Rediscovering Sonoma Plaza

By Casey Gillespie

Sonoma Plaza, the bustling town square located in the heart of California’s wine country, is a favorite destination for day-trippers, who go to enjoy the relaxed atmosphere, exceptional food and wine, and boutique shopping. With its lush green space, quaint shops and outdoor dining options, Sonoma Plaza has a little something for everyone. Whether you’re a wine enthusiast, a foodie or just someone looking for a picturesque spot to spend a lazy afternoon, you’ll find it all at the plaza. Here are a few of our favorite places to get you started.

Chateau Sonoma

453 FIRST STREET WEST www.chateausonoma.com

Fellow Francophiles will love the authenticity in every detail. From the French antiques to the store’s eponymous brand of textiles, jams, honeys, candles and more — the minute you walk into Chateau Sonoma you are transported.

Figone’s Olive Oil Company

483 FIRST STREET WEST www.figoneoliveoil.com

This place is a Sonoma Plaza staple for a reason — it never disappoints. The artisan oils and vinegars are just the start. Be sure and check out the delightful selection of hand and body lotions, soaps, candles and kitchen wares. It’s a feast for the senses all around.

JAK W

124 WEST NAPA STREET www.jak-w.com

This store is the exact reason we love shopping in Sonoma — unique, expertly chosen and thoughtfully organized items for the home in a serene setting (they even have a few clothing and footwear pieces). We are currently obsessed with the collection of felt mushrooms.

Sojourn Cellars

141 EAST NAPA STREET www.sojourncellars.com

No trip to Sonoma is complete without wine and this tasting room is a must. Tucked away off the main square on a shady, tree-lined street in a charming little house, Sojourn offers an intimate experience in a decidedly chic setting.

Sonoma Cheese Factory

2 WEST SPAIN STREET www.thesonomacheesefactory.com

If you love a Wine Country picnic, this is your first stop. With the impeccable cheese and charcuterie selection, imported provisions, caviar and well-chosen selection of local wines, it has everything you could need and more.

Sonoma Valley Museum of Art

551 BROADWAY www.svma.org

A day of art and wine sounds just about perfect. On view this month are The New Californians, photographs by Judy Dater, and Labyrinth of Forms, 30 works from the collection of New York City’s Whitney Museum of American Art. Join in celebrating SVMA’s quarter-century milestone at “Anniversary Gala: 25 Years — The Magic of Art” on July 8 (tickets available on the website).

Stella Grey

107 EAST NAPA STREET www.stellagreyshop.com

Ladies, this is your vacation shoe destination. From chic furry slides to espadrilles and trendy-but-not-tootrendy sneakers, packing just got a little easier. Be sure and check out the selection of jewelry, scarves and handbags, too — it’s all gorgeous.

The Corner Store

498 FIRST STREET EAST https://thecornerstore.carrd.co

The plush towels and quirky ceramics are a design connoisseur’s dream, but this store is also a boon when it comes to kids’ gifts. From French table linens to classic board games we all enjoyed growing up, it will be hard to tear yourself away.

The Passdoor

452 FIRST STREET EAST, STE. A www.thepassdoor.net

An artfully assembled design store that gives off serious museum gift shop vibes. While everything in this store is undeniably beautiful, it is also functional. From ceramics to candles, jewelry to felt totes, it is a treasure trove of luxury finds.

Vineyards

Roche Winery & Vineyards

122 WEST SPAIN STREET www.rochewinery.com

For a relaxed setting to enjoy a glass of wine or a tasting flight to break up a day of shopping, Roche is our first choice. We love the outdoor bar, alfresco seating and excellent service, and the wines are pretty terrific, too.