Swiss Bar & Restaurant

I'm here to report on the French Frieds. Someone in Petaluma put out the challenge to find the best in town. I've been diligently going down the list. The Swiss Hotel (in Sonona) fries for the win! Crispy, clean, perfectly salted. Thank you! I also have to mention that I get the impression the staff really enjoys their job and working there. We were treated so well even though we asked for substitutions, extra sauces, etc etc. All the other food was spectacular too, but a particular shout-out for the fries!

We ate at the restaurant, but in a private room, and had a party on the back patio. Both were hosted incredibly well. The food was great, the servers were super fun, and the patio area is very pretty.

So, I can't speak to the reliability of my experience, but I don't give out 5 stars lightly. We ducked in here, after a wine tasting, we were a little early for dinner so we sat at the bar and received excellent service. They seamlessly transferred our tab into the dining room when we were ready. Since we were so early we were the only ones in the dining room until the end of our meal. The staff was exceptional, very courteous, and very fast with refills on water and bread. The meal and wine was also very efficiently prepared and served. Staff gets full points of service, albeit in an empty dining room. The meal, was really very good. We started with butternut squash ravioli, which, while I've had this dish several times before, has never been anywhere near as good as this was. I then followed with a salad, which was very good, just the right amount of dressing and extras. Finally, I went with the sausage and polenta. This was really exceptional. I don't usually enjoy cherry tomatoes, but I gobbled these up. Each part of the dish was delicious on its own but the entire dish as a whole stands out as exceptional. And all throughout, we never wanted for water, or delicious breads with dipping oil and vinegar. Definitely would recommend.

Had a reservation at 5:15 which allowed for quick service from the waitress as well as in receiving our meals - it got very busy later on, not 1 empty table in the place. The food was absolutely delicious. I will definitely return.

I am from the east coast and just had dinner there with my local family. The fried cheese raveolli and calamari appetizers were wonderful. The Rigatoni bolognese was one of the best I have had. The bar and wait staff were all very friendly and excellent and their house specialty drinks were yummy. We sat outside on the lovely patio next to the fireplace. A wonderful experience all around.

We love this place. The front outdoor seats are difficult to get, but the best seats in town for sure. Food is always good and today, the polenta and mushrooms dish was perfect. It's always on their appetizer menu.

The food was beautifully presented, and damn good to boot. Our server was witty and charismatic. This is a five star restaurant at a 2 star price. Do not miss this spot next time you find yourself among the grapes.

We hosted our rehearsal dinner here and it exceeded our expectations! Everything looked gorgeous, the food was great, and Dawn was so helpful in putting together our event.

My wife and I ate a rather enjoyable lunch here over the weekend, basking in the beautiful weather outside in their little bistro area. The food was very good, with appropriate portion sizes - filling without being enormous - and generally excellent quality. The wine selection was solid, and even the coffee was tasty. The interior is also beautiful - looks like a fantastic bar and indoor seating area. We’ll definitely be back again sometime soon!

The bar and a restaurant both are locals favorite place to hangout and meet friends. I was told the French fries there are best in the world, so I had to check it out. Guys, it is a solid yes. Crispy outside and soft in creamy inside those were the heart warming delight, perfect for a rainy day and quiet winter time in a very heart of Sonoma County. I also enjoyed the carrot and ginger soup with Cesar salad. All of them were just cozy and delicious. The service was also excellent, I mean it - just excellent.

Alexandra Klatzkin

We hosted our rehearsal dinner here and it exceeded our expectations! Everything looked gorgeous, the food was great, and Dawn was so helpful in putting together our event.

vikka maax

The bar and a restaurant both are locals favorite place to hangout and meet friends. I was told the French fries there are best in the world, so I had to check it out. Guys, it is a solid yes. Crispy outside and soft in creamy inside those were the heart warming delight, perfect for a rainy day and quiet winter time in a very heart of Sonoma County. I also enjoyed the carrot and ginger soup with Cesar salad. All of them were just cozy and delicious. The service was also excellent, I mean it - just excellent.

