North Bay
From Marin to Mendocino, farm-to-table doesn’t get any fresher. The climate has been compared to Italy, and the balance of abounding farmland and extensive coastal access means North Bay eateries like Tony’s Seafood and Farmhouse Inn curate their dishes with fresh, locally source ingredients. For the latest breakfast, lunch, dinner, pizza, burgers and sushi, look no further than Local Getaways.
San Rafael
Already located in Berkeley and Sacramento, Hot Italian Pizza Bar is opening a San Rafael location. This hub for authentic Italian cuisine from an authentic Italian chef offers three different pizza crusts in store for pizza lovers: traditional Neapolitan-style, gluten-free and their special Pinsa Romana, an airy yet crispy option. Other Italian classics are served as well, such as lasagna, and their gelato is a must.
Don’t miss:
The Murino Pinsa Romana pizza, topped with mozzarella, gorgonzola cheese, pears and honey.
909 Lincoln Ave, San Rafael, 628.285.8630
Corte Madera
Serving Spanish-inspired meals with Californian flair, Mijo is Corte Madera’s new dining spot led by Chef Jared Rogers and restaurateur Dustin Sullivan. Ingredients are locally sourced, and preparation of meals feature traditional Spanish wood-fired cooking methods. Not to mention, the ambience is warm and complex, with color and texture mixing balanced by some plants and a bit of modern coastal feels.
Don’t miss:
The roast chicken that’s spit-roasted, smoked and roasted over white oak for two hours, and basted in a saffron-herb-garlic butter.
55 Tamal Vista Blvd, Corte Madera, 415.891.3552
San Rafael
Authentic Indian cuisine comes to San Rafael with Suvai: Taste of Indian, featuring a variety of traditional dishes and flavors. There are extensive options for vegetarians and meat eaters alike, and even a section of the menu called “office lunch” with meals that won’t just be tasty, but will also keep you full throughout a tiring work day.
Don’t miss:
The chicken Tikka Masala — it may be a typical Indian dish, but one Yelp reviewer said Suvai’s version packs its own unique punch.
909 4th St, San Rafael, 415.785.3470
San Rafael
An Irish pub-style restaurant is downtown San Rafael’s newest arrival. Complete with an immersive and friendly atmosphere, the food (and drinks) also reflect the same Irish authenticity.
Don’t miss:
The steak with mushroom Marsala sauce and handcut fries.
925 4th St, San Rafael, 415.690.1222
Marshall
Within the Lodge at Marconi, Mable’s Restaurant takes visitors on a tasting journey that begins with a variety of cold appetizers. Order from their snacks, shared meals or large plates.
Don’t miss:
Try the local cheese board for the chance to sample an assortment of locally sourced cheese and accouterments.
18500 CA-1, Marshall, 415.663.9020
San Anselmo
Spicy tuna rolls topped with salmon, grilled yellowtail collar with ponzu sauce, authentic Japanese hamburger steak and even sake cocktails to pair with a menu of creative sushi creations. Kuro Nami Japanese Kitchen, sister restaurant to The Baan Thai Cuisine, is a new outpost in San Anselmo for donburi, kani miso, fried dishes, sashimi and sushi.
Don’t miss:
The soft shell crab tempura salad, which comes with soft shell crab tempura, fresh greens and veggies, all topped with a wasabi dressing.
69 Center Blvd, San Anselmo, 415.459.6969
Mill Valley
Mill Valley’s Piatti debuts a new happy hour with Italian flair: Campari, vermouth and Sangiovese wine play in a host of new autumnal cocktails. Alongside their cozy libations, there’s a short menu of bites like portobellos stuffed with ricotta and spinach, fried pickled cauliflower and pesto arancini.
Don’t miss:
If you’re like us (forever hooked on Aperol spritzes), go for the Piatti spritz for one that’s got an added splash of sparkling rosé.
