If you’re searching for unique and delicious dining experiences, Sonoma County’s hidden culinary gems are waiting to be discovered. From savory pupusas to mouthwatering barbecue, these 20 hole-in-the-wall spots offer flavors that will surprise and delight. Whether you're a local or just passing through, these eateries promise authentic and memorable meals. Here’s your guide to some of the best-kept secrets in Sonoma County.
1. Don Julio’s
Don Julio’s is a beloved Salvadorian pupusería in Rohnert Park, where locals rave about the handmade pupusas, thick corn tortillas stuffed with savory fillings, served alongside spicy coleslaw. The menu also includes burritos, taco salads, tortas, and enchiladas, making it a versatile spot for anyone craving Latin American flavors.
- Location: 217 Southwest Blvd., Rohnert Park
- Pricing: $$ (Moderate)
- Rating: 4.5/5
- Open Hours: Monday - Sunday: 9 AM - 9 PM
- Contact: 707-242-3160
- Website: donjulioslatingrill.com
2. Sonoma Sourdough Sandwiches
Nestled in Petaluma and Rohnert Park, Sonoma Sourdough Sandwiches is the go-to spot for anyone craving a hearty, well-made sandwich. With a variety of over a dozen sandwiches ranging from meaty cold cuts to vegetarian options, their Reuben is particularly popular among regulars.
- Location: 5440 State Farm Drive, Rohnert Park; 1320 Industrial Ave., Petaluma
- Pricing: $ (Affordable)
- Rating: 4.3/5
- Open Hours: Monday - Friday: 10 AM - 3 PM; Closed on Weekends
- Website: sonomasourdoughsandwiches.com
3. Smokin' Bowls
Smokin' Bowls in Rohnert Park offers a unique twist on comfort food, serving beef-tallow fries loaded with various toppings, from pulled pork and mashed potatoes to even ice cream. This spot is perfect for those who want to indulge in a savory, filling meal with a creative edge.
- Location: 295 Southwest Blvd., Rohnert Park
- Pricing: $$ (Moderate)
- Rating: 4.4/5
- Open Hours: Monday - Saturday: 11 AM - 8 PM; Sunday: Closed
- Contact: 707-665-5265
- Website: smokinbowls.net
4. What a Chicken
What a Chicken in Petaluma is a hidden gem for grilled meats, offering mixed grill plates, tacos, and fall-off-the-bone ribs. The freshly made corn tortillas are a must-try, and the sides like potato salad and Spanish rice complement the main dishes perfectly.
- Location: 706 E. Washington, Petaluma
- Pricing: $$ (Moderate)
- Rating: 4.2/5
- Open Hours: Monday - Sunday: 11 AM - 8 PM
- Contact: 510-776-7615
5. Roy’s Chicago Dogs at the Yard
Roy’s Chicago Dogs at the Yard in Petaluma is a tiny spot offering various Vienna Beef franks, from the traditional all-beef wiener to the spicy fire dog. With 50 topping options and sides like homemade pies and deep-fried Oreos, this is a hot dog lover’s paradise.
- Location: 84 Corona Road, Petaluma
- Pricing: $ (Affordable)
- Rating: 4.6/5
- Open Hours: Monday - Sunday: 11 AM - 6 PM
- Contact: 707-774-1574
6. The Local
The Local in Petaluma is a hidden sandwich shop worth the search. Chef Raul Lopez crafts ultra-local fare, including sandos, wraps, salads, smoothies, and fresh-pressed juices, making it a favorite among the gym and pool crowd.
- Location: 1201 Redwood Way, Petaluma
- Pricing: $$ (Moderate)
- Rating: 4.7/5
- Open Hours: Monday - Friday: 7 AM - 3 PM; Closed on Weekends
- Website: thelocalpetaluma.com
7. Austin's Southern Smoke Barbecue
Austin's Southern Smoke Barbecue brings a taste of Mississippi and Central Texas to Sebastopol. The food truck’s menu frequently changes, but sides like mac and cheese, baked beans, and honey cornbread are consistently crowd-pleasers.
- Location: 117 Morris St., Sebastopol (near The Barlow)
- Pricing: $$ (Moderate)
- Rating: 4.8/5
- Open Hours: Check social media for location and hours.
8. Hole in the Wall
Hole in the Wall in Sebastopol offers an all-day breakfast that’s hard to beat. With seven kinds of Benedicts, crepes, and the rare Dutch Baby pancake, this spot is a breakfast lover’s dream.
- Location: 972 Gravenstein Highway S., Sebastopol
- Pricing: $$ (Moderate)
- Rating: 4.5/5
- Open Hours: Monday - Sunday: 8 AM - 2 PM
- Contact: 707-827-6040
- Website: holeinthewallrestaurantsebastopol.com
9. Marvin’s BBQ
Marvin’s BBQ in Sebastopol is a small storefront that packs big flavors. Specializing in Kentucky-style barbecue, Marvin Mckinzy’s menu includes tri-tip, pork ribs, pulled pork, and chicken, all served with jalapeño cornbread.
- Location: 495 S. Main St., Sebastopol
- Pricing: $$ (Moderate)
- Rating: 4.6/5
- Open Hours: Thursday - Sunday: 11 AM - 6 PM
- Contact: 707-861-9623
- Website: marvinsbbqanddeli.com
10. Barley and Bine
Barley and Bine in Windsor is a cozy spot with 32 beers, ciders, and kombucha on tap. Their Tot-tine, a combination of Tater Tots, Canadian poutine, bacon, and melted mozzarella, is a must-try for anyone craving comfort food.
