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A row of locally-owned businesses, showing a line of cars outside. Patrons walk around outside.
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Sonoma County is its own slice of paradise, nestled right in the heart of the famous Wine Country region. Some may know it best thanks to it’s award-winning Vineyards and fine dining experiences, but what truly makes Sonoma County special and sets it apart elsewhere are the family-run businesses. Whether it’s family-run tasting rooms, outdoor breweries, or quiet cafes off the beaten path, there’s truly something for everyone. In honor of July being Independent Retailer Month, we are so excited to share with you some of our favorite family-owned stops from all across Sonoma County that must be on your list!
Take a trip back in time when you step inside Volpi’s Ristorante & Bar in downtown Petaluma! First opened by husband and wife team John and Mary Lee Volpi in 1925 as a small grocery store, the family business eventually evolved to serve up delicious handmade italian fare, quickly becoming a local favorite. When you step inside it’s like being frozen in time,- When you are encouraged to surround yourself with friends, take in the cheerful sounds of John Volpi’s accordion playing emanating from the historic back bar, and indulge in a culinary experience unlike any other.
Try This: Gnocchi or the famous Clam Chowder (or both!)
We’re all about this women-owned restaurant, opened in Santa Rosa circa 2012! Owner and head chef Liza Hinman delivers her own fresh take on Sonoma County cuisine, serving up traditional American dishes to visitors. For Hinman and her family (her husband can be found serving up delicious bakery fare at The Downtown Bakery in Healdsburg) serving up one-of-a-kind cuisine for their community is a family passion, one she shares with her three children, friends, and patrons! Besides owning a critically acclaimed eatery, Liza is also the owner of the Astro Motel! Just a short walk from her restaurant, this eye-catching mid-century modern retreat is another must-see.
Try This: Baked Oysters
If you’re looking for a lively spot with front row seats to Windsor Town Green, look no further than KIN. Founders JC Adams and Brad Barmore created a space that is not only inviting for family’s but taylor-made to be the ideal gathering place. You can look forward to coming together with friends and family over delicious food and drinks, each of which was carefully crafted by JC and Brad, and truly reflects their combined years of culinary experience. From the moment you walk in you’ll be enveloped in warmth and hospitality, curated so that you know by the time you leave your table you truly are kin.
Try This: Prosciutto & Burrata Plate, paired with a Blood Orange Martini
Delicious New York-style subs meet familial roots and pride of ownership at Mac’s! Originally opened in the ’50s by Mac Nesmon, the historic cafe is now owned by Iraj and Lynn Soltani. Although the deli has changed hands a few times, the incredible food and one-of-a-kind atmosphere has never been lost. Original customers from the ’50s can still be found wandering into the deli every day, but don’t try questioning who got there first! There’s fierce competition among regulars to see who has been coming to Mac’s the longest. Now primarily run by the Soltani’s son Toraj and his wife Lisa, Mac’s has evolved with the times but has never lost what made it so special in the first place: The people.
Try This: Hot Pastrami & Swiss Cheese
If we’re talking about Sonoma County, you know we have to bring up wine sooner or later!
Sophie James winery is the very definition of a labor of love, born out of a passion for entertaining friends and family, and thoughtfully crafting one-of-a-kind experiences. Perched on top of Sonoma Mountain, these rolling vineyards quietly waited for the day when future owners husband and wife Sophie and James Gray would bring it all back to life. Opening its doors in 2017, Sophie James Wine has since established itself as the one-stop-shop for great views, great times, and sustainably sourced foods and wines that are set for generations to come. Overlooking Sonoma County and beyond, Sophie James is a mountaintop treasure waiting to welcome you in.
Try This: Rose of Pinot Noir
Treasured traditions await at VJB Cellars, owned and operated by the Belmonte family since 2003. Originally the owners of a popular restaurant, the Belmonte family founded their Cellars thanks to a desire for top-tier wines bearing their name to serve to their restaurant patrons. Since that moment VJB has continued on as a labor of family love, and today offers an eclectic menu of over 15 different varietals, as well as handmade traditional Italian fare, easily making it one of the must-see destinations in the Sonoma Valley.
Try This: Estate Montepulciano
It’s no secret that Sonoma County natives know wine better than we know ourselves, but we also have popular breweries that are absolutely worth bragging about.
The father and son team of Alan, Josh, and Adam Bosch are the creative minds behind Parliament Brewing in Rohnert Park. Built on the foundations of family, history, and community, Parliament, named after a gathering of owls (the breweries signature emblem) was specifically designed as a destination for those who wish to gather and feel part of something. The Bosch family brews their beers in small batches and works continuously using their customer’s feedback to ensure their product is consistently what their consumers want. Be sure to add this one to your list, stop by (dogs are welcome too!), and try a flight.
Try This: Sonoma Aroma
From the cellars of Wine Country came Paul Hawley and Remy Martin, long-time friends, and co-founders of Fogbelt Brewing. The two grew up in winemaking families, but it was their shared passion for craft beer and its continuous innovation that brought them together. In 2014, they launched their taproom in Santa Rosa, but their adventure had humble beginnings, where they pieced together a 7 barrel operation with salvaged equipment. Since those days, they have expanded on their brewing operation, adding a variety of beer programs to appeal to their customers and to help them keep up in the industry. But the core of it all has always stayed the same; Just two friends brewing beer.
Try This: Stardusk Juicy IPA
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