Best Restaurants for Outdoor Dining in Glen Ellen

We did the fixed price Christmas Day dinner at Sante. It was a wonderful meal with several courses. Most of the sides were delicious, no complaints as there was plenty of food so if one of us didn't care for something chances were good someone else liked it! The mashed potatoes were amazing! The atmosphere was festive and a good time had by all!

The wife had the Crispy Panisse Cake, she it was delicious, along with the Heirloom Radishes which were fresh. I had the Wild Flounder Meunière which was grilled perfectly with the inside of the fillet very moist. Soup of the night, pepper purée was so creamy. The fig & arugula salad was so satisfyingly good. We are looking forward to the next time we go to Sonoma, because we are coming back to “the girl& the pig”.

Salt and Stone: A Consistent Culinary Gem Salt and Stone has become one of our go-to dining destinations, and for good reason. Over the years, they’ve maintained a level of excellence that never disappoints. Jose, who has served us several times, deserves special mention. His service is consistently prompt, professional, and filled with thoughtful suggestions that enhance the dining experience. During our most recent visit, we enjoyed the French Onion Soup, Steak Tartare, and a Pasta with Prawns. Each dish was outstanding. The hot dishes arrived at the perfect temperature—a detail we greatly appreciate. The Steak Tartare, complete with a raw egg yolk on top, was a standout. While not for everyone, the yolk added a luxurious touch that I particularly enjoyed. The bar is equally impressive. We treated ourselves to a perfectly executed Martini and a Manhattan on the rocks. Living in Wine Country, we cherish the occasional cocktail, and Salt and Stone delivers on that front as well. As spring approaches, the outdoor seating area becomes one of the most inviting spots in Sonoma County, combining great food with a beautiful setting. Salt and Stone continues to impress, and we highly recommend it to anyone seeking an exceptional dining experience.

Lovely time … food delicious and perfectly paired, staff friendly and knowledgeable. Highly recommend whether you are a novice or a wine connoisseur!!

A Perfect Lunch Spot in Glen Ellen My wife, Barbie, and I had a wonderful afternoon exploring Glen Ellen, and we decided to stop for lunch at The Mill after finding its stellar Yelp reviews. The Mill’s location is enchanting—nestled beside a fast-moving creek. Parking was convenient in a nearby lot near the bridge leading to a charming complex of restaurants and shops. Upon arrival, we were warmly greeted by the owner (Sanjeev), who escorted us to a cozy table for two right at the creek’s edge. The lunch menu was thoughtfully curated, offering a variety of dishes and beverages, both alcoholic and non-alcoholic. On the owner’s recommendation, we started with their special bread, a favorite among many Yelpers. It was fresh, perfectly seasoned with olive oil, garlic, and parsley—absolutely delicious! For our main courses, we had the clam chowder and the spicy chicken salad. Both dishes were flavorful, satisfying, and generously portioned. Whether you’re on a wine-tasting weekend or simply a local out for a scenic drive, we wholeheartedly recommend The Mill at Glen Ellen. It’s the kind of place that combines excellent food, picturesque views, and genuine hospitality to create a memorable dining experience.