Nestled in the heart of Sonoma County, 13 Best Restaurants in Santa Rosa is a city celebrated for its inviting small-town ambiance. For many years, it existed somewhat in the shadow of other, more widely recognized culinary destinations within the region. However, in recent times, Santa Rosa has experienced a remarkable restaurant renaissance, particularly in its vibrant downtown area. This resurgence has led to an unprecedented array of dining options, catering to a diverse range of tastes and preferences.
Today, the city boasts a plethora of innovative restaurants, ensuring that there’s something to satisfy every craving. Whether you’re in search of comforting, classic American diner fare, an opulent and unforgettable fine dining experience, or a menu brimming with the exotic flavors of Latin America and Asia, Santa Rosa delivers. Both visitors and locals alike can now revel in the abundance of Sonoma-sourced ingredients, including the freshest seasonal vegetables, delectable seafood catches, artisanal cheeses, and, of course, an exceptional selection of wines. This article will explore the 13 Best Restaurants in Santa Rosa.
Here are 13 exceptional establishments that contribute to Santa Rosa’s thriving culinary landscape:
1. Ca’Bianca Ristorante
Step into a world of timeless elegance at Ca’Bianca Ristorante, a culinary gem housed within a meticulously renovated 19th-century Victorian mansion. Located in the heart of old town Santa Rosa, this restaurant offers a truly special ambiance. Despite the presence of white tablecloth service, antique furnishings, dazzling chandeliers, and a luxurious menu, Ca’Bianca exudes a warm and welcoming vibe, thanks to the dedication of owners Marco Diana and Karin Hoehne, a charming husband-and-wife team.
Guests have the option of dining al fresco, immersing themselves in the tranquility of a lush garden backdrop while savoring dishes that draw inspiration from the culinary traditions of Milan, Sicily, and Sardinia. The private estate-like atmosphere also makes Ca’Bianca an ideal venue for hosting private events, adding a touch of sophistication to any occasion.
- Address: 835 2nd St, Santa Rosa, CA 95404, USA
- Phone: +1 707-542-5800
2. Stark’s Steak & Seafood
Impossible to miss with its dazzling neon signs proclaiming steaks and cocktails, Stark’s Steak & Seafood is a prominent fixture off Adams Street. Inside, the restaurant exudes a retro steakhouse vibe, complete with a la carte cuts of meat, classic sides, plush leather chairs, a dark wooden bar, and a crackling fireplace.
The restaurant’s 28-day dry-aged cuts are consistently a crowd-pleaser. However, diners shouldn’t hesitate to enhance their experience with a buttery Maine lobster tail or a classic iceberg salad adorned with creamy blue cheese dressing. Happy hour is available from 3 to 6 p.m. on Monday through Saturday, and the restaurant also hosts a Brazilian BBQ popup every Wednesday through Sunday on the outside patio, offering a delightful culinary diversion.
- Address: 521 Adams St, Santa Rosa, CA 95401, USA
- Phone: +1 707-546-5100
3. The Spinster Sisters
Painted in a vibrant yellow hue and adorned with a large mural depicting literal "spinsters" (two women spinning on a spindle wheel), The Spinster Sisters restaurant has quickly become a beloved establishment in the recently revitalized Santa Rosa SOFA Arts District on South A Street. The restaurant is primarily renowned for its delectable breakfast and brunch menus, served in its expansive outdoor seating area. However, The Spinster Sisters also boasts an excellent selection of lunch and dinner options.
The restaurant prides itself on using farm-fresh, local ingredients, crafting family-style plates that cater to a diverse range of palates. From stuffed heirloom peppers brimming with local Rancho Gordo beans and Mt. Tam cheese to pan-seared local halibut accompanied by garden ratatouille and green olive basil tapenade, every dish is a testament to the region’s culinary bounty.
