Wine and Dine Al Fresco in Petaluma

Al Fresco is a phrase borrowed from the Italian that means casual outdoor dining. Given Petaluma’s similarity to a charming Tuscan village – both locales produce excellent wine, cheese, and olive oil and are known for cuisine prepared from the freshest local ingredients – al fresco perfectly describes the relaxed atmosphere that you can expect at the many Petaluma restaurants that offer patio dining.

Enjoy a sampling of Petaluma’s outdoor dining options. Even when the temperatures turn a little chillier, Petaluma restaurateurs will make sure that you are comfortable and cozy.

Brewster’s Beer Garden

Long before anyone had ever heard of social distancing, Brewster’s offered room to spread out and enjoy open-air dining in the immense space. With live music on the weekends, there is a friendly block party vibe that makes the barbeque, brews and beverages taste even better. And speaking of beer, Brewsters offers a choice of 30 craft beers on tap. You can count on enjoying local favorites including Lagunitas and many other popular Sonoma County brews.

Brewster’s Beer Garden – 229 Water Street N. (707) 981-8330

Sugo Trattoria

Sugo Trattoria offers a delicious menu of modern and classic Italian cuisine, crafting handmade pastas, sauces, cheeses, and salumi. Soul-warming signatures include Nonna’s meatballs smothered in marinara and mozzarella. “It’s about refined comfort food that people crave every day, owner Annette White says.

Sugo Trattoria – 5 Petaluma Blvd. S.; 707-782-9298

Tortilla Real

The Theatre District in Petaluma is quickly becoming a dining hub extraordinaire. One of the rising stars of the neighborhood is Tortilla Real. Whether you use the Spanish or English pronunciation of their name, “Real” means that you’ll be served truly authentic, fresh-made Mexican food.

Tortilla Real – 5 Petaluma Blvd S., Suite C (707) 658-1415

Ayawaska Restobar

On a recent visit, guests were overheard commenting that Ayawaska Restobar has the best location in Petaluma. Positioned alongside the Petaluma River with a lots of patio seating under umbrellas, Ayawaska serves authentic Peruvian cuisine with a modern twist. Chill with their Trio de Ceviche paired with a refreshing Tincho (white wine, grapefruit juice, grapefruit cordial, lime juice and sparkling water).

Ayawaska RestoBar – 101 2nd Street (707) 559-3519

Della Fattoria

Della has always been the kind of place where people love to gather. Now, Della’s new street-side patio makes it possible to enjoy their world-class bread and sophisticated yet casual menu in a comfortable outdoor setting. Follow the locals and savor menu items sourced from nearby farms, ranches, and dairies. Thay are open Friday, Saturday, and Sunday from 8am – 2pm.

Della Fattoria – 143 Petaluma Blvd. N. (707) 763-0161

Cucina Paradiso

Chef-owner Dennis and his wife Malena have expanded their cucina paradiso or heavenly kitchen to a patio paradiso. Savor their house-made pasta and authentically-prepared Italian dishes while enjoying a relaxing view of the Petaluma River. You’ll soon discover why Cucina (as the locals call it) is consistenly recognized with awards from Zagat and Michelin.

Cucina Paradiso – 114 Petaluma Blvd. N. (707) 782-1130

Petaluma Pie Company

It’s fitting that Petaluma Pie is located in the heart of downtown because local couple Angelo Sacerdote and Lina Hoshino put their heart into the community…and their pies. Whether you go the sweet route with an Apple Pecan Crumble with Salted Caramel Pie or opt for a main course savory Chicken or Beef Pot Pie, grab a seat at one of their shaded tables in the patio and enjoy organic, local ingredients expertly prepared.

Petaluma Pie Company – 125 Petaluma Blvd. N. (707) 766-6743

Hank’s

Located in the Theatre District, Hank’s believes that food, friends, and family are the ideal recipe. Nothing tastes better than simple fresh ingredients. You will find it in their wood-fired artisan pizza, salads, and pasta featuring Grandma Gina’s Gnocchi. Pair with an Italian red, white, or sparkling vino, or a selection of one of the 18 hand-crafted brews for a great Cal-Italian adventure.

Hank’s – 151 Petaluma Blvd. S. (707) 981-7852

Taps Restaurant and Tasting Room

A great burger, a craft brew, and table on the deck with a view of the river – that’s the perfect way to spend a summer afternoon. The gastropub has a superb selection of international ales plus must-try chicken wings and Korean short ribs. And you can bring your four-legged friend.

Taps Restaurant and Tasting Room – 54 E. Washington Street (707) 763-6700