High-style Healdsburg: urban chic meets Sonoma County bounty in this forward-thinking town - Travel: Recreation - Healdsburg, California

Sunset, June, 2002 by Amy McConnell

Wineries

With more than 60 wineries within a 20-minute radius of Healdsburg, deciding where to go can be overwhelming. Below are a few favorites. For mere on wineries, contact the Sonoma County Wineries Association (707/586-3795).

Hanna Winery. Family winery, founded by a cardiac surgeon from San Francisco and now managed by his daughter, Christine Hanna. Phenomenal views from the tasting room; excellent Sauvignon Blanc. 9280 State 128; (707) 431-4310.

J Wine Company. Best known for its sparkling wine, J also produces great Pinot Noir. At this elegant new tasting room, wines are matched with mouthwatering appetizers. Tastings from $5. 11447 Old Redwood Hwy; (888) 594-6326.

Roshambo Winery. The spectacular concrete-and-glass design alone makes this tasting room worth a visit. Closed Tue-Wed. 3000 Westside Rd.; (707) 431-2051.

Stryker Sonoma. Big, spicy Zinfandel; great views from the airy tasting room. Closed Sat-Wed. 5710 State 128; (707) 433-1944.

Dining

Dry Creek Kitchen. Don't miss the walk-up window around the corner from the dining room; here at the deli you can buy gourmet products as well as sandwiches and snacks. 317 Healdsburg Ave.; (707) 431-0330.

Manzanita. It's hard to go wrong at this high-style newcomer: Try any of the daily changing wood-fired pizzas or the grilled rabbit stuffed with polenta--and save room for dessert. Closed Mon-Tue. 336 Healdsburg: (707) 433-8111.

Ravenous. Simple but delicious seasonal food, generous portions, and an intimate, inviting atmosphere make this the local favorite, hands down. The original eight-table restaurant, called Ravenette, now serves lunch. Both closed Mon-Tue. Ravenous: 420 Center St.; (707) 431-1302. Ravenette: 117 North St.; (707)431-1770.

Zin Restaurant & Wine Bar. Casual restaurant and wine bar with straight-forward but tasty blue plate-style dishes that go well with Zinfandel. Closed Tue-Wed. 344 Center; (707) 473-0946.

Foodies' favorites

The Cheese Course. Local artisan and imported cheeses. Ask about scheduled cheese tastings and classes. Closed Tue. 423 Center; (707) 433-4998.

Downtown Bakery & Creamery. Head baker and owner Kathleen Stewart is a Chez Panisse disciple. 308-A Center; (707) 431-2719.

Flying Goat Coffee. Fondly referred to as "the Goat" by locals. Excellent coffee and pastries; hip, modern design. 324 Center; (707) 433-3599.

Jimtown Store. Old-fashioned country store with excellent deli foods. Convenient stop on your way to Alexander Valley wineries. 6706 State 128; (707) 433-1212.

Lodging

Grape Leaf Inn. Restored 102-year-old Queen Anne has 12 rooms, 5 with fireplaces. An elaborate breakfast is served on china and white linen table-cloths; there's also nightly wine tasting. From $185. 539 Johnson St.; (707) 433-8140 or www grapeleafinn.com.

Hotel Duchamp. Witty, whimsical, and ultramodern art-themed villas--you might even find neon lips over your fireplace. Extras: a wonderful, wholesome breakfast (included) and a lap pool. From $225. 421 Foss St.; (800) 431-9341, (707) 431-1300, or www. duchamphotel.com.