Take Back Roads

My wife and I ate a rather enjoyable lunch here over the weekend, basking in the beautiful weather outside in their little bistro area. The food was very good, with appropriate portion sizes - filling without being enormous - and generally excellent quality. The wine selection was solid, and even the coffee was tasty. The interior is also beautiful - looks like a fantastic bar and indoor seating area. We’ll definitely be back again sometime soon!

Perfect location! Great people and service. Hung out in the bar below the rooms in the evening and watched the Sonoma square from the balcony in the morning.

Late night perfection! We got in for vacation pretty late and were looking for a place to eat and I’m so glad we ended up here. The drinks are incredible. Especially the hot ones. They also have really good pizza and the ambiance is great. So laid back and honestly like you are in a Swiss hotel. If you are looking for something unlike anything else in Sonoma you have to stop here.

the mezcal margaritas we had on the shaded patio around 3pm were the highlight of my trip to wine country! friendly and fun service. great vibes when neighboring tables shared their happy hour garlic fries. can’t wait to return!

Cocktail waitress was amazing sometimes the People Get Loud around you but you just got to enjoy it.

Absolutely loved the Chicken Parmesan!!! One of the best meals I have had during our vacation. The back patio ambiance was awesome. We sat by a real wood burning fireplace surrounded by trees and plants. The waitress was very friendly and accommodating to our substitution requests. I will be back!

We were recommended this place by multiple people for dinner. The butternut squash ravioli was the best freaking thing I’ve ever had! His pizza was also delicious. I would 100% come to Sonoma to eat here again!

Restaurant served delicious lunch, enjoyed the chicken salad and ravioli. Fresh baked focaccia was great, along with the Brie. Friendly staff and beautiful garden location

Food is comfort all the way. Excellent service. The indoor dining room is comfortable. Our party of four all enjoy our lunch.

Review of The Swiss Hotel Bar – Sonoma Plaza My wife and I visited Sonoma Plaza with one goal in mind: to enjoy one of the specialty cocktails at The Swiss Hotel. We have a shared love for historic and iconic hotels—whether it’s booking a stay or simply savoring a drink in their timeless ambiance. If you appreciate old buildings with character, this spot is a must. The service was prompt and courteous, and our cocktails were crafted to perfection—delicious, balanced, and fairly priced. For the full experience, I recommend grabbing a seat indoors to soak in the vintage charm of the setting.

GREAT Charbroiled Burger at the Swiss Hotel in Sonoma. I could only eat 1/2.

The restaurant is EXCELLENT! The food, atmosphere and staff made dining a pleasure. It was my first time to return to Sonoma after living there 30 years ago. Eating at the Swiss Hotel… I was home again.

I came here specifically for the fried chicken sandwhich, and it was truly delicious. When I was boxing up my leftover sandwhich, I dropped it on the floor and I was so upset, luckily a server (I believe it could be the manager), told me it was okay and that he’d bring me another one. Recieved hot and fresh. Thank you so much for this experience and the food was amazing. 10/10 would recommend!

We dined many times and have never been disappointed. Today we stopped in for lunch . We we served by Linda, a delightful and friendly server. We started with a Calamari appetizer which was excellent. We shared an entree of Penne pasta with Italian sausage in a Marinara sauce. This was a standby order for us and again it was excellent. Sharing the entree was perfect for us as the servings are generous.

Love the Swiss Hotel. Food and atmosphere is amazing. Sit out front, order a bottle of house wine and appetizer. Enjoy the friendly people with a view of the square. Nothing better!

V. S. C

GREAT Charbroiled Burger at the Swiss Hotel in Sonoma. I could only eat 1/2.

Robert Feldman

Food is comfort all the way. Excellent service. The indoor dining room is comfortable. Our party of four all enjoy our lunch.

Tony Ramirez

We dined many times and have never been disappointed. Today we stopped in for lunch . We we served by Linda, a delightful and friendly server. We started with a Calamari appetizer which was excellent. We shared an entree of Penne pasta with Italian sausage in a Marinara sauce. This was a standby order for us and again it was excellent. Sharing the entree was perfect for us as the servings are generous.