625 Redwood Highway, Mill Valley, 415.380.2525
South Bay
While the South Bay is commonly associated with technological innovation, it was at one time covered in orchards and fields. Culinary gems are still prominent throughout this part of the Bay Area, with some of the best ethnic offerings, creative fusions and elevated experiences.
For this list, we are considering the South Bay to cover the coastal area from Half Moon Bay to Santa Cruz as well as the techy towns (Palo Alto, Menlo Park, Los Gatos and San Jose). These new openings cover all things breakfast, lunch, dinner, pizza, sushi, burgers and more; we’ve got you covered.
Los Gatos
With the high demand incurred at Croissante’s original Santa Clara location, Los Gatos recently became the home for another storefront. The same buttery and delicate French pastries are sold at the new location, and the demand has also followed — if you’re planning a visit, be prepared to get there early.
Don’t miss:
The iconic and Instagrammable croissant cube, which is exactly what it sounds like — the same flaky dough, but formed as a giant cube.
276 N Santa Cruz Ave, Los Gatos, 408.827.4261
Campbell
Campbell’s newest coffee shop hotspot is STARDUST, with its superfood-forward coffee and food menu that’s unique to other coffee shops. The ambience is designed to be inviting, with a breezy, earthy color palette, cozy seating and warm lighting, so grab a latte and a pastry to enjoy the shop’s calm presence away from the demands of everyday life.
Don’t miss:
The creamy ubé taro latte paired with adaptogen mushroom toast that’s topped with roasted mushrooms, umami spread, roasted garlic, chipotle aioli, truffle oil, mushroom dust and seasonal microgreens.
1725 S Bascom Ave #1100, Campbell, 408.692.5823
Campbell
Helmed by Chef Tucker Ricchio in Campbell, Lira is the most recent hotspot serving New American fine dining that honors Ricchio’s life. The menu is seasonal and locally sourced and features small and large plate options. Their cocktails are just as refined and bold, with drinks like their Lira Negroni or the Sonoma Sour.
Don’t miss:
Soy glazed pork belly with Fresno chili spheres, pickled kumquat, micro cilantro and house chicharones. End your meal with the passionfruit and mango tartlet, with Opalys Valrhona white chocolate ganache and merengue.
368 E Campbell Ave, Campbell, 408.628.4090
Sunnyvale
Ramen Wakusei brings noodles with a unique concept to Sunnyvale — each dish is inspired by a different planet in our galaxy. While Earth takes on earthier flavors, Saturn and Mars follow a bolder, spicier route. Discover what each has to offer with an appetizer like edamame and a drink like plum or yuzu soda.
Don’t miss:
Neptune, which is a seafood ramen with wild jumbo shrimp, sea bass fillet, scallops, a soft boiled egg, mushrooms, green onions, pickled radish, fried lotus and egg noodles.
585 E El Camino Real, Sunnyvale, 650.338.1988
San Jose
Ever been torn between having Indian food or pizza for dinner? Well now, you don’t have to make a choice — you can have both. Masala Pizza just opened another location in San Jose, expanding their reach as they serve pies bursting with Indian flavors and spices.
Don’t miss:
The tikka pizza, with your choice of paneer or chicken tikka masala, green peppers, onions, cheese, garlic seasoning, moti sauce and cilantro lime sauce.
82 E Santa Clara St, San Jose, 408.547.2993
San Jose
There are already two locations Rice Junky that have already proven popular among locals, and now San Jose has joined as the newest home of this Korean American flavor haven. Their menu mainly consists of two simple yet equally well-crafted, delicious options: wraps and bowls. Wraps feature various meats, veggies and cheese, while bowls include similar accouterments but atop rice or in ramen.
Don’t miss:
Any of their starred menu items, such as the dope pork wrap with rice, melted cheese, macaroni salad, lettuce, cabbage, celery, tomato and jalapeño.
1098 N. 1st St, San Jose, 669.3660.7547
San Jose
The names Eos and Nyx might sound familiar to those that are fond of Greek mythology — Eos is the goddess of dawn, Nyx the goddess of night. This new restaurant in downtown San Jose draws inspiration from their stories in both design and atmosphere, and the menu is a curation of Mediterranean flavors inspired by fresh, local produce.
