Petaluma's dining scene punches well above its weight, with everything from craft beer pioneers to elevated farm-to-table spots. This historic river town delivers flavors that rival Napa without the tourist markup.
We ranked these ten spots based on local buzz, consistent quality, and that indefinable sense of place. From breweries that defined craft culture to family kitchens serving authentic global fare, these are where Petalumans actually eat.
📍 All 10 Locations
⚡ Quick List
- Lagunitas Brewing Company & Beer Sanctuary — Craft Beer Cathedral
- Sax's Joint — Weekend Brunch Champion
- Seared — Elevated Seafood Haven
- Cucina Paradiso — Italian Neighborhood Soul
- Risibisi — Refined Tuscan Table
- Old Chicago Pizza — Chicago Deep-Dish Done Right
- Ayawaska RestoBar- Petaluma — Peruvian Flavor Explosion
- Lombardi's Gourmet Deli & BBQ — Old-School BBQ Paradise
- What A Chicken — Rotisserie Perfection
- Wild Goat Bistro — Artisan Pizza Playground
1. Lagunitas Brewing Company & Beer Sanctuary
✨ Best for: Craft Beer Cathedral
Tripadvisor📍 Petaluma · ⭐ 4.3 · 2499 reviews · $$
The godfather of Petaluma's food scene, Lagunitas transforms industrial space into beer nirvana with communal tables, towering fermentation tanks, and that unmistakable hoppy aroma. Their Wood-Fired Margherita Pizza emerges with blistered crust and San Marzano sweetness, while the Lagunitas Beer Bratwurst gets a proper char and pairs beautifully with their flagship IPA. The Loaded Nachos arrive as a glorious mess of house-made chips drowning in cheese, perfect for sharing over pints. Brewers, office workers, and beer pilgrims from around the world gather here, creating an energy that's part neighborhood pub, part craft beer temple.
Must-Order:
Wood-Fired Margherita PizzaLagunitas Beer BratwurstLoaded Nachos
Insider Tip: Visit during weekday afternoons for a more relaxed experience and better chances to chat with the brewers about their latest creations.
View Lagunitas Brewing Company & Beer Sanctuary →
2. Sax's Joint
✨ Best for: Weekend Brunch Champion
📍 Petaluma · ⭐ 4.5 · 1747 reviews · $$
This unassuming corner spot draws weekend crowds who know good brunch when they taste it. The kitchen turns out generous portions of perfectly executed classics alongside creative twists that showcase local ingredients. Expect fluffy pancakes stacked high, eggs Benedict with hollandaise that doesn't break, and coffee strong enough to cure any Sonoma County wine hangover. The staff moves with practiced efficiency even during peak Sunday rushes, and the atmosphere strikes that perfect balance between bustling energy and comfortable neighborhood charm.
Must-Order:
Eggs BenedictButtermilk PancakesBreakfast Burrito
Insider Tip: Weekend waits can exceed an hour; try arriving before 9 AM or after 2 PM for shorter lines.
3. Seared
✨ Best for: Elevated Seafood Haven
📍 Petaluma · ⭐ 4.3 · 1202 reviews · $$$
Chef-driven seafood in a town known more for poultry and wine might seem risky, but Seared pulls it off with technical precision and creative flair. The menu changes with market availability, featuring pristine fish prepared with Mediterranean influences and California sensibilities. Dishes arrive artfully plated but never precious, with bold flavors that let quality ingredients shine. The wine list skews heavily local, and servers know their stuff when it comes to pairing Sonoma County bottles with delicate preparations of halibut, salmon, and whatever the boats brought in.
Must-Order:
Pan-Seared HalibutCioppinoGrilled Salmon
Insider Tip: Ask your server about daily fish specials—they often feature the best catches that didn't make the printed menu.
4. Cucina Paradiso
✨ Best for: Italian Neighborhood Soul
📍 Petaluma · ⭐ 4.3 · 1089 reviews · $$
This family-run trattoria feels like stumbling into someone's Italian grandmother's kitchen, complete with checkered tablecloths and the sound of rapid-fire Italian from the kitchen. The pasta gets made fresh daily, and you can taste the difference in every silky strand of fettuccine and every perfectly al dente rigatoni. Portions lean generous without being excessive, and the wine list features honest Italian bottles at fair prices. Regulars occupy the same tables week after week, creating an atmosphere where newcomers quickly feel like part of the extended family.
Must-Order:
Homemade Fettuccine AlfredoOsso BucoTiramisu
Insider Tip: Reservations aren't accepted, but the bar serves the full menu if you don't want to wait for a table.
5. Risibisi
✨ Best for: Refined Tuscan Table
📍 Petaluma · ⭐ 4.2 · 999 reviews · $$$
More upscale than its casual neighbors, Risibisi brings Northern Italian sophistication to Petaluma's dining landscape. The kitchen executes classic preparations with modern technique, turning out dishes that would feel at home in a Tuscan hill town. Ingredients source locally when possible but never compromise authenticity for trend. The wine program showcases both Italian imports and complementary Sonoma selections, with knowledgeable staff who can guide diners through regional pairings. The dining room attracts couples celebrating anniversaries and business dinners that require a step up from casual fare.
Must-Order:
Risotto ai PorciniBraised Short RibsPanna Cotta
Insider Tip: Book dinner reservations at least a week ahead, especially for weekend evenings when they fill up quickly.
