Though many mark summer’s start and finish line by the bookends of Memorial and Labor Day, the opening of the Wednesday Night Market signals the season in Santa Rosa.
This year, the Santa Rosa Downtown Market (best known as Wednesday Night Market) kicks off May 9 at 5p.m., lasting until 8:30p.m. in downtown Santa Rosa (Fourth St. between Mendocino and D St.). This year, the market will move a bit further eastward, with the wine tasting area near Flavor Bistro and four live stages.
Though there’s plenty to see, hear and do, BiteClub’s main mission is the food. Here’s your cheat sheet to new vendors, along with recommendations for old favorites…
New
Republic of Paradise: Sebastopol-based caterers serve up beef adobo(!), jerk tofu and chicken wraps, humba pork buns (pork stewed in cinnamon, star anise and soy), flan.
Cochon Volant: Chef Rob Larman’s mobile bbq has been turning up throughout Sonoma County, but rarely in Santa Rosa. The former La Poste (Sonoma) toque makes a mean sauce.
Real Cool Frozen Treats: Don’t call these popsicles. Chef Maria deCorpo’s frozen ice pops are made with Meyer Lemon, carrot ginger and other exotic flavors. She’s adding dessert sandwiches featuring Screaming Mimi’s strawberry ice cream as well.
Zoup Street Noodle: Vietnamese and Thai flavors infuse noodle soups and pho.
Taste of Louisiana: Jambalaya, chicken gumbo, shrimp Creole and hot links.
Ana’s Catering: Mexican favorites
Returning
Street Eatz: The market’s only food truck
Rosso Pizzeria: Wood-fired gourmet pizzas
Ultimate Souvlaki: Bobby the Greek’s gyros and Mediterranean eats
Lata Indian: Authentic curries and vegetarian options
Nellie’s Oysters: BBQ oysters
Mommy’s Yammys: Eclectic Mediterranean eats
Dad & Son’s BBQ: Tasty bbq
Ralph’s, Chicago Style Hot Dogs: Courthouse Square legend, Ralph’s and new(ish) cart king, Chicago Style Hot Dogs both serve up wieners with serious street cred.
Plus: Pink Elephant cotton candy, Harvey’s mini donuts, Thai House, Cold Stone Creamery, Ralph’s, Mary’s Pizza Shack, Hullabaloo Pretzels, Johnny Garlic’s, Kettle Corn, Mom’s Apple Pie, RCC Lemonade, Snowie, Fancy Funnel Cakes, Vero’s, California Thai, Pasta King