
El Dorado Kitchen
Upscale California-Mediterranean fare in a historic Sonoma hotel, featuring locally sourced ingredients and charming patio dining.

Highlights
Must-see attractions
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El Dorado Kitchen

Highlights
Must-see attractions
Upscale California-Mediterranean fare in a historic Sonoma hotel, featuring locally sourced ingredients and charming patio dining.
"The seafood paella is the best I've had outside of Spain!"
Reservations are Key
Book in advance, especially for groups or special occasions, to secure your spot.
Secret Menu Item
Ask about off-menu fried paella balls; they're a local favorite not to be missed.

Quick Facts
Cuisine
California-Mediterranean
Price
$$$
Phone
(707) 996-3030
Address
405 1st St W, Sonoma, CA 95476, USA
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Seafood Paella Perfection
Hailed as the best outside of Spain, this paella boasts incredibly fresh seafood and a rich, savory rice.

Charming Patio Dining
Dine al fresco under a fig tree on the romantic back patio or by a cozy fireplace indoors.

Off-Menu Fried Paella Balls
Seek out these crispy, flavorful delights that locals rave about but aren't always on the official menu.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
Reservations are Key
Book in advance, especially for groups or special occasions, to secure your spot.
Secret Menu Item
Ask about off-menu fried paella balls; they're a local favorite not to be missed.
Lunch vs. Dinner
Visit for lunch for a casual vibe or dinner for a more intimate, sophisticated experience.
Don't Forget Dessert
While dessert portions can be small, they are decadent and worth the indulgence.
Tips
from all over the internet
Reservations are Key
Book in advance, especially for groups or special occasions, to secure your spot.
Secret Menu Item
Ask about off-menu fried paella balls; they're a local favorite not to be missed.
Lunch vs. Dinner
Visit for lunch for a casual vibe or dinner for a more intimate, sophisticated experience.
Don't Forget Dessert
While dessert portions can be small, they are decadent and worth the indulgence.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
El Dorado Kitchen is widely praised for its sophisticated ambiance and commitment to locally sourced, California-Mediterranean cuisine. Diners rave about signature dishes like the seafood paella and off-menu fried paella balls, and find the patio dining experience particularly charming. However, some guests have found the service to be overly rushed, and a few have noted that certain dishes felt incomplete without accompaniments.
"We had a very late lunch and arrived just before the kitchen was about to close in preparation for dinner service. It couldn’t have been better. We ordered shrimp ceviche, a chopped salad, mussels, steak and frites, and crispy shrimp tacos. It was a lot of food, and everything tasted delicious.
The mussels were definitely my favorite; they had a rich broth and were perfectly cooked. The service was very attentive, which we greatly appreciated."
Isabel McGraw
"This place was recommended to me, and now I highly recommend it as well!
The mushroom salad was good with the earthy taste of the mushrooms shining through.
The standout dish was undoubtedly the seafood paella – hands down the best I've had outside of Spain!
The seafood was incredibly fresh, and the rice was infused with a rich, savory flavor that left me wanting more.
Just had to dessert. The chocolate tart was delicious – decadent, rich, and perfectly balanced with some pecan nuts, and caramelized citrus fruit on top. Not too sweet, just pure chocolate bliss!
The service was top-notch, attentive, and knowledgeable. Our server made excellent recommendations"
Kwong Chee Choo
"Celebrated my wife's birthday on the patio. We had a wonderful time. Food was exceptional; I had the paella which was so good. Everyone enjoyed their meals and most ranked it as best dinner. Wonderful service , great wine selection. Delicious desserts. Highly recommend"
Kristopher Cumbermack
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
Yes, El Dorado Kitchen offers a comprehensive brunch menu with both breakfast and lunch items, and it's a popular choice for weekend dining.
Yes, it's recommended to ask about off-menu items like the popular fried paella balls.
The restaurant offers a sophisticated yet approachable atmosphere with options for dining indoors by a fireplace or outdoors on a charming patio.
Yes, reservations are highly recommended, especially for group bookings or during busy periods.
