Sonoma County, California is home to over 400 wineries, 50 miles of lovely pacific coastline, and at just 30 miles north of San Francisco, it’s one of California’s most beautiful areas to enjoy in the west coast summer. Sonoma is packed with exciting events, arts culture, restaurants, and bars all designed to make your summer a happy and unforgettable one. Here’s a comprehensive list of some of Sonoma’s best spots to hit this summer.
Events
A chili competition, wine, craft spirits, and live music fill this annual Sonoma event. Guests sample all chilis in the competition, but make sure to save room for the lineup of brownies from local makers.
Arts
A contemporary gallery for visual and mixed media arts has found its home in The Barlow, a culinary and arts center in Sebastopol. Stop by for hats, laser cut lights, and handmade wearables.
One of Sonoma’s most influential art galleries says hello to new owners as the founder retires. Pay this gallery a visit in August to see the founder’s final curated exhibition showcasing over 40 artists.
Wineries
A small-production winery nestled in eastern Sonoma County. Philippe Melaka, a native of Bordeaux, was recently appointed head winemaker and will have full control over the 2018 vintage from Westwood.
Distilleries
This unique line of flavored vodkas are all made from organic California grapes. Try popular flavors like espresso, mandarin, and cucumber mint.
Breweries, Beer Pubs and Bars
With a newly opened second location, the Petaluma Palace of Barrels, HenHouse is ready to serve their lineup of Saison, Oyster Stout, and IPA to a thirsty crowd. Keep an eye out for the rotating food trucks on hand Wednesday through Sunday nights.
Restaurants
Frenchie Picnics and Provisions
A contemporary spot designed to supply you with everything picnic from food to basket. Stop by for wine and beer, gadgets, or a quick bite at the stand-up bar.
Udon meets the 21st century at this noodle and tempura bar. Enjoy the cafeteria-style tempura line to get a full selection of Ippinn’s offerings.
What a Chicken
No burgers here, but the mesquite-grilled chicken and pork ribs make up for it. A taste of their tacos dressed in homemade tortillas will make you a believer.
Native American cuisine finds new life inside the Virginia Dare Winery. Stop in for the fry bread tacos and bison ribs to get a taste of traditional North American dining.
Mi Ranchito’s third location opens in Sonoma, serving up a top notch menu of tacos, sopas, and burritos. A drink at the outdoor patio’s bar makes any evening a lovely one.
Japanese comfort food meets modern influence and seasonal ingredients at this ramen bar. Chasu pork, soft shell crab, and a variety of sake bring a taste of Japan right to your mouth.
Satisfy your sweet tooth with gelato-style ice cream at Two Dog Night Creamery. All ice creams are made in house with locally sourced ingredients, and the menu even features vegan options and housemade waffle cones.
Full-service is the name of the game at Taste of Tea. A spa, tasting bar, restaurant, and retail boutique are all available during a trip to this immersive spa and tasting bar.
Lodging
Focusing on a relaxation and a zen experience, Gaige House offers a boutique lodging option with Japanese services and décor. The meditation deck and yoga practices promote a peaceful time perfect for unwinding from hectic day to day life.
This historic inn has been recently remodeled and outfitted with a brand new kitchen and restaurant menu. Look to the bar for a tap lineup of local beers.
Tours
What better way to explore Sonoma wine country than by taking a bike tour through scenic California. Keep the cars at home and the pedals moving on your way to a wine tour, Ace It hot air balloon tour, or an adventure package from their comprehensive selection.
Shopping
Handcrafted housewares, jewelry, and children’s good adorn the shelves at this shop. Every piece in the store is said to have its own story, and are all ethically made.
Eclectic home décor and gifts fill the walls of this funky shop, located in Occidental and their newest location on Main St. in Sebastopol. New merchandise arrives daily from flea markets, estate sales, and local artisans, keeping the shelves fresh and inspired.