Charles Baker

Cocktail waitress was amazing sometimes the People Get Loud around you but you just got to enjoy it.

Code7

Review of The Swiss Hotel Bar – Sonoma Plaza My wife and I visited Sonoma Plaza with one goal in mind: to enjoy one of the specialty cocktails at The Swiss Hotel. We have a shared love for historic and iconic hotels—whether it’s booking a stay or simply savoring a drink in their timeless ambiance. If you appreciate old buildings with character, this spot is a must. The service was prompt and courteous, and our cocktails were crafted to perfection—delicious, balanced, and fairly priced. For the full experience, I recommend grabbing a seat indoors to soak in the vintage charm of the setting.

Laurence

The restaurant is EXCELLENT! The food, atmosphere and staff made dining a pleasure. It was my first time to return to Sonoma after living there 30 years ago. Eating at the Swiss Hotel… I was home again.

T M

the mezcal margaritas we had on the shaded patio around 3pm were the highlight of my trip to wine country! friendly and fun service. great vibes when neighboring tables shared their happy hour garlic fries. can’t wait to return!

Taylor Wells

Late night perfection! We got in for vacation pretty late and were looking for a place to eat and I’m so glad we ended up here. The drinks are incredible. Especially the hot ones. They also have really good pizza and the ambiance is great. So laid back and honestly like you are in a Swiss hotel. If you are looking for something unlike anything else in Sonoma you have to stop here.

Great place to grab a bite to eat, coffee, or a drink! Awesome food, and great setting for lunch and dinner. Outside seating is available and it's serene. I would've given 5 stars but our service was a bit slow and she accidentally charged us $48 dollar tip, which was the cost of our meal...take those two issues out and it would've been a 5 star visit.

My first time going to the Swiss hotel, it was suggested by my girlfriend and this place is great great service great food I had the margarita pizza and I had that scampi fettuccine. The environment mellow quiet it’s beautiful so whenever you in Sonoma, California, I suggest the swiss hotel. 🧀😁💨☝🏾 #Lovefoodlovelifefoodie707jdukes #shutupandeat!

If it wasn’t for the grumpy older hostess at the front I would’ve given this place 5 stars. My fiancé and I walked in with our 2 year old who was starting become antsy for some lunch today. It wasn’t particularly busy and we stood at the front for a while before we were finally acknowledged. Immediately she gave off the impression that we were an inconvenience since we had a child with us. I get it, kids aren’t always fun to dine with but we were still very far from a full on meltdown and hadn’t had an outburst or caused a scene. She left to go seat another couple and told us she’s be back.10 mins go by and nothing, she then brings another couple to the front and starts helping them while ignoring us entirely. The couple she was helping actually had suggested that’s she seat us first because we had been waiting a while. Instead, she roped in a waiter to seat us who was kind and friendly while she glared at us over her glasses. Our waitress was AWESOME, and all waitstaff was attentive and kind, even interacting with our toddler and striking up friendly conversation. Food was delicious and served quickly which I was very impressed with. When I had mentioned that our interaction with our hostess was less than pleasant, our waitress had acknowledged that this seems to be an ongoing issue and implied that her behavior was also common between the hostess and the other waitstaff. I sincerely hope that this review could lead to a training opportunity because good staff is difficult to find, but harder to keep if the environment is toxic as a result of negative behavior. I would love to return again but could do without the subpar hostess experience.

This restaurant came highly recommended by a local friend, so we made reservations—and I’m glad we did. We started at the bar, which, despite its small size, felt warm and welcoming. The staff immediately made us feel at home, and the space even brought to mind Duarte’s Tavern in Pescadero, just on a more intimate scale. Once our table was ready in the dining room, we were seated promptly. Our server, Amy, was wonderful—friendly, attentive, and well-paced throughout the evening. I ordered the salmon, which was perfectly cooked and full of flavor. My date chose the cappellini pomodoro; while it was fine, it didn’t quite stand out compared to the rest of the experience. Overall, the quality of service and atmosphere made a strong impression. I can easily see us returning—either to enjoy dinner again or to grab a seat at the bar. Next time, I’d love to try the patio. Definitely make reservations, as this place fills up quickly.

