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We know the munchies can hit hard, and we want you to be prepared to find your craving, so here’s our list of the best restaurants in Santa Rosa!
Spinster Sisters
In Santa Rosa’s arts district lies Spinster Sisters. Known for its innovative take on Sonoma cuisine, this restaurant offers a delightful array of dishes that showcase the region’s bountiful produce. From the savory winter squash gnocchi to their kimchi burger, every bite is a taste of culinary creativity.
A charming patio is a notable feature of Spinster Sisters, providing a delightful dining experience. Adorned with sail-like canopies, the outdoor seating area offers a relaxed and inviting atmosphere, perfect for enjoying a meal with family and friends. Whether you’re savoring a mushroom crispelle or indulging in a Carolina barbecue burger, the combination of delicious food and delightful ambiance makes Spinster Sisters a must-visit spot in Santa Rosa.
L’Oro di Napoli
L’Oro di Napoli brings a piece of Naples to Santa Rosa with its authentic Italian cuisine. The star of the menu is their Neapolitan pizza, cooked to perfection in a wood-fired oven. Each pizza comes out with a perfectly charred crust, fresh mozzarella, and tasty tomato sauce, creating an unforgettable dining experience. But pizza isn’t the only highlight; their pasta dishes, like the rich and creamy carbonara, and their fresh, crisp salads are equally delightful. The cozy, welcoming atmosphere and friendly staff make L’Oro di Napoli feel like a home away from home. Whether you’re stopping by for a quick lunch or a family dinner, every meal here is a celebration of Italian tradition.
Mitote Food Park
Mitote Food Park is a culinary hub in Santa Rosa that offers a stacked mix of food trucks and vendors. This food park features cuisines like authentic Mexican street tacos and Korean BBQ, gourmet burgers, and vegan options. Each vendor showcases unique flavors and dishes, providing something for every palate.
The park’s outdoor seating area is designed for comfort and convenience, with plenty of picnic tables and shaded spots. On weekends, Mitote Food Park often hosts live music and events, adding to the community’s fun. The murals and festive decor create a colorful backdrop, enhancing the overall experience. Whether you’re in the mood for a quick snack or a full meal, Mitote Food Park delivers!
Rosso Pizzeria & Wine Bar
Rosso Pizzeria & Wine Bar is the go-to place for those craving rustic Italian Cuisine. Located in downtown Santa Rosa, this full-service restaurant is renowned for its Neapolitan-style pizza, baked to perfection in a wood-fired oven. The house-made mozzarella and burrata add a rich, creamy touch to the pizzas, making each slice a piece of heaven.
However, Rosso is not just about pizza. With an extensive wine list boasting over 100 selections, including local Sonoma wines, this restaurant is a haven for wine enthusiasts. The casual dining style and no-corkage policy create a relaxed atmosphere where patrons can enjoy a glass (or bottle) of their favorite wine alongside their meal.
Beyond the delicious food and wine, Rosso’s commitment to using local ingredients and offering gluten-free and vegetarian options ensures everyone can find something to love.
Stark’s Steak & Seafood
Stark’s Steak & Seafood offers a lavish dining experience for those looking for something more upscale. This casually elegant restaurant offers a warm and alluring atmosphere, perfect for a special night out or a memorable meal with loved ones. The decor, rich wood tones and cozy environment set the stage for an unforgettable dining experience.
The menu at Stark’s Steak & Seafood features:
- Hand-selected beef, including Prime and Natural, Certified Angus Beef®, and American Kobe
- Crisp-chilled iceberg salad
- Decadent four-cheese mac ‘n’ cheese
- Signature Maine lobster
Each dish is crafted with care and precision, showcasing the restaurant’s expertise in fresh seafood.
Dierk’s Parkside Café
A beloved spot for breakfast, lunch, and weekend brunch, Dierk’s Parkside Café is a treasure in Santa Rosa. Known for its welcoming atmosphere and delicious comfort food, this café is a favorite among locals and visitors. Signature dishes like the fried cinnamon-sugar pull-apart bread and Sonoma duck confit are just a few examples of the mouth-watering things on the menu.
Dierk’s Parkside Café is known for its meal customization options and tasty local food. Customers can request half orders and substitutions at no extra charge, allowing them to customize dishes to their liking. Whether you prefer a smoked salmon egg tart or a crispy chicken-fried steak, the café’s focus on quality and customer satisfaction shines through in every bite.