6. Old Chicago Pizza
✨ Best for: Chicago Deep-Dish Done Right
📍 Petaluma · ⭐ 4.2 · 938 reviews · $$
Transplanted Chicago deep-dish devotees swear this place gets the formula right, with buttery crusts that can actually support the weight of chunky tomato sauce and molten cheese. The pizza takes time—real Chicago style can't be rushed—but arrives bubbling hot with that perfect balance of crispy bottom and tender interior crust. Beyond pizza, they nail Italian beef sandwiches and other Windy City classics that scratch homesickness itches for Midwest transplants. The atmosphere embraces Chicago sports memorabilia without going overboard, creating a comfortable sports bar vibe.
Must-Order:
Deep Dish SupremeItalian Beef SandwichChicago Hot Dog
Insider Tip: Deep dish pizza takes 45 minutes to bake; order an appetizer first if you're particularly hungry.
7. Ayawaska RestoBar- Petaluma
✨ Best for: Peruvian Flavor Explosion
📍 Petaluma · ⭐ 4.3 · 772 reviews · $$
This colorful spot brings authentic Peruvian flavors to a town that needed more Latin American options. The ceviche arrives singing with citrus acidity and just enough heat, while traditional preparations like lomo saltado showcase the kitchen's understanding of proper technique. Pisco cocktails pack serious punch, and the weekend crowd gets lively as the night progresses. The decor embraces vibrant Andean colors and textures, creating an atmosphere that transports diners far from Sonoma County's rolling hills to South America's dramatic coastline.
Must-Order:
Classic CevicheLomo SaltadoPisco Sour
Insider Tip: Thursday through Saturday feature live music, creating a festive atmosphere but making conversation more challenging.
View Ayawaska RestoBar- Petaluma →
8. Lombardi's Gourmet Deli & BBQ
✨ Best for: Old-School BBQ Paradise
📍 Petaluma · ⭐ 4.1 · 1038 reviews · $$
Old-fashioned barbecue meets gourmet deli in this local institution that's been feeding Petaluma families for years. The smoker runs constantly, producing tender brisket with perfect bark and ribs that pull cleanly from the bone. Their deli case showcases house-made salads and sandwiches piled high with quality meats and cheeses. The atmosphere stays deliberately casual, with counter service and picnic-style seating that encourages lingering over beer and barbecue. Lunch crowds include construction workers alongside wine country professionals, united by appreciation for honest, smoky flavors.
Must-Order:
Smoked Brisket PlatterBBQ RibsPulled Pork Sandwich
Insider Tip: Order ahead for large barbecue orders—they sometimes sell out of popular items by late afternoon.
View Lombardi's Gourmet Deli & BBQ →
9. What A Chicken
✨ Best for: Rotisserie Perfection
📍 Petaluma · ⭐ 4.4 · 612 reviews · $$
This Mexican rotisserie specialist does one thing exceptionally well: chicken that emerges from the spit with crispy, seasoned skin and meat that stays impossibly juicy. The marinade incorporates citrus and spices that penetrate deep, creating layers of flavor in every bite. Sides like cilantro-lime rice and charred vegetables complement without competing. The casual storefront atmosphere focuses attention on the food, where consistent quality has built a devoted following among locals who appreciate authentic preparation over flashy presentation.
Must-Order:
Whole Rotisserie ChickenCarnitas TacosElote
Insider Tip: Call ahead to confirm they haven't sold out of their signature rotisserie chicken, especially on busy weekends.
10. Wild Goat Bistro
✨ Best for: Artisan Pizza Playground
📍 Petaluma · ⭐ 4.0 · 1162 reviews · $$
Artisanal pizza meets neighborhood hangout in this unpretentious spot that takes its dough seriously. The wood-fired oven produces crusts with proper char and chew, topped with combinations that balance creativity with restraint. Beyond pizza, they offer salads and small plates that work well for sharing. The beer selection emphasizes local breweries, and the casual atmosphere welcomes families early and date nights later. Service can slow during busy periods, but the kitchen maintains quality even when the dining room fills with weekend crowds seeking pizza that rises above chain mediocrity.
Must-Order:
Margherita PizzaWild Mushroom FlatbreadArugula Salad
Insider Tip: The outdoor patio opens seasonally and offers the best atmosphere for groups wanting to linger over pizza and beer.
Tips for Finding Great Food in Petaluma
Time Your Visit: Weekend crowds hit hard between 12-2 PM and 6-8 PM. Arrive early or late to avoid the rush and get better service.
Embrace Local Ingredients: Many restaurants source from nearby farms and ranches. Ask servers about seasonal specials featuring Petaluma's famous poultry and Sonoma produce.
Parking Strategy: Downtown spots fill quickly during peak hours. Side streets often have better availability than main thoroughfares like Petaluma Boulevard.
Call Ahead: Several popular spots don't take reservations or have limited capacity. A quick phone call can save you from disappointment.
Frequently Asked Questions
How We Picked These Spots
We selected these restaurants based on consistent local recommendations, sustained quality over time, and authentic customer reviews from Petaluma residents. High ratings combined with strong word-of-mouth reputation determined our final rankings.
Every restaurant on this list has a full profile on our site with photos, hours, reviews, and insider tips.
Last updated: February 2026
