It is the essence of all that is deliciously delightful about the farther-flung regions of Sonoma County.
Underwood Bar and Bistro: Play “name that winemaker” as you people-watch at this classy, Parisian-style bistro – local vintners love to hang at the nickel topped bar or in the red vinyl banquettes lit by milk glass sconces. We can’t resist rich French onion soup smothered in gooey gruyère, and flatiron steak frites draped in mushroom-shallot butter. Insiders know that the Thai food is tops here, too, such as the five-spice duck confit Massaman curry. 9113 Graton Road, Graton, 707-823-7023, underwoodgraton.com (Christopher Chung/The Press Democrat)
Prince Edward Island Mussels at Underwood Bar and Bistro in Graton. (Christopher Chung/The Press Democrat)
The bar at Underwood Bar and Bistro in Graton. (Christopher Chung / The Press Democrat)
Graton Sunrise cocktail at Underwood Bar and Bistro in Graton. (Christopher Chung / The Press Democrat)
Willow Wood Market Cafe: Though this breakfast and brunch spot has been around since 1995, it's often overlooked in the one-stop-sign-town of Graton. It's definitely worth the trip to try their homey-yet-impressive menus that include soft-set French folded eggs or challah French toast for breakfast and brunch; craveable French dip au jus for lunch; or a roasted tarragon chicken for dinner. A breezy, covered outdoor patio has an indoor-outdoor feel that's great for larger groups. A small mercantile sells wine and retro gifts. 9020 Graton Road, Graton, 707-823-0233, willowwoodgraton.com (John Burgess/The Press Democrat)
Claypool Cellars at Pachyderm Station: Alt-rocker Les Claypool is a local legend and notable winery owner who runs this unusual cellar. Expect some tasty pinots, and hot dogs from Whamola Wieners — a hot dog stand with wieners dressed in corn chips, ranch dressing, cheese and barbecue sauce among others. 5425 Gravenstein Highway N., Sebastopol, 707-820-1263, claypoolcellars.com (Sarah S./Yelp)
Pascaline Patisserie and Cafe: Beguiling French pastries made with all of the butter, including crisp croissants, canneles and cinnamon buns. Stop by for a quick lunch of quiche, French onion soup or their righteous French dip with roast beef, Swiss cheese and jus. 4552 Gravenstein Highway N., Sebastopol, 707-217-3530, pascalinepatisserieandcafe.com (Patty B./Yelp)
Gourmet Mushrooms: This local mushroom farm grows some of the most sought-after oyster, trumpet and maitakes in the country. Though the cultivation rooms are closed to the public, watch their Facebook page for frequent sales of three-pound bags at a screaming deal. 2901 Gravenstein Highway N., Sebastopol, Facebook.com/mycopiamushrooms (John Burgess/The Press Democrat)
Andy's Produce: If you're looking for locally-grown and produced foods fresh from nearby farms, this 55-year-old grocery store is the place to go. You'll find Sonoma west county meats, cheese, beers and ciders that are hard to find nearly anywhere else. 1691 Gravenstein Highway N., Sebastopol, 707-823-8661, andysproduce.com (Crista Jeremiason/The Press Democrat)
The tiny west county town of Graton is merely a blip on the radar (there’s not even a stoplight), but it is the essence of all that is weird, wonderful and deliciously delightful about the farther-flung regions of Sonoma County. Click through the above gallery for some of our favorite spots to grab a bite in and around Graton.
