8 Great ‘Foodie’ Stops in Healdsburg, California!

The streets of Healdsburg, California, are lined with sensational restaurants. From fine dining to casual cuisine, a foodie can’t go wrong. Want a drink with that dish? There are plenty of bars, wineries, and coffee shops too. My only regret about my visit is that I couldn’t indulge in all of them. However, I’d love to share a sampling of the stops I could make and, my favorite fare of the trip.

Valette

The ultimate dish of my trip was the coriander-crusted duck breast. The meat, so tender, melted in my mouth. I also loved the pan-roasted Alaskan Halibut, which had the perfect balance of richness and light flakiness. Both were a part of Chef Valette‘s ‘Trust Me’ Tasting Menu. I highly recommend this option and if there are two of you, you get separate items and can try double dishes.

Guiso Latin Fusion

We are lucky to have gotten a spot at Guiso Latin Fusion with no reservations. The bar had available seating, but the dining room was packed with people waiting. We grabbed the bar stools and enjoyed the vibe. While Guiso is a tiny family-owned restaurant there are mighty flavors in every dish.   I loved the Pupusa with homemade corn dough filled with smoked chicken, and the Enchiladas en salsa verde.

River’s End Sonoma Coast

River’s End is on the coast in Jenner yet still in Sonoma County. A short distance from Healdsburg, it is worth the drive. After hiking by the sea, taking in the scents of fresh clam, pop into this high-end restaurant, which is on the water, for a bite. You can dress casually, but the food and atmosphere are upscale. The lovely Roseland Cerviche and Scallops Leeks will not disappoint.

Baci Cafe and Wine Bar

There are endless possibilities for Italian deliciousness at Baci. However, when dining on Italian food, I always return to my true love, Chicken Parmesan and Caesar Salad. That said, my go-to won me over. I suggest the Pollo Parmigiana e Bucatini all ‘Amatriciana and Insalata Cesare. Moreover, don’t say no to the bread – it’s fabulous. The service is terrific, and the dim lighting is romantic. You will enjoy a beautiful night out in Baci.

Capo Creek Ranch Winery

It is in your best interest to indulge in the private chef’s lunch and wine pairing at Capo Creek Winery. The views of the vineyard will keep you coming back, but the food is outstanding. Owner and Chef Mary Roy will take you through each pairing personally made by her. The Sesame Tuna Wontons and Homemade Savory Kolachys are unforgettable, and the artisan chocolates are a wonderful treat.

Dry Creek Kitchen

A local town staple, Dry Creek Kitchen offers a prix fixe dinner that starts with the most delectable homemade garlic butter bread. Honestly, I would have been content with just that. However, the patio ambiance was great, and so was our server, who shared details about each course. When making your selections say yes to the double ricotta agnolotti and the chocolate peanut butter bar.

Flaky Cream Do-Nuts & Coffee Shop and Black Oak Coffee Roasters

If you are an early bird like me, you will find Flaky Cream is the only place open at 5:30 am. The smells of freshly made donuts fill the room, and the menu offers an array of omelets and breakfast sandwiches. The bagels are homemade, fluffy, and tasty. The place has a cute diner look and fun coffee drinks for mocha and latte lovers.

Finally, Black Oak Coffee Roasters is another great stop for coffee and tea drinks if you can wait until 7 am. The bagels are divine, and the staff doesn’t skimp on the cream cheese.

 

Feature Photo Agnolotti at Dry Creek Kitchen, Photo by Darla Hoffmann