27 Best Sonoma Restaurants in 2025

Published on November 12, 2024 | 0 Comments
Sonoma restaurants

In a city overflowing with farm-fresh ingredients and bold Wine Country flavors, Sonoma restaurants provide a paradise for lovers of the culinary arts. Known for its celebrated vineyards, abundant local farms and artisan cheese producers, Sonoma cuisine offers an exciting mix of innovative dishes crafted by renowned chefs, each presenting their passion for food on every plate.

Whether you're visiting Wine Country for the first time or have lived here for years, Sonoma County restaurants have plenty to offer. From laid-back eateries to Michelin-starred Sonoma restaurants, there’s something for every palate. 

 Jump to Section

Book a Local Food Tour Now
Explore your city's best bites, esteemed eateries and hidden gems with a top-rated tour guide.
Book Now

The 27 Best Restaurants in Sonoma, CA

1. Bloom Carneros

With Sonoma County native Chef Jennifer McMurry at the helm, Bloom Carneros offers a playful and delicious take on farm-to-table cuisine. The spacious garden patio adds to its charm, making it a go-to brunch spot amongst Sonoma restaurants, especially for families with pets.

The Vibe

Few Sonoma restaurants can match Bloom Carneros for outdoor dining. The entire space is a roomy, pet-friendly patio featuring cushioned seating, an open bar and even live music on certain occasions. 

What to Order

Order the grilled salmon succotash, featuring perfectly grilled Loch Duart salmon served over a flavorful corn and red pepper succotash and finished with a dollop of house-made basil shallot butter. 

Bloom Carneros | 22910 Broadway, Sonoma, CA 95476 | $$$

chicken salad with corn and a grain, from Bloom Carneros, a Sonoma restaurant
via Bloom Carneros

2. The Girl & the Fig

Founded in 1997 by Sondra Bernstein, The Girl & The Fig is one of the most popular Sonoma restaurants, offering rustic Provençal-inspired cuisine in the heart of Sonoma Plaza. Known for its seasonal menu, French aperitifs and award-winning "Rhone-Alone" wine list, the restaurant expertly blends California's fresh ingredients with the essence of French country cuisine.

The Vibe

While many Sonoma restaurants are known for their upscale ambiance, this spot offers a charming antique bar and a spacious outdoor patio, giving diners a spot that's decidedly more relaxed and perfect for catching up with friends.

What to Order

Try the braised rabbit. The tender rabbit paired with earthy chanterelles, cipollini onions and creamy polenta creates a rich, flavorful dish. 

The Girl & The Fig | 110 W. Spain St., Sonoma, CA 95476 | $$

3. LaSalette Restaurant

Chef Manuel Azevedo opened LaSalette Restaurant in 1998 and has since been masterfully blending the traditional flavors of his Portuguese heritage with modern Californian cuisine. Like many Sonoma restaurants, this eatery emphasizes locally sourced ingredients.

The Vibe

Step into LaSalette Restaurant and you'll immediately feel the European Renaissance ambiance, with intricate mosaic paintings gracing the walls. 

What to Order

Order the caldeirada, a Portuguese fisherman’s stew featuring a combination of sea bass, scallops, clams, mussels, shrimp and linguiça simmered with potatoes. 

LaSalette Restaurant | 425 1st St. E., Ste. H, Sonoma, CA 95476 | $$$

Aerial view of a caldeirada next to a spoon and rolls, on a wooden board
via Canva

4. River's End Restaurant

Offering one of the most scenic dining experiences near Sonoma, River's End Restaurant takes diners on a global journey right on the Sonoma coast. It does so with dishes influenced by Chinese, Mexican and French culinary traditions. 

The Vibe

As one of the top Sonoma County restaurants for ocean views, this eatery combines a warm, inviting atmosphere with rustic décor. 

What to Order

Give the North American elk a try. It features a combination of grilled elk racklette with cacao nibs, paired with mushroom spätzle and red wine-infused poached pear. 

