Each year, Sonoma County welcomes a wave of exciting new restaurants, each contributing to the region’s dynamic culinary scene. These establishments aren’t just places to eat; they’re experiences shaped by passionate chefs, compelling stories, and innovative menus. 2024 has been a standout year, with a mix of creative openings that perfectly capture the spirit of Sonoma County. From mouthwatering Szechuan dishes to Texas-inspired barbecue, here are the most notable new restaurants you need to visit.
1. Bazaar Sonoma (BaSo), Forestville
Bazaar Sonoma breaks the mold with its bold, Szechuan-inspired dishes that blend homey comfort with daring innovation. Restaurateurs Sean Quan and Jenny Phan draw from Quan’s Chinese-American upbringing and their successful pop-up dinners to create a menu packed with flavor. Signature dishes like toothpick beef, handmade zhong dumplings, and homey mapo tofu highlight the restaurant's vibrant and unapologetic personality.
- Must-Try Dish: Zhong Dumplings
- Address: Forestville, CA
- Tip: Arrive early as dishes tend to sell out!
2. A & M BBQ, Sebastopol
Pitmasters Kris Austin and Marvin McKinzy bring Lone Star-inspired barbecue to Sonoma County with perfectly smoked brisket, tri-tip, and pork ribs. This much-needed Southern barbecue spot is a go-to destination for lovers of smoky, seasoned dry rubs.
- Must-Try Dish: Smoked Brisket
- Address: 495 S. Main St., Sebastopol
- Contact: 707-799-2892
3. Brigitte Bistro, Petaluma
Chef Nick Ronan introduces hearty French bistro classics like beef bourguignon and duck confit to Petaluma. His “maman”-style cuisine embodies love and passion, transporting diners to the heart of France.
- Must-Try Dish: Steak Frites
- Address: 841 Petaluma Blvd. North, Petaluma
- Website: brigittebistropetaluma.com
4. Tisza Bistro, Healdsburg
Specializing in Bavarian comfort food, Tisza Bistro offers schnitzel, currywurst, and delectable spaetzle in a cozy setting with an outdoor beer garden.
- Must-Try Dish: Wiener Schnitzel
- Address: 165 Healdsburg Ave., Healdsburg
- Website: tiszabistro.com
5. Acorn Cafe, Healdsburg
This cheerful breakfast and brunch spot fills a much-needed void in Healdsburg with indulgent options like tiramisu French toast and brown butter hollandaise Benedicts.
- Must-Try Dish: Fried Chicken Sandwich
- Address: 124 Matheson St., Healdsburg
- Website: acornhealdsburg.com
6. Wild Poppy, Sebastopol
Nestled west of Sebastopol, Wild Poppy is a whimsical cafe offering vegan and vegetarian-friendly dishes like Cosmic Queso and cashew-based queso dip in a serene outdoor setting.
- Must-Try Dish: Cosmic Queso
- Address: 9890 Bodega Highway, Sebastopol
- Website: thewildpoppycafe.com
7. Rocker Oysterfeller’s at Lucas Wharf, Bodega Bay
This seafood-focused gem features locally sourced dishes like clam chowder and the Captain’s Platter. Paired with stunning coastal views, it’s a must-visit for seafood lovers.
- Must-Try Dish: Captain’s Platter
- Address: 595 Highway 1, Bodega Bay
- Website: rockeroysterfellers.com
Honorable Mentions
- Songbird Parlour (Glen Ellen): Seasonal hyperlocal dishes in a cozy Victorian-style setting.
- Sarmentine (Petaluma): Iconic French patisserie delights with brunch offerings.
- Enclos (Sonoma): Terroir-driven multicourse fine dining in a historic Victorian home.
Explore Sonoma County’s Culinary Gems Today!
Ready to indulge in these mouthwatering experiences? Plan your visit to one (or all!) of these exceptional restaurants and discover why Sonoma County remains a hotspot for food enthusiasts. Share your dining adventures on social media, and tag us—we’d love to see your favorite dishes!