Don’t miss:
The tagliatelle, with lobster, beurre blanc (a rich French butter sauce), tsar nicoulai caviar and parmigiano.
201 S. Second St, Ste 120, San Jose, 408.831.6880
Belmont
A visit to Amara in Belmont will have you asking, “Did I teleport to the Mediterranean?” The menu is full of culturally rich dishes, hand-painted adornments and even a custom scent — with notes of bergamot, lime blossom, cedarwood and Sicilian lemon — all meant to embody the magic of the Mediterranean. And, fresh and seasonal produce is the heart of their menu.
Don’t miss:
The 32 oz. Tomahawk steak with zatar butter and Brussels sprouts — they say go big or go home, don’t they?
1015 Alameda de las Pulgas, Belmont, 650.245.1687
Daly City
North Beach Pizza already has 10 locations sprinkled throughout the Bay Area, and Daly City recently got the 11th. There are plenty of Italian classics on the menu, with a selection of house pastas, pizzas, options to build your own pasta dish or pizza, sandwiches and more.
Don’t miss:
Their North Beach Pizza, with pepperoni, sausage, green peppers, onions and fresh mushrooms.
2985 Junipero Serra Blvd, Daly City, 650.755.6070
San Francisco
The City by the Bay has been a foodie beacon for over a century. Whether it’s white tablecloth dining at Tadich Grill, the celeb-fueled glory days of Stars or Julia Child’s endorsement (and face) on the Tenderloin’s Tú Lan menu, this town sets the pace for food trends around the country. And the foodie scene only keeps growing — new hot spots open nearly every week, keeping our editors busy updating our guides. Keep reading to find out where to eat breakfast, lunch, dinner, pizza, burgers, sushi and steak in San Francisco.
Basketball legend and All-Star Warriors power forward Draymond Green is the biggest name on the list of partners at this new Afro-Latin fusion restaurant, but Green’s fellow restaurateurs are Bay Area pillars in their own right. Co-owners Guma Fassil and Nelson German have already established themselves in the East Bay culinary scene with restaurants like Meskie’s in Berkeley and alaMar in Oakland, and this new venture incorporates dishes from their respective Ethiopian and Dominican backgrounds.
Don’t miss:
The samosas filled with fragrant berbere-spiced beef, or lentils for the veggies of the world, with crispy fried yuca exterior.
Financial District
In honor of its longstanding history in San Francisco, Turtle Tower was recently reopened in the Financial District with a modern feel and the same authentic, Northern Vietnamese cuisine as before. They take pride in the clean flavors of their dishes and specialize in pho, so be sure to order a bowl.
Don’t miss:
The phở gà, or free-range chicken rice noodle soup.
220 California St, San Francisco, 415.613.5426
Near the Mission District
Just located a smidge outside of the Mission District, Anatolian Table brings Aegean and Anatolian flavors to San Francisco. The meals resemble a cozy homecooked meal with authentic spices and ingredients; start off with a warm appetizer like falafel or a cold appetizer like burrata crostini before jumping into one of the mains.
Don’t miss:
The lamb brochette, made with house-marinated lamb cubes, chickpeas, kale, red cabbage, sun-dried tomato, meyhane pilav (bulgur) and marash.
702 Valencia St, San Francisco, 415.875.9597
Lower Nob Hill
This unique breakfast and brunch eatery off of Polk Street blends two cuisines you’d never expect together: Australian and Thai. Explore their menu of hearty entrees that you can start your day with, from shakshuka to their big breakfast plate.
Don’t miss:
Lean into the Thai-side of the fusion with their Thai tea toast, made with Brioche, mixed berries and a custard Thai tea.
1247 Polk St, San Francisco, 415.714.6177
Presidio Terrace
Serving up homey Mediterranean cuisine near the Presidio, Café La Joie is a great spot to get a filling breakfast, brunch or lunch while sipping on a warm coffee or tea. Sit outside if you have a pup with you, or sit inside and soak in the clean and cozy European atmosphere.