- Location: 7765 Bell Road, Windsor
- Pricing: $$ (Moderate)
- Rating: 4.4/5
- Open Hours: Monday - Saturday: 11 AM - 9 PM; Sunday: 12 PM - 7 PM
- Contact: 707-657-7774
- Website: barleybinebeercafe.com
11. Lightwave Coffee and Kitchen
Lightwave Coffee and Kitchen in Monte Rio is a hidden treasure nestled along the Russian River. This whimsical cafe serves dishes like shakshuka, lox and bagels, and a variety of weekend cakes and pies that are well worth the trip.
- Location: 9725 Main St., Monte Rio
- Pricing: $$ (Moderate)
- Rating: 4.6/5
- Open Hours: Friday - Sunday: 8 AM - 3 PM
- Contact: 707-865-5169
- Website: lightwavecafe.square.site
12. El Huerto Sonoma
El Huerto in Sonoma offers healthy food with a Mexican twist. From fresh-pressed juices to acai bowls and the trendy avocado toast, this spot blends trendy and traditional flavors in a unique way.
- Location: 19213 Sonoma Highway, Sonoma
- Pricing: $$ (Moderate)
- Rating: 4.3/5
- Open Hours: Monday - Sunday: 8 AM - 6 PM
- Contact: 707-934-8791
13. Brother’s Café
Brother’s Café in Santa Rosa is a diner-style spot offering breakfast all day. Owned by the same team behind Hole in the Wall, this café is known for its proven breakfast dishes, making it a local favorite.
- Location: 3135 Cleveland Ave., Santa Rosa
- Pricing: $$ (Moderate)
- Rating: 4.4/5
- Open Hours: Monday - Sunday: 7 AM - 2 PM
- Website: brotherscafesr.com
14. Canevari's Delicatessen & Catering
Canevari's in Santa Rosa is an Italian-American deli that offers a no-frills experience with big flavors. With offerings like Meatball Subs, BBQ Tri-Tip, and homemade ravioli, this spot is a hidden gem for anyone craving hearty Italian meals.
- Location: 695 Lewis Road, Santa Rosa
- Pricing: $$ (Moderate)
- Rating: 4.5/5
- Open Hours: Monday - Friday: 8 AM - 3 PM; Saturday: 9 AM - 3 PM; Sunday: Closed
15. Taqueria Molcajetes
Taqueria Molcajetes in Santa Rosa serves dishes in a traditional molcajete, a volcanic stone bowl that keeps food sizzling hot. The meats, fresh cheese, cactus paddles, and chile stew make for a unique and flavorful dining experience.
- Location: 1195 W. College Ave., Santa Rosa
- Pricing: $$ (Moderate)
- Rating: 4.7/5
- Open Hours: Monday - Sunday: 9 AM - 8 PM
- Contact: 707-544-8280
16. Wooden Petal Bakeshop
Wooden Petal Bakeshop in Santa Rosa is known for its knotted pretzels, but it also offers sandwiches and soups to go. This bakery often sells out, so pre-ordering is recommended to enjoy their sweet and savory treats.
- Location: 4894 Sonoma Hwy., Santa Rosa
- Pricing: $ (Affordable)
- Rating: 4.6/5
- Open Hours: Wednesday - Saturday: 9 AM - 3 PM
- Contact: 707-695-1880
- Website: woodenpetal.com
17. Savor Vietnamese
Savor Vietnamese in Santa Rosa is a charming spot that transformed from a doughnut shop into a Vietnamese eatery. The pho, banh mi, and fresh rolls are popular, and the mango shaved ice is a specialty worth saving room for.
- Location: 4275 Montgomery Drive, Santa Rosa
- Pricing: $ (Affordable)
- Rating: 4.5/5
- Open Hours: Monday - Saturday: 10 AM - 8 PM; Sunday: 10 AM - 6 PM
- Website: savorvietnamesecuisine.com
18. Tambayan
Tambayan in Santa Rosa offers authentic Filipino cuisine, from lumpia and adobo chicken to halo-halo. The name means "hang out" in Tagalog, and it's the perfect place to enjoy traditional Filipino dishes in a casual setting.
- Location: 600 Larkfield Center, Larkfield-Wikiup
- Pricing: $ (Affordable)
- Rating: 4.3/5
- Open Hours: Monday - Saturday: 11 AM - 8 PM; Sunday: 12 PM - 6 PM
- Contact: 707-843-3824
19. Pupusería Salvadoreña
Pupusería Salvadoreña in Santa Rosa is known for its authentic pupusas, which are corn cakes filled with cheese, vegetables, or meat. This spot also serves tamales, yuca frita, and empanadas, making it a must-visit for anyone craving Salvadorian cuisine.
- Location: 1403 Maple Ave., Santa Rosa
- Pricing: $ (Affordable)
- Rating: 4.6/5
- Open Hours: Monday - Sunday: 9 AM - 8 PM
- Contact: 707-544-3141
20. Banh Mi at Thuan Phat
Banh Mi at Thuan Phat in Santa Rosa offers one of the best Vietnamese banh mi sandwiches in the area, and at $6.75, it’s still a great deal. This spot is a must-try for anyone looking for authentic Vietnamese flavors at a bargain price.
- Location: 3020 Santa Rosa Ave., Suite H, Santa Rosa
- Pricing: $ (Affordable)
- Rating: 4.7/5
- Open Hours: Monday - Saturday: 10 AM - 8 PM; Sunday: 10 AM - 6 PM
- Contact: 707-889-3966
Sonoma County is filled with hidden culinary gems that offer authentic, delicious, and unique dining experiences. Whether you’re a local or just visiting, make sure to explore these spots for a taste of the county’s diverse flavors. Plan your visit and discover why Sonoma County is a food lover’s paradise!
