Best Restaurants and Wineries in Sonoma Wine Country??

[msportobello]

Would love recommendations for the best wineries and restaurants (both lunch and dinner spots) in Sonoma from my favorite foodies! THANKS in advance =)

[Columba]

Can you be more specific about what you enjoy? Or what region of the county you'll be visiting. It's a big place with lots of choices.

[DavidT]

I recommend doing "Search this board" searches for Healdsburg, Santa Rosa, Dry Creek, Russian River, Forestville, etc. You will find many, many helpful posts and recommendations already available to you on this board.

Sonoma is one of the largest counties in California and it would help if you mentioned where in Sonoma you will be. Be aware the town of Sonoma is only a small part of the county of Sonoma.

[Cary]

Also, what types of wines and/or styles you prefer.

[syrahgirl]

Right in Sonoma we love girl and the fig, Cafe La Haye, El Dorado Kitchen, Swiss Hotel. I have have heard great things about Estate, housed where The General's Daughter used to be. If you can get up to Healdsburg, Cyrus has got it going on!!! We have dined there 3 times now, it's amazing. Willi's Seafood and Raw Bar and Dry Creek Kitchen are two other very good choices for Healdsburg. In Forestville, don't miss The Farmhouse Inn which is Michelin rated. We will be in the area in a few days, can't wait! :)

[OldTimer]

I think a real sleeper is Bistro M. in Windsor....taking the place once occupied by Langley on the Green. Former sous chef at Mirepoix (and Murray circle and Meadowood) has taken over the kitchen. Place owned by owners of Mirepoix, which has changed its menu. Bistro M. is getting good raves, and is priced right. No web site yet.

[Melanie Wong]

What have you ordered at Bistro M?

[OldTimer]

Haven't gotten up there yet, but what reviews I've read indicate they have adopted much of the old Mirepoix menu. including the very reasonable prices. and the entree with frites menu. I was very disappointed when Mirepoix dropped the brasied sweetbreads, but I believe Bistro M. has them back on the menu, along with lamb neck, my daughter's favorite.

[oliviaware]

Try El Dorado Kitchen on the Sonoma square for dinner. They have a fantastic outdoor area that's really charming, and the short ribs I had there were falling off the bone. Great wine list, too!

As for wineries, Fisher Vineyards in Santa Rosa is a personal favorite. You have to make an appointment beforehand, but the owners are super accommodating and down-to-earth. They make some amazing Cabernet Sauvignon.

If you're sticking around Sonoma, I also love Bartholomew Park Winery, which has great, affordable wines and an unpretentious feel. There's also a little hiking trail on the property, which is perfect for a pre-tasting workout.