice and beans.

Tacos La Bamba
Parked on an auto repair shop lot on Highway 12 in Boyes Hot Springs, Tacos La Bamba usually draws a long line of loyal customers for its lengua (beef tongue) tacos, carne asada burritos and gorditas de chicharron. It’s cheap and addictive, though you may have to wait a little during the late-night rush.

18155 Sonoma Highway 12, Sonoma

Taqueria Guanajuato
After a morning of wine tasting, hit the Taqueria Guanajuato truck parked at the gateway to Alexander Valley, at the junction of Healdsburg Avenue and Alexander Valley Road. Here is taco truck heaven: excellent food, good prices and friendly service of favorites such as tacos al pastor and chilaquiles with chorizo.

Alexander Valley Road and Healdsburg Avenue, Healdsburg, 707-478-8931

El Roy’s Mexican Grill
The popular El Roy’s Mexican Grill trucks can be found in Petaluma, parked at the intersection of East Washington Street and Lakeville Highway, and in Santa Rosa, on Sebastopol Road. There are tables and benches to sit and chow down, and customers rave about everything from the fish and shrimp tacos to the horchata drinks.

760 Sebastopol Road, Santa Rosa, 707-843-2166; E. Washington Street and Lakeville Highway, Petaluma, 707-241-6534.

Sonoma strawberries. (Photo by Chris Hardy)

Berry Stands

Summer brings a bounty of berries to Sonoma’s cultivated fields and back roads, there for the picking or purchase. Pluck and pop them in your mouth, or bake them into your favorite summertime desserts, from crisps and cobblers to pies and shortcakes.

Watmaugh Strawberries
In Sonoma, Watmaugh Strawberries sells sweet, just-picked berries that are ripe all the way through and still warm from the sun. Its stand just south of town has become everyone’s favorite stop.

Arnold Drive at West Watmaugh Road, Sonoma, 916-207-2870, visit on Facebook

Sonoma Swamp Blues
Sonoma Swamp Blues is a certified organic blueberry farm tucked into the Laguna de Santa Rosa at Occidental and High School roads in Sebastopol. There’s always a line at the roadside stand in the summer. The plump, juicy blueberries hit their peak of ripeness in mid-July, and the farm has also planted organic strawberries this year, doubling the berry joy.

7000 Occidental Road, Sebastopol, 707-293-4802, sonomaswampblues.com

Berry sweet….
The wild blackberry bushes so ubiquitous in Sonoma are courtesy of famed horticulturalist Luther Burbank, who introduced the hardy Himalaya blackberry here in 1885. These bushes grow like weeds and thrive in any soil, with prime pick-your-own locations including “blackberry island” in Santa Rosa’s Spring Lake Regional Park, and Coleman Valley Road above the fog line outside of Occidental. Use tongs or gloves to harvest, and watch out for the thorns.

Fresh picked blueberries at the Sonoma Swamp Blues farm stand. (Photo by Crista Jeremiason)

Off the Menu

In-N-Out Burger’s secret menu isn’t anymore, now that the fast-food chain has added the previously unlisted, word-of-mouth items to its website. At many Sonoma eateries, secrets are still being kept, though now we’re telling.

Ricardo’s Bar & Grill: Ricardo’s Special
Inspired by the long shuttered Ingram’s Chili Bowl on Old Redwood Highway in Santa Rosa, Ricardo’s Bar & Grill serves Ricardo’s Special to in-the-know customers, an open-faced burger topped with chili and cheese and surrounded by hash browns.

2700 Yulupa Ave., Santa Rosa, 707-545-7696, ricardosbarandgrill.com

Shhhh! ‘El Ricardo’s Special’ open-faced chili cheeseburger w/hashbrowns & chopped white unions, off the secret menu. (Photo by Ricardo’s Bar & Grill)

Healdsburg’s Scopa Trattoria: Lady & The Tramp
Why you’d want spaghetti and meatballs when there are so many other amazing dishes at Healdsburg’s Scopa Trattoria, we don’t know. But locals say “Lady and the Tramp” is a favorite off-menu dish. Best shared by two.

109-A Plaza St., Healdsburg, 707-433-5282, scopahealdsburg.com

Sprenger’s Tap Room: The Man Slaw
The Man Slaw at Sprenger’s Tap Room in Santa Rosa is coleslaw with hot sauce and chopped pieces of bacon. Women can order it, too, though it’s not on the menu. When the restaurant has salted caramel ice cream, it will also make a salted caramel beer float.