River’s End Restaurant | 11048 CA-1, Jenner, CA 95450 | $$$

Book a Gourmet Cooking Class Now
Kick-start your culinary confidence with help from a world-class chef. See what's cooking in your city today.
Book Now

5. Café La Haye

Known for offering intimate dining experiences, Café La Haye has been a mainstay Sonoma restaurant for years. It's especially popular for serving cuisine that spans diverse cultural influences.

The Vibe

As you’d expect from a Michelin-starred Sonoma restaurant, Café La Haye offers an intimate, cozy atmosphere, perfect for a quiet evening with a partner or a small, intimate gathering.

What to Order

Try the famous filet mignon, perfectly cooked and served with roasted garlic butter, red wine demi-glace, chipotle hominy purée and French beans. 

Café La Haye | 140 E. Napa St., Sonoma, CA 95476 | $$$

Steak on top of leafy greens and potatoes, from Café La Haye, a Sonoma restaurant
via Café La Haye

6. Layla Restaurant

As one of the best Sonoma restaurants, Layla Restaurant features locally sourced ingredients from the region’s rich agricultural landscape. The restaurant’s bright and airy setting, complete with artisan interior design, creates the perfect backdrop for an upscale dining experience. 

The Vibe

You'll want to snap a few pictures at this Sonoma restaurant, with its stunning Tulum-inspired bespoke lighting, 360-degree wall of windows and distinctive tableware. 

What to Order

Try the steak and eggs at this Sonoma restaurant — a flavorful flat iron steak served with eggs any style and a fresh garden salad. 

Layla Restaurant | 29 E. MacArthur St., Sonoma, CA 95476 | $$$

7. The Tides Wharf & Restaurant

Perched on the scenic Bodega Bay, The Tides Wharf & Restaurant offers diners an unforgettable coastal experience with stunning ocean views and fresh local seafood. As one of the most iconic Sonoma Coast restaurants, it gained fame as a filming location in Alfred Hitchcock’s classic movie, "The Birds."

The Vibe

You'll get a wonderful view of the coast at this awe-inspiring restaurant, making it perfect for a special occasion or date with your partner. 

What to Order

Go for the Tides Wharf crab cioppino, featuring a mix of fish and shellfish, served in a zesty Italian sauce with garlic bread.

The Tides Wharf & Restaurant | 835 Bay Highway, Bodega Bay, CA 94923 | $$

A table with five meals on at The Tides Wharf & Restaurant, overlooking the ocean
via The Tides Wharf & Restaurant

8. Boon Fly Café

Known for its award-winning brunch, Boon Fly Café serves up impressive takes on classic dishes like green eggs and ham, and fried chicken and waffles. Visitors also frequent it for the famous Boon Fly doughnuts. Located at the Carneros Resort and Spa, it combines classic American comfort food with the fresh, local flavors of the region. In doing so, it secures a place among the best Sonoma restaurants.

The Vibe

The open dining hall ambiance sets it apart from other Sonoma restaurants, perfect for family-style gatherings.

What to Order

Try the Boon Fly chicken and waffle, which comes with free-range chicken, a malted waffle, whipped brown butter and maple syrup. 

Boon Fly Café | 4048 Sonoma Highway, Napa, CA 94559 | $$

Gourmet Cooking Classes Near You
Take your culinary skills to new levels with guidance from five-star chefs.
Book Now

9. Barndiva

Located in the heart of Healdsburg, Barndiva offers a sophisticated farm-to-table experience with a nod to European-style dining. As a beloved restaurant near Sonoma, this family-run business focuses on prime local produce and seasonal dishes. 

The Vibe

Barndiva is a luxurious restaurant, exuding an upscale ambiance with a beautifully curated alcohol display and a blend of medieval and modern décor.

What to Order

For the perfect balance of creamy and tangy spices, try the tikka masala chicken with lemon rice and paratha. 

