Restaurants in Sonoma Valley
While the majority of restaurants are clustered around downtown Sonoma's square, there are some winners sprinkled farther out in the tiny towns to the north. However, unlike Napa, Sonoma Valley doesn't have the kind of world-class restaurants that would inspire you to drive great distances in 100°F (38°C) weather in heavy traffic, which means you can pretty much eat anywhere near where you are and do just fine.
Healdsburg has the highest concentration of outstanding restaurants. Because most of them surround the square, you can easily indulge and then take a stroll to window shop and get a feel for local life.
- Seasonal Regional
Chalkboard
Epitomizing the hyperlocal farm-to-table passion of Northern California chefs, this relaxed, two-room restaurant features artfully crafted small plates by chef Shane McAnelly. Rather than a specific cuisine, the daily-changing menu is inspired by produce from the restaurant’s 3-acre…$$Healdsburg - Mexican
El Farolito
There’s some incredible authentic Mexican food in these parts, and this charming casual spot is one place to find it—with appealing atmosphere to boot. All the greatest hits are represented here—guacamole, enchiladas, fajitas, carnitas, fish tacos, even chicken or pork with mole—and…$Healdsburg - Diner
Fremont Diner
This adorable roadside diner with old-fashioned aesthetics and homey, hearty cooking has Bay Area foodies making a special trip. Come here for fluffy omelets, serious coffee, brisket hash, fried chicken, pies, and gourmet milkshakes so thick they need a spoon. When the weather’s…$Sonoma - Deli
Jimtown Store
A gourmet country store with loads of charm, this is the place to stop for fantastic box lunches, gourmet picnic grub, and fun trinkets. A small seating area helps when you realize that what you’ve just ordered looks so good, you can’t wait another minute to try it.$Healdsburg - Taco Truck
La Bamba
Usually parked just around the corner from fancy Sonoma Mission Inn, this true locals’ spot is a taco truck with extremely tasty, classic Mexican grub, catering to many of the people working the land—the ones who prune the vines and make the wine happen, most of them immigrants from…$Sonoma - Provençal
The Girl and the Fig
One of the longest-running Sonoma favorites for top-quality food, this acclaimed restaurant’s “girl” is chef/proprietress Sondra Bernstein, known for her charcuterie platters and her talent for mixing Provençal cuisine with local Sonoma ingredients. On warm days and eves, the patio…$$Sonoma - Seafood
Willi’s Seafood & Raw Bar
There’s something for everyone at this longtime festive hot spot; the Latin-inspired menu is large and diverse, comprising numerous small plates. Dozens of local wines are available by the glass, carafe, and full bottle. Outdoor seating is prime on summer evenings, while inside…$$Healdsburg
