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Diane Sukiennik, Associate Editor, Food and Wine Access
Michael Reiss, Editor, Food and Wine Access

Discover Sonoma's rustic surroundings, warm, laid back hospitality and over 300 award wining wineries ready to welcome you for a sip, a smile and a stay that will last until your next visit.

Located just 30 miles from San Francisco, the verdant landscape that stretches from the valley to the Pacific Coast, is home to several microclimates that beckon with hiking, kayaking, biking and wine tasting at boutique wineries.

The charming town squares, redolent with great restaurants and unique shops are a walkers joy. Cozy bed & breakfasts, and hip, upscale hotels and resorts offer deluxe accommodations with all the amenities. Sonoma is stunning!

The Sonoma Valley is a great culinary and travel destination.

Here are some options for your visit!

Where to Stay

Where to Eat

What to Do

Hot Picks: Sonoma Valley, California Wine Country

Where to Stay

Diane Sukiennik, Associate Editor, Food and Wine Access
Michael Reiss, Editor, Food and Wine Access

Sonoma Vallley

Les Mars Hotel

Photo by Michael Reiss

Les Mars Hotel is a 16 room luxury hotel in the heart of Healdsburg, which puts a capital "C" on the term "class act."

Les Mars Hotel, located in downtown Healdsburg, offers outstanding luxury and comfort.

Photo by Michael Reiss

From the moment you enter the lobby of Les Mars Hotel you know you have entered an elegant space. In the heart of Victorian and red barn wine country architecture, at Les Mars you are a guest in a refined, French country villa.

Every inch of Le Mars Hotel exudes sophistication with a French touch.

Photo by Michael Reiss

The Mars family invites you to make yourself at home, a sentiment which starts with a warm welcome from the staff who discreetly inquire about your preferences, so that they may make your stay as comfortable as possible.

Each suite at Le Mars Hotel is beautifully and comfortably appointed.

Photo by Michael Reiss

The attention to detail is seen and experienced at every turn. Each room, uniquely furnished with antiques and family heirlooms, is decadently comfortable. Curl up in your bed made up with the finest of Italian linens, enjoy the fireplace and your in-room media center, or enjoy your Bulgari soaps as you soak in the Jacuzzi bubble tub. Smell the fresh roses placed in your room and bath. Taste the wine and artisan cheese sampling offered each evening and delight in the three course breakfast prepared for you by Chef Patrick Brown.

Personal attention is a hallmark at Les Mars Hotel. Here Chef Patrick Brown presents a guest with a made-to-order breakfast dish.

Photo by Michael Reiss

The staff, inspired by the Mars family passion for hospitality and lead by Hotel Manager, Joel Holland will ensure a memorable stay. This is wine country living in style. It is a luxury once experienced, which then becomes a necessity to repeat!

This is the beautifully heated swimming pool at Les Mars Hotel..

Photo by Michael Reiss

Les Mars Hotel
27 North St.
Healdsburg, Ca.
707 433 4211

http://www.lesmarshotel.com/

MacArthur Place

MacArthur Place, Sonoma's historic country inn and spa, offers you all the luxury of a finely appointed hotel with all of the charm of the countryside.

MacArthur Place's guest rooms are located in a park like setting among trees and carefully placed sculpture.

Photo by Michael Reiss

Just four blocks from the Sonoma Plaza and all of its browsing possibilities, MacArthur Place offers a gracious garden setting that is guaranteed to soothe frazzled nerves and provide the perfect escape form city life, as well as the homebase for visiting Sonoma's many wineries.

This is one of MacArthur Place's guest rooms, beautifully appointed with warm country colors, complete with fireplace and flat-screen TV

Photo by Michael Reiss

The luxuriously appointed rooms provide every modern day feature and offer the best of city and country living.

The swimming pool and spa complete the picture of a heavenly getaway, just 45 minutes from San Francisco.

MacArthur Place has a first- rate spa, swimming pool and fitness center.

Photo by Michael Reiss

MacArthur Place
Sonoma's Historic Country Inn & Spa
29 E. MacArthur St.,
Sonoma, California 95476
(707) 933-3191
(707) 938-2929

A trip to the Sonoma wine country inspires dreams about living the good life here and wondering just what it might be like. One of the ways to explore the answers is to sample the lodging and hospitality of innkeepers who are living their dream. Stay with Diana Van Ry and Allen Tilton at their lovingly restored Case Ranch Inn.

The meticulously restored Case Ranch Inn keeps the vibrant colors of days gone by.

Photo by Michael Reiss

As you approach the Case Ranch Inn, this Historic Landmark home and property, you marvel at the peace and tranquility and its resonance with the surrounding landscape. The moment you are greeted by your hosts, you know you've selected the right inn. They exude the warmth, passion and dedication that is a requisite for a successful bed and breakfast. Their personal story of how they single-handedly restored their beloved inn will leave you spellbound.

