A Weekend in Wine Country: Sonoma Valley, California

Shopping

Downtown Sonoma boasts a charming historic square lined with boutiques, tasting rooms and restaurants. Strolling through the shops, you’ll find a curated selection of clothing, antiques, custom jewelry, home decor and art galleries. For vintage treasures, head to Eighth Street East and explore Reclaimed Antiques Mall & Estate Sales, where a cluster of shops offers unique finds. Don’t miss Fat Pilgrim on Broadway, a must-visit for stylish home decor and quirky gifts.

Exploring

Renting an electric bike is a fantastic way to glide through the vineyards and take in Sonoma’s breathtaking scenery. Even if you’re not a wine drinker, visiting local wineries is an experience in itself — each has its own unique charm, stunning grounds and fascinating history. For outdoor lovers, Jack London State Park offers scenic hiking trails and insight into the life of the famed author. Another hidden gem is Quarryhill Botanical Garden, where you can stroll among rare plants and vibrant blooms. If you're in town on a Tuesday evening, don’t miss the Sonoma Tuesday Night Farmers Market, featuring fresh local produce, handmade goods, food trucks and live music.

Tours

Winery tours provide an inside look at the craftsmanship and dedication behind each bottle. For an unforgettable tasting experience, check out Donum Estate or Hamel Family Wines, both known for their stunning landscapes, exceptional wines and in-depth tours that highlight the artistry of winemaking.

Day trip: exploring the California coast: Sonoma County’s seaside escape

No trip to Sonoma County is complete without venturing out to the breathtaking California coast. With more than 55 miles of dramatic Pacific shoreline, the region offers rugged beauty, charming seaside villages and some of the freshest seafood in the state.

Start your coastal adventure in Bodega Bay, a picturesque fishing town known for its scenic vistas and laid-back charm. For a quieter beach escape, head to Dillon Beach, a hidden gem perfect for strolling along the shore or catching some waves. Indulge in a waterfront lunch at Nick’s Cove, where fresh seafood and rustic charm meet panoramic bay views. For an unforgettable culinary experience, stop at Hog Island Oyster Co. and savor some of the finest oysters straight from the source.

The Sonoma Coast State Park offers 17 miles of unspoiled beaches and coastal bluffs, making it an ideal place to stretch your legs and take in the salty sea air. Along the way, explore the many regional parks that dot the coastline, each offering its own slice of natural beauty. Whether you’re enjoying a scenic drive, hiking along dramatic cliffs or indulging in a seafood feast, Sonoma’s coastline promises an unforgettable escape.

Dinner

• Glen Ellen Star & Stella (Kenwood)
  A visit to Sonoma isn’t complete without dining at Glen Ellen Star in Glen Ellen or its newest sister restaurant, Stella, in Kenwood. Chef Ari Weiswasser, one of Food & Wine's Best New Chef 2015 honorees, brings a refined yet approachable touch to Wine Country cuisine. Having honed his skills in fine-dining establishments in New York and Philadelphia, and later at Thomas Keller’s The French Laundry, Weiswasser set out to create something different at Glen Ellen Star — an intimate, ingredient-driven restaurant centered around an open kitchen. The menu is inspired by seasonal produce, much of which is sourced from The Glentucky Family Farm, a certified biodynamic farm just minutes from the restaurant. With a warm, inviting atmosphere and an emphasis on fresh, local ingredients, Glen Ellen Star and Stella are must-visit dining destinations.

• Golden Bear Station (Kenwood)
  Bringing an Italian-American twist to Kenwood, Golden Bear Station is the latest creation from Joshua Smookler and Heidy He, the masterminds behind Mu Ramen (once named the best ramen in America by Eater) and Animo, which was named one of Esquire’s Best New Restaurants in America in 2022. With Michelin recognition and high praise from the San Francisco Chronicle, the husband-and-wife duo now bring their expertise to Wine Country. Golden Bear Station focuses on wood-fired pizzas, handmade pastas and seasonal dishes, all crafted with a deep appreciation for quality ingredients. This cozy yet sophisticated restaurant embodies the essence of a local gathering place while offering world-class flavors.