Barndiva | 231 Center St., Healdsburg, CA 95448 | $$$

masala chicken with rice
via Canva

10. SingleThread Farm Restaurant

Founded by Chef Kyle Connaughton and his wife Katina, SingleThread Farm Restaurant offers a truly unique dining experience. How? With a 10-course tasting menu featuring hyper-seasonal produce sourced from the 24-acre farm in the Dry Creek Valley. As one of the top restaurants near Sonoma, it is dedicated to creating an immersive farm-to-table experience, blending Japanese influences with California-inspired cuisine.

The Vibe

As you’d expect from a three-Michelin-star restaurant, the ambiance exudes luxury, including a refined lounge and dining area with impeccable first-class service.

What to Order

Unlike many restaurants in the area, the menu changes seasonally based on the freshness of the ingredients. However, you’ll generally find delectable Japanese dishes like the famous Miyazaki A-5 wagyu rib, featuring premium beef complemented by Meyer lemon kosho and umeshu consommé. 

SingleThread Farm Restaurant | 131 North St., Healdsburg, CA 95448 | $$$$

11. Arandas

Inside the Hotel Les Mars is Arandas, one of the only near-to-Sonoma restaurants to bring the soul of Mexican cuisine to this region. Executive Chef Felipe Hurtado draws from his deep-rooted Mexican heritage, offering bold, inventive dishes inspired by the flavors of Baja and Oaxaca.

The Vibe

This eatery stands out for its artistic and contemporary setting, plush seating, dangling lights and chic chandeliers that give it a sleek and sophisticated vibe.

What to Order

In the mood for something savory? Try the New York strip with beet and carrot mole, maitake mushrooms and plum salsa. 

Arandas Healdsburg | 29 North St., Healdsburg, CA 95448 | $$$

Aerial view of a steak meal with veggies, next to a knife and fork, from Arandas Healdsburg
via Arandas Healdsburg

12. El Molino Central

Opened by Karen Taylor Waikiki in 2010, El Molino Central is a Sonoma restaurant that aims to give guests a taste of the area's finest Mexican fare. Known for its authentic use of fresh masa, the restaurant’s name pays homage to the traditional "molino" (meaning "mill") where the specialty flour is ground daily.

The Vibe

Amidst other upscale Sonoma restaurants, El Molino Central is the perfect spot for a laid-back meal, whether you're gathering with friends or grabbing a quick bite on the spacious patio.

What to Order

Choose this Sonoma restaurant's chile relleno pork picadillo. It features tender niman ranch pork wrapped in cuerno de toro chiles, served with beans, tortillas and a side of guacamole.

El Molino Central | 11 Central Ave., Sonoma, CA 95476 | $$

Book a Gourmet Cooking Class Now
Kick-start your culinary confidence with help from a world-class chef. See what's cooking in your city today.
Book Now

13. Cyrus

Set against the vineyards of Alexander Valley, Cyrus brings something truly unique to Sonoma and the restaurants surrounding it. Chef Douglas Keane's "Dining Journey" guides guests through distinct spaces.

It begins with Champagne in the Bubbles Lounge, leading to the Kitchen Table for small bites before venturing to the elegant dining room. The journey ends on a sweet note with a final stop at the Chocolate Room.

The Vibe

Cyrus offers a more intimate setting than many Sonoma restaurants, with an elegant, minimalist design that emphasizes exceptional service and food. 

What to Order

The menu is ever-changing. However, if it's available, try the adult Oreo foie gras torchon with Puma orchards apple butter, a balance of savory and sweet all in one bite. 

Cyrus | 275 CA Highway 128, Geyserville, CA 95441 | $$$$

Eye-level view of a gourmet dish from Cyrus, an eatery nearby to Sonoma restaurants
via Cyrus

14. Little Saint

Located just off the main square in Healdsburg, Little Saint is a 100% plant-based restaurant that works to redefine expectations and dining experiences on the Sonoma restaurant scene. With a focus on sustainability and local ingredients, this unique eatery offers a menu that celebrates the area's best food, complemented by a creative cocktail and wine program. 