This restaurant offers tasty california italian cuisine within a historic building. Walls are covered with old photos. Very comfortable indoor, patio and sidwalk seating. Place can get busy, reservations recommended.

We went to the restaurant on the first floor. We called beforehand to get a reservation at 7:30pm but still waited for 10min to get a table. The place was packed but the decoration was vintage and nice. Food was homely and well cooked but perhaps a bit expensive that would be attributed to the location. Nice place to have a date or just to finish the night touring in Sonoma county

Our hotel recommended the restaurant here during check-in. The food and service were really good. We ended up returning on our last night in the area as well. *No rating for the room because we only visited the restaurant.

Wow. The Swiss hotel is like stepping back through time into the glor y Days of early Sonoma... Except that it's still happening now. Steeped with regional tradition of people, associations, food, culture-- kind of everything, this place is more than just a restaurant. It goes back decades into the culture Sonoma. As I talked with people who've been coming since the beginning, this was the place you did everything. I would tell you to be sure to come here just for that-- but everything was excellent on its own merits today. The steaks were amazing the rigatoni was amazing the desserts, coffee, grappa, espresso were amazing. Coming to Sonoma come to this delightful cultural institution on Sonoma square. You won't regret it!

Leanne M. Baxter

This restaurant came highly recommended by a local friend, so we made reservations—and I’m glad we did. We started at the bar, which, despite its small size, felt warm and welcoming. The staff immediately made us feel at home, and the space even brought to mind Duarte’s Tavern in Pescadero, just on a more intimate scale. Once our table was ready in the dining room, we were seated promptly. Our server, Amy, was wonderful—friendly, attentive, and well-paced throughout the evening. I ordered the salmon, which was perfectly cooked and full of flavor. My date chose the cappellini pomodoro; while it was fine, it didn’t quite stand out compared to the rest of the experience. Overall, the quality of service and atmosphere made a strong impression. I can easily see us returning—either to enjoy dinner again or to grab a seat at the bar. Next time, I’d love to try the patio. Definitely make reservations, as this place fills up quickly.

Asha McG.

Our hotel recommended the restaurant here during check-in. The food and service were really good. We ended up returning on our last night in the area as well. *No rating for the room because we only visited the restaurant.

Steve H

Wow. The Swiss hotel is like stepping back through time into the glor y Days of early Sonoma... Except that it's still happening now. Steeped with regional tradition of people, associations, food, culture-- kind of everything, this place is more than just a restaurant. It goes back decades into the culture Sonoma. As I talked with people who've been coming since the beginning, this was the place you did everything. I would tell you to be sure to come here just for that-- but everything was excellent on its own merits today. The steaks were amazing the rigatoni was amazing the desserts, coffee, grappa, espresso were amazing. Coming to Sonoma come to this delightful cultural institution on Sonoma square. You won't regret it!

We were able to get a table in the restaurant without a reservation. The dining room was a bit crowded, but not overwhelming so. The service was very professional. Though non-alcoholic drinks were not listed on the menu, they were able to offer hot tea and an exceptional non-alcoholic gimlet. I was somewhat disappointed in my food, the portions and flavor were just fine, but I and my dining companion felt ill later that afternoon.

The service and management are so nice and kind, the atmosphere is rustic and a bit kitschy, but the food pretty bland and uninspired. I think if they revamped their menu, the other pieces would come together but I personally won’t be back

Had dinner here. patio had a private event . Staff were great. Ambience was good. Food overall just meh. Meatballs were only warm, chicken parm was soggy. Flavors on everything were pretty bland . Kitchen should revamp approach and recipes.

CS

The service and management are so nice and kind, the atmosphere is rustic and a bit kitschy, but the food pretty bland and uninspired. I think if they revamped their menu, the other pieces would come together but I personally won’t be back

B Smith

Had dinner here. patio had a private event . Staff were great. Ambience was good. Food overall just meh. Meatballs were only warm, chicken parm was soggy. Flavors on everything were pretty bland . Kitchen should revamp approach and recipes.