• The Girl & The Fig (Downtown Sonoma)
  A Wine Country institution, The Girl & The Fig has been serving up rustic French cuisine since 1997. Originally opening in Glen Ellen before relocating to the historic Sonoma Hotel in 2000, this beloved restaurant has become a go-to for both locals and visitors. The menu showcases seasonal, Provence-inspired dishes, such as the signature fig and arugula salad with goat cheese, pancetta, pecans and grilled fresh figs. Other entrées highlight locally sourced seafood, lamb, duck and rabbit, served alongside grains, pastas and fresh vegetables. Known for its Rhône varietal-focused wine list, the restaurant also offers wine flights paired with local artisan cheeses. Guests can even bring home a taste of the experience through their “FIG FOOD” product line, featuring jams, chutneys, vinegars and spice blends. A stop at The Girl & The Fig is truly a Sonoma must-do.

• El Dorado Kitchen (Downtown Sonoma)
  Situated within the charming El Dorado Hotel on Sonoma Plaza, El Dorado Kitchen is a refined yet approachable restaurant offering seasonally driven California cuisine. Executive Chef Armando Navarro crafts dishes using the freshest ingredients sourced from local Sonoma County farmers. Whether you’re enjoying a leisurely breakfast, an al fresco lunch in the courtyard or an elegant dinner in the dining room with an open kitchen view, the restaurant delivers a relaxed yet elevated culinary experience. Known for its fresh flavors and sophisticated simplicity, El Dorado Kitchen is a local favorite that embodies the heart of Wine Country dining.

Breakfast & lunch

• Sunflower Caffé (Sonoma Plaza)
  Located in the heart of Sonoma Plaza, Sunflower Caffé is a beloved spot for fresh, locally sourced breakfast and lunch. Housed in Historic Landmark #501, once owned (and lost in a poker game) by Salvador Vallejo, the café embraces a farm-to-table approach. Ingredients are carefully chosen — salt from the San Francisco Bay, milk from Sonoma County pastures and pastured eggs — ensuring a high-quality dining experience. Expect a line on weekends, but rest assured, it’s worth the wait.

• Basque Boulangerie Café (Sonoma Plaza)
  A true artisan bakery, Basque Café continues the long-standing tradition of community gathering over fresh-baked goods. Known for its incredible French-style breads, pastries and coffee, this cozy café is the perfect place to grab a croissant and a cappuccino before exploring Sonoma. Whether you’re stopping in for a quick bite or a leisurely breakfast, the warm, welcoming atmosphere makes it a local favorite.

• The Red Grape (Downtown Sonoma)
  For a casual yet delicious lunch option, The Red Grape offers some of the best thin-crust pizzas in town, paired with fresh salads and a well-curated wine list. With its relaxed setting and Wine Country charm, this spot is ideal for a laid-back meal after a morning of wine tasting or exploring downtown Sonoma.

• El Molino Central (Boyes Hot Springs)
  If you’re craving authentic Mexican food, a visit to El Molino Central is a must. Located along Highway 12, this charming, unassuming eatery has earned rave reviews for its traditional regional Mexican dishes made with high-quality ingredients. Michelin inspectors have praised it as a hidden gem where flavors shine, making it one of the best spots for Mexican cuisine in Sonoma County. Whether you're stopping by for handmade tamales, fresh tortillas or house-made salsas, El Molino Central delivers an unforgettable experience.

Pubs & spirits: beyond wine in Sonoma Valley

• Hanson of Sonoma Distillery
  Sonoma Valley isn’t just about wine — Hanson of Sonoma is a must-visit for vodka enthusiasts. This family-run distillery offers a fascinating tour of the vodka-making process, from grape fermentation to distillation, followed by a tasting in their stunning lounge or by the scenic pond. Known for their organic, grape-based vodkas infused with natural flavors, Hanson provides a unique and fun alternative to wine tasting in the region.

• Prohibition Spirits
  While Italy may be famous for limoncello, Sonoma’s Prohibition Spirits takes this classic to the next level. Owners Fred and Amy Groth craft exceptional limoncello, Orangecello and FigCello, among other small-batch spirits. Offering intimate tastings, distillery tours and specialty experiences, this artisanal micro-distillery is a hidden gem for spirit lovers.

• Sonoma Springs Brewing Co.
  For those who prefer beer over wine, Sonoma Springs Brewing Co. is the perfect spot. Specializing in handcrafted California ales, German-style beers and barrel-aged brews, this laid-back brewery brings a craft beer experience to the heart of Wine Country. Whether you're in the mood for a refreshing pilsner or a bold IPA, Sonoma Springs Brewing Co. offers a relaxed and welcoming atmosphere for beer lovers.