It’s late afternoon on a beautiful day in Sonoma. You skipped lunch in favor of grazing and wine tasting, and now you’re ready for something absolutely delicious to eat to complement some of the world-class vino you’ve just finished sampling. And maybe a little more wine—you’re in Sonoma, after all.
In this oh-so-gastronomically-inclined county you’re certainly spoilt for choice, but if you’re looking for delectable, imaginative cuisine that favors flavor over pretense and a wine list to please even the most discerning oenophile, Willi’s Wine Bar on Old Redwood Highway in Santa Rosa is the perfect apres-tasting spot. The food is tapas-style and designed for sharing, so bring a few friends, belly up to the bar, and order a variety of small plates. The scallop dumplings with pea shoots and sherry vinegar butter are exceptional, as is the warm skillet bread with melted gruyère. Many of the wines are available in 2 oz. tasting portions, so you can keep the day’s tasting party going and sample to your heart’s content. This is comfort food, elevated, and it’s exactly what we crave after a hard day at the vineyards.