Sazon Peruvian Cuisine
Sazon Peruvian Cuisine delivers an authentic taste of Peruvian Cuisine with an upscale bistro experience that promises a South American culinary journey. The restaurant’s sophisticated setting, complete with elegant decor and ambiance, sets the stage for an unforgettable dining experience. Here, you’ll find dishes incorporating traditional South American ingredients like yucca and plantains, ensuring an authentic taste with every bite.
Sazon’s menu is a delightful blend of indigenous Peruvian foods and cooking techniques from four continents, resulting in a fusion of unique and delicious flavors. Signature dishes such as Anticucho de Corazon and Parihuela showcase the restaurant’s dedication to culinary excellence and authenticity. Whether you’re a seasoned lover of Peruvian Cuisine or a curious newcomer, Sazon Peruvian Cuisine promises to delight and satisfy.
SEA Thai Bistro
Situated at 2350 Midway Dr, A Thai Bistro presents traditional Thai Cuisine with a modern twist, skillfully blending fresh seafood into innovative fusion dishes. The restaurant’s open kitchen with a wood-fired grill lets diners watch as their meals are expertly prepared. Chef Tony Ounpamornchai, the mastermind behind SEA Thai Bistro’s culinary creations, brings a wealth of experience and a dynamic cooking philosophy to the table, ensuring that each dish is a harmonious blend of pristine ingredients and bold flavors.
The vibe at SEA Thai Bistro is as mesmerizing as the food, with decor featuring sea creatures that add a whimsical touch to the dining experience. The restaurant has received numerous accolades, including:
- Petaluma Magazine’s People Choice Award for Best Local Seafood Restaurant
- Petaluma Magazine’s People Choice Award for Best Asian Restaurant
- Voted the Best Thai Restaurant in Sonoma County by The Press Democrat
Must-try dishes at SEA Thai Bistro include the spicy baby squid salad in peanut vinaigrette, wild mushroom potstickers, and pan-seared scallops in garlic butter. Each dish is a testament to Chef Tony’s ability to blend Asian and modern American ingredients into a cohesive and delicious whole.
Ca’Bianca Italian Restaurant
Ca’Bianca Italian Restaurant, located in a beautifully restored 19th-century Victorian mansion, provides an elegant Italian dining experience. The restaurant features:
- A sophisticated setting, complete with chandeliers, white tablecloths, and gracious gardens
- The perfect backdrop for a romantic dinner or a special celebration
- Owners Marco Diana and Karin Hoehne have created a menu that showcases the flavors of Italian Cuisine
- Culinary masterpieces in each dish
Ca’Bianca’s menu features an array of house-made pasta and fresh seafood dishes, each crafted with the finest ingredients and a dedication to authenticity. The highlights are the seared ahi with homemade ravioli in almond sauce and the Sardinian semolina gnocchi with porcini and slowly braised beef. The menu also features roasted duck breasts served with sautéed spinach and fingerling potatoes. Don’t forget to save room for dessert; the tiramisu and panna cotta are the perfect sweet endings.
John Ash & Co.
John Ash & Co. embodies the farm-to-table ethos, focusing on fresh, seasonal ingredients prepared using French culinary techniques. Located on the Vintner’s Resort grounds, this restaurant offers scenic views of a rose garden and an expansive vineyard, creating a picturesque dining experience. The menu features Sonoma cuisine with a modern twist, showcasing the best of what the region has to offer.
John Ash & Co. is known for its signature dishes, which include estate winter squash and curry soup and beef tenderloin with mushrooms a la crème. These dishes are a must-try for any food enthusiast. The produce, fruit, and herbs used in these dishes are sourced from the on-site gardens, ensuring that each bite is as fresh and flavorful as possible.
Bird & The Bottle
Located at 1055 Fourth Street in Santa Rosa, California, Bird & The Bottle provides a diverse dining experience featuring flavors from around the world. The restaurant-tavern features three dining rooms and two decks, providing guests a unique and lively atmosphere. The menu is a delightful mix of Asian, American South, East Coast, and Jewish comfort food favorites, making it a culinary adventure in every bite.
Whether you’re sharing small plates with friends or indulging in larger dishes, Bird & The Bottle caters to a variety of tastes and dietary preferences. The restaurant’s signature cocktails, including the famous Dirty Dilbert, add an extra layer of enjoyment to the drink-eat experience. With options for vegetarians and those with dietary restrictions, Bird & The Bottle ensures that everyone can find something to enjoy.