- Address: 401 S A St, Santa Rosa, CA 95401, USA
- Phone: +1 707-528-7100
4. Willi’s Wine Bar
Located just off Old Redwood Highway, Willi’s Wine Bar entices guests with its eclectic selection of small plates that pay homage to a variety of different cultures and cuisines. Guests can choose from an array of favorites, such as the delectable crab tacos, the comforting mushroom soup shooters, or the hearty filet mignon sliders. Alternatively, they can consult with the knowledgeable server for a wine and cheese pairing, perfect for a light snack.
True to its name, Willi’s Wine Bar boasts an impressive local wine list, allowing guests to curate their own flight, making it an ideal spot for casual dates, group celebrations, and any other occasion that calls for good food and fine wine. The service is consistently excellent, and the ambiance, both inside and on the patio, is light-hearted and friendly.
- Address: 1415 Town and Country Dr, Santa Rosa, CA 95404, USA
- Phone: +1 707-526-3096
5. Sazón Peruvian Cuisine
While Peruvian cuisine may not be the first thing that comes to mind when planning a foodie-fueled trip to wine country, it’s a culinary experience that should not be overlooked. Sazón is a family-run establishment off Sebastopol Road in west Santa Rosa, entirely inspired by the owner’s great grandmother’s cherished recipes straight from Peru.
In true Peruvian fashion, the menu boasts six different types of ceviche and traditional classics such as Lomo Saltado (sauteed beef tenderloin with veggies) and Aji de Gallina (creamy chicken stew). The restaurant also operates a daytime deli, offering sandwiches, wraps, and salads for those on the go.
- Address: 1129 Sebastopol Rd, Santa Rosa, CA 95407-6832, USA
- Phone: +1 707-523-4346
6. Dierk’s Parkside Cafe
Visitors should arrive at Dierk’s Parkside Cafe with an empty stomach, prepared to indulge in its comforting selection of classic dishes. From benedicts and hash browns to chicken fried steak and potato hash (locally raised duck confit also makes an appearance on the menu), Dierk’s offers a satisfying culinary experience.
Open exclusively for breakfast and lunch, Dierk’s Parkside Cafe on Santa Rosa Avenue is complemented by its sister restaurant, Dierk’s Midtown Cafe, located closer to 4th Street. Diners should save room for their signature pull-apart fried bread dough, which combines the best aspects of donuts and cinnamon buns into one delightful treat.
- Address: 404 Santa Rosa Ave, Santa Rosa, CA 95404-4912, USA
- Phone: +1 707-573-5955
7. John Ash & Co.
Located within the Vintner’s Resort and Spa on Barnes Road, John Ash & Co. is renowned for its farm-to-table menu, which showcases the best of Sonoma County’s culinary offerings. Ingredients are sourced from the restaurant’s very own culinary garden, situated alongside 92 acres of vineyard.
John Ash & Co. is the perfect destination to splurge on a memorable Wine Country fine dining experience, complemented by an extensive local wine list. While the regular entree menu is best reserved for special romantic occasions or lavish date nights, the restaurant also offers a fantastic happy hour every day at the Front Room Bar, providing a less formal setting.
- Address: 4330 Barnes Rd, Santa Rosa, CA 95403-1514, USA
- Phone: +1 707-527-7687
8. SEA Thai Bistro
SEA Thai Bistro is an excellent choice for groups, thanks to its sharable portions and its modern southeast Asian-inspired menu featuring fresh salads, curries, and noodles. What sets this restaurant apart is its unique decor and memorable atmosphere.
Large aquatic sculptures, suspended over the bar and spilling out into the dining room, create the illusion of being under the sea. Chef-owner Tony Ounpamornchai also operates a more casual SEA Thai Noodle Bar at the Coddingtown Center nearby.
