Sonoma County can’t resist a good patio. With nearly year-round outdoor dining weather, we’re always looking for an alfresco option. Add an outdoor view and thoughtful menu, and everyone comes running. So slather on the sunscreen and settle in at these quiet favorites and buzzy newcomers to the open-air scene.
Best Bay Views
Fishetarian
Casual cove-side seating has always been part of the appeal at one of Bodega Bay’s favorite fish and chips spots, though tables disappear disappointingly fast on busy weekends. True to the restaurant’s “Bummer Free” motto, the owners recently renovated the adjacent fish house to add heated indoor seating and extra patio space with prime waterfront views to linger a little longer over fish tacos, crab cakes and gluten-free chowder. 599 Highway 1, Bodega Bay. 707-875-9092, fishetarianfishmarket.com
Best Riverside Views
Grand Central Petaluma
Tucked behind the Petaluma train station, this hidden gem offers casual waterside seating, roomy Adirondack chairs, a hammock, and communal tables. It’s an easy meet-up spot for playdates, brunches, and leisurely lunches over warm coffee and homemade empanadas. Tacos Don Pepe’s secret pop-up menu, available Friday through Sunday, is quietly gaining a loyal following. 226 Weller St., Petaluma. 707-774-6131, grandcentralpetaluma.com
Best Vista with a Beer
The Junction
The newly-opened beer garden sits high above Montgomery Drive at the former Villa restaurant. A 4,000-square-foot outdoor patio (with a playground) offers million-dollar vistas of nearby Annadel Park to enjoy while nibbling mushroom pizza, hot wings and sipping craft beer. Double the fun with cocktails and a screen-free arcade. Skee-Ball, anyone? 3901 Montgomery Drive, Santa Rosa. 707-800-7631, thejunc.com
Best Secret Spot
The Rooftop at Harmon Guest House
Seating is at a premium at this tiny rooftop hotel bar, but if you’re lucky enough to snag a table, sweeping views of Fitch Mountain and a bird’s-eye view of the Healdsburg Plaza await. The limited menu is more happy hour than a three-course meal, but craft cocktails and nibbles like tuna tartare, truffle fries and tacos are top-notch. 227 Healdsburg Ave., Healdsburg. 707-922-5449, harmonguesthouse.com
Best Lake Views
Waterhawk Lake Club
Positioned along the edge of Roberts Lake, this sprawling Rohnert Park restaurant offers fire pits, shaded picnic tables, and breezy waterfront views ideal for everything from family dinners to cocktails and live music at sunset. Hot skillet artichoke dip, burgers and roasted carrots are favorite eats. 5000 Roberts Lake Road, Rohnert Park. 707-355-4219, thewaterhawk.com
Best Sunset
Andys Beeline Rooftop
Perched above Appellation Healdsburg, the sleek rooftop bar at Andys Beeline Rooftop pairs panoramic views with a floor-to-ceiling glass wall that catches every streak of orange, pink, and purple across the evening sky. Small bites from chef Charlie Palmer’s downstairs restaurant include smashburgers, okonomiyaki and a tinned fish board. Outdoor seats are coveted and reservations are highly recommended. 101 Dovetail Lane, Healdsburg. 707-723-2140, beelinerooftop.com
