Nestled within the Russian River Valley's ancient redwoods, Farmhouse Inn & Restaurant Forestville represents the pinnacle of Sonoma County's farm-to-table movement, where Michelin-starred cuisine meets the intimate charm of a 19th-century homestead. This luxury retreat, owned by fifth-generation Sonoma farmers Joe and Catherine Bartolomei, transforms seasonal ingredients from their family ranches into extraordinary culinary experiences.

The restaurant's Michelin star, earned annually since 2007, reflects the exceptional vision of Executive Chef Craig Wilmer and Pastry Chef Amanda Hoang. Together, this husband-and-wife team has elevated the historic 1873 farmhouse into one of California's most celebrated dining destinations. Their approach honors the property's agricultural heritage while embracing innovative techniques that have earned recognition from the world's most discerning food critics. The Bartolomei family's transformation of this former homestead into a 25-room luxury inn showcases their commitment to preserving Sonoma's farming legacy through hospitality excellence.

Chef Wilmer's ever-evolving tasting menu celebrates Northern California's seasonal bounty through sophisticated French-inspired techniques. Signature creations include herb-laminated pasta paired with foraged black trumpet mushrooms and butter-poached black cod enhanced with Vietnamese-inspired aigre-doux sauce. The restaurant's flexible dining format allows guests to choose three-, four-, or five-course experiences, mixing selections from first, second, main, and dessert categories. Pastry Chef Hoang's innovative desserts, such as her acclaimed matcha-pistachio-apricot semifreddo, reflect her Asian-American heritage while incorporating ingredients from the inn's gardens. The kitchen sources exclusively from Bartolomei family ranches and local Sonoma producers, ensuring each dish captures the terroir of this renowned wine region.

The main dining room exudes rustic elegance with vaulted ceilings, hand-carved wood chandeliers, and frescoed murals depicting Bartolomei family history. Wine Director Jared Hooper curates an extensive program featuring small-lot Sonoma producers alongside international selections, with expert pairings that complement each course. For non-wine drinkers, the restaurant crafts artisanal non-alcoholic beverages using local herbs, honey, and grape varietal vinegars. The casual Farmstand offers poolside dining with wood-fired pizzas and seasonal vegetables, while the spa and private terraces provide additional venues for culinary indulgence.

Reservations at this best fine dining in Forestville destination require advance planning, particularly for weekend evenings when the 25-table dining room fills with discerning gourmands. The wine country casual dress code welcomes guests eight and older for dinner service Thursday through Monday, making Farmhouse Inn & Restaurant reservations essential for experiencing Sonoma's most authentic luxury dining sanctuary.