Restaurants in Santa Rosa: Santa Rosa, California, is a city known for its natural beauty, world-class vineyards, and top-notch culinary scene. Located in Sonoma County, Santa Rosa is home to some of the best restaurants in the country, ranging from farm-to-table eateries to fine dining establishments. In this article, we will explore the best restaurants in Santa Rosa that offer a unique culinary experience that will satisfy even the most discerning palate.
Top 10 Restaurants in Santa Rosa
- SingleThread Farm Restaurant
SingleThread Farm Restaurant is one of the most popular fine-dining establishments in Santa Rosa. This Michelin-starred restaurant is a unique culinary experience that combines farm-to-table cuisine with Japanese hospitality. The restaurant is owned and operated by husband-and-wife team Kyle and Katina Connaughton, who are committed to sustainability and seasonality. SingleThread’s menu changes daily and is based on the freshest ingredients from the restaurant’s own farm and local purveyors. The restaurant offers a multi-course tasting menu that showcases the best of Sonoma County’s bounty, with each dish expertly prepared and presented. The restaurant’s minimalist decor and serene atmosphere create a tranquil dining experience that will leave you feeling rejuvenated.
- Stark’s Steakhouse
Stark’s Steakhouse is a classic American steakhouse that has been a staple of the Santa Rosa dining scene for over a decade. The restaurant’s interior features dark wood paneling, leather banquettes, and dim lighting, creating an intimate and elegant ambiance. Stark’s serves up some of the best steaks in the region, along with an extensive wine list that features local Sonoma County wines. The menu also includes seafood, pasta, and other classic American dishes. Stark’s is a great choice for a special occasion or a romantic dinner.
- La Gare French Restaurant
La Gare French Restaurant is a classic French bistro located in the heart of Santa Rosa. The restaurant’s charming interior features white tablecloths, vintage decor, and a cozy fireplace, creating a warm and inviting atmosphere. La Gare’s menu includes classic French dishes such as escargot, coq au vin, and bouillabaisse, as well as more modern dishes like ahi tuna tartare and duck confit. The restaurant also has an extensive wine list that features both local and French wines. La Gare is a great choice for a romantic dinner or a night out with friends.
- Zazu Kitchen + Farm
Zazu Kitchen + Farm is a farm-to-table restaurant that is committed to sustainability and seasonality. The restaurant is owned and operated by husband-and-wife team Duskie Estes and John Stewart, who are passionate about using locally sourced ingredients to create flavorful and creative dishes. Zazu’s menu changes daily, but you can expect to find dishes like bacon-wrapped pork loin, roasted chicken, and handmade pasta. The restaurant also has a charcuterie program, where they make their own bacon, sausages, and cured meats. Zazu is a great choice for a casual dinner or a night out with friends.
- Willi’s Wine Bar
Willi’s Wine Bar is a popular wine bar and restaurant that offers a unique culinary experience. The restaurant’s menu features small plates that are perfect for sharing, along with an extensive wine list that features both local and international wines. The menu includes dishes like duck confit sliders, crispy calamari, and seared ahi tuna. Willi’s has a lively and energetic atmosphere, making it a great choice for a night out with friends.
- Jackson’s Bar and Oven
Jackson’s Bar and Oven is a casual eatery that serves up wood-fired pizzas and other comfort food dishes. The restaurant’s interior features rustic decor with reclaimed wood and vintage signs, creating a cozy and welcoming atmosphere. Jackson’s menu includes creative pizzas like the “Hot Chick” with spicy chicken and pickled jalapenos, as well as salads, sandwiches, and pasta dishes. The restaurant also has an extensive beer and wine list, featuring local Sonoma County breweries and wineries. Jackson’s is a great choice for a casual dinner or a night out with friends.
- Spinster Sisters
Spinster Sisters is a farm-to-table restaurant located in the trendy SOFA (South of A) district of Santa Rosa. The restaurant’s menu features creative dishes made from locally sourced ingredients, with a focus on seasonality and sustainability. Spinster Sisters’ menu changes frequently, but you can expect to find dishes like pork belly with apple chutney, roasted beet salad, and handmade pasta. The restaurant also has a great cocktail program, featuring inventive and creative cocktails made with house-made syrups and bitters. Spinster Sisters is a great choice for a casual dinner or brunch.
- Terrapin Creek Cafe & Restaurant
Terrapin Creek Cafe & Restaurant is a hidden gem located in nearby Bodega Bay, about 30 minutes from Santa Rosa. This Michelin-starred restaurant serves up creative and innovative dishes made from locally sourced ingredients. The restaurant’s menu changes frequently, but you can expect to find dishes like rabbit loin with sweet potato gnocchi, black cod with roasted mushrooms, and caramelized onion tart. The restaurant also has an extensive wine list that features local Sonoma County wines. Terrapin Creek is a great choice for a special occasion or a romantic dinner.
- Glen Ellen Star
Glen Ellen Star is a wood-fired restaurant located in nearby Glen Ellen, about 20 minutes from Santa Rosa. The restaurant’s menu features creative and innovative dishes made from locally sourced ingredients, with a focus on wood-fired cooking. Glen Ellen Star’s menu changes frequently, but you can expect to find dishes like wood-fired octopus, roasted chicken with shishito peppers, and handmade pasta. The restaurant also has an extensive wine list that features local Sonoma County wines. Glen Ellen Star is a great choice for a casual dinner or a night out with friends.
- Sazon
Sazon is a Latin American restaurant located in downtown Santa Rosa. The restaurant’s menu features creative and innovative dishes inspired by the flavors of Latin America, with a focus on seasonality and sustainability. Sazon’s menu changes frequently, but you can expect to find dishes like ceviche, empanadas, and grilled skirt steak. The restaurant also has a great cocktail program, featuring inventive and creative cocktails made with Latin American ingredients. Sazon is a great choice for a casual dinner or a night out with friends.
Conclusion
Santa Rosa is a culinary destination that offers a diverse and exciting dining scene. From fine dining to casual eateries, Santa Rosa has something to offer every taste and budget. Whether you’re in the mood for steak, pizza, or creative dishes made from locally sourced ingredients, you’ll find it in Santa Rosa. So the next time you’re in the area, be sure to check out one of these top 10 restaurants and experience the best that Santa Rosa has to offer.
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