Standout dishes include the seafood paella, fettuccine carbonara, and crispy Brussels sprouts. The off-menu fried paella balls are also a must-try.
Yes, there is a charming back patio with fig tree seating available for dining.
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This spacious, elegant restaurant feels like the set of a Nancy Meyers movie starring Stanley Tucci—buzzy but not loud, and stylish but comfortable. The seafood paella is the perfect blend of spicy and briny, and the fettuccine carbonara, topped with an oozing poached egg, is the definition of decadence. And if wine tasting got the best of you the night before, brunch is also strong —don’t miss the huevos rancheros or the smoked salmon benedict.
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El Dorado puts the boutique in boutique hotel with an aesthetic of quaint, historical simplicity and a commitment to ecological sustainability. The hotel is housed in the landmark Salvador Vallejo building, one of Sonoma’s oldest structures, built-in 1843 for the brother of the Valley’s founder. Each of the property’s 27 rooms have balconies looking out on the heart of Sonoma Square or the solar-heated swimming pool and lush courtyard.
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Serving upscale American cuisine in a sophisticated urban setting, El Dorado Kitchen is a cut above. El Dorado Kitchen offers intimate seating under a fig tree on the back patio as well as an indoor seating area next to a cosy fireplace. Executive chef Armando Navarro prides himself on sourcing sustainable farm-reared produce, creating a collection of rustic yet complex dishes that showcase a variety of seasonal ingredients.
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We had a nice casual lunch at Healdsburg Bar & Grill last week and the chopped vegatable salad was great.
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El Dorado Kitchen has all of the swank of big city dining: a dimly lit dining room, top-notch servers, craft cocktails, and dishes that reach your table that look like they’ve been pulled out of Town & Country Magazine. The difference, of course, that you’re not only in downtown Sonoma, but in one of its most historic buildings. And the food is quintessentially Sonoman with its emphasis on mouthwatering vegetables and ranch-raised meats; and service so warm-hearted and informed, you’ll think that this is what all dining experiences should be.
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Located in the heart of the historic Sonoma Square, El Dorado Kitchen's farm-to-table cuisine is a must-try. The award-winning menu created by Executive Chef Armando Navarro is grounded in fresh, approachable, yet refined California cuisine and highlights the wealth of local produce and protein being farmed across Sonoma County. With seating available in the main dining room, a corner cafe-style room, an adorable tree-lined patio, and a swanky bar top, El Dorado Kitchen caters to every kind of vibe.
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Situated in the historic El Dorado Hotel, El Dorado Kitchen presents a sophisticated yet approachable dining experience. Focusing on contemporary American cuisine infused with Mediterranean influences, their menu showcases inventive dishes crafted from the finest ingredients sourced from Sonoma County farms. Whether enjoying brunch on the picturesque outdoor patio or savoring a memorable dinner in the elegant dining room, El Dorado Kitchen promises culinary excellence in every bite.
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Other great options on or near the plaza include Tasca Tasca, a Portuguese tapas spot that stays open late; Oso, which features bold flavors and an inventive young chef; and El Dorado Kitchen, a vibrant spot inside the El Dorado Hotel that offers a people-pleasing menu and a scenic outdoor space. For bubble fans, Sigh Champagne Bar showcases an amazing collection of sparklers; lovers of Pinot Noir should seek out Sojourn Cellars, just off the southeast corner of the plaza.
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While better known for its sit-down service restaurant, the El Dorado Hotel also boasts a small bar where you can take advantage of the excellent drinks program. On the bottle list, direct your attention to the sections for “interesting” reds and whites, where you’ll find Viognier, Roero Arneis, and Nebbiolo di Barbaresco. The cocktails are equally worthy of investigation, so don’t leave without exploring the entire menu, and then maybe stick around for dinner, too.
