Winter in Wine Country Series: A Bowl of Our Best
The Sonoma Valley in the Spring, Summer, and Fall, is at the top of most travelers’ bucket lists and one of the biggest Wedding destinations in the world, but few have considered a trip to the area in the Winter. As Sonoma county residents and natives, our team here at Goodness Gracious Private Chef and Catering are here to share with you the timeless sense of romanticism, and well-earned respite the cache of cities within the valley offer during the not-so-lull of Winter.
With the pitter-patter of rain on your window sill, the smell of seasoned oak burning in the neighbor’s fireplace, and the wild daffodils and mustard flowers beginning to bloom across the rolling hills and dormant vineyards, the scenery, nostalgia, and tactile experiences of Sonoma County are matchless. Because the climate remains relatively mild, the Sonoma Valley is one of the most ideal vacation destinations during the winter months and will promise a peaceful getaway, oozing with that quintessential laid-back luxury feel Sonoma is famous for. In this series, our team will share with you some of the best destinations, dishes, and activities to check out during the not-so-lull of a Sonoma Valley Winter.
Let’s start with a little something steamy to soothe your soul on a California Winter’s day. Check out our team's favorite neighborhood joints to get a delicious hot bowl of soup.
Photo Credit @nikita.dm.co
Carne en Su Jugu
This is a secret hitter at this little Sonoma County hole-in-the-wall, Taqueria El Tapatio in Rohnert Park. Tender pieces of carne asada and bacon, with perfectly cooked creamy pinto beans, all in a tomatillo broth and topped with fresh slices of avocado.
Taqueria El Tapatio, 6364 Commerce Blvd, Rohnert Park, CA 94928, (707) 605-1355.
Photo Credit Fidel Garcia
Beef Udon
Springy, thick udon noodles in a rich beef broth, with fresh vegetables studded throughout, this is not-so-well-known secret even to the locals around here. i Want to experience more of the menu at O! Sushi? Don’t miss their spicy chirashi bowl and killer mixed tempura.
O! Sushi, 443 Dutton Ave #2, Santa Rosa, CA 95407, (707) 544-1799.
Photo Credit Sarah Stierch @sarahstierch
Matzo ball soup
The Stark’s restaurant group sure knows how to do Matzo Ball Soup. If you’re more of a traditionalist, try the version from Grossman’s Noshery in the historic Railroad Square of Santa Rosa. If you’re a bit more adventurous head to Bird and the Bottle down the road for their version made with ramen broth and BBQ chicken thighs!
Bird and the Bottle, 1055 4th St, Santa Rosa, CA 95404, (707) 568-4000.
Grossman’s Noshery, 308 Wilson St, Santa Rosa, CA 95401, (707) 595-7707.