At the Case Ranch Inn Innkeeper Diana Van Ry exudes warmth and welcoming, as she serves a gourmet breakfast to a guest.

Photo by Michael Reiss

Their devotion to organic farming is evidenced by Diana's delicious and healthful breakfast. Besides maintaining the grounds and property, Allan has expert knowledge of beer making and he delights in offering"Beer Tasting Seminars" which are listed under "Specials" on their website.

You can be as active as you like in the rich and fascinating Sonoma Wine Country, or you can laze the day away on the porch of the Case Ranch Inn..

Photo by Michael Reiss

The accommodations are more than comfortable with personal attention evidenced in the many small but significant gestures that make you feel like cherished friends visiting for a spell. Allan walked the property with us and gave us the inside scoop on his newly installed solar panels. Diana, knowing that we had been traveling for a while, offered to wash some of our clothes.

So, visit again you will because the warm hospitality offered by Diana and Allan will leave you coming back for more!

Case Ranch Inn Bed and Breakfast
7446 Poplar Dr.
Forestville, Ca.
707 887 8711
877.887.8711

Hotel Healdsburg, a luxury resort and spa in the town of the same name, offers a unique experience while visiting the wine country or as a destination in its own right. Located on the historic town square, this newly built, designer hotel offers modern elegance and great attention to detail in a sleek stylish idiom.

From Frette linens and robes to teak furniture, to wood floors, to Peet's Coffee ready to brew in your own in-room French Press, the attention to design and detail is evident but understated. The effect is low-keyed elegance at the Hotel Healdsburg.

Hotel Healdsburg
25 Matheson Street
Healdsburg, California 95448
(707) 431-2800
(707) 431-0414
www.hotelhealdsburg.com

Diane Sukiennik, Associate Editor, Food and Wine Access
Michael Reiss, Editor, Food and Wine Access

Mosaic Restaurant and Wine Bar is a culinary "find" located in Forestville, a small town just outside of Sonoma.

He has created the menu and oversees every aspect of his Forestville culinary hot spot. Chef Olesky's talent can be seen and tasted in every morsel of his kitchen. His dishes are beautifully presented and expertly executed.

The dining room, wine bar and outdoor patio area are quintessential wine country with a touch of city chic. This is a winning combination in an area that has raised the bar on good eating.

This is Mosaic Restaurant and Wine Bar's lively and high-energy dining room.

Photo by Michael Reiss

Roasted Butternut Squash -D'anjou Pear Soup - splash of cream, creme fraiche, toasted pumpkin seeds
Roasted Prawn - Macadamia Nut-Cilantro-Citrus Butter, on Baby Arugula-Shaved Fennel

Duck Confit - Cannelini Beans with Panchetta, Braised Rappini, & Prickley Pear-Pinot Gastrique

Coffee Encrusted filet Mignon - Mushrooms deglazed with Madeira, Caramelized onion Mashed potatoes, Chocolate CabernetDemi-Glace, Blue Cheese Compound Butter & Truffle Oil

The "Coffe Encrusted filet Mignon - Mushrooms deglazed with Madeira, Caramelized onion Mashed" is one of Mosaic Restaurant and Wine Bar's signature dishes.

Photo by Michael Reiss

This remote Russian River farmhouse in Forestville is home to a gastronomic temple, The Farmhouse Inn and Restaurant, where tourists and locals delight in a refined country ambiance with cuisine to match.

Seasonally and freshness are the hallmarks of Executive Chef Steve Litke's cuisine.

Wine Director/Sommelier Geoff Kruth's stellar wine list offers complementary pairings.

Dining room Maitre'd Andreas Willausch is the consummate host and keeper of the restaurant's justly famous cheese cart.

If you are looking for an impeccable dining experience in the middle of Sonoma, The Farmhouse Inn and Restaurant is the spot.

The Farmhouse Inn and Restaurant is located in the beautiful Sonoma country side of Forestville.

Photo by Michael Reiss

Breast of Squab and wild mushroom Terrine - black Trumpet mushroom and truffle vinaigrette
Sautéed Artisan Foie Gras - confit of pineapple, toasted pistachio, black pepper gastrique, housemade brioche

Niman Ranch Pork "Osso Buco" - celery root-potato puree, mirepoix of vegetables
Grilled Angus Ribeye - Yukon potato puree, bone marrow flan, Chanterelle butter

Favorite Dessert

Warm granny Smith Apple Galette - calvados strup, vanilla bean gelato

The "Sautéed Artisan Foie Gras - confit of pineapple, toasted pistachio, black pepper gastrique, housemade brioche" is one of the creative dishes offered at The Farmhouse Inn and Restaurant.

