I’m always on the hunt for great food in Sonoma County, the kind worth a detour, a wait or a group text. Here’s what I ate this week.
Seoul to Tokyo Kitchen: After two visits to this new ramen, okonomiyaki and bulgogi restaurant in north Santa Rosa, I am impressed. The menu features Korean comfort food such as bulgogi, bibimbap, soft tofu soup, tteok-bokki and ox bone soup, as well as Japanese ramen, udon and Vietnamese pho. While the miso is average, the banchan stands out. 3082 Marlow Road, Suite B3, Santa Rosa, 707-919-3014, seoultotokyokitchen.com
Parkside Eats: Although still in its soft opening, the extensive menu is already drawing both foodies and neighbors. Highlights include poke nachos, fresh guacamole and an excellent burger served on a brioche bun. 4323 Montgomery Drive, Santa Rosa, 707-800-7446. Find on Instagram.
Abyssinia Ethiopian: Looking at a giant platter of bubbly injera, spiced lentils, beans and greens, my first thought was: Why don’t I eat here more? The tangy, pancake-like bread, warm East African spices and the healthy, flavor-packed vegetarian spread make a strong case for return visits. 913 Fourth St., Santa Rosa, 707-568-6455, my-abyssinia.com
Valley Bar and Bottle: While finalizing my “Top 50 Dishes in Sonoma County” for the May/June issue of Sonoma Magazine, I had one last dish to try at this destination-worthy restaurant and natural wine bar. Fried artichokes, yellowfin tuna crudo and charred cabbage with miso stood out, but you’ll have to wait until next month to find out the winner. 487 First St. W., Sonoma, 707-934-8403, valleybarandbottle.com
Don Julio’s: This tiny, tucked-away taqueria in Rohnert Park is a best-kept secret of locals. The Salvadoran restaurant takes Latin classics and adds a tropical twist — like the birria pupusas, plantain-stuffed burritos and sweet corn tamales, which I could eat for days. 217 Southwest Blvd., Rohnert Park, 707-242-3160, donjulioslatingrill.com