The Vibe

Little Saint offers a lounge-like atmosphere with a variety of seating options, from bar stools to cushioned chairs and cozy tables. 

What to Order

This eatery's shepherd’s pie — a rich and comforting dish that combines savory flavors with layers of rutabaga and truffle — is some of the finest comfort food you're likely to find on Sonoma's restaurant scene. 

Little Saint | 25 N. St., Healdsburg, CA 95448 | $$

15. Golden Bear Station

Once a humble gas station, Golden Bear Station now brings the flavors of Italy to Sonoma County. Owners Joshua Smookler and Heidy He, famed for their popular eateries Animo and Mu Ramen, have expanded their portfolio of Sonoma restaurants, this time creating a menu brimming with wood-fired pizzas and handmade pasta. 

The Vibe

The upscale diner feel at this Sonoma restaurant blends an open kitchen with lots of family-style tables. 

What to Order

Go for the yellowtail crudo, which pairs the delicate flavors of yuzu, truffle and lemon zest to create a refreshing, citrusy twist. 

Golden Bear Station | 8445 Sonoma Highway, Kenwood, CA 95452 | $$

Yellowtail crudo with kumquats, jalapeño and mint
via Canva

16. Glen Ellen Star 

Founded by husband-and-wife team Ari Weiswasser and Erinn Benziger-Weiswasser, Glen Ellen Star brings a rustic charm to the culinary scene of Sonoma restaurants. The menu is diverse, with everything from wood-fired pizzas and roasted vegetables to house-made sorbets. 

The Vibe

With its quaint cottage exterior, knotty pine tables and a wood-burning oven, this eatery exudes country charm, making it one of the more unique Sonoma restaurants.

What to Order

Try the Snake River Farms wagyu zabuton at this Sonoma restaurant — a flavorful and tender cut paired with sweet corn pie and piquillo pepper "piri piri."

Glen Ellen Star | 13648 Arnold Drive, Glen Ellen, CA 95442 | $$$

Gourmet Cooking Classes Near You
Take your culinary skills to new levels with guidance from five-star chefs.
Book Now

17. The Matheson

Just steps away from Healdsburg’s main plaza, The Matheson is one of the few restaurants near Sonoma to offer multiple dining experiences under one roof. Downstairs, guests are treated to a modern Wine Country-inspired menu, showcasing seasonal, locally sourced ingredients. Upstairs, at Roof 106, you’ll find a more casual setting with wood-fired pizzas served in an inviting open-air atmosphere. 

The Vibe

Step inside and you’ll be greeted by a sleek, modern open kitchen, complemented by an impressive wall featuring 88 by-the-glass wine options. 

What to Order

Try the filet mignon, topped with brisket hash and served alongside potatoes, a jidori egg and Calabrian chile. 

The Matheson | 106 Matheson St., Healdsburg, CA 95448 | $$$

Steak meal with potato and vegetable sides, from The Matheson
via The Matheson

18. Valette

With a firm vision in mind of celebrating Sonoma County's best local ingredients, wines and artisan products, Valette was born in 2015. Since opening, it has become known as one of the most high-end restaurants near Sonoma, famous for its seasonal menu and offering some of the region’s most acclaimed vineyard wines.

The Vibe

Valette is arguably one of the most elegant restaurants in the area, with stunning dandelion-like light fixtures and cozy horseshoe-shaped banquettes that create a chic, inviting ambiance.

What to Order

Opt for the special Liberty Farms duck duo with smoked duck sausage, all complemented by New Zealand spinach and caramelized buttermilk. 

Valette | 344 Center St., Healdsburg, CA 95448 | $$$

19. Oyster

French bistro charm is expertly combined with a focus on sustainable, locally sourced seafood at Oyster. As one of the hidden gems among restaurants near Sonoma, you can expect fresh oysters and inventive plates like Spanish octopus a la Plancha. 

The Vibe

This Parisian-inspired spot has an ambiance that includes marble countertop bar seating, an outdoor patio and an open kitchen where chefs prepare fresh seafood right before your eyes.

