Activities

Discover Sonoma County’s Roadhouses

A visit to a roadhouse is a quintessential, nostalgic travel experience. If you were born before or in the 80s, then you’ve likely seen Road House, the 1989 film starring Patrick Swayze as James Dalton, a professional “cooler” at a newly refurbished roadhouse bar, who protects a small town in Missouri from a corrupt businessman.

The traditional roadhouse often consists of an old school inn or tavern, usually outside city limits, that consists of a no-frills bar and restaurant, and often has live music, dancing, and sometimes card games. Here in Sonoma County, many historic roadhouses have been preserved, and now find life as unique restaurants, bars, and music venues.

Below, discover Sonoma County’s roadhouses. If you’re planning to try what’s on tap at each, we recommend reserving Sweet Pea, or another vintage VW Van by West Wine Tours to continue that nostalgic theme. Or, for a more modern ride, choose the cool comforts of a Tesla SUV from the Healdsburg Tours fleet.

West County Roadhouses

Take to the scenic back roads of Sonoma County to West County, an area that is a treasure trove of tiny towns, historic landmarks, acclaimed restaurants, and thrilling backcountry roads that offer something new just around the bend. Sidle up to the bar or chow on classic bar bites at these Sonoma County roadhouses.

ork Roadhouse

Canneti’s owner, Francesco Torre, hails from the Tuscan coastal town of Massa. His culinary adventures have ranged from Florence to New York City to the San Francisco Bay Area and now Sonoma County. Torre’s unique Italian roadhouse features custom-built tables and chairs, vintage Healdsburg machine shop parts, and a hand-forged rotisserie and fire pit. Great attention to detail, and numerous personal touches can be found throughout Canneti Roadhouse Italiana, with a story that accompanies each item. It’s a classic roadhouse experience, but with elements of Italian heritage and inspiration.

Southern Sonoma County Roadhouses:

Venturing to southern end of Sonoma County, into the historic downtown Petaluma. Between antique shopping and getting your feel of local cheese and wine, discover a few roadhouses that are ripe for exploring.

win Oaks Roadhouse

The small red tavern along Old Redwood Highway in Penngrove offers more than a stop for the tired traveler. Built in 1926, Twin Oaks Roadhouse offers a wide selection of beers and a small menu of delicious bites and full meals. Enjoy your beverage and bites on the outdoor patio listening to live music while taking in the historic tavern that’s brimming with character and charm.

At Twin Oaks, there’s a beer for everyone, from a wide-selection of their own Hopmonk craft beers, to other local favorites. Pair it with fried pickles or a warm soft pretzel. For a larger meal, try the Nashville fried hot chicken sandwich or bacon cheeseburger, or for something lighter, try the Mediterranean quinoa salad or tomato soup. Enjoy great beer, delicious food, and a tavern filled with conversation and great music at Twin Oaks Roadhouse.

Washoe House

Take a step back in time at the Washoe House in Petaluma, which is one of Sonoma County’s most fabled establishments. Built in 1859, the building has served as a stagecoach stop, hotel, restaurant, and stop for mail carriers.

Here, comfort food is on the menu all day long. For breakfast, highlights include chicken fried stteak and the breakfast special featuring the choice of pancakes, waffles or French toast served with eggs and bacon or sauce. Lunch includes entrees like a Philly steak sandwich and fish & chips, while the more expansive dinner menu features a number of different burgers and steaks, pasta and beer-battered prawns.

Enjoy hearty food, classic drinks, and a great ambiance on the weekends at one of Sonoma County’s most famous landmarks.