Brickyard Center Shopping Center, 446 B St., Santa Rosa, 707-544-8277, sprengerstaproom.com

The Pullman Kitchen
A giant pan of paella goes on the stove Tuesday afternoons at Santa Rosa’s The Pullman Kitchen, and it keeps sizzling through the evening. It’s all you can eat, but when it’s gone, it’s gone.

205 Fifth St., Santa Rosa, 707-545-4300, thepullmankitchensr.com

Shhhh! Paella at The Pullman Kitchen in Santa Rosa. (The Pullman Kitchen)

Healdsburg Bar & Grill: Fluid BLT
Drink your dinner by ordering a BLT at the Healdsburg Bar & Grill: Bulleit bourbon, lemon juice and tonic, an off-menu cocktail that’s a summertime quencher.

245 Healdsburg Ave., Healdsburg, 707-433-3333, healdsburgbarandgrill.com

BARS, BREWERIES & WINERIES

Kick back with a tall one at one of these unsung watering holes.

Iron Horse Winery. (Photo by Christopher Chung)

Cool Climate, Cool View: Iron Horse Vineyards
Isn’t it enough to make some of the best sparkling wines in America? Iron Horse Vineyards near Sebastopol is doubly blessed in that it also has one of the best tasting room views in the country. Sip in front of a lovely hillside vista of grapes overlooking the Green Valley of Russian River Valley. The sparklers deliver nuanced flavors and brisk freshness; also try the lesser-known but just-as-good Chardonnays and Pinot Noirs.

9786 Ross Station Road, Sebastopol, 707-887-1507, ironhorsevineyards.com

Robert Young Estate Winery. (Photo by Crista Jeremiason)

Secret Side of Alexander Valley: Robert Young Estate Winery & Garden Creek Winery
While most visitors to the Alexander Valley stick to Highway 128 as they visit wineries and vineyards, the quieter northeast corner of the valley is home to producers with deep winegrowing roots, tucked beneath Alexander Mountain.
The bucolic, manicured grounds of Robert Young Estate Winery are open to the public daily. Visitors can enjoy the picnic area and cave tours, on request, and taste the winery’s famous Clone 17 (also called the Robert Young clone) Chardonnays and its Cabernet Sauvignon. Tasting is $10, refundable with purchase.

4960 Red Winery Road, Geyserville, 707-431-4811, ryew.com

Just around the corner from Red Winery Road on Geysers Road, Garden Creek Winery is open by appointment only, Monday through Friday. The small estate run by Justin Miller and Karen Warnelius-Miller grows Chardonnay and Bordeaux grape varieties for its red blend, Garden Creek Tesserae. The two-hour tour includes a candlelit tasting in the barrel room, a cheese and charcuterie pairing, and a walk through the vineyard. $30 a person.

2335 Geysers Road, Geyserville, 707-433-8345, gardencreekvineyards.com

View of Garden Creek Vineyards in Alexander Valley. (Photo courtesy of Garden Creek Vineyards)

Sound of Music: Spirit Works Distillery
Spirit Works Distillery in The Barlow center in Sebastopol is hidden in plain sight. If you haven’t visited, you haven’t experienced where Sonoma’s finest gin is produced, as well as excellent vodka, whiskey and sloe gin. The distillery tour and tasting details how these spirits are made. Take a peek into the barrel room, where spirits age in casks to the sound of tunes emitted from iPods. It’s a vibration thing.

6790 McKinley Street, No. 100, Sebastopol, 707-634-4793, spiritworksdistillery.com

Wine Whisperers: Hamel Family Wines
Inside the immaculate wine caves of Hamel Family Wines near Glen Ellen is a beautifully appointed private tasting room that looks like it was created as a corporate board room. The ceiling is coffered so that if two people stand at opposite corners of the room, they can whisper sweet nothings and be the only ones to hear them. Better still is the outdoor deck overlooking the Valley of the Moon, within spitting distance of historic Zinfandel vineyards belonging to the estate.

15401 Sonoma Highway, Sonoma, 707-996-5800, hamelfamilywines.com

Hamel Family Wines. (Photo by Crista Jeremiason)

The Sun Also Sets: Redwood Bar at River’s End Restaurant
Do we seek out bars with pretty views to soften the need for conversation? Or after days on end staring at screens, are we humanly in need of some natural beauty? Either way, the Redwood Bar at River’s End Restaurant & Inn is a choice spot for a drink, presided over by a French Culinary Institute-trained bar chef, with room to sit on the outdoor patio as the sun touches down. The wine list is good, too.

