01
Classic local institution
Mary's Pizza Shack
Boyes Hot Springs On Sonoma Highway • Family-Friendly Italian And Pizza Restaurant • Best For Groups And Kids
The original Mary's Pizza Shack serves generous pizzas, pastas, and salads in a relaxed, everyone-knows-someone setting.
Opened in 1959, this is the flagship Mary's that many Sonoma locals grew up with, complete with red-check vibes and a big, shady outdoor area. Expect chewy, sauce-forward pies, baked pastas, and heaping antipasto platters that land in the middle of the table for sharing. It’s the easy choice when you need something dependable that will make both grandparents and picky eaters happy.
02
Go-to Oaxacan favorite
Sonoma Eats
The Springs Corridor Along Sonoma Highway • Casual Mexican And Oaxacan Street-Food Spot • Best For Bold Flavors On A Budget
Sonoma Eats turns out deeply flavored Mexican and Oaxacan plates with an emphasis on fresh masa, rich moles, and salsas that actually have heat.
This counter-order spot punches far above its weight, with tender barbacoa, tlayudas loaded with toppings, and moles that taste like they simmered all day. The menu works equally well for a quick burrito to-go or a relaxed meal at one of the small indoor tables. It’s a favorite among locals who want serious flavor without heading into downtown Sonoma or spending wine-country prices.
03
Destination Mexican kitchen
El Molino Central
Just South Of Boyes Hot Springs On Highway 12 • Counter-Service Mexican Eatery With Outdoor Seating • Best For Handmade Tortillas And Salsas
El Molino Central is known for grinding its own corn and serving some of the most carefully made tacos, enchiladas, and tamales in the valley.
The line at the bright blue building is your first clue you’re in the right place, especially around lunch and early dinner. Tortillas are pressed to order, the salsas are bright and layered, and seasonal specials—like crispy fish tacos or chiles rellenos—make it worth a repeat visit. Grab a picnic table outside and treat it as your casual, open-air dining room just minutes from the hot springs.
04
Refined wine-country splurge
Santé at Fairmont Sonoma Mission Inn
Fairmont Sonoma Mission Inn, Boyes Hot Springs • Upscale California Wine-Country Restaurant • Special-Occasion Fine Dining
Santé brings polished service and seasonal California cooking to a grand dining room steps from the historic hot spring pools.
This is where you dress up a bit and lean into the wine-country fantasy: thoughtful tasting menus, expertly cooked local meats and seafood, and a cellar that can match almost anything on the plate. The room is elegant without feeling stuffy, and the staff knows the local vineyards well enough to steer you toward something interesting. It’s a natural choice for anniversaries, celebrations, or a long, lingering dinner after a soak at the spa.
05
Low-key breakfast staple
Creekside Café
Quiet Side Street Near Sonoma Creek • Casual Café For Classic American Breakfast And Lunch • Best For Relaxed Morning Fuel
Creekside Café offers hearty breakfasts, bottomless coffee, and friendly small-town service a short hop from the main highway.
Portions here run generous, with fluffy omelets, crisp hash browns, and pancakes that can easily cover a plate. The vibe is pure local: regulars chatting at the counter, families squeezing into booths, and staff who remember if you take cream in your coffee. It’s an easy-going start to a day of wine tasting or a simple way to refuel after a morning walk along Sonoma Creek.