Photo by Michael Reiss

Farmhouse Inn Restaurant
Farmhouse Inn
7871 River Rd. (Wohlar St.)
Forestville, CA 95436
707-887-3300

At El Dordo Kitchen there is nothing "historical" about the restaurant, even though it is part of the historic landmark El Dordo Hotel.

El Dordo Kitchen is contemporary, hip, even edgy in decor, with food to match.

Several of the Thomas Keller team are at the helm of this casual, upscale eaterie in Sonoma Square. Executive Chef, Ryan Fancher brings his experience, knowledge and philosophy from the French Laundry to his kitchen. His seasonal ingredients are crafted into inspired Cal-Med recipes with flavors that are clean, full bodied and visually appealing.

The sommelier provides expert advice on wine and food pairings and offers exciting surprises to pair with the six course tasting menu where Chef Ryan's talent soars.

For a combination of cool, informal vibes and culinary excitement, the El Dorado Kitchen is a "find."

This is the upbeat and lively dinning room at El Dorado Kitchen.

Photo by Michael Reiss

Maine Diver Scallops - celery root puree, glazed chestnuts, celery salad
Charcuterie - house made terrine & rillettes, marmalade, whole grain mustard, cornichon

Butternut Squash Agnolotti - toasted pecans and sage cream
Chorizo and Clam "Cassoulet" - escarole, white beans, minestra broth

Favorite Dessert

fried banana split - crispy banana spring roll, caramel sauce, vanilla ice cream, candied nuts, chocolate sauce

Executive Chef, Ryan Fancher, whose background includes The French Laundry Restaurant, serves inspired dishes at El Dorado Kitchen.

Photo by Michael Reiss

Zin is a Healdsburg hot spot that is a favorite of locals, wine makers and tourists "in the know," who frequent the restaurant and wine bar.

At Zin it's all about the food. Proprietor/Chef Jeff Mall personally raises his produce, so he can attest to its locality and freshness. His menu reflects seasonal ingredients and full flavored recipes.

This is American home-cooked fare with California flair served in a casual, comfortable ambiance.

Its popularity is further enhanced by an eclectic wine list that features undiscovered Zins and other affordable small production varietals.

At Zin Restaurant in Healdsburg you can find a wide selection of the famous California wine, including Zinfandel, whose namesake is the restaurant's name.

Photo by Michael Reiss

Favorite Appetizers:

Mexican Beer Battered Green Beans with Mango Salsa
Grilled Flatbread with Smithfield Ham, Caramelized Onions, Apple Butter and Spring Hill White Cheddar.

Favorite Entrees:

Herb Roasted Fulton Valley Farms Chicken Breast with a Dried Fruit & Red Pepper relish mashed Sweet Potatoes and Sautéed Green Beans with Oyster Mushrooms

Grilled "Certified Angus" Hanger steak with New Mexico red Chile Sauce, Wild Mushroom & Goat Cheese Chile Relleno, Rancho Beans and Grilled Green Onions

The "Mexican Beer Battered Green Beans with Mango Salsa" is a favorite dishes offered at Zin.

Photo by Michael Reiss

This Sonoma Square French country bistro, The Girl and the Fig, is the original conception of passionate Franchophile Owner, Sondra Bernstein.

Sondra Bernstein has created a warm, inviting space, where tourists and locals mix and mingle over apéritifs, wine and artisanal cheese, pate, salads, sandwiches and main courses---all seasonally designed with local ingredients in mind and prepared with rustic, Provençal flair.

Her wine list is strictly composed of Rhone varietals offered in flights, glasses and bottles.

Needless to say, many items on the menu incorporate fig as one of the ingredients. Even if you don't like this fruit, you will be seduced by the friendly vibes and you will be enchanted by The Girl and the Fig!

The Girl and the Fig restaurant has a warm inviting atmosphere.

Photo by Michael Reiss

steamed mussels - garlic, leeks, herbs, Herbsaint, grilled bread.
Charcuterie platter - chef’s choice of pate, rillettes or terrine

pasta - delicata squash, currants, Roquefort cheese, arugula, candied walnuts, brown butter.
flat iron steak - crispy leek potato cake, broccoli rabe, mushroom demi glaze

This is one of the inspired, creative dishes served at The Girl and the Fig.

Photo by Michael Reiss

This ambitious owner has recently opened an upscale deli/gourmet shop, The Fig Pantry and also Les Petites Maisons, five cozy cottages for rent, all located just one mile from historic Sonoma Plaza. They reflect the attention to detail, quality and panache that is found in the bistro. Sondra and her chef also conduct cooking vacations. Check out the website for details.