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Located on the historic Sonoma Plaza, El Dorado Kitchen is a modern, farm-to-table restaurant that offers a sophisticated dining experience with a focus on seasonal ingredients. In the fall, the restaurant’s outdoor patio becomes a prime spot for enjoying the changing colors of the surrounding trees. The menu at El Dorado Kitchen features a range of creative dishes, from fresh salads to expertly prepared meats, all made with locally sourced produce.
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Our very own El Dorado Kitchen is one of the most fabulous date night restaurants in Sonoma, CA. It has modern yet rustic decorating with tons of natural light. The menu includes known aphrodisiacs, such as oysters and mussels, as well as pasta and plant-based entrees. In addition to having the most delicious dinner in Sonoma, you’ll find comfort and convenience at El Dorado Kitchen—just steps from your luxurious downtown Sonoma hotel room.
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Connected to the El Dorado Hotel, EDK offers a seasonal menu sourced from the best of region “from morning ’til night” served in the handsome dining room or tree-lined patio. Classics such as the truffle oil fries with parmesan, EDK burger, fish tacos, & the Chef’s famous paella are not to be missed. If you’re short on time, visit their new takeaway concept, El Dorado Cantina, spotlighting a variety of Mexican specialties.
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El Dorado is another fabulous hotel on the Sonoma square and its restaurant is terrific. Though they don’t have many vegan options (their menu is on the smaller side, in general), they make each dish count; namely, with their vegan plate, a divine collection of dishes like spicy chile relleno, grilled tofu, maitake mushrooms, spinach, onions, garlic, carrots, arugula with sherry vinaigrette, and pepita hummus sauce.
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Bar to See Winemakers: El Dorado Kitchen, Sonoma: The seven chairs at the marble bar are a favorite hangout for the many winemakers in the Sonoma and Sonoma Valley area — particularly so during harvest. Talent from Sebastiani, Buena Vista, and other nearby wineries converge here in the afternoons, usually drinking, what else, beer. 405 1st St. W., Sonoma, 707996-3030, eldoradosonoma.com
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Nestled within the El Dorado Hotel on the historic Sonoma Plaza, El Dorado Kitchen offers a sophisticated brunch menu in a bright, airy setting. The contemporary California cuisine showcases locally sourced ingredients with creative flair. Popular brunch dishes include the Dungeness crab cake benedict, lemon ricotta pancakes, and the house-made granola with fresh fruit and Greek yogurt.
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Chef Armando Navarro, has had a noteworthy resume packed with top restaurants. He was at Napa Valley’s Auberge du Soleil and Redd, New York City’s Michelin starred Le Bernardin, Jean Georges and Daniel Boulud, San Francisco’s Jardiniere and Masa’s. As an Executive Chef of El Dorado Kitchen, he has infused the menus with seasonal ingredients sourced locally at the markets.
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Conveniently located on Sonoma Plaza, El Dorado Kitchen’s modern, sleek cocktail lounge offers contemporary farm-to-table cuisine as well as an array of beverages. They have an extensive list of California and European wines, handcrafted cocktails, and a selection of artisan craft beers. Enjoy lounging by the fireplace or venture outdoors to enjoy the stone courtyard.
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The seafood paella is a local favorite at El Dorado Kitchen, but you can't go wrong with the housemade fettuccine carbonara or the not-so-plain Petaluma chicken served with tasty and seasonal fixin's. Choose to dine inside the historic 1843 adobe or alfresco beneath the fig trees. // Open for three squares daily; 405 First St. W., eldoradosonoma.com
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Attached to the El Dorado Hotel, this plaza-front spot is chic but approachable. The menu blends California ingredients with global inspiration—favorites include pan-seared scallops, housemade ravioli, and a signature burger that’s anything but basic. The airy dining room and shaded patio make it a perfect pick for lunch, dinner, or weekend brunch.
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In the meantime, El Dorado Kitchen has added a vegan and gluten-free entrée to its menu. Sous chef Hector Rosado has created a pan-roasted Maitake mushroom, grilled asparagus topped with cilantro pepita “hummus,” vegetable succotash, a slightly spicy grilled half ear of corn, and cherry tomatoes, all drizzled with a balsamic reduction sauce ($18).