Don’t miss:
The kefta (beef) lavish bread wrap with spices, glazed onions and tomato couli.
189 6th Ave, San Francisco, 415.571.8630
Alamo Square
The smashburger has a new home at Hamburger Project, a recently opened joint in San Francisco’s Alamo Square. They keep things simple with their three burgers, equipped with the typical tasty toppings like cheese, onion and pickles, but a couple of toppings set them apart, such as their Hamburger Project sauce, whipped butter and even Tsar Nicoulai caviar for those looking to try something new.
Don’t miss:
You can’t go wrong with their classic burger, which comes with a beef patty, American cheese, diced white onion, HP sauce and pickles. Get some loaded fries on the side
808 Divisadero St, San Francisco, 415.817.1944
Marina District
Situated in San Francisco’s Marina District, Morella’s menu explores how the immigration of Europeans impacted Argentinian cuisine through a unique blend of flavors and vibrant drinks menu. Not to mention, the atmosphere is equally rich and complex — the restaurant is saturated in jewel-tones accompanied by frilly palms, sultry lighting and, of course, mushroom- and cordyceps-inspired nods throughout the design.
Don’t miss:
The Dungeness crab sorrentinos, which is Argentinian ravioli stuffed with Dungeness crab, ricotta, fontina and parmesan cheese, all topped with crab bisque sauce.
2001 Chestnut St, San Francisco, 628.286.9698
SOMA
Located in the Salesforce Transit Center in downtown San Francisco, Modí gets creative with their fusion of Italian and Mexican cuisine. Find things like pastas and pizzas, but made with traditional Mexican flavors and spices.
Don’t miss:
The raviolo elote e funghi selvatici — a homemade ravioli filled with sweet corn and ricotta and served in a butter, sage and lime sauce, topped with sautéed mushrooms, balsamic and queso fresco.
88 Natoma St, San Francisco, 415.757.0245
West Portal
George’s Donuts and Merriment is located in San Francisco’s St. Francis Wood neighborhood and has a diverse menu of all things delicious. There’s a variety of donuts from traditional to cake donuts or even brioche. Beverages also come in all shapes and sizes — have a mimosa or a glass of wine with your sweet treat, if you so please.
Don’t miss:
Their donut hole flight — brioche donut holes dusted with sugar and served with valrhona chocolate fudge sauce.
163 W Portal Ave, San Francisco
Lower Haight
GiGi’s Wine Lounge in San Francisco’s NoPa district honors Head Chef Tu David Phu’s Vietnamese roots with bar bites, a couple of salads and main dishes and, of course, an extensive wine menu.
Don’t miss:
The Wagyu dog, with egg, prosciutto, scallion, ginger, furikake, pork floss and jalapeño.
299 Divisadero St, San Francisco, 415.603.9203
The Embarcadero
The long-awaited waterfront Bon Délire at the Embarcadero brings French bistro eats to the Bay Area, but with a bit of creativity. Breakfast, lunch, dinner and even brunch is served, so visit at all times of day to sample the selection of meals from each menu. There’s also an expansive drinks menu with housemade cocktails, a vast variety of wine and more.
Don’t miss:
From the dinner menu, the poulet roti (French roast chicken) with fingerling potatoes and chanterelles.
Pier 3, Ste 102, San Francisco, 415.969.0655
Marina District
With its home base in the Marina District, Milos Meze shares authentic Greek cuisine, made with fresh and locally sourced ingredients for a richly inviting meal and experience. Find classic spreads like tzatziki or melitzanosalata (eggplant based) to start off your evening.
Don’t miss:
Souvlaki, which are chicken or beef skewers served with tzatziki and hand-cut fried potatoes.
