With the rapid development of downtown, the Santa Rosa restaurants seem to keep popping up. After spending a few days in Sonoma County, I walked away completely surprised. Santa Rosa has so many new restaurants and cafes to choose from, that I will definitely be returning.
Since these Santa Rosa restaurants are so close to the Bay Area, it’s an easy day trip to the area. If you’re headed to wine country, I would recommend stopping in for a bite or even happy hour. Sonoma is full of experiences, so whether you’re in for the weekend at a local hotel or if you’re popping in for the day, be sure to check out these options.
[Editor’s note: this list is a compilation based on personal eats, recommended by locals and top picks based on reviews.]
The Best Santa Rosa Restaurants
Downtown Santa Rosa Restaurants
The Spinster Sisters
Known for their incredible brunch and of course, you can’t pass on their kimchi bacon deviled eggs.
Location: 401 S A St, Santa Rosa
Russian River Brewing
This place is a staple for the area. Come in for a local Russian River beer at the brewing company and they have bites like pizzas and salads too.
Location: 725 4th St, Santa Rosa
Noble Folk Ice Cream and Pie Bar
I was so excited to see this open up as it’s originally from Healdsburg. Their ice cream is delicious (be sure to ask for a free sample!).
Location: 539 4th St, Santa Rosa
Acre Coffee
My go-to coffee shop in Sonoma County. They have a few locations, with one in downtown.
Location: 621 4th St, Santa Rosa
Perch + Plow
Popular for their American-style food and friendly service.
Location: 900 Courthouse Square, Santa Rosa
Dierk’s Parkside Cafe
If you’re looking for an incredible breakfast that has that American, diner flare, come here.
Location: 404 Santa Rosa Ave, Santa Rosa
The Jade Room – Wine Bar & Oysterette
This space is killer and their wine selection is incredible.
Location: 643 4th St, Santa Rosa
El Coqui
I’m a sucker for Puerto Rican food and this place is always packed. The food is amazing here and a must in the county.
Location: 400 Mendocino Ave, Santa Rosa
The Naked Pig
It’s a rustic cafe with great farm-to-fork bites for breakfast and brunch.
Location: 544 Mendocino Ave, Santa Rosa
Khoom Lanna
When it comes to Thai, this restaurant came the highest rated on Yelp’s website. Their food looks delicious, especially the curry.
Location: 107 4th St, Santa Rosa
Other Santa Rosa Restaurants
Trattoria Cattaneo
If you’re looking for Italian food, look no further than this restaurant.
Location: 2700 Yulupa Ave, Santa Rosa
John Ash & Co.
For an upmarket experience, this restaurant lives up to the hype. Chef Thomas Schmidt is originally from Vintner’s Inn and has gone on to do this restaurant. They also have a great happy hour if you want to pop into the front room beforehand instead.
Location: 4330 Barnes Rd, Santa Rosa
Rosso Pizzeria
For a local pizza joint, Rosso came as the most recommended.
Location: 53 Montgomery Dr, Santa Rosa
Gaia’s Garden
For those looking for vegetarian and vegan restaurants in Santa Rosa, be sure to check out Gaia’s Garden.
Location: 1899 Mendocino Ave, Santa Rosa
1 Comment
One of the main reasons I’d love to visit California (aside from the sun and beaches, of course) is for the huge variety of food!
Milenka x
Blushing Lately