7 Lively Brunch Spots in Sonoma County, CA
Last updated in October 2024
Sonoma County's brunch scene is simply bursting with local flavor and charm. Whether you're in the mood for a hearty breakfast or a light, seasonal dish, this area offers a bevy of delightful spots to enjoy a leisurely meal. Picture this: savoring delicious dishes crafted from fresh, local ingredients while surrounded by beautiful wine country. Sounds tempting, right? From the cozy back patios of Valley in Sonoma to the eclectic vibe of Lightwave Coffee & Kitchen in Monte Rio, each place has its unique twist. You can grab a gourmet lunch at Altamont General Store, or treat yourself to southern-style comfort at Lou's Luncheonette. With so many great options, it’s time to discover the best brunch spots this county has to offer!
Hank's Creekside Restaurant
Hank's Creekside Restaurant is a family-run breakfast spot located in Santa Rosa, known for its inviting ambiance and hearty meals. With a menu full of classic breakfast options and some unique dishes, it quickly becomes a favorite for both locals and visitors. The restaurant is admired for its warm and welcoming staff, making it a go-to place for a satisfying morning meal amid the lovely backdrop of a creek.
What People Love
Friendly and attentive staff who make you feel welcome.
Delicious food with generous portions.
Great variety of breakfast options, including vegetarian.
Cozy atmosphere with lovely views of the creek.
Consistently good quality and flavor in meals.
What People Don't Like
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Tight space leading to high noise levels, especially during busy hours.
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Parking can be a challenge with limited spots available.
You Have to Try
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Eggs Benedict - consistently praised for its flavor and preparation.
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Corned Beef Hash - a standout dish that many rave about.
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Biscuits and Gravy - known for being hearty and delicious.
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Cinnamon Walnut French Toast - a sweet favorite among patrons.
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The Crab Cake Benedict - often mentioned as a must-try option.
Lightwave Coffee & Kitchen
Lightwave Coffee & Kitchen is a beloved local cafe, tucked away in the beautiful surroundings of Monte Rio. Known for its eclectic decor and friendly vibe, this spot offers a charming escape for coffee aficionados and brunch enthusiasts alike. With outdoor seating options that overlook a lush community garden and a nearby skate park, it’s the perfect place to relax with a refreshing drink or a tasty meal. The owners, who take pride in their quality ingredients, create a welcoming atmosphere that makes guests feel right at home.
What People Love
Delicious and fresh food with a variety of options, including Mediterranean dishes.
Top-notch coffee, often described as the best in the area with unique specialty drinks.
A warm and welcoming atmosphere created by friendly owners and staff who build relationships with patrons.
Great outdoor seating near a community garden and skate park, making it a fun spot for families and friends.
Unique decor that adds a quirky charm to the space, creating a cozy environment to relax.
What People Don't Like
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Some patrons have found the coffee to be inconsistent, with requests for stronger options.
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A few mention that while the food is great, the prices may feel a bit steep for some menu items.
You Have to Try
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The Shakshuka, highly praised for its flavor and quality, is a must for brunch lovers.
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The Beach Laffa, packed with taste, often stands out as a crowd favorite for its delicious fillings.
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Burekas, known for their light and flaky texture, are highly recommended by many who have tried them.
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The homemade cheesecake and caramel cream pie are popular dessert options that leave visitors wanting more.
Lou's Luncheonette
Lou's Luncheonette is a charming spot located in the beautiful Sonoma wine country, just a short drive from downtown Sonoma and Napa. This family-friendly diner offers a casual atmosphere with outdoor picnic seating overlooking picturesque vineyards. If you’re in the mood for southern-style comfort food, you’ll find breakfast options, juicy cheeseburgers, and mouthwatering fried chicken, alongside a selection of craft beers and local wines. It’s the perfect pit stop for those exploring the nearby wineries!
What People Love
Delicious fried chicken, often highlighted as a must-try dish.
Great outdoor seating with a lovely view of the vineyards, perfect for enjoying meals in a relaxed atmosphere.
Kid and dog-friendly environment, making it a fantastic spot for families.
Friendly staff that creates a welcoming dining experience.
Large portions and good value for the hearty comfort food offered.
What People Don't Like
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Some recent menu changes have disappointed loyal customers, especially with the removal of favorites.
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There are occasional inconsistencies in food quality, with some dishes not meeting expectations.
You Have to Try
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The Two Burn spicy chicken sandwich, praised for its incredible flavor and juicy chicken.
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Homemade biscuits, known for being light and fluffy, often served with pimento cheese or honey.
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Fried chicken, consistently described as tender, perfectly cooked, and well-seasoned.
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The classic cheeseburger, celebrated for its juicy patty and crispy fries.
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Hush puppies, which many consider to be a delightful side, often recommended by regulars.
