Sonoma Wine Country Getaway

Occidental Bohemian Farmers Market

2009-07-04T15:49:00.000-07:00

Summer is here and Farmers Markets are everywhere. We are so lucky to live in this beautiful and bountiful place. We are even luckier to live in Occidental where our Friday evening Farmers Market runs from the first Friday in June through the last Friday in October. The Market opens at 4pm and goes until dusk. Locals know to come early to get the best selection of farm, fresh organic produce and other hand made treats. There are several wonderful food vendors including Gerard's Paella, Lata's Indian cuisine, Kashaya's wood-fired pizzas, spareribs, pot pies, and more. Visit the website at http://www.occidentalfarmersmarket.com for more information.

Guests at the Inn who are fortunate to be here on Fridays love walking down the block to browse the market. They usually come back with a plate of Paella or Indian food, settle at a comfortable table and enjoy their dinner with a glass of our house wine. A word about Gerard -- last year, unbeknownst to him, Bobby Flay of Food Network had arranged a "Throwdown" to be filmed in San Francisco, challenging Gerard to a paella throwdown. We already knew that our local boy would win -- and he did!

The market is a wonderful place to meet friends, find the freshest produce, fruit, honey, jewelry, flowers, and down-home entertainment. Stop by -- and if you need a place to rest for the night, we can provide that too. If you tell us that you read our blog and were at the Market, we'll offer a special Market price just for you.

Passport Weekend 2009 in Dry Creek Valley

2009-04-30T21:05:00.000-07:00

We finally got tickets to this annual, fun event and now we know why the tickets have been on a lottery system. A weekend pass is $120 and Sunday only is $70. This fee entitles entry into all participating wineries in Dry Creek, a souvenir glass and much more. The wineries offer tastings of their wonderful wines, put out delicious food, many have great entertainment, and some hand out little souvenirs. The "Passport" is a handy little ticket to the wineries, with each winery's story and the wines they are known for.

We started at Papapietro Perry where Mardi Gras was the theme, including beads! They poured their world-class wines of Pinot Noir, Zinfandel and Syrah. There are several wineries sharing the same driveway so we headed to Family Winery, Kokomo, Peterson and Amphora. Each offered great tastings and we started to understand why Passport Weekend has always been a sell-out. We also tasted delicious olive oil at Dry Creek Olive Oil Co.

Plan now for the 2010 event. It will be a big anniversary celebration.

Underwood Bar & Bistro

2009-04-03T20:53:00.000-07:00

The other night I was craving a good 'burger and a Margarita. Underwood Bar & Bistro located in the nearby town of Graton immediately came to mind. Just 10 minutes away, this happening place attracts folks from all around and is a wonderful upscale, locals hang-out. Unlike many eateries in the area, Underwod offers a full bar in addition to a pretty extensive beer and wine menu! We've been in the good company of many local wine celebrities including Joy Sterling of Iron Horse (she was having a 'burger and a glass of Iron Horse Blanc de Blanc) and Merry Edwards, who was the 2004 San Francisco Chronicle's Winemaker of the Year. Those are pretty good recommendations, wouldn't you agree?

Underwood did not disappoint. The 'burger was perfect, served with some of the best French Fries I've ever had. The 'burger was done to perfection and accompanied by romaine lettuce, sliced tomatoes, pickled onions, and cornichons. My dining partner enjoyed a North American Lamb Tangine, an interesting combination of flavors and several condiments including a very spicy condiment of harissa! Wow! If you like hot, try this one if you dare. Another favorite there is the Hoisin Baby Back Rib appetizer...finger-licking good!

btw, the Margarita was a two-thumbs up, thanks to bartender Gaelen!

It has been awhile since we dined at Underwood. When we left, we wondered why we don't go there more often. An exceptional locals spot but perfect for anyone wanting a great dining experience.

Craving a great 'burger? This is the spot!

Fab Food & Sunsets

2009-03-09T20:17:00.000-07:00

Looking for a unique and special place for a romantic evening? Look no further. The River's End Restaurant, a short 30-minute drive from the Inn at Occidental, has it all.

Now that Daylight Savings Time has brightened our lives with another hour of daylight, head out to the Sonoma Coast beaches. You can wander along craggy coastlines or beach comb on a secluded cove. It's all right there in our backyard. And, we are also fortunate that the River's End is nearby.

We dined there and had a most fabulous meal. Each time we eat there, we are not disappointed. Our guests have all praised the restaurant for their cuisine, ambiance and service. The last comment card we received from a guest called it "Extraordinary" and voted it off the charts.

The menu features the freshest local seafood as well as beef, elk and pork. All items are beautifully garnished with edible flowers and the perfect accompaniments. Desserts are fabulous but a word to the wise, save room for their famous Creme Brulee surprise. Full bar and great wines by the glass or bottle.