Grossman’s Noshery & Bar
Owned by Mark and Terri Stark of Stark Reality Restaurants, Grossman’s Noshery & Bar introduces the flavors of Jewish deli cuisine to Santa Rosa. The menu features a variety of eclectic breakfast dishes, noshes, sandwiches, soups, salads, and platters for sharing, all crafted with a Mediterranean twist. Signature dishes like white fish salad, chicken kreplach, and brisket with sweet and sour tomato sauce are just a few of the highlights that await you at this charming diner-like setting.
Vegetarian and gluten-free options are also available, ensuring that everyone can find something to enjoy. The full bar offers classic and signature cocktails, making Grossman’s Noshery & Bar a great spot for brunch or a casual meal with friends. With seating for 77 inside and 72 on the patio, where well-behaved dogs are welcome, this restaurant provides a welcoming and inclusive dining experience.
La Rosa
Situated at the center of downtown Santa Rosa, near its vibrant streets, La Rosa is a Mexican restaurant offering a fun-filled and tasty dining experience. The rowdy atmosphere, complete with cowhide chairs and posters promoting Mexican wrestling matches, adds a unique charm to this popular spot.
La Rosa’s menu features a variety of combination plates, including:
- Fajitas
- Chile Relleno
- Tamales
- Birria
One of the standout features of La Rosa is its extensive margarita, beer, and cocktail menu. The house margarita, the Rosa Rita, is a must-try with its mix of Cointreau and fresh ingredients. Whether dining indoors or enjoying the outdoor seating, La Rosa provides a comfortable atmosphere for gatherings of all sizes. Just be sure to make a reservation if you plan to visit with a large group.
Townes
Led by Chef Jeremy Whitcomb, Townes is a European diner in Santa Rosa with a welcoming character. Known for its European comfort food, Townes has quickly become a favorite among locals and visitors alike. The restaurant’s unique library room has become a popular reservation choice, providing an intimate dining experience for guests.
The menu at Townes features a variety of dishes that showcase the finest ingredients and culinary techniques designed to delight your taste buds. Whether you’re enjoying a leisurely meal with friends or a romantic dinner, Townes’s environment ensures a memorable dining experience.
Pascaline French Bistro & Patisserie
In Montgomery Village, Pascaline French Bistro & Patisserie provides a contemporary yet comfortable dining experience featuring French and American Cuisine. The bistro’s enticing atmosphere, adorned with walls featuring California poppies, creates a lovely backdrop for a meal. Executive Chef Didier Ageorges designs seasonally themed menus and monthly pop-up dinners, ensuring each visit offers something new and exciting.
Signature dishes at Pascaline include l’oignon gratine soup, tuna salad panini with Old Bay aioli, and French Dip panini au jus. The bistro also offers online lunch ordering, pastries by the dozen, café takeout platters, and custom family-style dinner platters.
Whether you’re dining in or taking out, Pascaline French Bistro & Patisserie provides a delicious and convenient French restaurant dining experience.
Augie’s French
Positioned in the historic Maugg Building on downtown Santa Rosa’s 4th street, Augie’s French delivers a stylish and refined dining experience. The vibe is nothing short of enchanting, with a zinc bar, exposed brick, and tapestried walls adorned with giant butterflies. This eclectic decor creates a captivating atmosphere that perfectly complements the restaurant’s elegant menu.
The culinary offerings at Augie’s French celebrate classic French Bistro dishes. From the indulgent black truffle butter snails to the heartwarming beef cheek Bourguignon, each dish is crafted with meticulous attention to detail. The wine list, exclusively featuring French selections, and the bar’s classic French aperitif cocktails further enhance the dining experience, making Augie’s French a local favorite for those seeking a taste of Paris in Santa Rosa.
Smoke n Snack in Santa Rosa with Phenotopia!
Santa Rosa’s culinary scene is varied and delicious, with no shortage of unique and flavorful dining options. If you’re ready to sesh and snack, head to Phenotopia to grab your goods and enjoy a night out at any of these top spots. From casual bites to fine dining, you’ve got endless choices!
FAQ
What are the best dinners with kids in Santa Rosa?
- Dierk’s Parkside Café: Known for its welcoming atmosphere and delicious comfort food, Dierk’s Parkside Café is perfect for family meals. Their menu offers customizable options and a variety of kid-friendly dishes like fried cinnamon-sugar pull-apart bread and crispy chicken-fried steak.
- Rosso Pizzeria & Wine Bar: With its casual dining style and no-corkage policy, Rosso Pizzeria & Wine Bar is an excellent spot for families. Kids will love the Neapolitan-style pizzas and the option to watch them being baked in the wood-fired oven.
