The Paris Olympics may be over, but in Sonoma County, you can still savor the elegance and richness of French cuisine. French restaurants and bakeries are flourishing here, offering a perfect blend of traditional Gallic flavors and local Wine Country ingredients. For decades, classic French dining was rare in these parts, but now a new generation of French chefs and enthusiasts is rekindling the magic of French cooking. Whether you're craving buttery pastries, savory French classics, or modern twists on traditional dishes, these top 10 authentic French spots in Sonoma County promise an unforgettable culinary journey.
1. Goguette Bread
Address: 47 Montgomery Dr., Santa Rosa, CA
Open: Wednesday to Saturday, 1:30 PM - 9:00 PM
Pricing: Moderate
Rating: 4.7/5
A family-run boulangerie that specializes in long-fermented loaves, Goguette Bread is the epitome of artisanal craftsmanship. If you're lucky, you can snag a loaf still warm from the oven (preordering is recommended). Along with their incredible bread, they offer rich French custard ice cream, cookies, and mouth-watering sandwiches. Be sure to try their espresso and ice cream affogato.
2. La Gare French Restaurant
Address: 208 Wilson St., Santa Rosa, CA
Open: Daily, 5:00 PM - 9:00 PM
Pricing: Moderate
Rating: 4.8/5
A Santa Rosa institution for over 45 years, La Gare serves Old World French classics in a cozy, traditional setting. The menu includes iconic dishes like Coq au Vin, garlicky escargots, and Chateaubriand. Recently featured on KQED's “Check, Please! Bay Area,” this white-tablecloth restaurant is perfect for a romantic evening or a refined dining experience.
3. Augie’s French
Address: 535 Fourth St., Santa Rosa, CA
Open: Daily
Pricing: Moderate
Rating: 4.6/5
Augie’s pays tribute to Auguste Escoffier, the father of modern French cuisine, by offering a bistro-style menu packed with timeless classics like steak frites, mussels, and beef cheek Bourguignon. The atmosphere is warm and welcoming, and the food is both hearty and elegant. If you're in the mood for French cuisine without the fuss, Augie’s is a must-try.
4. Pascaline Bistro
Address: 455 Aviation Blvd., Santa Rosa, CA
Open: Thursday to Saturday, 5:30 PM - 9:00 PM
Pricing: Moderate
Rating: 4.5/5
A hidden gem, Pascaline Bistro is a delightful bakery-café that transforms into a full-fledged French bistro in the evening. Their dinner menu features classics like boeuf bourguignon and veal viennoise, along with an impressive selection of French and local wines. The flaky croissants and pastries are perfect for breakfast, while the hearty sandwiches and quiches are ideal for lunch.
5. Sarmentine
Address: 6950 McKinley St., Sebastopol, CA (The Barlow)
Open: Daily, 7:00 AM - 3:00 PM
Pricing: Moderate
Rating: 4.6/5
Born from a pandemic pop-up, Sarmentine has quickly grown into a Sonoma County favorite. Their original Santa Rosa location expanded to Sebastopol’s trendy Barlow in 2023, with a new Petaluma spot opening just last month. Don’t miss their heavenly baguettes, cream-filled Mille-feuille, and decadent chocolate tarts. For a savory treat, their French-style lunch sandwiches and house-made terrines are excellent choices.
6. Brigitte Bistro
Address: 9070 Windsor Rd., Windsor, CA
Open: Thursday to Sunday, 5:00 PM - 10:00 PM
Pricing: Expensive
Rating: 4.8/5
Brigitte Bistro is not just a restaurant—it’s an experience. Chef Nick Ronan, who grew up between Paris and southern France, has curated a menu rich with French favorites like beef bourguignon, cheese souffle, and tableside-prepared steak tartare. The bistro’s cozy atmosphere is enhanced by Ronan’s personal touch, including singalongs around the baby grand piano. Perfect for a relaxed yet memorable evening.
7. Maison Porcella
Address: 100 Boyes Blvd., Sonoma, CA
Open: Lunch Tuesday to Saturday, Dinner Tuesday to Friday
Pricing: Moderate
Rating: 4.7/5
Maison Porcella began as a French-style charcuterie but has expanded into a charming wine bar and bistro. While their charcuterie board and cheeses are exceptional, the croque-monsieur steals the show. Be prepared for a wait, but the flavors are well worth it.
8. Costeaux Bakery
Address: 417 Healdsburg Ave., Healdsburg, CA
Open: Saturday to Monday, 7:00 AM - 3:00 PM; Dinner Tuesday & Wednesday, 4:00 PM - 8:00 PM
Pricing: Moderate
Rating: 4.5/5
Famous for its sourdough baguettes, croissants, and irresistible French onion soup, Costeaux Bakery has been a staple in Healdsburg for nearly a century. The café becomes an al fresco dining haven on Tuesdays and Wednesdays, with dishes like braised short ribs and rosemary polenta.
9. Troubadour
Address: 211 N St., Healdsburg, CA
Open: Wednesday to Sunday Evenings
Pricing: Expensive
Rating: 4.9/5
Troubadour by day is a charming sandwich shop, but by night it transforms into an intimate six-course dining experience. Chef Sean McGaughery works magic in his small kitchen, crafting seasonal dishes such as duck a l’orange and petite escargots. Reservations are a must, but it's an experience worth planning ahead for.
10. Les Pascals
Address: 4550 Gravenstein Hwy N, Sebastopol, CA
Open: Thursday to Monday
Pricing: Moderate
Rating: 4.7/5
This beloved bakery is known for its pastries, breads, and rich French onion soup. Whether you’re stopping by for a quick coffee or sitting down for a lunch of quiche and sandwiches, Les Pascals is a quintessential French cafe experience in Sonoma County.
Vive la cuisine française!
Whether you’re a Francophile at heart or just someone who appreciates great food, these French establishments in Sonoma County are sure to satisfy. Each offers a unique slice of France, with the added charm of Wine Country’s local ingredients. Make your reservations, bring your appetite, and indulge in the rich flavors of France right here at home. Bon appétit!