- Address: 2350 Midway Dr, Santa Rosa, CA 95405-5035, USA
- Phone: +1 707-528-8333
9. Bird & the Bottle
Bird and the Bottle on 4th Street is celebrated for its small plates and tapas-style menu, which brings together flavors from all corners of the world, delighting both local and visiting foodies. The restaurant is a popular destination for Sunday Brunch, offering inventive cocktails served in giant shakers for the table (enough for four or five people!) and Korean-inspired dishes like Kimchi Latke Benedict with smoked Salmon and Bacon & Egg Ramen. Bird and the Bottle shares ownership with Willi’s Wine Bar and Stark’s Steak and Seafood, further attesting to its culinary expertise.
- Address: 1055 4th St, Santa Rosa, CA 95404, USA
- Phone: +1 707-568-4000
10. Piner Cafe
Breakfast enthusiasts will rejoice at Piner Cafe’s extensive selection of omelets, pancakes, and classics such as huevos rancheros and French toast, all served throughout the day. In addition to its breakfast offerings, Piner Cafe also boasts versatile lunch and dinner menus.
The home-cooked feel and substantial portions are rivaled only by the restaurant’s affordable prices, making it an exceptional value considering its location. Patrons should be prepared for a wait or plan to arrive early, as the spot has only grown in popularity over its almost 20 years of serving the Santa Rosa community.
- Address: 975 Piner Rd, Santa Rosa, CA 95403-1949, USA
- Phone: +1 707-575-0165
11. La Gare French Restaurant
This family-owned restaurant brings the essence of traditional French cooking to Wilson Street while staying true to its Sonoma County roots, incorporating locally farmed produce into its repertoire of authentic recipes. La Gare’s menu features classic French dishes such as escargot, cuisse de grenouilles (frog legs), beef wellington, and coq au vin.
La Gare has been a culinary institution for over 40 years, garnering local awards for its romantic dining atmosphere, exceptional dining experience, and outstanding takeout service. The wine list showcases labels from across the globe, including Northern California, and an impressive array of French wines to perfectly complement your meal.
- Address: 208 Wilson St, Santa Rosa, CA 95401-6259, USA
- Phone: +1 707-528-4355
12. Jackson’s Bar and Oven
Chef and owner Josh Silvers opened Jackson’s Bar and Oven (named for his son) to fulfill the need for a family-friendly, hip spot in downtown Santa Rosa that still offers plenty of classic comfort foods. The result is an elevated American food menu that’s approachable enough for families yet bold enough for more adventurous eaters.
Fan-favorites like pepperoni pizza and burgers are offered alongside lobster mac & cheese and lamb stuffed flatbread, complemented by fun cocktails with names like "Hot Girl Summer" and "Cowboy Kool-Aid." If your party feels extra bold, opt for the "Undecided" Pizza and allow the kitchen to go off-book with surprise toppings. Don’t miss the desserts, especially the beignets served with vanilla Anglaise and fresh raspberry sauce.
- Address: 135 4th St, Santa Rosa, CA 95401-6211, USA
- Phone: +1 707-545-6900
13. Rosso Pizzeria & Wine Bar
Rosso’s Pizzeria and Wine Bar has mastered the art of Tuscan-style wood-fired pizza while maintaining a sense of adventure in its menu. The rustic Italian entrees change depending on what’s available locally, ensuring there’s always something new to try.
Pair your pizza with one of the restaurant’s 100 wines or a local beer on tap. Rosso’s is a favorite among local families, with parents particularly appreciating the child-friendly food options and the complimentary crayons.
- Address: 53 Montgomery Dr, Santa Rosa, CA 95404-6616, USA
- Phone: +1 707-544-3221
Santa Rosa’s culinary scene is thriving, offering a diverse range of dining experiences to satisfy every palate. From fine dining establishments to casual cafes and international cuisines, the 13 Best Restaurants in Santa Rosa presented in this article are a testament to the city’s culinary renaissance. Whether you’re a local resident or a visitor exploring Sonoma County, be sure to indulge in the delectable offerings of these exceptional restaurants.
