Saint Rose Restaurant Sebastopol, CA Pictures
Saint Rose - Sebastopol, CA
As you know, it’s hard for locals to tell tourists about the REALLY SPECIAL places. Whether it be a secluded beach, the perfect camping spot, or a great, little café, there’s always the fear that too many tourists will ruin it. So, if you ask a Sonoma County local what one of the best eateries is in the area, and they don’t mention Saint Rose Restaurant in Sebastopol, that’s the reason behind it. We want to keep this little gem to ourselves. On top of that, chef-owner Mark Malicki doesn’t promote his establishment all that much. Malicki is an artist. He’s absolutely passionate about cooking and entertaining. But marketing and other businessy things…these pursuits don’t seem to interest him as much. For example, at its old location in Santa Rosa, you could barely even find the restaurant. The name was painted on the window. That was it. Unless you knew where to look, you’d drive right past it, never even knowing that this was one of the very best restaurants in town. But, luckily for him, Saint Rose never needed much self-promotion because Malicki has almost a cult-like following. Farmers, foodies, chefs and anyone else who has an interest in food, has an interest in what Malicki is doing. Yes, he really is that good.
So, what should you order at Saint Rose Restaurant? It’s hard to say. You never really know what Malicki will be serving any given day. He pretty much cooks up whatever he finds inspiring that morning. And much of that inspiration has to do with what’s ripe and delicious next door. A small farm called The Bohemian Groove is located next to Saint Rose Sebastopol and supplies the restaurant with fresh produce. (The neighbors will also be opening up a weekend farm stand in the near future.) The style of cooking is anchored in French technique, but is influenced by international cuisines.
And in case you’re under the impression that a gourmet dinner is formal and expensive, banish the thought. At Saint Rose Sebastopol, you can order a main course, which comes with a couple of sides, for under $20. And the atmosphere is that of a fun, colorful, charming roadhouse. The inside is sweet and comfortable, with the warm sounds of real a real record player. (Be sure to point out the vinyl records to your kids!) And the outside boasts one of the best patios in the area. It’s the perfect spot to kick back in your jeans and flip flops while enjoying a grilled asparagus and pistachio alliade with a glass of Radio Coteau Pinot Noir.
Notables:
The Saint Rose used to be called Café Saint Rose when it was located in Santa Rosa. Upon moving to Sebastopol in April of 2008, the name was shortened.
Malicki used to own the former Truffles restaurant in Sebastopol, and then he was the chef for Iron Horse winery, as well as a caterer.
The atmosphere is that of a fun, colorful, charming roadhouse. (It used to be a brothel back in the 70's!) Also on weekends during Saturday and Sunday brunch visit Bohemian Groove Farms next door. This is where many of the fresh vegetables are sourced for Saint Rose Restaurant.
Hours: DINNER Wed - Sun 5 - 9-ish BRUNCH Sat, Sun 9 - 3-ish
Address: 9890 Bodega Highway
City: Sebastopol
State: California
Zip: 95472
Phone number: (707) 829-5898
Web page: click here to visit







