Some place in CA might not be hidden gems anymore, but deservedly, they are people’s favorites. Here is our itinerary how to experience the Best of Sonoma & Napa within few miles.
W
ith accessible wineries and standout restaurants (and just 45 minutes north of San Francisco), the Wine Country can easily be a day trip, but we recommend staying the night (or longer!) to indulge in more of the farm-fresh meals and yummy wine the region has to offer. Sonoma Guide
Fuel up for a day of wine tasting at the Fremont Diner. Hearty comfort dishes from locally sourced and seasonal ingredients make this roadside diner a popular destination for locals and visitors alike. Fried chicken and waffles, shrimp and grits, and homemade biscuits are a few of the standouts. This place is not to be missed, but definitely be prepared to wait on the weekends. If the weather is nice try to snag a picnic table outside.
After brunch head 5 minutes up the road to Scribe, the perpetually hip winery started by Bay Area brother duo Andrew and Adam Mariani in 2007. Focused on the relationship between man and nature, they grow organic grapes and produce unique wines. The Scribe Viticultural Society has a serious following among San Francisco residents and is expanding their reach across the country. The newly restored Hacienda on the vineyard is now open for wine tastings, paired with a light lunch made of veggies from the on-site garden. We think the best way to enjoy the vineyard is to buy a bottle of wine and grab a blanket (they have a well-stocked supply of Mexican blankets for guests to use) to relax on the hillside and to take in the views.
Next up is a sparkling wine tasting at Domaine Carneros a bit further along Highway 121. Known for the award-winning, Carneros sparkling wine, the French inspired chateau has a fantastic patio to enjoy your tasting overlooking the vineyards. Be sure to wander around the formal gardens before you leave.
Stop in at the Boon Fly Cafe for their famous donuts and a hearty salad. This lively roadhouse is on the property of the famed Carneros Inn (another great hotel to stay at).
Head to the charming Sonoma Square to window shop and keep on wine tasting if your heart desires. There are plenty of tasting rooms around the square to wander in and out of. Grab an ice cream from Sweet Scoops Homemade Ice Cream, taste delicious pralines at Wine Country Chocolates, peak into many antique stores or and just enjoy the small town feel.
TIME FOR DINNER
THE GIRL & THE FIG
110 W Spain St, Sonoma
website
THE GIRL & THE FIG
110 W Spain St, Sonoma
website
HARVEST MOON CAFE
487 1st St W, Sonoma
website
OSO
9 E Napa St, Sonoma
website
You have some great options for dinner on Sonoma Square tonight. The always popular the girl & the fig is a classic spot serving casual French fare alongside an award winning wine list. Harvest Moon Cafe is just down the block. The small and rotating seasonal menu is delicious. Dishes are hearty and best enjoyed on the magical back patio tucked away from the street. Oso is a fun option for unique small plates in a relaxed tavern setting.
After a full day of exploring Sonoma, rest your head at the perfectly-located El Dorado Hotel. Casual yet elegant, the hotel is comfortable with plenty of historical charm mixed in. The farm-driven restaurant features local and seasonal ingredients. Something to look forward to for breakfast in the morning.
What are your favorite spots in Sonoma? We want to know! Tag us on Instagram and don’t forget to hashtag #californiaweekend
Don’t miss our Sonoma Coast One Day Road Trip!
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*Image sources:
Fremont Diner by Ana Kamin
Scribe Winery: @_candina, @yuuuanw
Boon Fly Cafe: @poosekat
Sonoma Downtown by Ana Kamin
El Dorado Hotel via El Dorado Hotel