- Bird & The Bottle: This restaurant offers a fun atmosphere and colorful menu, including kid-friendly options like small plates and comfort food favorites. The outdoor decks provide a fun and casual dining experience for families.
What are some cozy restaurants in Santa Rosa?
- Spinster Sisters: Located in the arts district, Spinster Sisters offers a charming patio with sail-like canopies that create an easy atmosphere. The innovative dishes and relaxed setting make it a perfect spot for a cozy meal.
- Stark’s Steak & Seafood: This casually elegant restaurant features rich wood tones and a warm ambiance, providing a welcoming environment for diners. The upscale menu and decor make it ideal for a special night out.
- Pascaline French Bistro & Patisserie: With its contemporary yet comfortable dining experience, Pascaline offers a lovely backdrop for a meal. The seasonally themed menus and monthly pop-up dinners add to the intimate atmosphere.
What restaurants are group-friendly dining spots in Santa Rosa?
- Grossman’s Noshery & Bar: With seating for 77 inside and 72 on the patio, Grossman’s is perfect for large groups. The menu features a variety of eclectic breakfast dishes, noshes, and platters for sharing, making it ideal for group dining.
- La Rosa: This lively Mexican restaurant offers a fun-filled dining experience with combination plates and an extensive margarita menu. The lively atmosphere and outdoor seating make it a top choice for group gatherings.
- Townes: Known for its European comfort food, Townes provides a welcoming feel with unique dining spaces like the library room, perfect for group reservations.
Where can I find fresh seafood in Santa Rosa?
- Stark’s Steak & Seafood: This restaurant is known for its hand-selected beef and fresh seafood, including signature dishes like Maine lobster and crisp-chilled iceberg salad.
- SEA Thai Bistro: Specializing in traditional Thai Cuisine with a modern twist, SEA Thai Bistro offers innovative fusion dishes featuring fresh seafood. Must-try items include spicy baby squid salad and pan-seared scallops in garlic butter.
- John Ash & Co.: Embracing the farm-to-table ethos, John Ash & Co. offers fresh, seasonal ingredients prepared using French culinary techniques. The scenic views and signature dishes like beef tenderloin with mushrooms a la crème make it a top choice for seafood lovers.
What are some romantic dinner spots in Santa Rosa?
- Ca’Bianca Italian Restaurant: In a beautifully restored 19th-century Victorian mansion, Ca’Bianca offers an elegant Italian dining experience with a sophisticated setting, perfect for a romantic dinner.
- John Ash & Co.: With its picturesque views of the rose garden and vineyard, John Ash & Co. provides a romantic setting for couples. The focus on fresh, seasonal ingredients and signature dishes ensures a memorable dining experience.
- Augie’s French: This stylish and refined French restaurant offers an enchanting setting, eclectic decor, and classic French Bistro dishes, making it ideal for a romantic night out.
Which restaurants offer gluten-free options in Santa Rosa?
- Rosso Pizzeria & Wine Bar: Rosso offers gluten-free pizza options, ensuring everyone can enjoy their rustic Italian Cuisine.
- Grossman’s Noshery & Bar: The menu at Grossman’s includes vegetarian and gluten-free options, catering to various dietary preferences.
- Sazon Peruvian Cuisine: Known for its authentic taste of Peruvian Cuisine, Sazon offers gluten-free options alongside its traditional South American dishes.
What are the best spots for a quick bite in Santa Rosa?
- Dierk’s Parkside Café: Ideal for a quick and delicious meal, Dierk’s Parkside Café offers a variety of comfort food options and customizable dishes.
- SEA Thai Bistro: Offering a range of innovative fusion dishes, SEA Thai Bistro is perfect for a quick yet flavorful dining experience.
- Grossman’s Noshery & Bar: With a menu featuring eclectic breakfast dishes, noshes, and platters, Grossman’s is a great spot for a quick and satisfying bite.
What restaurants in Santa Rosa are known for their local fare?
- Spinster Sisters: This restaurant is celebrated for its innovative take on Sonoma cuisine, showcasing the region’s bountiful produce in every dish.
- John Ash & Co.: Emphasizing the farm-to-table ethos, John Ash & Co. uses fresh, seasonal ingredients from on-site gardens, highlighting the best of Sonoma County’s local produce.
- Rosso Pizzeria & Wine Bar: Committed to using local ingredients, Rosso offers a menu that features the rich flavors of Sonoma County’s produce.