11048 Highway 1, Jenner, 707-865-2484, ilovesunsets.com

On the Rocks in Roseland: Whiskey Tip
One particular block of Sebastopol Road in Santa Rosa, near Stony Point Road, is a destination mostly for souls seeking motor oil, a garden-hose bib or a laundromat. Yet here also flourishes a newish tavern that ably pairs two of life’s greatest gifts. The place is called Whiskey Tip Bourbon & BBQ, and it has a spacious patio with games out back and sports on the telly inside. Just add a glass of distilled artistry and one single, great cube of diamond-clear ice.
Sit back and relax.

1910 Sebastopol Road, Santa Rosa, 707 843-5535, whiskeytipsr.com

Barndiva Gallery Bar in Healdsburg. (Photo courtesy of Barndiva)

Arts & Craft-Cocktails: Gallery Bar at Barndiva
Barndiva is beloved for the substantial torch it carries for garden-sourced cocktails, but now it’s taken things to a whole other level with its Gallery Bar next door, open Wednesday through Sunday from 3 p.m. until closing. An art gallery during the day, the space invites late-afternoon art-minded drinkers to mingle, chat and dine from the farm-to-table bar menu.

237 Center St., Healdsburg, 707-431-7404, barndiva.com/studio

Brewpub in a Grocery Store: Tap Room at Whole Foods Coddingtown
Why didn’t someone think of this before? The Tap Room at Whole Foods Market in Santa Rosa is a respite from the chore that can be grocery shopping, thanks to its island of beer-a-tude. Craft brews on tap, appetizers and pizzas are served, and dozens more bottled beers are in the cooler. Would-be home brewers will be inspired by the beer-making kits and fresh hops for sale.

390 Coddingtown Center, Santa Rosa, 707-542-7411, wholefoodsmarket.com

Some of the beers on tap in the Tap Room at Whole Foods Market at Coddingtown Mall, in Santa Rosa. (Photo by Christopher Chung)

Lug a Jug: VJB Cellars
Before Prohibition, it was common for folks to take empty jugs to wineries and have them refilled. Not only did the practice reduce the use of glass, corks and labels, the wine was cheaper by the ounce. After Repeal, jug-filling largely disappeared, but it’s slowly coming back. At VJB Cellars in Kenwood, a 1-liter (33-ounce) logo bottle of Family Blend red wine costs $24. Bring the empty back (clean, of course) and
a refill is just $12, about 36 cents per ounce.

60 Shaw Ave., Kenwood, 707-833-2300, vjbcellars.com

865 Watering Hole: The Washoe House
Credit the Washoe House with preventing what might have been California’s only Civil War battle. In 1865, a group of Petaluma militiamen set off for Santa Rosa intent, the story goes, on trashing the offices of the southern-sympathizing Santa Rosa Democrat newspaper. But thirst overcame them on the stagecoach route now known as Stony Point Road and they never made it to Santa Rosa. And the Washoe roadhouse, just as it has since 1859, continues to beckon with adult libations and hearty comfort food. Over the decades, patrons have left cards, photos, notes and bills covering every square inch of the ceiling.

2840 Stony Point Road, Petaluma, 707-795-4544, visit on Facebook

The Washoe House in Petaluma. (Photo by Chris Hardy)

Happy Hour Revival: The Villa Restaurant
Perched atop a hill overlooking eastern Santa Rosa, the Villa Restaurant & Bar is a traditional Italian eatery that has long been a favorite hangout of the older bocce set. But it’s quickly gaining traction as a kitschy happy-hour haunt by a new generation. With special drinks and apps available from 3 to 6:30 p.m. daily, selected beers and wines are just $2; value-priced tummy busters include $2 fried zucchini, fried polenta and hot dogs, $4.50 steamed clams, small pizzas for $5 and a petite plate of spaghetti and meatball for $4.

3901 Montgomery Drive, Santa Rosa, 707-528-7755, the villarestaurant.com

Old-School Italian: Volpi’s Ristorante & Bar
During Prohibition, ranchers bringing their eggs and milk to town would stop at a little Italian grocery, hand over their shopping lists and then head to the back room for a bit of lubrication. That the dining room was once a speakeasy speaks to the appeal of Volpi’s Ristorante & Bar in downtown Petaluma. With old-fashioned Italian food served on red-checked tablecloths, the occasional accordion serenade by owners John and Sylvia Volpi, and strong drinks, it remains a comfy place for conviviality.