3348 Steiner St, San Francisco, 415.655.9967
Near Chinatown
This new spot, part of the recent revamp of the Transamerica Pyramid Center evokes the comfortable atmosphere and recognizable café menu that others of its kind typically have. But Café Sebastian’s bites are even more curated and elevated for a more refined — but still casual — experience. Indulge in a fresh pastry and a coffee to start the day, or try one of their other savory dishes.
Don’t miss:
One of their seasonal salads — check the menu for the most up-to-date look at what’s currently being served.
582 Sutter St, San Francisco, 415.400.4405
Union Square
The Parthenon serves Greek cuisine with an expansive menu of appetizers, pita sandwiches and more. Don’t forget to pair your meal with one of their Mediterranean wines, too, for a fully immersive experience.
Don’t miss:
Their top popular item ‘kolokithokeftedes,’ or crispy zucchini cakes with tzatziki.
582 Sutter St, San Francisco, 415.400.4405
Near the Chase Center
Che Fico has been an established restaurant for a while now, and they’ve recently opened Che Fico Pizzeria near the Chase Center in response to the community’s adoration for their pizza. This new joint’s menu still also has their beloved salads and sandwiches, but the pies are certainly the star of this show.
Don’t miss:
The vodka sauce pizza with San Marzano tomatoes, calabrian chili bomba, cream, basil and burrata.
1 Warriors Way Ste 300, San Francisco, 415.655.9675
East Bay
There’s a reason culinary goddess Alice Waters started her career in the East Bay. From Alameda to Berkeley and Oakland, to even beyond the East Bay, trend setting eateries reflect the diverse population. Sample cuisines from overseas or with uniquely modern twists on traditional American comfort food. Whether you’re on the hunt for breakfast, lunch, dinner, burgers, pizza or sushi, these new spots are sure to become a new favorite.
Berkeley
The Tipsy Yeti is stationed in Berkeley and is sharing a unique fusion of Himalayan/Nepalese cuisine with American. There is a Nepali mains section on the menu with dishes like okra masala, and another section called California Comforts includes options like creamy cajun pasta. There’s also pizza, soup and burger options. Get a drink to pair too and enjoy the fun, family-friendly atmosphere.
Don’t Miss:
The Himalayan burger, with a chicken burger patty, melted mozzarella and caramelized onions.
2512 San Pablo Ave, Berkeley, 510.989.9078
Oakland
Another Korean eatery comes to Oakland with To the Moon, serving a menu that represents the culture’s diverse cuisine. Street food classics like Korean chicken wings or corn cheese are flanked by heartier meals like hotpot, ramen and bibimbob. Unlike other restaurants, this one is divided by three price ranges: $9.99, $14.99 and $19.99. Each range offers a full page of options, so you’ll be sure to find something that works with your budget. And for those looking to pair their meal with a beverage, they serve soju, too.
Don’t Miss:
The spicy stir fried pork, with thinly sliced pork marinated in a gochujung-based sauce and stir-fried veggies.
4390 Telegraph Ave A, Oakland, 510.907.3182
Walnut Creek
Located within Walnut Creek’s Broadway Plaza is California-Mediterranean gem Sipeos. While the robust menu certainly makes the visit worth it, so does their inclusivity — there’s a non-alcoholic and low-ABV bar alongside the beer and wine selection, and a vegetarian menu with vegan options available as well.
Don’t Miss:
The pesto eggplant and hot honey flatbread with feta, mozzarella, sweet onion, honey, chili oil and Zhug ‘pesto.’ Accompany your meal with the new-groni, made with wilderton bittersweet aperitivo, optimist bright, verjus blanc and salt.
1275 Broadway Plaza, Walnut Creek, 925.939.7601
Walnut Creek
Looking for a lively pub to hang out in? Walnut Creek’s recently added Gibsons Irish Pub is a good choice, with tasteful menu options that honor the Irish name and a combination of elevated cocktails and beer or wine, of course including the classic Irish staple of Guinness. There’s occasional live music and dueling pianos for a fun, interactive twist to your evening.
Don’t Miss:
Bangers and mash, with carmelized onions, sweet peas and onion gravy.
