The citizens of Santa Rosa have reason to be in a continually celebratory mood as their microbrewery of choice takes top honors nearly every year at Denver's Great American Beer Festival. Since its inception in 1997, it has won such accolades as “Small Brewing Company of the Year,” “Innovation in Craft Brewing” and "Large Brewpub Champion Brewmaster." Indeed, gold medal winners include such eloquently named brews as Damnation, Blind Pig and Pliny the Elder. Many of them can be found in pubs throughout the Bay Area, but the headquarters is a must-see destination. Russian River Brewing Company is also credited with inventing the Double India Pale Ale. The entire list of ales is fascinating, each of them unique in blend, texture and flavor. At the tap room, live music entertains crowds as they savor pizzas made thin, crisp and fresh.
Lisbeth Holmefjord a native of Bergen, Norway, and her husband Shari Sarabi established Baci Cafe & Wine Bar to bring delectable flavors of Italian cuisine to Sonoma County. Executive chef Sarabi uses locally sourced fresh ingredients to recreate the authentic Italian taste. Those with dietary restrictions can partake from their fares by ordering from their special gluten free menu. The tantalizing cuisine of this place attracts a huge crowd, so do reserve your table before you visit this restaurant.
Clif Family Winery is a family owned vineyard which offers up excellent wine tastings with artisan food pairings. Known mainly for their Clif Bar, an energy snack popular among cyclists, one can sample some of their best vintages such as Estate Zinfandel, Grenache, and of course, Cabernet Sauvignon, which is their specialty. Enjoy a glass with some spectacular views of the verdant vineyards when you visit here.
Brian Arden Wines is established in a very old, Zinfandel vineyard which Brian Arden acquired from his father. Now, armed with the expertise of wine growing, the owner offers excellent vintages and tantalizing tasting sessions, paired with some delicious cuisine. The winery can also be toured, offering an overall exciting experience for the visitor.
Nestled on the bank of the Russian river that joins the majestic Pacific Ocean lies River's End Restaurant. Executive chef Martin Recorder, uses his expertise to create tantalizing concoctions that keeps guests coming back for more. Locally sourced fresh ingredients are used to prepare contemporary preparations. Begin your meal with a salad or soup, follow it up with an entree of Duck Two Ways, Pork & Apples, White Sea Bass or Applewood Smoked Fillet Mignon. Key Lime Sorbet, mousse or creme brulee gives it a sweet finish. Book your table by the window to enjoy splendid views of Goat Rock and the night sky, while you dine.
Established in 1994, Hartford Family Winery specializes in single origin wines, made exclusively from their own vineyard located in the nearby town of Forestville. This qualitative approach to wine making has earned them numerous regional accolades over the years. Their tasting room located in the heart of Healdsburg is a lovely, light-filled space, with a little outdoor patio, perfect for enjoying their award-winning chardonnays and pinot noirs.