If you hurry, you can still catch their Crab Tasting Menu. Simply fabulous!

Happy Holidays!

2008-11-26T13:50:00.000-08:00

Now that the Thanksgiving left-overs are a memory, it is time to think of decorating for the holidays. For us, it has always been about fresh-cut fir trees, the scent of the pine, and decorating the trees. Here in beautiful West Sonoma county, we are fortunate to have many tree farms nearby. Tree farms are now open and many also sell fresh wreaths, holly, garland, mistletoe and more for holiday decorating. Victorian Tree Farm has a petting zoo for the children. Two years ago we saw two newborn lambs, a couple of hours old.

It was a family tradition to head out to the country to find the perfect tree. Our girls are in their 20's and the tradition has changed but it will always be a cherished memory of tromping through the many rows of trees to find the perfect one, yelling to one another to come and see each other's find, and finally, felling the prize.

Now we live in the country and it is but a short drive to many tree farms. Here is a link to finding a farm that suits your taste: www.cachristmas.com/sonoma.html

Vistitor Comments

2008-10-27T09:44:00.000-07:00

Perhaps the most gratifying part of running the Inn at Occidental is to hear the comments from people who have stayed with us. Sometimes (such as in this case!) they even send photos. Here's a photo and a note from Iris Kovarsky, who stayed with us recently with her husband, Ron.

Dear Tina & Jerry,
Thank you again for a wonderful stay. You inn is lovely, your hors D’oeuvres are delicious, your breakfasts are phenomenal, and you as hosts are putting it all together so well.

Here is the photo that I want to share with you of the second building. It’s an angle that compliments your inn.

Also, we found the room key to “Summer” in my husband’s jacket, and have mailed this to you just today.

Best regards, Iris & Ron Kovarsky

Our Robes

2008-10-08T11:29:00.000-07:00

With the holidays approaching, it's never too soon to begin thinking about holiday shopping and gift buying. Want a suggestion? How about one of our Inn at Occidental snuggly-soft robes! Each robe is $135. To help make your holidays a little brighter, we'll pay the shipping on any robes purchased between now and December 31, 2008. (Standard shipping, please.) Pamper a loved one or friend with a wonderful warm, soft Inn at Occidental robe! Call us for more information or to order: 800-522-6324.

Our Cottage

2008-09-23T09:18:00.000-07:00

Yes, our Inn at Occidental is a great place for a romantic getaway. But with our cottage, the Inn is also a great place for a family or small group to stay, and stay together.

Our cottage, which is really a small house (2,200 square feet) just a few steps from the Inn, allows you and your family or group to really "stretch out." It has a full kitchen, two bedrooms, two baths, and a fireplace. It's ideal for families, families with children under 10, travelers with pets, and small group getaways, such as a Girlfriends' Getaway, a family reunion, or a retreat. And while you have complete privacy in your own place, you still have access to all our amenities, including our gourmet breakfast.

Pricing varies by season. Please visit our web site or call us toll-free at 1-800-522-6324 for availability and rates.

Perks of the Job

2008-09-18T09:56:00.000-07:00

We were recently invited to the new Littorai Winery perched on a hilltop in Sebastopol. The winery will be open for tasting by appointment, and trust me, it will not be a disappointment! Pinot Noir and Chardonnay are their specialties; and they are committed to biodynamic farming. Take the tour and learn all about this environmentally sound way to farm. Also, a short drive from Littorai is the newly-opened Freestone Winery, an off-shoot of Joseph Phelps Winery. Freestone Winery's mission is to produce the best Pinot Noir! We're happy to share with you our favorite winery and dining spots during your stay at the Inn at Occidental. Please ask us!

Our First Proposal!

2008-09-02T12:52:00.000-07:00

Oooooo, we're so excited: we recently had our first wedding proposal here at the Inn at Occidental using our new proposal package. What fun!

High school sweethearts Iggy and Florence are from New York. During their just-completed stay at the Inn, Iggy popped THE questions... and Florence said yes! While the two were out at dinner, the staff here decorated their room with fresh roses, chilled champagne, chocolates, and red silk rose petals on the bed. On a Scrabble board in the center of the room, Iggy used the block letters to spell: Will you marry me?

Needless to say, Florence was quite surprised and elated. Now, I wonder where they're going to have their wedding? (Hint, hint: Why not the Inn at Occidental?!?)