1387 Locust St, Walnut Creek, 925.433.2145
Oakland
If you haven’t thought of trying Oaxacan food before, you’ll change your mind for Mixé Uptown (pronounced “mee-hay”), a new espresso and mezcal bar in Oakland. There’s an impressive menu of cocktails and other specialty drinks made in house with mezcal drinks of course — try the Oaxacan Old Fashioned. This new hotspot also boasts a mouth-watering menu, with entrées that mirror the Oaxacan inspiration.
Don’t Miss:
Order any of their various enchiladas that all come with cheese, a protein, crema, queso fresco, avocado, rice and beans with their Paloma, a refreshing cocktail that’s made with tequila, grapefruit, lime and agave.
2337 Broadway, Oakland, 510.907.3666
Oakland
The Peach is a new Oakland brunch spot serving classic American brunch dishes but with a bit of flair from Asian cuisine. The ambience is cheerful and inviting, with warm wood tables and chairs, peachy hues and even an outdoor patio. Order a shareable plate to start, like the lobster toast with lemon and thai basil aioli and herbs on milk bread, followed with a hearty brunch dish like the open-face omelette with shitake, scallions and more.
Don’t Miss:
Their take on shrimp and grits, the curry shrimp and congee with rice porridge, grilled shrimp, peppers, coconut curry, a poached egg and chili crisp.
3257 Lakeshore Ave, Oakland, 510.907.3892
Orinda
Jaji in Oakland is the first-ever modern Afghan restaurant in the Bay Area, with a majority halal menu that blends traditional and contemporary. Owners Sophia Akbar and Paul Iglesias are already known for their first endeavor, Columbian restaurant Parche. And while alcohol is illegal in Afghanistan, Jaji has an expansive alcohol menu with specialty drinks and cocktails.
Don’t Miss:
Their fried snow trout with an Afghan chili oil, saffron and microgreens.
422 24th St, Oakland, 510.922.9147
Orinda
As the name might suggest, Lao Garden in Berkeley brings Laotian culture to the Bay Area. Their menu is expansive, ranging from small plates to start your meal off to soups, laab (a spicy minced meat salad), noodles and more.
Don’t Miss:
Anything on their Chef’s Specialties portion of the menu, such as the spicy whole catfish or filet, or the stir fried eggplant with jumbo prawns.
2514 San Pablo Ave, Berkeley, 510.705.1958
Alameda
Located in the East Bay’s Orinda, Sake Blue has been a hit spot for fresh, cozy sushi and ramen since it’s opened. Guests rave about the high quality rolls at a decent pricepoint and the welcoming atmosphere. There’s even a portion of the menu dedicated to options for those that don’t eat seafood.
Don’t Miss:
Their Sake Blue special roll with spicy tuna, real crab and avocado and topped with tuna, Hamachi spicy mayo and eel sauce.
1 Camino Sobrante Ste 6, Orinda, 925.386.0141
Alameda
New Alameda Thai restaurant PEAK serves as a brunch spot in the morning and a dinner spot in the evenings. Their brunch menu features two options to choose between — healthy and sweet, with plates like chocolate Ferrer Rocher pancakes to burrata salad. The dinner menu leans a bit more towards traditional Thai, featuring meals like pad see ew and homemade fried rice.
Don’t Miss:
Off of their Thai menu, start off your dinner with fried calamari before ordering the Thai boat noodle soup, a family recipe with stewed beef, meatballs, beansprouts, green onion, cilantro, basil and crispy garlic.
1405 Webster St, Alameda, 510.521.6466
Berkeley
This new coffee shop on Berkeley’s Bancroft Way is a hub for Vietnamese beverage and foodie delights like coffee and matcha, and even banh mi sandwiches or pandan waffles. It’s the endeavor of already loved shop Boba Binge, so trust that their new spot will deliver too.
Don’t Miss:
Any of their unique matcha flavors, from banana or strawberry to ube or sesame.