What to Order

Any of the burgers make for filling meals, but The Burger, which combines wagyu beef, smoked bacon, duck fat fries and a crispy oyster, is a flavorful combination you won't want to miss out on.

Oyster | 6751 McKinley St., Ste. 130, Sebastopol, CA 95472 | $$$

Burger and fries from Oyster in Sebastopol, close to Sonoma restaurants
via Oyster

20. The Spinster Sisters 

Founded by Chef Liza Hinman, The Spinster Sisters showcases New American cuisine using the best of Sonoma County’s local ingredients. Like many of the best eateries surrounding the Sonoma restaurant scene, it features an ever-evolving menu that draws inspiration from global flavors like the ahi tuna crudo and nettle tagliatelle. 

The Vibe

The restaurant features unique décor, including large animal-themed wall art that adds a playful touch to the lively, diner-style setting. 

What to Order

Try the grilled ahi tuna, served with French lentils and savory cabbage and topped with wholegrain mustard beurre blanc.

The Spinster Sisters | 401 S. A St., Santa Rosa, CA 95401 | $$

Book a Gourmet Cooking Class Now
Kick-start your culinary confidence with help from a world-class chef. See what's cooking in your city today.
Book Now

21. Willi’s Seafood & Raw Bar 

Located just outside Healdsburg’s charming town square, Willi’s Seafood & Raw Bar combines East Coast flavors with a South American twist. As one of the best Sonoma restaurants for seafood, it’s known for its famous New England-style rolls and refreshing ceviches. 

The Vibe

Step into a welcoming space with vibrant décor, rich, dark tones and a modern ambiance. 

What to Order

If you're going for the seafood, don't miss out on the platters, which feature a fresh selection of clams, Gulf prawns, oysters and chilled Dungeness crab.

Willi’s Seafood & Raw Bar | 403 Healdsburg Ave., Healdsburg, CA 95448 | $$$

Aerial view of a seafood platter from Willi’s Seafood & Raw Bar
via Willi’s Seafood & Raw Bar

22. Khom Loi

Founded by the team behind Ramen Gaijin, also in Sebastopol, Khom Loi brings the vibrant flavors of Thai street food to Sonoma County. While not a central Sonoma restaurant, you'll be glad you took the short trip to visit, as it's known for its bold, spice-forward dishes that perfectly balance spicy, sweet and sour flavors.

The Vibe

It’s one of the most authentic Thai eateries near Sonoma restaurants, with bright bamboo lanterns and traditional two-story Thai décor, giving you a full, immersive experience.

What to Order

Try the yum tao hu, which is a rich and crispy tofu salad featuring a combination of said herbs and fresh vegetables.

Khom Loi | 7385 Healdsburg Ave., Ste. 101, Sebastopol, CA 95472 | $$

23. Diavola Pizzeria

Set in a historic 1900s brick building in downtown Geyserville, Diavola Pizzeria is one of the most popular eateries in the area. It's a short distance away from more central Sonoma restaurants, but it's worth the trip, offering authentic Neapolitan-style pizzas and house-cured meats. It sources ingredients locally, ensuring an ever-changing menu that reflects the best of the region’s artisanal products and produce. 

The Vibe

The atmosphere is warm and cozy, with wooden accents and a mounted deer on the wall. In addition, there are unique Renaissance-style Italian paintings all around.

What to Order

Go for the potato gnocchi with lamb sugo, a hearty dish that blends tender gnocchi with flavorful lamb and fresh seasonal vegetables.

Diavola Pizzeria | 21021 Geyserville Ave., Geyserville, CA 95441 | $$

Aerial view of a plate of gnocchi covered in a tomato sauce
via Canva

24. The Depot Restaurant

Known for its fresh, hand-pulled mozzarella and seasonal dishes like mezzaluna ravioli, The Depot Restaurant is one of the best Sonoma restaurants for those looking to enjoy an upscale dining experience. It also prides itself on its partnership with Tank House Farms, ensuring the freshest farm-to-table Sonoma food. 

