In April, I wrote about the wave of new restaurants heading to Sonoma County this summer and beyond. At the time, most were still in the “coming soon” stage: paper-covered windows, cryptic Instagram posts and a lot of educated guessing. Since then, I’ve been making the rounds, tasting, talking and generally nosing around. Here’s where things stand as of mid-June.
Heard of something new or in the works? Email me at [email protected].
Now open
AYA: The Vegas-meets-Wine-Country vibe at this 28,000-square-foot restaurant and bar is hard to miss. Located at Graton Resort & Casino, Aya features two terraces overlooking Sonoma Mountain, a walk-through wine tunnel and a $1 million cellar. Chefs Roy Ellamar and Jennifer Murphy-Ellamar lead the kitchen, with a menu that ranges from Petrossian caviar tacos and a raw bar to wagyu steaks, whole-roasted Maine lobster, and Liberty Duck breast with ginger-fig preserves. A dedicated outdoor entrance with elevator service to the second floor, plus a location in the casino’s new nonsmoking wing, are welcome touches. 288 Golf Course Drive W., Rohnert Park, 707-588-3750, ayasonoma.com
Bohemian Bistro: Chef Ray Martinez brings destination-worthy multicourse dining to quiet Occidental, with dishes that change weekly and ingredients sourced within 15 miles. A Wednesday locals’ night — most dishes under $20 — keeps things grounded. Reservations required for dinner; locals’ night is first come, first served. 3782 Bohemian Highway, Occidental, 707-874-6888, bohemianbistrorr.com
Alesta: Outstanding cuisine from across the Mediterranean — fiery saganaki, mezze platters, branzino — in the former Piala space. 7233 Healdsburg Ave., Sebastopol, 707-519-4565, alestasoco.com
Mazza Kitchen: Levantine grab-and-go from longtime caterer Kristina Daya: spiced chicken, shawarma, manoushe and chocolate-covered dates. The chicken alone is worth the trip. 1000 Clegg Court, Petaluma, 707-906-4059, instagram.com/kitchen_mazza…