Green

2008-08-22T15:26:00.000-07:00

Of course people love to stay at our Inn at Occidental because of the nearby access to Sonoma County's wonderful food and wine options. But there's also the natural beauty, too. Some of our garden-loving guests love to make the short trek to the nearby Occidental Arts & Ecology Center (OAEC). In fact, the OAEC has its fall plant sale this coming weekend, August 23-24, 9:00 a.m. - 5:00 p.m. both days. Folks can choose from hundreds of organically grown heirloom vegetable, flower, and herb varieties. Even if you can't make this weekend's sale, the OAEC is still a fun place to visit.

http://www.oaec.org/

707-874-1557

Let the Crush Begin

2008-08-13T16:48:00.000-07:00

Ooo, exciting news here in glorious Sonoma County: the 2008 grape harvest has begun! This is an exciting time of year, wineries working often around-the-clock to crush, press, and store the grapes being rushed to their location by eager vineyard workers. Apparently this is one of the earliest harvests ever, too, brought on dry weather this spring and warmer-than-normal weather now.

Needless to say, the grape and wine industries are very important -- and large -- to Sonoma County. Here are a few facts and figures:

* Total 2008 Sonoma Country grape harvest: estimated to be 180,000 tons

* Last year's crop's worth: $417 million

This time of year, between now and the end of October, is truly beautiful, with heavy bunches of grapes in the vineyards, the leaves beginning to turn, and clear, hot days. Come stay with us to experience Wine Country living at its most exciting: harvest time!

Extras vs. Extras

2008-08-04T08:03:00.000-07:00

Hi, it's me, Tina. I know that many of our guests have been "price shopping" more of late with the high price of gasoline and other economic factors. I want to share a story that struck home with me recently regarding how room rates can be deceiving. One of our daughters was in San Francisco recently for a business meeting. She was staying at a very high-end hotel and invited me to join her. How could I resist the thought of being pampered at a world-class hotel!

The stay was lovely and the view from her 40th floor room was fabulous.... But, while the rate was comparable to our suites, there were additional charges for all that we offer for FREE at the Inn. Consider these "little" add-ons: $51+ for parking, $12.95 PER DAY for Internet access, $25 per person for the full breakfast, and that's not including the gratuities. At the Inn at Occidental, we also include with your room rate a nightly wine and hors d'oeuvre reception, 24-hour coffee and tea, and daily sweet treats -- all complimentary! Such a bargain!

Next time you want to be pampered by world-class service... and not get surprised by costly extras -- think "Inn at Occidental".

Bobby Flay faceoff

2008-07-23T10:46:00.000-07:00

Our very own chef friend Gerard Nebesky, who lives here in Occidental (that's him in the center in the pic below), will be on the television show "Throwdown with Bobby Flay" at 9 p.m. July 30 on the Food Network. Gerard, of course, served his wonderful paella at our recent 20th anniversary party (see previous posts). Gerard, we'll be rooting for you! Go, go, go!

Our Feathered Friends

2008-07-17T09:09:00.001-07:00

Yes, Sonoma County has wonderful food and wine adventures. But it's also a beautiful place. At the Inn, for example, we're fortunate to be surrounded by towering redwood trees and wonderful plant life. And that means we get lots of visits from feathered friends. Here are a few recent pictures. Enjoy!

We hope to see you soon!

The Winner Is...

2008-07-09T15:23:00.001-07:00

Congratulations to Patrick Mukaida, who is Director of Hospitality at Ferrari Carano Vineyards and Winery. Patrick attended our 20th anniversary celebration (we're STILL talking about Gerard's paella) and won a free room night. Congratulations, Patrick!

We hope you are doing well. We are enjoying the summer. Also, more info coming soon, but please note that a new restaurant has opened here in Occidental: the Barley and Hops Tavern. We'll check it out for you!

Happy Anniversary!

2008-06-25T08:22:00.000-07:00

To us! Yesterday at the Inn, we had a wonderful celebration, recognizing both the Inn's 20th anniversary (on the very date) and our five-year anniversary (earlier this month) as owners of this wonderful romantic getaway. We treated our valued guests and local friends to paella from our friend Gerard, wine from our from our friends at Clos du Bois, and cake. It was a wonderful evening -- perfect weather, a great gathering of friends old and new, and of course highlighted by wonderful food and wine. The next time you visit our Sonoma County vacation spot, please ask, and we'll show you more pictures!

Jerry and Tina

Islands Deli

2008-06-19T08:10:00.000-07:00

Yesterday the temperatures hovered around 90 degrees, which meant it was time to head for the beautiful Sonoma Coast beaches. We heard about another transplanted Hawaiian who opened a deli next to Lucas Wharf in Bodega Bay. We headed out to find "Islands Deli" as we also heard that they use mahimahi for their fish in the "fish and chips" entree. We met Mike Phillips who left Honolulu many moons ago and is now the proud owner of "Islands Deli." And FYI, he does use mahimahi and it was about the best we've ever had... nice light and crisp batter that does not detract from the wonderful flavor of mahimahi.