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El Dorado Kitchen is a sophisticated restaurant serving food locally sourced California-Mediterranean fare in a beautiful and picturesque hotel dining room. The restaurant serves award-winning cuisine crafted with local and seasonal ingredients from Sonoma. The restaurant is open daily for breakfast, lunch, and dinner, and on Sundays for brunch.
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California inspired farm-to-table cuisine make this restaurant a perfect representation of Downtown Sonoma. Their menu currently includes items like the beautiful beet salad and carbonara (shown below), but is always changing thanks to their talented chef, Armando Navarro. The interior of this restaurant is just as gorgeous as its food too!
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Other worthy dining options include El Dorado Kitchen inside El Dorado Hotel, where you’ll find an upscale ambiance, pleasant outdoor patio, and enticing California-Mediterranean fare. Down the street, Sunflower Caffé ‘s health-minded menu features local and wholesome ingredients, accompanied by local wines and craft cocktails.
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El Dorado Kitchen, Sonoma: You’ll feel like an A-lister in the courtyard of this award-winning restaurant on the Sonoma Plaza. Their filet mignon is served with roasted Yukon gold potatoes, mushrooms, carrots, sauce bordelaise and smoked potato skin puree. Order the addictive truffle oil and Parmesan fries and a craft cocktail.
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Located 45 minutes north of San Francisco on the picturesque Sonoma Plaza, the El Dorado Hotel & Kitchen is a boutique haven that offers urban sophistication to discerning guests while capturing the rustic charm of wine country. This small hotel offers the ideal environment for honeymooners, combining fine dining, lounging…
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El Dorado boutique bolt-hole is nestled in the heart of Sonoma’s historic town square. Elegant rooms have a natural, fresh feel and there is a large pool in the garden. However, it is the seasonal restaurant which serves innovative dishes made using local produce and paired alongside regional wines that is the real lure.
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Located inside a historic building and hotel in the Sonoma Plaza, El Dorado Kitchen is one of the city’s best eateries. Whether it is a lovely brunch or a fancy dinner, there is something for everyone in this elegant yet modern upscale restaurant. Here is all the information so you can check it out for yourself.
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El Dorado, located at the hotel by the same name, offers a seasonally driven California menu boasting ingredients sourced within Sonoma County. El Dorado comes highly recommended by gluten-free customers, including several who have eaten there numerous times and have never gotten sick from cross-contamination.
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Two doors down, enjoy roasted Maitake mushrooms with chimichurri sauce at El Dorado Kitchen. A hands-down favorite, mainly because of its fantastic outdoor patio, bustling vibe, and unique twist of favorite dishes with exotic finishing touches. The truffle fries are excellent if you need a little comfort food.
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This boutique bolt-hole is nestled in the heart of Sonoma’s historic town square. In the cosy guestrooms, heritage flagstone floors are dressed in beautiful rugs with rustic, wooden furnishings and French doors leading to a sit-out terrace. A seasonal restaurant completes this wine country getaway.
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AT A GLANCE: Upscale wine country restaurant right on the Sonoma Plaza. But really, it's a restaurant, wine bar and hotel all rolled into one renovated historic building. HIGHLIGHTS: Bartenders love to cater to your cocktail whims.
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El Dorado Kitchen offers California-inspired cuisine with a focus on the freshest farm and ranch-raised ingredients along with signature cocktails, all served in a relaxed-yet-refined Sonoma spirit.
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Situated in El Dorado Hotel, this restaurant is a gastronomic mainstay in Sonoma, serving incredible omelets, toasts and other favorites for weekend brunch, plus dinner alternatives.
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El Dorado Kitchen (Sonoma): Located in the El Dorado Hotel, this restaurant serves a veggie-packed vegan plate for lunch and a vegan bowl for dinner.
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El Dorado Sonoma – is right on the plaza with a very stylish décor, a great restaurant and active cocktail bar scene. Also, a GWW favourite.
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Located across the street from the girl and the fig, this California style restaurant is housed inside the El Dorado Hotel.

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