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.
Foodies from all over the world flock to this romantic jewel in the Napa Valley, considered to be one of the most outstanding restaurants in the world. The exquisite American-French food defies description or convention. Chef Thomas Keller takes care to use as much produce from the restaurant's private garden as possible, as well as making sure no ingredient is repeated anywhere on the nine-course daily tasting menus. The French Laundry's extraordinary food is exceeded only by its excellent service. Patrons are always impressed by the knowledge of the head Sommelier and enjoy the tasteful recommendations. A table at the French Laundry is a heavily coveted prize, so make sure to reserve far in advance.
Popular wisdom holds that this is the restaurant that kicked off the latest round in the fine dining craze in the North Bay. That may or may not be true. What is a fact is that chef Cindy Pawlcyn, who has since been influential in the creation of many other Bay Area restaurants, started here and is still involved in kitchen operations at her flagship restaurant. The atmosphere at Mustards is upscale roadhouse with an airy dining room and walls that are almost entirely made of windows. The staff is lively and and efficient.
Locals and tourists alike flock to Brix Restaurant to watch the chef concoct his excellent dishes. With a panoramic view of the Napa hillside and a decor of warm Impressionist tones, the award-winning Brix Restaurant makes for an elegant night out. Featuring classic Californian delicacies with a twist of French-influence, the food severed here is always a delight to the palate. You can order a five-course tasting dinner that comes Japanese-style in a bento box. The on-site wine store offers an extensive and eclectic variety, running the gamut in price.
Old Chef Litke has a farm—and what a farm it is! He uses the freshest of ingredients, most of which are products of this very farm—the Lobster Fennel Sausage with saffron potato salad is a must-have. In addition, there is a fine selection of wines, a cheese course for the cheese-lovers, and a special cart that comes around to each table to prepare your tea and French-press coffee before you. Come visit the lovely Farmhouse Inn Restaurant that presents the feel and the food of the country-side. The restaurant opens at 5:30p Thursday through Monday.
Since 1923, Costeaux French Bakery & Cafe has been regaling the whole of Napa and Sonoma County with delicious French delicacies. The café is famed for its artisan breads, especially sourdough bread, desserts and cakes. Also known to offer catering services for private events such as weddings, Costeaux's versatile menu delights patrons of all ages. If you would like to have breakfast the French way, head here. The menu here changes to incorporate the seasons best on the plate. Alfresco dining is also available.
The Epicurean Connection is a neighborhood cheese shop and cafe that has gained its popularity through its dedication to quality and friendly service. Not only does the shop sell rare artisan and farmstead American cheeses, but they also offer craft beers, a wonderful selection of wines, olive oils, jams and much more. The interior is reminiscent of a picnic, with benches and baskets of fresh fruits, so indulge yourself in some Southern and Cajun food after you've made your purchases and relax. Located in Sonoma, where they are known for their wine and cheese, it would be a pity to miss out on this gem while visiting.
The tiny community of Freestone is much popular because of its well known bakery Wild Flour Bread. The usual mornings here are said to be packed with customers who come from places to buy their most celebrated loaves and pastries that are made in the traditional style of brick ovens. They let you taste and select your bread before you buy it. You can smell the fresh aroma of breads that are being baked throughout the day! Bakery is open only from Friday to Monday and accepts payments only through cash.
Dine in the lap of luxury at the Single Thread Farm of Healdsburg. Set on a 5-acre (2.02-hectare) farm, this 3-Michelin-star restaurant offers a lavish meal with fresh ingredients sourced from vendors of local produce. Indulge in a bespoke eleven-course meal, in that, it is personalized and customized to suit your palate and preferences. Trained in Japan, Chef Kyle Connaughton believes in the philosophy of "Omotenashi"— service from the bottom of the heart. Thus, each dish is prepared with honesty and perfection and served in style. The wine pairings complement each course, taking you on a culinary escapade. This reservation-only restaurant promises a hearty meal and an experience to remember.
This casual dining eatery offers upscale twists on American classics. Must-haves include the scrumptious Organic Fried Chicken and Champagne Battered Fish n' Chip. You will need to visit many times to cover the extensive menu. The lip smacking dessert menu comprises of Homemade Butterscotch Pudding and Chocolate Cookies or Market S'Mores made at your table with melting chocolate and delicious graham crackers. The menu changes seasonally so go ahead and make your taste buds happy!