124 Washington St., Petaluma, 707-765-0695, visit on Facebook

Jamie Spaletta, prepares to take an order at Volpi’s Ristorante and Historical Bar in Petaluma. (Photo by Kent Porter)

Soup, Sandwich and Syrah: Ancient Oak Cellars
Downtown Santa Rosa isn’t known for winery tasting rooms, so it might come as a surprise to wine lovers that there is an excellent one, Ancient Oak Cellars. The winery is joined by seven other drinks producers, giving tasters the rare opportunity to sample wine, cider and mead at one location. In March, Ancient Oak relocated from Corrick’s Stationery Store on Fourth Street to the former Downtown Deli space down the block, taking advantage of the outdoor patio and kitchen, from which sandwiches spring forth daily and small plates are served by night, Friday through Sunday.

621 Fourth St., Santa Rosa, 707-536-1546, ancientoakcellars.com

Oenophile’s Paradise: Sonoma County Wine Library
One of the nation’s deepest collections of wine-related books, oral histories, magazines, journals, photographs, maps, labels, posters and videos is right here, at the Sonoma County Wine Library. Taking up one-third of the Healdsburg Regional Library, this enological treasure trove is open to the public and overseen by Wine Librarian Jon Haupt. (Who knew such a title existed?) Oldest among the 6,000 books: “Libri de re Rustica,” published in 1514. The library also hosts speakers, authors and tastings.

139 Piper St., Healdsburg, 707-433-3772, sonomalibrary.org

ARTS & ENTERTAINMENT

Art and entertainment in Sonoma County you may not know about…but should.

Graton Gallery in Graton. (Photo by Christopher Chung)

Art in an Unsuspecting Place: Graton Gallery
There isn’t much to the tiny town of Graton, yet the long, narrow Graton Gallery and its adjoining sculpture garden are worth exploring. The gallery showcases original fine art, paintings and prints, as well as jewelry, pottery, textiles, glass and woodcrafts from more than 50 artists. Sculptures and fountains abound in a fenced-in garden area. New shows debut every six weeks, and if the timing is right, wine flows and snacks are served.

9048 Graton Road, Graton, 707-829-8912, gratongallery.net

Covers You Covet: Treehorn Books
Remember books? Before Kindle? The folks at Treehorn Books love tomes so dearly they celebrate them in a mishmash clutter of new and used treasures, at bargain prices to encourage us to read more. Row after row, shelf after shelf (plus ladders to reach them), there are all kinds of inventive categories such as the Sixties, Fire & Disasters, Counter-Culture, Earthquakes & Floods, Drama, first editions (including signed) and lots of rare gems, plus the more expected History and Children’s Literature sections.

625 Fourth St., Santa Rosa, 707-525-1782, visit on Facebook

Treehorn Books in Santa Rosa. (Photo by Erik Castro)

Burning Man Without the Desert: Paradise Ridge Winery
The giant “LOVE” sculpture at Paradise Ridge Winery was created for the Nevada festival in 2007 and now has a permanent home in the winery’s secluded meadows. Every year, other Burning Man pieces are installed for rotating shows curated by the Voigt Family Sculpture Foundation. That might mean temples (the ones that don’t get burned), towers and wind machines placed along paths amid the groves. Most of the pieces are interactive: feel free to crawl and clamber.

4545 Thomas Lake Harris Drive, Santa Rosa, 707-528-9463, prwinery.com

A work by Roger Berry is one of the sculptures currently on view at Paradise Ridge Winery. This show, ‘Geometric Reflections,’ curated by Kate Eilertson, will remain open until April 30, 2017. (Photo by Robbi Pengelly)

Java and the Hut: The Rio Theater
On the Russian River, alongside the no-nonsense bridge at Monte Rio, sits a most unusual movie house. The films screened in the historic Quonset hut fronted by a marquee are just one feature of the Rio Theater, in its 65th year. The breakfast-and-lunch cafe and coffeehouse on the elevated deck out back is a second reason to go. The third: the weekend outdoor market.

20396 Bohemian Highway, Monte Rio, 707-865-0913, riotheater.com

The Rio Theater in Monte Rio. (Photo by Alvin Jornada)

Theater Without a Marquee: Camp Rose Players
On four weekends in October, the Camp Rose Players perform at an unlikely location: Healdsburg’s Fitch Mountain, an extinct volcano dotted with humble cabins and the occasional high-end home. Camp Rose, an early-1900s recreation site on the Russian River, had an inn that was remodeled in the 1970s as a restaurant, bar and theater. It’s now a private residence, but Suzanne Webb, daughter of the theater’s founder, Jane Moore, continues to stage plays in the Camp Rose theater on the first floor. It has 30 red velvet seats, professional sound and lighting, yet no marquee, as tickets are sold by word of mouth and a mailing list. Bonus: There’s parking.