The Vibe

It’s one of the more elegant Sonoma restaurants, perfect for special gatherings. The space features white tablecloths, a charming courtyard with a fountain and lush landscaping that adds to the ambiance.

What to Order

Try the ribeye steak at this Sonoma restaurant for a juicy, flavorful cut paired with broccolini di ciccio, red pepper, crispy sliced garlic potatoes and a caper salsa verde.

The Depot Restaurant | 241 1st St. W, Sonoma, CA 95476 | $$$

Gourmet Cooking Classes Near You
Take your culinary skills to new levels with guidance from five-star chefs.
Book Now

25. Pearl

Tucked away in Petaluma’s wharf district, Pearl is one of the beloved spots surrounding Sonoma restaurants, known especially for its Eastern Mediterranean-inspired cuisine. As a popular daytime café and brunch spot, it serves some of the best food in the area, including dishes like the lamb burger with fennel tzatziki. 

The Vibe

Like many of the eateries near Sonoma restaurants, it offers cozy vibes with a small outdoor patio and central bar seating. 

What to Order

Try the Shakshuka, a hearty and comforting dish featuring a chickpea, pepper and tomato stew, baked eggs and griddled halloumi, all in a rich tomato base.

Pearl | 500 1st St., Petaluma, CA 94952 | $$

Aerial view of shakshuka in a pan
via Canva

26. Street Social

Founded by Chef Jevon Martin and cocktail expert Marjorie Pier, Street Social is one of the best restaurants for those seeking an intimate and memorable dining experience. With seating for just 26 people, this restaurant near Sonoma offers a cozy atmosphere, featuring a curated selection of high-end dishes made from farm-to-table ingredients. 

The Vibe

Street Social is one of the more intimate spots near Sonoma restaurants, with just a handful of tables, elegant lighting and flowers adorning each one. 

What to Order

Try the pumpkin dumplings topped with truffle brown butter, paired with maitake mushrooms, ricotta cheese and pomegranate. 

Street Social | 29 F Petaluma Blvd. N, Petaluma, CA 94952 | $$$

27. Spread Kitchen

Led by owner and Chef Cristina Topham, Spread Kitchen blends Lebanese-inspired cuisine with Sonoma's fresh, local ingredients. From saffron-scented grain bowls to za'atar-dusted dirty fries, it’s one of the top Sonoma County restaurants, offering unique dishes from Lebanon and Tunisia, all in a relaxed, dog-friendly patio setting.

The Vibe

This is one of those warm and cozy restaurants that's perfect for relaxing — whether bringing your dog to enjoy the patio or settling in with a good book while soaking up the sun.

What to Order

Add the baba ganoush to your plate at this Lebanese-inspired Sonoma restaurant. The delightful dip is made from smoked eggplant blended with tahini, lemon, garlic and olive oil, creating a creamy and smoky flavor. 

Spread Kitchen | 18375 Highway 12, Sonoma, CA 95476 | $$

Aerial view of a platter with different vegetables and dips, from Spread Kitchen, a Sonoma restaurant
via Spread Kitchen

Learn To Cook Sonoma Foods

While exploring Sonoma restaurants offers much enjoyment, there’s something uniquely rewarding about learning to create the incredible dishes offered at these spots yourself. That’s what cooking classes in Sonoma offer.

Led by experienced expert chefs, these classes promise to reveal the secrets behind crafting the best Sonoma food. From mastering wine pairings to preparing farm-to-table dishes, they're a fantastic way to add the best Sonoma cuisine to your own culinary arsenal.

While famous for its wine, Sonoma's restaurants showcase delicious fare from around the world that goes well beyond the humble grape! The best restaurants in Sonoma, CA continue to raise the bar for American and European cuisine, making this a prime destination for foodies to visit on multiple occasions. Indeed, with so many top restaurants in Sonoma to explore, you’ll never run out of new culinary adventures. 

For even more ways to explore Sonoma and beyond, check out other experiences happening on Cozymeal.