When you think about a GREAT meal, what do you picture? Fresh produce, tasty food, an accompanying bottle of wine, beer, or cider, friends or family, and an exquisite setting. It can be as simple as a picnic or as coordinated as a personal chef-created meal. Maybe it’s a holiday or a meal shared with loved ones. There are endless possibilities! Collectively, we can all agree on – meals are better with love and the best ingredients available.
You bring the love, and we’ll help you find the ingredients and opportunities! Start by planning a trip to Sonoma County. And we're sharing our favorite ways to experience Sonoma County’s food culture – going a step beyond restaurants – though we have amazing options there too!
Ingredients: Find produce and foods grown and raised nearby.
- Farmer’s Markets are a favorite stop for the freshest and most local produce, meats, honey, and locally grown, raised, and crafted items. Here’s a list of the ones closest to where you’re staying.
- Specialty Markets are another hallmark of great food options in Sonoma County. We’re partial to the locally owned/operated supermarkets and independent sellers found here.
- Roadside Stands are highly seasonal and fun! Usually at the edge of a farm or in the barn, you never know what treasure you’ll find. Some of our favorites.
Culinary Experiences: Food and wine pairings, walking tours, sampling the best with Relish Culinary Adventures. Seasonally inspired cooking classes at vineyards and vacation rentals.
- Sign up for adventures in two food-forward regions: Healdsburg or Sebastopol. Each experience includes three locations curated from a rotating selection of farms, producers, and restaurants. Discover hidden narratives and artistry through owner- and maker-led tours showcasing the processes and stories behind the foods and drinks we love. Savor sips, tastes and hands-on activities that deepen appreciation for these dedicated producers. These immersive experiences culminate in a delicious lunch, featuring vibrant flavors in dishes representative of the local food culture.
- Pop-up-style culinary classes with varying combinations of locations, chefs, and menus yield one-of-a-kind experiences. From Farmers’ Market-inspired classes to Wild Mushroom forays, a Relish culinary class is always an adventure.
What Russian River Vacation Homes loves about Relish Culinary Adventures:
- Hyper-local partnerships with growers and makers. You'll meet the real heart of our community and experience a piece of why we love living here. Knowing where you are going is authentic!
- It's sooo seasonal. You'll see orchards at the peak of their harvest and taste the freshest versions of everything. And there's always something in season.
In Home Cooking Classes & Private Chefs: Through a partnership with The Heirloom Chef, schedule an in-home cooking class or personal chef for your visit. Classes include fresh, seasonal ingredients and a culinary expert to guide you. Schedule in advance and talk through what your group will enjoy the most. Or organize a private chef and custom menus. A taste of luxury for your getaway.
What Russian River Vacation Homes loves about The Heirloom Chef:
- The Heirloom Chef specializes in menus for life’s complications and celebrations. Folks with unique dietary needs due to diabetes, chronic medical conditions/treatments, or food allergies can relax knowing their needs are considered at every step.
- You don’t have to worry about dishes or clean-up!
Want to savor Sonoma County’s food bounty without cooking? Visit a local restaurant. We always recommend checking websites or calling to make sure hours haven’t changed.