2140 S. Fitch Mountain Road, Healdsburg, 707-473-1616, camproseplayers.com

SOFA, So Good: South of A Street
The South A Street district concealed on the back side of Santa Rosa’s Juilliard Park is an old-fashioned cluster of small shops, galleries, artist studios and eateries refreshingly free of anything close to a chain. No Starbucks, just Atlas Coffee Co. down an alley with a hodge-podge of found furnishings, a record player and great java. Denizens have dubbed it SOFA and it’s full of surprises, including one of the city’s top restaurants (The Spinster Sisters), one of its finest bakeries and cafes (The Criminal Baking Co. & Undercover Noshery) and the edgy Imaginists theater company.

South A Street and Sebastopol Avenue, Santa Rosa, sofasantarosa.com

Artist Taunee Callahan flips through a magazine as she waits for people to visit her gallery during the SOFA Artwalk in Santa Rosa. (Photo by Beth Schlanker)

Dinner with the Show: Green Music Center
Dine before one of the indoor/outdoor shows at Green Music Center in the summer. For roughly $100 to $140, attendees are greeted with a glass of sparkling wine, seated on the front row of the Dining Terrace — one of the best outdoor seats available — and served a three-course meal, followed by the show. Wine and beer are available for purchase and you can pre-order a boxed salad or sandwich from Boudin Bakery and a bottle of wine. They’ll be waiting for you when you arrive, whether you’re seated at a table or on the lawn.

Green Music Center on the Sonoma State University campus, 1801 E. Cotati Ave., Rohnert Park, 866-955-6040, gmc.sonoma.edu

Concert goers to the Green Music center enjoy the music on the lawn during a bluegrass concert. (Photo by Will Bucquoy)

Way Off Broadway: Transcendence Theatre Company
The Great White Way meets the Milky Way when the Transcendence Theatre Company transplants the best of Broadway to an unlikely stage beside the romantic ruins of an old winery. Professional actors who have appeared on Broadway or in the touring companies take the stage in the middle of Jack London State Historic Park in Glen Ellen for a summer of “Broadway Under the Stars.” The remoteness adds to the magic. Gourmet food trucks and local wines make for an unforgettable dinner show. $42 and up.

2400 London Ranch Road, Glen Ellen, 877-424-1414, transcendencetheatre.org

The Transcendence Theater Company on stage at Jack London State Historic Park in Glen Ellen.

Buddhism at The Barlow: Tibetan Gallery & Studio
With an endorsement from the Dalai Lama and financial backing from a retired Silicon Valley executive, Tashi Dhargyal is at work in Sebastopol on an art piece unlike any other. He is creating a two-story-tall traditional Tibetan scroll painting he hopes will travel the world before it comes to rest in a Tibetan monastery. Watch Dhargyal at work on the thanbhochi at the Tibetan Gallery & Studio at The Barlow center, where he uses traditional materials such as hand-ground mineral pigments and 24-karat gold. His gallery also features small prints, silk scarves and other one-of-a-kind items.

6770 McKinley St., No. 130, Sebastopol, 707-509-3777, preservetibetanart.org

FAMILY FRIENDLY

Looking for some family fun? Look no further!

Animal Adventure for Kids: Petaluma Wildlife Museum

Tucked into a quiet neighborhood on the edge of the Petaluma High School campus is a place where giant snakes slither, iguanas prowl and dinosaurs may have once roamed. Kids love the Petaluma Wildlife Museum for its hands-on reptile room and lifelike dioramas featuring lions, wolves and even a polar bear. Normally accessible only to students on field trips, the museum opens to the public on the first and third Saturday of every month, from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. Don’t miss the T. Rex skull in the fossil room.

201 Fair St., Petaluma, 707-778-4787, petalumawildlifemuseum.org

Petaluma Wildlife Museum. (Photo by Beth Schlanker)

Freshest of the Fresh: Green String Farm
Farmers market produce not fresh enough for you? Then go directly to the farm. At Green String Farm, you can see your kale and radishes harvested from the Petaluma soil. Take a free tour of the farm on the first Saturday of each month at noon and learn about its sustainable farming practices, then hit the produce stand for more just-picked fruits and veggies, eggs, cheese, honey and nuts.

Green String Farm, 3571 Old Adobe Road, Petaluma, 707-778-7500, greenstringfarm.com

Green String Farm in Petaluma offers free tours on the first Saturday of each month.

Where the Wild Things Heal: Sonoma County Wildlife Rescue
Atop a hill on Mecham Road sits a ranch house with a million-dollar view and no full-time inhabitants. None that are human, anyway. The former ranch is home to Sonoma County Wildlife Rescue, a nonprofit whose volunteers take in all manner of injured, ill or orphaned mammals and birds, then treat and release them ASAP. Take a tour at noon or 2 p.m. on a Saturday (reservations appreciated) and you’ll be wildly happy you did.