2199 Bancroft Way, Berkeley, 510.721.3839
Wine Country
You know what makes some of the world’s best wine taste even better? Amazing food. Napa and Sonoma Wine Country offer what we think are the perfect pairings. Elevated dining experiences, some of which are even provided by Michelin-starred or Michelin-recognized chefs, are spotted throughout Wine Country, as well as more relaxed but still with equally rich and delightful bites. Regardless of which ambience you might be in the mood for, here are our favorite new places to eat in Napa Valley and Sonoma County right now.
Napa Valley
American Canyon
American Canyon gets their first farm-to-table restaurant with ONE TEN, featuring fresh Californian cuisine. Be sure to pair your meal with one of their drinks, whether that’s a mocktail like Key Lime Pie or their signature cocktail 110 Purple Rain.
Don’t miss:
The 110 pasta, with homemade arugula pesto pasta and various seasonal ingredients.
American Canyon
Raíces Mexican Cuisine and Bar has become an American Canyon favorite for modern Mexican food in a cozy atmosphere. There will of course be traditional flavors too, and the menu includes seasonal specials, a variety of salads, tacos, burritos and more. Give their specialty cocktails a try, too.
Don’t miss:
Molcajete, a house specialty with steak, chicken and shrimp simmered in house ranchero sauce with bell pepper and onion, topped with cilantro, queso fresco and green onion.
100 W American Canyon Rd Suite K4, American Canyon, 707.651.9056
American Canyon
You read it right — Guy Fieri opened a new location of his Chicken Guy chain in American Canyon. As the name would suggest, find all things chicken here, from loaded chicken sandwiches to chicken tenders and more.
Don’t miss:
The hot honey big bite sandwich, with Nashville hot honey, American slaw, pickles and spicy tenders.
200 American Canyon Rd, American Canyon, 707.237.2022
Rutherford
While this restaurant isn’t new, it will be bringing a new event to the area. The Auberge du Soleil will be hosting its first annual olive harvest celebration called Gathering in the Grove from Nov. 18-24. The multi-day celebration will feature a six-course tasting menu, olive oil infused cocktails and more.
Don’t miss:
The guided olive oil tasting to learn more about how it was made, led by an expert.
180 Rutherford Hill Rd, Rutherford, 800.348.5406
Napa
1331 Cocktail Bar is the new nightlife spot in Napa that’s worth a visit. Enjoy the simultaneously moody yet cozy atmosphere with one of their unique cocktails by your side.
Don’t miss:
The Elote Sour with torched rosemary.
1331 1st St, Napa, 707.492.3658
Napa
Even if you’re not from Louisiana yourself, the Louisiana family recipes served at Lil’ Sista’s Goody’s Soul Food will certainly evoke the feeling of comfort food. You can find traditional soul food meals, as well as some lighter options.
Don’t miss:
Their fried catfish, for something you can’t just get anywhere.
1300 Main St Ste 150, Napa, 707.699.2781
Yountville
Among Yountville’s many multi-Michelin restaurants, the humble Kitchen at Priest Ranch is answering with simply delicious food. You can get breakfast all day or an Italian beef sandwich, along with refined fare like a jambon and gruyere panini, or the seared gnocchi with seasonal veggies. Pair with Priest Ranch wine and a beautiful rooftop view for a remarkable, affordable Wine Country experience.
Don’t miss:
Complete your meal with suggested wine pairings for the most sophisticated sausage, egg and cheese sandwich of your life.
6488 Washington Street, Yountville, 707.947.4017
Yountville
Once a pop-up caviar lounge by the man behind the iconic French Laundry restaurant, Thomas Keller, RO Restaurant and Lounge has expanded into a full service restaurant focused on Asian-inspired cuisine in Yountville. Featuring uni toast, black truffle egg salad and a cocktail version of Keller’s renowned French Laundry dish Oysters & Pearls, this restaurant is the perfect way to expand on Keller’s Regiis Ova Caviar & Champagne Lounge. And the caviar isn’t going anywhere — RO’s menu still features six different types of Regiis Ova Caviar, paired with garnishes and blinis.
