The Matheson: Upscale Farm-to-Table Restaurant in Sonoma County, California’s Wine Country
When you dine at The Matheson, there’s more than just culinary excellence. Owned and operated by Chef Dustin Valette and Graig Ramsey, there is history, architectural grandeur, community involvement and an array of culinary options for every occasion.
Located in the picturesque town of Healdsburg in Sonoma County, California’s wine country, the building was originally a French-style bakery owned by Valette’s great-grandfather in the 1930’s. Working with renowned architect Cass Calder Smith, a magnificent restoration project was undertaken, creating an impressive 3-level multi-functional space - something I would not have expected in Sonoma County.
The Matheson features well-designed spaces including a Craft Bar, a high-tech wine wall bar, a private dining room, an outdoor patio, a mezzanine dining area including Roof 106, a bar and lounge with a garden which overlooks Healdsburg’s main square. Each space offers intimacy, comfort and distinctive design.
Among the special features are the large-scale paintings by artist Jay Mercado. Located in the main dining room, the murals pay homage to local farmers and culinary producers. Also worth mentioning are the handcrafted redwood tables by local artisan Andrew Somawang and the ceramics by artist Sara Paloma.
The Matheson features modern wine country cuisine with locally sourced ingredients supporting the regional farming community. Dustin Valette’s close relationship with local farmers and suppliers is evident in every dish, as the menu is constantly changing based on seasonal ingredients and availability.
For starters, try the Burrata with Asian pear, beet on sourdough with pistachios or the Tamanishiki Rice Porridge with scallops, peppers and preserved lemon. For starters, the Steelhead Trout with Yukon potatoes, smoked Manila clam and pork belly is a delicious choice. Notable meat dishes include the month-aged New York strip, braised beef Short Rib and aged Sonoma Duck served with pomegranate, braised chard, pomegranate and salsa macha. Prices are quite reasonable, ranging from $19 to $62. There are also seasonal tasting menus, offering a five-course meal for $125.
The Matheson’s wine list is extensive and updated frequently. Also worth mentioning is the unique wine wall bar with 88 carefully selected wines on tap. The Matheson is open daily for dinner from 5 p.m to 10 p.m. Reservations are highly recommended.
Upstairs, Roof 106 offers snacks, pizzas, plates and desserts ranging from $8 to $45. It’s hard to miss Roof 106’s copper, modern-chic bar, which offers an extensive cocktail selection. Not to be missed is Matherson’s modern take on the margarita. Roof 106 is open Wednesdays through Sundays starting at 12 p.m. and Mondays and Tuesdays starting at 5 p.m. Reservations are strongly recommended.
106 Matheson Street
Healdsburg, CA 95448
www.thematheson.com
+1 707-723-1106
For more information or to make a reservation, visit: www.thematheson.com.