403 Mecham Road, Petaluma, 707-992-0274, scwildliferescue.org

Sonoma County Wildlife Rescue. (Photo by Crista Jeremiason)

Swimming Pools of Our Youth: Morton’s Warm Springs
Remember the public pools when you were a kid? A big lawn, shrieks and splashes, a wading pool for tots, picnic benches where you ate sandwiches you made yourself? That’s Morton’s Warm Springs, an endearing, old-fashioned swimming pool (actually, there are two) fed by mineral springs and set against a backdrop of forested hills. It’s been keeping people cool since 1946. There is also a baseball field, volleyball court and horseshoe pit.

1651 Warm Springs Road, Glen Ellen, 707-833-5511, mortonswarmsprings.com

Morton’s Warm Springs. (photo by Beth Schlanker)

A Kid’s Kind of Fish Shop: Ceasar’s Tropical Fish
No one will mistake it for Sea World, but Caesar’s Tropical Fish in Santa Rosa is nearly as much of a kid thriller as a splash by a killer whale. In darkened display rooms, little ones go eyeball to eyeball through aquarium glass with audaciously hued saltwater exotics, bug-eyed goldfish and a resident Madagascar cichlid that seems to want to nibble at noses.

1648 Piner Road, Santa Rosa, 707-546-7456, caesarstropicalfish.com

Hear That Whistle Blowin’: Train Town
TrainTown chugs along on the margins of Sonoma, well off the upscale tourist routes. The quarter-scale steam train and track were built by the late Stanley Frank in 1968. Generations of kids have since thrilled to the 20-minute journey through the trees, over bridges and into tunnels, including a short layover in a miniature town complete with petting zoo. Near the station are more kiddie rides, including a Ferris wheel, carousel and dragon coaster. It’s for the kid in all of us.

20264 Broadway, Sonoma, 707-938-3912, traintown.com

Train Town in Sonoma. (Photo by Beth Schlanker)

Little Shop of Horrors: California Carnivores
California Carnivores is the largest retail carnivorous plant nursery in North America, with Venus flytraps, sundews, butterworts, bladderworts and tropical pitcher plants chowing down on yellow jackets … well, you just have to see it. The nursery is on a side street behind farm plots south of Sebastopol, yet it’s worth the hunt for the fascinating education and the beauty of these natural pest-control plants. The curators are very serious about the plants, but with a wicked sense of humor, so the shop is decorated with skulls and spiders and the occasional severed (rubber, we hope) hand.

2833 Old Gravenstein Highway, Sebastopol, 707-824-0433, californiacarnivores.com

California Carnivores. (Photo by Conner Jay)

Birds and Burros
Odd animals are the attraction at the Bird Exchange and Honkey Donkey Farm, a popular stop for families on Hall Road in Santa Rosa. The Bird Exchange, a bird store and supply shop, has one of the largest selections of exotic avians in Northern California, hundreds at any given time. Next door, the Honkey Donkey Farm is home to more than 100 miniature Sicilian donkeys, pint-sized beasts that grow to an average 30 to 32 inches tall, making them a favorite among young kids who are about the same size.

5355 Hall Road, Santa Rosa, 707-575-0433, birdexchange.com

OUTDOORS

A few little-known treasures in the great outdoors of Sonoma County.

Roadway to Heaven: Coleman Valley Road
Pity all who’ve yet to discover that the start of Coleman Valley Road in downtown Occidental is the gateway to one of the planet’s most gorgeous routes up-and-over to the ocean. By car, bicycle or motorbike, climb up and up through woods and pastures. Pause for as long as you like at the zenith, to infuse your soul with the majesty of the elevated coastal panorama, then glide down, down to Highway 1 at Coleman Beach, between Bodega Bay and Jenner. Breathtaking.

Coleman Valley Road. (Photo by Kent Porter)

Full-Moon Kayaking on the Russian River: Suki Waters’ Watertrek
Joining one of Suki Waters’ full-moon night paddles in the estuary of the Russian River is like taking a crash course in local ecology. Waters regales paddlers with local history (her parents were Miwok and Pomo) and explains the importance of the phases of the moon to Native Americans throughout time. She also teaches participants about zooplankton and phytoplankton, some of which glow in the water at night. The three-hour tours are for all ages; reservations are recommended.