For those homesick Hawaiians, Mike serves daily specials which include beef stew, teriyaki beef or teriyaki chicken, and is serving plate lunches complete with macaroni salad. Grab a plate lunch and head to your favorite beach and just watch those waves crashing against the rocks... you'd almost think you were in Hawaii!

We hope to see you soon.

New Tavern in Town

2008-06-11T10:08:00.000-07:00

It's fun being part of a small town. You get to know your neighbors. And, in many cases, root for them too. Across the street, for example, Noah Bolmer and his lovely wife Mir are busy remodeling one of our old Victorian homes and turning into the Barley and Hops Tavern. We've stopped in once or twice, and it's quite amazing what they're doing: complete remodel, lots of antiques, etc. We're heard rumors (this is all on the hush-and-hush) that they're place will be open around July 4th. We'll keep you posted... and definitely report on the beer and food!

And please check out Noah's blog: Barley and Hops. He's a great writer and shares the ups and downs (!) of building a business. Good luck, Noah and Mir!

Farmers Market About to Open

2008-06-03T10:33:00.000-07:00

We're excited to share that this Friday, June 6, marks the opening of our summer Occidental Bohemian Farmers Market. Vendors from around the area come to share their food products, drinks, artwork, and more. It's a great time to browse, nibble, taste, try, and... people watch! The Farmers Market runs June through October, every Friday, from 4 p.m. till dusk. Don't miss it -- it's fun!

Our Anniversary

2008-05-22T09:23:00.000-07:00

Our romantic Sonoma County getaway is a great location for engagements, weddings, anniversary celebrations, and birthdays. We have great fun making our guests' special day even more romantic and memorable. Now, though, we're excited to share that WE have an anniversary. (In fact, TWO!).

That's right. June 5 marks our five-year anniversary of owning the Inn. It's been rewarding, fun, and, at times, interesting (ooooo, wait'll our tell-all book comes out someday!). And what makes this June even more special, June 24 marks the 20th anniversary of the Inn itself. Wow! Twenty years of helping people relax and discover Sonoma County's bountiful food and wine options.

To kick-off our celebration, all guests who stay with us Monday through Thursday during the month of June will receive a 20% discount off published room rates. And all those who mention "anniversary special" when booking a June stay will receive a complimentary split of Korbel champagne when you arrive. Both of these our special ways of saying "thank you" to all those who have visited us in the past... and to those about to join us soon!

Spring is in the Air!

2008-05-12T08:54:00.000-07:00

Spring (and romance!) are in the air here at the Inn at Occidental in Sonoma County. This past weekend, we had two engagements (both ladies said "yes" -- yea!), one couple who was celebrating their 40th wedding anniversary, and another couple celebrating their 44th wedding anniversary. (Note to self--time to restock our champagne.)

We hope that you keep us in mind for your next romantic "event", be it an engagement, elopement, wedding, or anniversary. We have many ways to make your stay even more memorable, from special flowers to incredible food and wine to romantic restaurant suggestions. See you soon!

Calling All Polenta Lovers

2008-04-17T09:33:00.001-07:00

There's a fun little restaurant minutes from the Inn in the town of Graton that makes some wonderful polenta: Willow Wood Market-Cafe. They have several polentas on their menu, but our favorite is the polenta with goat cheese. It's served in a bowl, and covered with roasted red onions and house-made pesto, and comes with garlic bread too.

Tina and I enjoy seeking out not only Sonoma County's finest wineries and dining establishments, but also the smaller, more off-the-beaten-path -- even, if you will, eclectic -- places our wonderful part of the world has to offer. Best of all, we're happy to share these secrets when you come visit us!

We hope to see you soon.

Cover Crop Croppers

2008-04-07T16:12:00.001-07:00

The grass and wild flowers growing between vineyard rows in the winter -- called cover crops -- help prevent soil erosion during the winter rains. In the spring, however, these are mowed down so that the cover crops don't steal needed moisture and nutrients from the vines. During our dallies about wine country the other day, we saw these cover crop croppers hard at work, and wanted to share. Enjoy!

Welcome!

2008-03-30T12:41:00.001-07:00

A luxury wine country inn experience you'll never forget...

Welcome to our blog! We're excited to use this to help keep you informed not only of the new and fun things going on at the Inn at Occidental, but also to tell you about nearby food, wine, and travel experiences that we believe you'll enjoy during your next visit to this wonderful area. Please check back frequently, as we promise to update our blog weekly. Should you have any questions, please call us toll-free at 800-522-6324.

We hope to see you soon!

Jerry & Tina, Proprietors