The Best of Sonoma Valley
These are my personal recommendations for the best places for products and services in the Sonoma Valley. Suggestions for additions or changes are certainly welcome, but I reserve the right to select which I highlight based on my own experiences and opinions. I do not accept any compensation for appearing on this list.
Coffee
- Barking Dog Coffee Roasters - A Sonoma Valley original, there are now two locations -- one near downtown in the MarketPlace Shopping Center at 201 West Napa, and one up Highway 12 in Boyes Hot Springs, still only steps away from the hole-in-the-wall where it got its start. The Barking Dog in Boyes Hot Springs often hosts cheap or free entertainment on weekend evenings, ranging from incredible local talent to open mic nights. And the coffee rocks too!
- The Basque Boulangerie - Highlighted in one of my One Perfect Day in the Sonoma Valley accounts, this spot is great for coffee and something to go with it any time of the day. Be sure to grab a sidewalk table to watch the world go by.
- Sunflower Caffé - Across the Plaza from the Basque Boulangerie, the Sunflower is also a local favorite and it sports a wonderful garden in the back where you can enjoy your cappucino in lovely peace.
Ice Cream
- Ben & Jerry's Sonoma Plaza Scoop Shop - right on the Plaza in downtown Sonoma, it is an easy walk from any of the Plaza-based restaurants and just down the street from the amazing Sebastiani Theatre. In other words, you have no excuse -- so get going!
- Chocolate Cow - Also located on the Plaza, a short distance down a walkway at 452 1st Street East that holds several stores, the Chocolate Cow has been here for what seems like forever -- certainly before Ben & Jerry's came to town. So if you're after a Sonoma original, this is it.
Night Spot
- Murphy's Irish Pub - This long-time local watering hole is a sure bet for good music and good times Friday - Sunday, and a sure bet for a cozy neighborhood Irish pub all the other times.
- Swiss Hotel - The Swiss is a great hang-out spot, with their outdoor tables that look out onto the Plaza where you can watch the world go by. A favorite with locals, so good luck at getting a table.
Picnic Supplies
- Sonoma Cheese Factory - Highlighted in one of my One Perfect Day in the Sonoma Valley accounts, it's hard to beat this place for deli sandwiches as well as an amazing array of comestibles with which to fill the picnic basket. Positioned right on the Plaza, it is only a short stroll across the street from picnic tables under the trees or expansive lawns upon which you can spread your blanket.
- Sonoma Market - Our locally owned and operated Sonoma (and Glen Ellen) Market is an excellent choice for packing a picnic with a wide array of both pre-packaged foods as well as freshly prepared entrees and sides you can pack into containers for the basket. The produce is exceptional. Plus, you won't find friendlier people anywhere. One of my favorite places to shop.
- Whole Foods Market - Just a block off the Plaza, Whole Foods not only has the full range of supermarket goods but also a rich array of deli salads, prepared entrees, and some of the best sushi in town. Plus, it's mostly organic.
A Quiet Drink
- the girl & the fig bar - The bar of this popular restaurant in the Sonoma Hotel right on the plaza (Northwest corner) is a relaxing and comfortable place for a quiet drink as well as a nosh if you're so inclined. And if you are into Rhone wines, then look no further. This is definitely your place. But the full bar will be happy to pour you something else to your liking as well.
- Saddles Bar at MacArthur Place - When I want a quiet drink with my wife, especially a martini, my first stop is the bar at Saddles Restaurant, MacArthur Place.. Sans TV, but often with live music, the low-key vibe and, yes, the saddles to sit on (this must be seen, if not actually experienced) make it a must for those looking for something relaxing but different. You won't regret it. If you do, I'll want to know about it, and why.
