Santa Rosa: Eat, Sip & Stay 

Nestled in the heart of Sonoma County, Santa Rosa is a hub that offers the perfect blend of urban and Wine Country charm. Whether you’re a foodie, a wine enthusiast, or simply looking for a relaxing getaway, Santa Rosa is your gateway to the best of Sonoma County. 

Getting to Santa Rosa 

Conveniently accessible via Highway 101, Santa Rosa is a short drive from San Francisco or Sacramento. For those flying, Santa Rosa’s Charles M. Schulz Airport (STS), named after the cartoonist who created Snoopy and the Peanuts comic strip, offers non-stop service to 15 cities across the United States through Alaska, Avelo, and American Airlines. 

Where to Eat 

Santa Rosa is a culinary haven, boasting fresh, local ingredients from Sonoma County farmers and its 55 miles of coastline. Whether you’re looking for fine dining, comfort food or food trucks, Santa Rosa has it all. Here are some top spots to visit: 

• L’Oro di Napoli: L’Oro di Napoli is known for its hand-tossed, wood-fired Neapolitan pizza. However, the restaurant’s incredible lasagna and heavenly tiramisu will have you believing you are in Naples, Italy. 

• Augie’s French: Come for the cocktails and stay for the food. Augie’s French serves quintessentially classic French dishes with a Sonoma twist in an intimate setting. Local favorites include the French onion soup, escargot, duck confit and steak frites. 

• Mitote Food Park: This vibrant Mexican Food Park serves up incredible food trucks and a lively community vibe. Here, you’ll also find unique cocktails and live music, which makes for an exciting lunch or dinner. 

• Bird and the Bottle: This modern tavern reimagines the American melting pot with bold interpretations of street food, blending flavors from Asia, the American South, and the East Coast with Jewish comfort classics. Local favorites include the fried chicken, the pastrami tacos and the consistently amazing cocktails. 

• Willi’s Wine Bar: Willi’s Wine Bar combines a dynamic selection of wines with globally inspired small plates in a cozy and convivial setting. 

• Monti’s: A local favorite for contemporary Mediterranean cuisine, this spot offers nightly specials from its impressive wood-fired rotisserie, alongside small and large plates showcasing fresh, locally sourced meats and seasonal produce. 

• LoCoco’s Cucina Rustica: This classic Italian eatery offers handmade pastas and a warm, welcoming atmosphere. 

• Jackson’s Bar and Oven: From oysters to wood-fired pizza, and from small bites to hearty dishes, the dynamic menu at Jackson’s is driven by the freshest seasonal ingredients. 

• John Ash & Co.: A renowned Santa Rosa restaurant, John Ash & Co. was the first to embrace seasonal cooking with fresh, local ingredients paired with fine Sonoma County wines. Nestled within the breathtaking Vintners Resort, it is surrounded by 92 acres of lush vineyards and meticulously maintained gardens. 

• Haku Sushi: With 55 miles of coastline, Sonoma County provides excellent seafood. Haku Sushi is a must-visit for sushi lovers and is known for its artful presentation. 

• Ippinn Udon & Tempura: Delight in freshly made udon noodles and authentic Japanese comfort food at this local favorite. 

• La Gare: This family-owned gem serves traditional French cuisine in a romantic ambiance. The steak béarnaise is a fantastic meal for two. 

• Stark’s Steak & Seafood: Indulge in prime cuts of steak and fresh seafood in this upscale, yet relaxed environment. 

Where to Sip

Breweries, Taprooms and Bars 

Named the Best Beer City in California in 2024 – No. 10 in the nation – Santa Rosa’s beer scene cannot be overlooked. Here are a few must-visit breweries:  

• Russian River Brewing Company: Renowned for its legendary Pliny, this brewery is a must-visit destination for craft beer enthusiasts. Pair the exceptional brews with delicious pizza and beer-friendly bites. 

• Fogbelt Brewing Company: This craft brewery and gastropub in Santa Rosa celebrates the region’s heritage by sourcing local ingredients and naming each beer after iconic coastal redwood trees native to the “fog belt.” 

• HenHouse Brewing Company: HenHouse is beloved by locals and tourists alike and is known for its creative IPAs and playful branding. 

• Moonlight Brewing Company: Moonlight is another local favorite, and brews a variety of ales and lagers, including seasonal favorites. The Death & Taxes black lager is a signature. 

• Cooperage Brewing Company: Cooperage is a haven for craft beer enthusiasts, offering bold, small-batch brews in a vibrant, community-focused taproom complete with a pool table. 

• Beer Baron: Beer Baron offers an impressive selection of craft beers, artisan cocktails, and elevated pub fare in a lively, welcoming atmosphere. 

• Flagship Taproom: A vibrant local gathering spot, Flagship offers craft beer, live music, and delicious food. The thoughtfully curated draft list showcases standout breweries from Sonoma County, alongside beloved favorites from the Bay Area and beyond. 

• Iron Ox Brewing Company: An independent craft brewery with a focus on locally sourced ingredients, Iron Ox blends creativity and sustainability in every pour. 

• Civilization Brewing: Civilization crafts distinctive small-batch beers, blending tradition and innovation in a warm and inviting taproom. 

• Shady Oak Brewing Company: Shady Oak specializes in unique, barrel-aged sour beers and experimental brews, offering a bold and adventurous tasting experience. 

• Old Possum Brewing Co.: Old Possum pairs bold, flavorful craft beers with a unique, industrial-chic setting and a locally inspired food menu. 

Wine

Santa Rosa is at the heart of Sonoma County, which means incredible wine is always on the menu. And with an airport that allows visitors to fly their wine home free, you can’t miss the following spots:  

• DeLoach Vineyards: Renowned for its biodynamic practices and elegantly crafted Pinot Noir, Chardonnay, and Zinfandel wines, DeLoach offers an immersive tasting experience with an expansive vineyard that is perfect for a picnic, walk or party. 

• Hook & Ladder Winery: Hook & Ladder honors its firefighter-heritage with handcrafted, estate-grown wines that highlight the diverse terroir of Russian River Valley. 

• St. Francis Winery & Vineyards: St. Francis showcases award-winning wines paired with stunning vineyard views and an exceptional wine-and-food-pairing experience. 

• Matanzas Creek Winery: Matanzas Creek is celebrated for its serene lavender gardens and elegantly crafted wines, particularly Sauvignon Blanc and Merlot, reflecting the essence of Sonoma County. 

• Benovia Winery: Benovia is a boutique winery crafting small-batch Pinot Noir and Chardonnay. 

• D’Argenzio Winery: D’Argenzio is a family-run boutique winery crafting Italian-inspired, small-batch wines with a warm and inviting tasting experience. 

Where to Stay

Santa Rosa offers accommodations for every traveler, from luxurious resorts to stylish motels. Here are a few recommendations:  

• Flamingo Resort & Spa: Flamingo Resort & Spa is a mid-century modern gem with a lively pool scene, full-service spa and great vibe. 

• Astro Motel: The Astro Motel is a retro-chic boutique motel with a fun vibe, unique design and citrus orchard in the courtyard. The included breakfast comes with sister restaurant Spinster Sisters’ famous granola. 

• Vintners Resort: Vintners Resort is a premier Sonoma County retreat surrounded by vineyards and complete with its own fine dining at John Ash & Co. 

Plan Your Visit

Santa Rosa’s combination of culinary delights, craft beverages, and comfortable accommodations makes it an ideal destination for a weekend escape or an extended stay. Whether you’re aiming to sip, savor, or simply relax, Santa Rosa welcomes you with open arms – and a glass of wine or pint of beer. 

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Written by Rachel Dickinson