Michelin Stars in Sonoma County

Say it loud, and say it proud: Sonoma County's fine dining scene is even finer now, as SingleThread in Healdsburg was once again awarded three Michelin stars, for the 2020 guide. That makes it the first restaurant in Sonoma County to ever win this honor, and the second year it’s taken home the crown.

Note: Michelin isn't releasing ratings this year, so these ratings reflect 2020's ratings and winners.

As the Guide notes, "’Exquisite’ barely begins to describe a meal at this Healdsburg jewel, where every detail has been considered, from the moss and flowers cradling the amuse-bouche presentation to the packets of heirloom seeds that are sent home as parting gifts."

The Michelin Guide San Francisco, Bay Area & Wine Country honors are coveted awards for fine dining quality and its stars have long been considered among the most prestigious culinary accolades.

Michelin awards zero to three stars based on the inspections of anonymous reviewers. The reviewers concentrate on the quality, mastery of technique, personality, and consistency of the food.

Two stars mean 'excellent cuisine, worth a detour,' while one star means 'a very good restaurant in its category.' Other restaurants are awarded zero stars, but recognized as 'Bib Gourmand,' representing remarkable restaurants that serve two courses and a glass of wine or dessert for $40 or less (tax and gratuity not included).

Sonoma County's Michelin-starred restaurants for 2019/20 include:

Restaurants with Three Michelin Stars

SingleThread
131 North St.
Healdsburg, CA 95448
707-723-4646

Restaurants with One Michelin Star

Farmhouse Inn
7871 River Road
Forestville, Ca 95436
707-887-3300

Madrona Manor
1001 Westside Road
Healdsburg, CA 95448
800-258-4003

Michelin Bib Gourmand

Forestville: Backyard
Geyserville: Diavola Pizzeria + Salumeria
Glen Ellen: Glen Ellen Star
Healdsburg: Bravas Bar de Tapas, Chalkboard
Petaluma: Risibisi, Stockhome
Sebastopol: Ramen Gaijin
Sonoma: El Molino Central

Eating options at Sonoma County's 500-plus restaurants range from casual Wine Country cuisine to top gourmet fare, ethnic favorites to diner grub - all with an eat-fresh philosophy that offers visitors a true taste of wine country.

 

 

 

 

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As we wandered through Glen Ellen last night Brian said to me, “Glen Ellen has Hygge.” And he’s right! I love this cozy little town I grew up in. So happy to have spent the better part of the evening in this happening little spot- Glen Ellen Star. Very well named, this restaurant is quite the show off. As you walk in you may not initially agree, but have a seat and prepare to be impressed! Friendly, knowledge staff make you feel relaxed and welcome. Three miracle workers in the full view kitchen prepare your food with flare as you watch. We started with Spaghetti Squash “Carbonara” - scrumptious. And Chicories Salad. Sooo good. We decided to try their bread of the day, which had pepitas and cranberries baked into it. We also shared a pizza with White sauce, sofrita, house made sausage and arugula- right up my ally, and Rigatoni with Black Trumpets and Butternut Squash. For dessert, this Meyer Lemon cake. Really everything was outstanding. Brian and I agree this is our new top choice for local dining! If you’re visiting Sonoma, you’ll want to save a night for the Star. Be sure to make a reservation. They fill up fast. Maybe we will see you there! #glenellen #sonoma #sonomavalley #sonomacounty #finedining #winecountry #sonomawinecountry #pizza

A post shared by Kharis Olson (@inspiredinsonoma) on Mar 11, 2019 at 1:17pm PDT

Chefs and cooks use fresh, local ingredients that are grown from the fertile earth, raised on local ranches, or harvested fresh from the sea. It's no wonder that famed horticulturist Luther Burbank had this to say about Sonoma County, "I firmly believe, from what I have seen, that this is the chosen spot of all this earth as far as Nature is concerned."

His words, said in 1875, still ring true today. Visit Sonoma County soon and get a taste of what Burbank was talking about. More info in Best Restaurants in Sonoma County.

Written by Sonoma Insider Carey Sweet.