We had a pretty good sized group and they were able to accommodate us fairly quickly on a Saturday afternoon, so that was good. Otherwise, our server was pretty rude. Actually we felt stressed about ordering because she seemed to be in a terrible mood - we asked a question about the menu and she stormed back to the kitchen to inquire about the answer. Anyway, not only that but the food was extremely mediocre - I had a fried chicken sandwich, which I imagined was pretty hard to screw up, but it was super dried out and tasted like old oil. Others in our party had the pizza, which was almost as disappointing. Anyway, I'm sure it's not our servers fault, she seemed to be having a bad day, but would say if you can find another spot on the square, you'd be better off!

Walked in with a group of 8, they were not accommodating and incredibly rude. We had a big group, so we left. As we were leaving the bartender smartly said "I guess we should remodel." Sonoma has been such a nice experience and visit, but cannot recommend this place based on the service we received.

I came here with my whole family for Mother’s Day lunch. We were all incredibly disappointed with our overall experience. We had a server named James. We were a group of 5 women and 1 man, and our server made it a point to start with the one man & save my elderly grandma for last when ordering. Not a big deal but just kind of strange? Anyways, we ordered our food and it was all incredibly subpar. We had a salad and it just had no flavor. Most of us got the eggplant Parmesan, which a few members of my family have previously ordered here, and it was actually the worst eggplant Parmesan I’ve ever had. It was luke warm, came with two thin pieces of tough eggplant, very little sauce, and a hard piece of polenta. We told our waiter that we were disappointed with all of our food, and he told Us that there’s two sets of chefs in the kitchen, and we had the worse chefs make our food. Why would he tell us this??? We were disappointed with the experience, every busser/server had a weird unfriendly energy and would fill up half the tables waters and leave, and our plates sat out for about 20 minutes after we finished eating until we asked for it to be taken away. Overall very bad experience. I would not recommend anything here, from the food to the service. The backyard ambience is the only redeeming factor.

I brought in my dog and they didn’t tell me the 15 minuets waiting for drink. They told me he wasn’t allowed after waiting. The rude women bartender said no so I left turning down 3 drinks she made.

They need to hire a better wait staff. Came for an appetizer with a few friends around 5pm (well before any kind of dinner rush) and fully communicated to the hostess that we only intended on getting a drink and appetizer. The waiter was not happy about this and threatened to fight me in the parking lot. I’m sure this is an isolated incident but I still would never recommend this place to anyone. It was hands down the worst experience I’ve ever had at a restaurant.

TERRIBLE restaurant service. Not just one, but two servers were rude & aggressive. The food didn’t look very good to begin with, we only chose this place because we were in a crunch for time & what a mistake. The Lavender lemonade was mediocre at best. Also they had a dog right at the door, practically inside the restaurant. Ambience is dark, dim, and tacky with ratty old table clothes, a funky mop smell, & funky employees to match.

Service was mediocre. Nothing great, nothing awful. I ordered meatballs that tasted like a balled up, overcooked sausage. Friend ordered a French 75 that tasted like lemon pledge. Other friend ordered clam chowder that didn't have a description. Red minestrone looking soups came out. Friend asked to swap to a salad and was charged for the more expensive salad.

Lisa B.

Service was mediocre. Nothing great, nothing awful. I ordered meatballs that tasted like a balled up, overcooked sausage. Friend ordered a French 75 that tasted like lemon pledge. Other friend ordered clam chowder that didn't have a description. Red minestrone looking soups came out. Friend asked to swap to a salad and was charged for the more expensive salad.

N. Brown

TERRIBLE restaurant service. Not just one, but two servers were rude & aggressive. The food didn’t look very good to begin with, we only chose this place because we were in a crunch for time & what a mistake. The Lavender lemonade was mediocre at best. Also they had a dog right at the door, practically inside the restaurant. Ambience is dark, dim, and tacky with ratty old table clothes, a funky mop smell, & funky employees to match.