10438 Highway, Jenner, 707-865-2249, watertreks.com

Suki Waters of WaterTreks EcoTours in Jenner. (Photo by Beth Schlanker)

A Hint of Healdsburg History: Exploring Old-Fashioned Alleys
Tucked between the streets of downtown Healdsburg is a handful of old-fashioned alleys well-marked by street signs. Walking them will send you skidding back to the town’s founding in 1867, 10 years after Harmon Heald laid out the town grid. Created as narrow frontages for barns, stables and carriage houses, the alleys today are quiet, tree-lined lanes. In Alleys 1 and 2 are historical barns now used as garages and studios.

Chasing Waterfalls: Sugarloaf Ridge State Park
After several days of a good, hard winter rain, venture to Sugarloaf Ridge State Park in Kenwood to view one of Mother Nature’s magnificent seasonal waterfalls, a 25-foot cascade rushing between giant boulders cloaked in green moss. Take the Canyon-Pony Gate Loop and prepare to climb: How better to burn several hundred calories than to ascend 400 feet on the 2-mile loop for what has to be one of the best “selfie” spots in Sonoma.

2605 Adobe Canyon Road, Kenwood, 707-833-5712, sugarloafpark.org

Waterfalls at Sugarloaf Ridge State Park. (Photo by John Burgess)

Hug a Tree: Sonoma Plaza Self-Guided Tour
Native plants may be all the rage, but non-native plants can make for intriguing tree exploration. Imagine redwoods, Douglas firs, Norway spruces and southern magnolias all rooted within a few pristine acres on the Sonoma Plaza. Take naturalist Tom Rusert’s self-guided tour with his tree map and see that this is one time where there’s no such thing as barking up the wrong, er … you know.

Sonoma Valley Visitor’s Bureau, 453 First St. E., 707-996-1090, sonomavalley.com

Hit it Stiff: Northwood Golf Course
Golf among towering redwoods at the nine-hole Northwood Golf Course along the Russian River in Monte Rio. The course was designed by Alister MacKenzie, the landscape architect behind the Augusta National course in Georgia and a handful of other legendary links. Views from the greens are nothing short of amazing, especially in the morning, when mist clings to the treetops like a shroud. The course is best known for its challenging holes and affordable rates; all tee times cost less than $50.

19400 Highway 116, Monte Rio, 707-865-1116, northwoodgolf.com

Northwood Golf Course, Monte Rio. (Photo by John Burgess)

Sculpture Off The Main Drag: Foss Creek Pathway
Some of Healdsburg’s best public art can be found along the Foss Creek Pathway, an in-progress paved walkway that runs on the west side of Foss Creek, from the Vineyard Plaza/Safeway shopping center on Vine Street to the skate park on Grove Street. Along the two-block stretch in front of City Hall, passersby can marvel at a number of ornamental benches and art pieces provided by the Voigt Family Sculpture Foundation. A complementary audio tour package is available from the city’s Parks and Recreation Department office.

Grove Street, Healdsburg, 707-431-3317, ci.healdsburg.ca.us

Public art along the Foss Creek Pathway in Healdsburg. (photo by John Burgess)

A Meandering Trail: Willow Creek Trail
A permit is required to hike the 8-mile Willow Creek Trail that connects the hills behind Duncans Mills with Sonoma Coast State Park, but the effort is well worth it. The trail meanders up hills and down dales, through forested ravines and past fish-bearing streams, all the way to Shell Beach. Portions of the tromp follow trails used by Native Americans, settlers, traders and loggers of yesteryear. The Islands in the Sky loop wanders through redwood and Douglas fir forests to an incredible ocean overlook.

Access from Freezeout Road, Duncans Mills, 707-544-7284, landpaths.org

Untouched by Logging: The Grove of Old Trees
In an unusual location for the remaining old-growth redwood stands in Sonoma, the Grove of Old Trees is perched high on a remote ridgetop, hidden along narrow, twisting Fitzpatrick Lane off Joy Road in Occidental. The grove is owned and managed by the land conservancy group LandPaths and includes 28 peaceful acres traversed by a network of wide, easy-to-walk trails. Access is free, but be forewarned: There are no amenities, save for a picnic table.

17400 Fitzpatrick Lane, Occidental, 707-544-7284, landpaths.org

Grove of Old Trees, Occidental. (Photo by John Burgess)

Historical Resting Place: Mountain Cemetery
Local history lives on at the Mountain Cemetery, a short walk north of the Sonoma Plaza, where the likes of Gen. Mariano Vallejo, Ernest Boyes and other town founders were laid to rest. Sonoma historian Fred Allebach’s self-guided Mountain Cemetery Walking Tour brochure, available free at the kiosk in the parking lot, includes a map of one of the oldest cemeteries in California and gives details about 42 gravesites, forever occupied by some of Sonoma’s most memorable characters, among them ranchers, winemakers, bootleggers and murderers.