Don’t miss:
The shave ice for dessert, made with huckleberry and dried hibiscus syrup and finished with a dollop of crème fraîche.
6480 Washington St, Yountville, 707.947.7181
Sonoma County
Kenwood
Stella has been a long-anticipated opening for Kenwood, and it’s finally here. Helmed by the team behind Michelin-recognized restaurant Glen Ellen Star, wood-fired Italian flavors and seasonal ingredients are two of Stella’s main selling points. The cozy ambience is accented by jewel tones and warm, inviting lighting.
Don’t miss:
The Lumache amatriciana, with sughetto di pomodoro (a classic Italian tomato sauce), calabrian chili, guanciale (a traditional Italian cured pork product) and pecorino. A vegan option is also available upon request.
9049 Sonoma Hwy, Kenwood, 707.801.8043
Petaluma
This beloved Santa Rosa restaurant decided to spread the love a bit and open a Petaluma location as well. The same traditional Italian fare is served, with all the staples from housemade pastas to authentic Neapolitan pizza.
Don’t miss:
The primavera pizza, with Fior di Latte, cherry tomatoes and fresh arugula, topped with Burrata cheese, Prosciutto, fresh basil and extra virgin olive oil.
208 Petaluma Blvd N, Petaluma, 707.981.7175
Sonoma
Downtown Sonoma is now home to a new fine dining restaurant by Stone Edge Farm Estate Vineyards & Winery called Enclos Sonoma. Their dishes specialize in modern yet classic dishes with innovative twists, and the atmosphere is just as elevated and welcoming.
Don’t miss:
Their Otto File brioche, made with an ancient variety of corn and paired with a cultured seaweed butter that’s shaped to even resemble the flowing shape of seaweed.
139 E Napa St, Sonoma, 707.387.1724
Cotati
Cotati-based Slow Co. Pizza strives to capture the local flavors of Sonoma in their pies. The dough is made with a slow natural leavening process and is the reason behind the name. And the business is family- and friend-run, so expect a cozy and welcoming atmosphere.
Don’t miss:
Their ‘pretty fly for a funghi’ pizza, with pesto, white sauce, mushrooms, estero gold reserve and arugula.
8197 La Plaza, Cotati, 707.796.5124
Forestville
Bazaar Sonoma takes inspiration from childhood memories and innovative Chinese cuisine, many of which also have Szechuan flavors. For the end of October into the first week of November, they are also participating in Sonoma County’s Black Cod Week, with specially-made meals that honor this local fish.
Don’t miss:
The Zhong dumplings, which are classic Szechuanese water dumplings with pork and lots of sauce.
6566 Front St, Forestville, 707.614.8056
Healdsburg
Each year, Idlewild Wines hosts their Truffle Dinner, and this year on Nov. 2 at 6:30 p.m., the dinner will feature two pounds of rare white truffles from Italy. It will be a multi-course meal featuring truffle in each and including a cheese course, antipasti and a couple of other dishes. And of course, there will be wine to complement the flavors.
Don’t miss:
The vitello tonnato, which features slow-poached veal, tuna aioli, roasted potatoes, braised fennel and crispy fried capers.
132 Plaza St, Healdsburg, 707.385.9410
Santa Rosa
Khaosoi Thai Zen in Santa Rosa sticks to their tagline “where curry meets jazz” with flavorful, authentic meals and a lively and friendly atmosphere. There is an extensive menu with different curries, hot pot, wok dishes and more.
Don’t miss:
Be fall festive with their pumpkin curry, made with red curry paste in coconut milk, bell pepper, kabocha and basil.
1169 Yulupa Ave, Santa Rosa, 707.843.7682
1 thought on “Where to Eat Now in the Bay Area”
I normally love your articles.
This one; Where to eat in the Bay Area Now: March), is probably your worst, in terms of clarity. The fancy titles for each establishment were obtuse, at best. But mostly non-helpful.
Sometimes, being simple and classy works best.
That said, still love ya!