Where to Eat in Petaluma

Easy Rider

Owner and chef Jared Rogers hails from the Blue Ridge mountains of Virginia, and it was here that he developed his affinity for Southern food. At Easy Rider, Rogers leans into his ro ots, offering dishes like fried chicken with chili honey and bacon truffle gravy, Cajun-spiced fresh fish and red rice jambalaya, and pork belly biscuits with bourbon glaze. A cocktail bar and by-the-glass wine options round out the offerings.

Easy Rider, by Stephanie Amberg

Ayawaska

Peru visits Petaluma at Ayawaska. Big flavors abound, starting with the cocktails – try the Ayawaska Sour, made with tangerine juice and cilantro syrup. Dishes range from daring (grilled octopus) to tried and true, like fresh ceviches and empanadas, lomo saltado with prawns, and arroz con mariscos. Tip: Sit outside on the expansive patio overlooking the Petaluma River.

Grilled octopus at Ayawaska, by Brown Cannon

Stockhome

Stockhome Eat well and discover treasures at this family owned eatery and retail shop. The restaurant, which was awarded a Michelin Bib Gourmand award in 2019 and 2021, serves contemporary Swedish and Mediterranean dishes with flavor. In the store, browse the selection of household wares, wellness essentials, gifts, and other unique finds made by local artisans and designers.

Stockhome, courtesy of Stockhome

Sol Food

In the Theater District, join the line of hungry locals for Puerto Rican favorites like tostones, papas fritas, and pollo al horno. Tip: Dine at the communal table indoors, or take your food to-go and picnic in the park across the street.

Sol Food chefs, by Brown Cannon

Cucina Paradiso

Tuck into a plate of authentic Italian cuisine at family-owned Cucina Paradiso, one of Sonoma County’s top-rated restaurants. Everything on the menu here is made from scratch, from focaccia to pasta. Attentive staff can help with pairings from the extensive wine list. Tip: Save room for dessert – crème brûlée, profiteroles, tiramisu, and more.

Cucina Paradiso, by Brown Cannon

Wild Goat Bistro

A fresh take on pizzas, salads, and sandwiches. Try the “hippie Caesar,” made with watermelon radish and cashew dressing, and the “adult grilled cheese,” with comte, gruyere, and shallots. Tip: Nearly everything on the menu is gluten free – even desserts!

Wild Goat Bistro, courtesy of Visit Petaluma