90 First St. W., Sonoma, 707-933-2217, www.sonomacity.org

Free Paddling in Petaluma: David Yearsley River Heritage Center
Petaluma is shaped by the river that runs through it, and a boat trip down the Petaluma River is a great way to experience the city. The folks at the David Yearsley River Heritage Center send folks out on complementary rowboat, canoe, kayak and sailboat excursions every Sunday from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. That’s just enough time to paddle into downtown for lunch at one of the city’s riverside restaurants.

Steamer Landing Park, 6 Copeland St., Petaluma, 707-763-7756, friendsofthepetalumariver.org

Free paddling in Petaluma. (Photo by Mark Aronoff)

A Flipping Good Time: Lake Sonoma Disc Golf Course
The nine-hole Lake Sonoma disc golf course, set amid the grassy, rolling hills at the edge of the Warm Springs Recreation Area picnic spot, has become a favorite among local disc-sailing players. The course is set in a manicured park and has restrooms and free parking — and it’s just off the beaten path enough to make it special. Purchase provisions at the Dry Creek General Store (3495 Dry Creek Road) on the way there. The first tee is on the north side of the main parking area.

3232 Stewarts Point-Skaggs Springs Road, Geyserville, 707-431-4533

Jack London State Park from Horseback: Triple Creek Horse Outfitters
Triple Creek Horse Outfitters leads trail rides through Jack London State Historic Park that offer the same vantage point author Jack London himself had as he explored the rugged, 1,400 acres of his beloved Beauty Ranch. Erin Ellis, who runs the rides with her husband, Dominic Bettinelli, employs rescue horses and has been riding through Glen Ellen since she was a child. Hour-long rides are $75 for small groups, $140 for a private tour. All rides include a tour of Jack London’s writing cottage, as well as tickets for complimentary tastings at Benziger Family Winery.

2400 London Ranch Road, Glen Ellen, 707-887-8700, triplecreekhorseoutfit.com

Triple Creek Horse Outfitters leads trail rides through Jack London State Historic Park. (Photo courtesy of Triple Creek Horse Outfitters)

6250 Bohemian Highway, Occidental, 888-494-7868, sonomacanopytours.com

Off-the-Map Lake: Lake Suttonfield
Peel off the 1.2-mile, paved main path through Sonoma Valley Regional Park and make your way to Glen Ellen’s secret sweet spot. Lake Suttonfield, cradled in the hills surrounding the town, is a wee bit of England’s Lake District hidden in Wine Country. The 2-mile trail ringing the lake offers plenty of spots to lean back against an oak or dip your toes in the water. Because the reservoir is part of Sonoma Developmental Center, it doesn’t appear on maps of the regional park, leaving it largely unexplored except by locals. To get there from the main park path, take the East Sutton Lake Trail, to your left from the parking lot on Highway 12.

13630 Sonoma Highway, Glen Ellen

Lake Suttonfield, Glen Ellen. (Photo by Crista Jeremiason)

A Vision from Above: The Sea Ranch Chapel
The hobbit-size Sea Ranch Chapel in Gualala looks like it soared down from the clouds, landing with its wings spread on a private, tree-studded meadow off Highway 1 and overlooking the Sonoma Coast. Designed by James Hubbell in 1985, the volunteer-maintained structure is graceful, Gaudian and somewhat bizarre. Just 360 square feet, the chapel seems to dance with its beautiful roof plumes, shell-curved wood siding, ceramic accents and stained glass spilling light to the mosaic tile floor. Open daily for tours and meditation.

Highway 1 at Sonoma Mile Marker 55.66, across from Bosun’s Reach Street, 707-785-2444, thesearanchchapel.org

Sea Ranch Chapel (Photo by Sea Ranch Chapel)

The post 85 Off-the-Beaten-Path Spots You Need to Visit in Sonoma County appeared first on Sonoma Magazine.

Where to Eat Outside: The Best Restaurant Patios in Sonoma County

Sonoma Magazine Staff — Thu, 29 Sep 2016 21:30:06 +0000

For the latest version of this article, click here.

It’s rare to find a restaurant in sunny Sonoma County that doesn’t have an umbrella or two for al fresco dining, but not all patios are created equal. We’ve made a list of al fresco options with shaded patios, prime sidewalk people-watching and sun-dappled gardens worth seeking out. Just remember the sunscreen. Click through the gallery for details.

The post Where to Eat Outside: The Best Restaurant Patios in Sonoma County appeared first on Sonoma Magazine.