Sonoma County is one of the most popular tourist areas in California. There’s something to suit every taste in Sonoma, so if you’re a fan of Italian food, you won’t miss out when you take a trip to this top foodie destination. Keep reading for our top suggestions to help you find the best Italian restaurant in Sonoma.
Dining in Sonoma
Despite the worldwide downturn in travel, over 8 million visitors still made their way here in 2020. This lovely county abounds with gorgeous beaches along its 76-mile coastline, towering redwood forests, and rolling green hills. It’s most famous for its exceptional wine farms and farm-to-table dining experiences.
The Plaza Bistro, Sonoma
The Plaza Bistro occupies a hallowed spot in one of downtown Sonoma’s historic buildings. Here, you’ll enjoy fine food in an elegant setting, along with fine local wines to complement your meal.
Most patrons at the Plaza enjoy the grilled salmon served with capellini pasta with garlic, vegetables, and tomato-olive tapenade. The chicken piccata also has its fair share of rave reviews, and the salads are fresh and inviting, too.
Della Santina’s Italian Restaurant, Sonoma
Enjoy high-quality Italian food in a charming setting at Della Santina’s Trattoria located in the historic town of Sonoma. This family-fun restaurant prides itself on handmade pasta, locally-caught fresh seafood, and rotisserie meats.
Diners flock here to enjoy the Anatra Arrosto con Risotto Selvatico, which translates to roasted Petaluma duck and wild rice risotto. You can also sample some of the great local wines on offer and pick up a bottle of your favorite from Enoteca Della Santina next door.
Mamma Tanino’s Ristorante, Sonoma
Homemade pasta and Italian specialty dishes are the order of the day at Mamma Tanino’s. The restaurant has a homely, cozy vibe and offers down-to-earth delicious meals.
Enjoy simple goodness when you tuck into the pasta carbonara or pappardelle bolognese and don’t miss out on the authentic gelato and tiramisu.
Cucina Paradiso, Petaluma
Locals and tourists alike rate Cucina Paradiso among the top restaurants in Sonoma for Italian dining. Here, chefs prepare every item from scratch using only the freshest available organic ingredients. Cucina Paradiso occupies a prime spot overlooking the Petaluma River. The casual, comfortable vibe complements this tranquil setting, and the food only adds to the experience.
Try the spaghetti alle vognole, gnocchi in a gorgonzola-walnut sauce, and saltimbocca accompanied by your selection of fine wine. The extensive wine list showcases an excellent selection from Sonoma’s premier wine farms.
Negri’s Italian Dinners & Joe’s Bar, Occidental
It’s all about Old Country dining at this quaint, friendly, and well-established Italian restaurant. Negri’s has been serving up delicious Italian feasts since 1948. Four generations have added their traditional recipes to the menu here. So, you’ll never feel disappointed when you heed their invitation to ‘Gather at our Table and Eat!’.
Some top picks from this extensive menu include pasta with house-made sauces and 12-inch pizzas piled high with fresh mozzarella and Italian tomato sauce.
Main Street Bistro, Guerneville
Are you in search of something a little more upbeat? This restaurant offers live jazz, Latin fusion, and reggae music as well as festive karaoke nights and cabaret. Plus, you’ll get to dine on scrumptious thin-crust pizzas while you tap your feet to the beat. Main Street Bistro has a large wine list, a full bar, and a late-night menu.
So, it’s perfect for night owls on the prowl for some great Italian eats. This is one of the best restaurants in Sonoma for any occasion. It’s a good choice for both family outings and romantic date nights.
Baci Café and Wine Bar, Healdsburg
This farm-to-table restaurant places a firm focus on locally-grown ingredients. This dedication to fine, fresh fare means it consistently ranks as one of the best Sonoma County restaurants.
At Baci, diners love the Dungeness crab ravioli, complex salads, and traditional tiramisu. Add to that an impeccable wine list, including vintages from Napa, Sonoma, and Italy, and you’ve got everything you need for a great night out.
Cannetti Roadhouse Italiana, Forestville
Chef Francesco Torre is the maestro in the kitchen at his top establishment. His superpowers include transforming locally raised pork and freshly caught seafood into classic cuisine from Mediterranean shores.
These classic creations come to you fresh off the grill and accompanied by a mouthwatering range of pasta with sauces to match. The restaurant also offers wine tastings, picnics, and Sunday brunch for those who want everything Italian food has to offer.
Despite its modern vibe and laid-back name, this is still one of the most romantic restaurants in the area.
Diavola Pizzeria, Geyserville
A cozy setting within a historic 1900s brick building set the scene for upmarket dining at this highly-rated restaurant, where pizza is the star of the show. You can also enjoy more unusual Italian cuisine like braised tripe Alla Firenze.
If all that’s a little adventurous for you, you can opt for a burger instead. Don’t miss a chance to try the ricotta cheesecake—its creamy goodness has tongues wagging all over town!
Riviera Ristorante, Santa Rosa
This esteemed eatery makes the most of its location in one of the country’s premier wine destinations, with tall windows showcasing the countryside views. The seafood cioppino gets a stamp of approval from Italian ex-pats, local foodies, and casual travelers, too.
While you’re there, why not try some other classic Italian eats? The menu offers plates like wild boar salami and veal piccata with white wine lemon sauce.
Concierge Services & Sonoma County Vacation Rentals
Don’t let your search for the best Italian restaurant in Sonoma end here. Join us in wine country and try some of these top eateries for yourself!
Our Sonoma vacation rentals are ideally located for the ultimate eating, drinking, and exploring adventure. We also offer discounts and exclusive packages on a range of excellent tours to help you make the most of your vacation. Get in touch and our concierge team can help you plan every aspect of your wine country getaway.