Though Sonoma Valley has far fewer visitors than Napa Valley, its restaurants are often equally crowded, so be sure to make reservations in advance.
Gourmet Picnics, Sonoma Style
Sonoma's central plaza, with its many picnic tables, is an optimal spot to set up your own lunch spread. The venerable Sonoma Cheese Factory, on the plaza at 2 Spain St. (tel. 707/996-1000; daily 8:30am-5:30pm), sells award-winning house-made cheeses and imported meats and cheeses; a few are set out for tasting every day. Caviar, gourmet salads, pâté, and homemade Sonoma Jack cheese are also for sale. You can pick up some good, inexpensive sandwiches too -- such as the fire-roasted pork loin or New York steak.