The design motif found at the Hotel Healdsburg of understated elegance is underscored at Charlie Palmer's Dry Creek Kitchen, the restaurant attached to the hotel. Charlie's fame and well-deserved accolades from Aureole in New York City and Las Vegas set the stage for high dining expectations, and his latest venture does not disappoint. The focus here is on a menu and wine list based on locally grown ingredients. Executive Chef Mark Purdy plies these ingredients into sophisticated but elegantly simple presentations which allow the products themselves to shine through. The wine cellar provides a selection of over 2,000 varieties, all Sonoma County, with a wide selection of wines by the glass for food and wine pairings.

Dry Creek Kitchen's sleek, modern interior invites guests to a memorable gourmet experience.

Yellow Tail Jack Sashimi with Dungeness Crab Timbale - tempura asparagus and cucumber consommé ($12)
Seared Sonoma Foie Gras - five spice French toast and rhubarb soup ($19)
Tomales Bay Miyagi Oysters with Pinot Blanc Mignonette and Black Pepper Crisps ($14)
Salad of Seasonal Field Greens and Herbs -champagne-shallot vinaigrette and pickled vegetables ($8)

Dry Creek Kitchen uses only Sonoma's finest ingredients to highlight natural flavors.
Photo by Michael Reiss

Favorite Entrees:

Slow Roasted Pork Tenderloin - carrot ginger puree, watercress, sugar snap peas, cumin scented pork jus ($23)
Pan Roasted North Cost Halibut-toasted couscous, alba clamshells, chilled watercress vichyssoise ($24)
Wild Mushroom Crepe-roasted asparagus puree and pea shoot salad ($16)

Favorite Desserts:

Selection of house-made ice creams and sorbets
Cheese course- a selection of Sonoma County artisan varieties

The Tasting Menus offered at lunch (4 courses at $35) and at dinner ( 6 courses at $60) are excellent values and a great way to experience the many culinary delights of the Dry Creek Kitchen.

Charlie Palmer's Dry Creek Kitchen
at the Hotel Healdsburg
25 Matheson Street
Healdsburg, California 95448
(707) 431-2800
(707) 431-0414

Diane Sukiennik, Associate Editor, Food and Wine Access
Michael Reiss, Editor, Food and Wine Access

Sonoma Valley

Many wineries in Sonoma Valley believe that to truly experience, appreciate and evaluate their wines they should be accompanied by their natural partner, food. They have introduced flights of wine paired with bites of food. These combinations are typically created by their in house chefs who are familiar with the wineries and are able to use the seasonal ingredients available locally to enhance the flavors and textures of both the components.

It is always best to consult your hotel concierge or bed and breakfast host to determine which wineries in the area are offering these programs as schedules change depending on the season. The wineries listed below offer food and wine pairings year round and are well worth trying for a total sensual experience.

J Vineyards and Winery offers three different pairing options in their Bubble Room, an elegant dining area designed specifically for these tastings.

The options pair either white wines or Pinot Noirs or sparkling wines with delectable bites created by their Executive Chef, Mark Caldwell. This is an exceptional food and wine pairing which should not be missed.

Kendall Jackson Winery offers an educational food and wine pairing conducted by one of their staff or the Executive Chef himself, Justin Wangler.

Each pairing is accompanied by a set of tasting notes for both the wine and accompanying food pairings.

Mayo Family Winery provides a tasting room with chairs, service and delicious food to enhance your gustatory experience.

Single vineyard wines are matched with seven food pairings created by ZIN Restaurant's Chef Jeff Mall.

Consider a cooking class at Ramekins Cooking School, while in Sonoma. Whether an observation-only or a hands-on class, this well-organized, professionally-run program is informative and entertaining.

The facility is superbly designed for optimal viewing, and the tastings accompanying each class are paired with appropriate wines. Ramekins can accommodate groups, as well as individuals, and they offer an ambitious program with local and guest chefs. Consult the course catalogue for offerings.

Ramekins Cooking School
450 West Spain St.
Sonoma, California 95476
(707) 933-0450
www.ramekins.com

Relish Culinary School is the brainchild of accomplished home chefs who are passionate about sharing their knowledge and enthusiasm for their edible art.

"Have van will cook" has been their motto as they are able to provide movable classes and feasts in unique venues accommodating the needs of diverse clients from the business and leisure sector

. As of Spring 2007, they will have a new, stylish location next to the Healdsburg Hotel to expand their range of culinary offerings.

What could be more appropriate in the wine country than an art gallery/cafe offering a variety of items both visual and gustatory that tantalize the senses. The Palette Art Cafe is a casual, modern, opened space with both indoor and outdoor venues. It is designed to compliment and enhance the visual enjoyment of art. Known for its fondue selections, Palette makes art a delicious exploration.

Palette Art Cafe
235 Healdsburg Avenue Suites 105/106
Healdsburg, Ca.
707 433 2788
www.palette-art.com