River Vine
River Vine is a charming brunch spot located within the picturesque Vintners Resort in Santa Rosa, CA. This rustic yet elegant eatery offers a delightful menu filled with seasonal dishes crafted from organic produce sourced from local farmers and their own gardens. With the option to dine indoors with stunning garden views or relax on a beautiful patio, it's the perfect place to savor a leisurely brunch in wine country.
What People Love
Beautiful views, especially from the patio seating.
Friendly and attentive service that makes you feel special.
High-quality, fresh food with many local ingredients.
A lovely atmosphere that’s both elegant and relaxing.
Great variety of brunch options, including vegetarian choices.
What People Don't Like
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Some dishes can vary in quality, with a few being disappointing.
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Service can be slow during busy times.
You Have to Try
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The Eggs Benedict, which many rave about (though opinions vary).
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The French toast topped with fresh fruit, known for its deliciousness.
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The shrimp tacos for a flavorful twist if you’re feeling adventurous.
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The signature brownies and mini doughnuts, which are especially popular.
Sausage Emporium
Sausage Emporium, located right on Sonoma Plaza, is a delightful women-owned establishment that serves up delicious breakfast and lunch options surrounded by a cozy and friendly vibe. With a menu that highlights an impressive variety of sausages, charcuterie, and refreshing drinks—including local wines and craft beers—there's something to please everyone. Whether you’re stopping by after a morning stroll or taking a break from wine tasting, this spot promises a memorable dining experience.
What People Love
Charming atmosphere and friendly service create a welcoming experience.
Delicious breakfast and lunch options, particularly the sausages and breakfast burritos.
Great selection of local wines and craft beers to enjoy with your meal.
A fun experience with unique offerings like the sausage flight and creative cocktails.
Perfect spot for a casual bite while exploring Sonoma Plaza.
What People Don't Like
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Service can be a bit slow at times, impacting the overall experience.
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Inconsistent food quality on occasion; some dishes may miss the mark.
You Have to Try
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The Breakfast Burrito, known for its generous portions and fantastic flavors.
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Crown Bowl with chorizo, a standout breakfast option that keeps folks coming back.
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Sausage Flight, perfect for those who want to sample a variety of sausages.
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Biscuits and Gravy, often referred to as the best around, full of flavor and heartiness.
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The So Sonoma sandwich is a crowd favorite and worth trying out!
The Altamont General Store
The Altamont General Store is a delightful mixed-use market located in the picturesque town of Occidental. It serves up everything from coffee and breakfast to gourmet lunches, local wines, and artisan goods, making it a go-to spot for both locals and visitors. With its welcoming vibe and charming decor, it's a lovely place to enjoy a meal, grab something to go, or simply relax with friends and family while enjoying the beautiful surroundings.
What People Love
The cozy and charming atmosphere is great for relaxing or catching up with friends.
The food is often described as delicious with many fresh options available.
Friendly and helpful staff contribute to a welcoming experience.
It's very kid-friendly with plenty of space and some goodies to explore.
A diverse menu with unique offerings including coffee drinks and gourmet grab-and-go items.
What People Don't Like
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Some dishes may not live up to their presentation, with flavors that can be a bit underwhelming.
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A few people find prices for certain items, like condiments, to be on the high side.
You Have to Try
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The breakfast sandwiches are a hit, especially the sausage sando and egg options.
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Burgers come highly recommended, with the house-made chips that people rave about.
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The crunchy hurricane fries are perfect for a fun snack or side dish.
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Don't miss the specialty beverages including delicious summer slushies and unique coffee drinks.
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The Boho Bowl offers a colorful and flavorful vegan option that looks as good as it tastes.
Valley
Valley in Sonoma is a delightful brunch spot that focuses on California home-cooking with an emphasis on sourcing exceptional ingredients from local farmers. The restaurant features a rotating menu of seasonal dishes, along with a carefully curated wine selection that boasts many unique and small-production options. With a cozy ambiance and a back patio for outdoor dining, it’s the perfect place to enjoy a relaxed meal with friends and family.
What People Love
Exceptional food with a focus on local ingredients and seasonal dishes.
An inviting and cozy atmosphere, perfect for enjoying a meal with friends or family.
Impressive wine selection, particularly emphasizing natural and biodynamic options.
Creativity in menu offerings, with unique flavor combinations that surprise and delight.
Friendly and casual service that contributes to a welcoming dining experience.
What People Don't Like
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The service can be inconsistent, leading to delays and sometimes lack of attentiveness.
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Some diners feel the menu is limited and not as extensive as they expected.
You Have to Try
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XO egg – a standout dish known for its delicious homemade sauce that many have raved about.
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Crispy rice – a must-have appetizer that's well-loved by diners for its excellent texture and flavor.
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Olive oil cake – a delightful dessert that has received lots of compliments for its fantastic taste.
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Fried chicken sandwich – praised for its crunchiness and flavor, making it a favorite among visitors.
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Shrimp roll – a unique dish that many find appealing, particularly for its fresh and rich flavors.
