El Dorado Kitchen

“What an enjoyable experience we had at El Dorado Kitchen. My wife and I were sat outside for “Golden Hour” and the team immediately adjusted the umbrellas to ensure we were completely shaded. I ordered a local beer and my wife struggled deciding which drink to order but chose the mezcal cocktail. We ordered shrimp cocktail and oysters to start. Only the oysters came with horseradish but I feel that the shrimp should have had some with the cocktail sauce as well. Regardless, I’d order both raw bar dishes again. For entrees my wife ordered the steak frites which she thoroughly enjoyed. I couldn’t decide on what I wanted so I ordered three appetizers. The tuna tartare and burrata were great but the pork belly was out of this world. Very flavorful and a well-thought-out dish; something that I will order every time I go there. We of course ended with dessert. The strawberry rhubarb crisp was terrific as was the crème brûlée. I didn’t the sorbet paired well with the crème brûlée but it was delicious on its own. The staff was attentive throughout the meal ensuring our plates were cleared and waters were topped off in a timely manner. We will definitely return and look forward to exploring their menu.”

“Celebrated my bday here last night. Our server was an older gentleman, apologies I forgot his name but he was super friendly and knowledgeable! We followed some of his recommendations, got the paella! We also got the oysters, super fresh , salads good too and the drinks were yummy ! I would come back here, 10/10!”

“Dining at El Dorado Kitchen on Sonoma Plaza feels like a delicious stroll through history - literally. The building itself dates back to around the 1840s, originally built by Salvador Vallejo, brother of Sonoma Valley founder General Mariano Guadalupe Vallejo, as part of the early pueblo’s core structures. It has worn many hats over nearly two centuries - from a residence and winery to various community uses - and today it stands proudly as a vibrant culinary destination in the largest historic plaza in California.  Led by Executive Chef Armando Navarro, the food here is a joyful celebration of California cuisine with a Sonoma sensibility. On my visit, the short ribs were rich and tender, melting into a deep, savory hug with every bite. Melting in my mouth it gave such a rich and delightful feeling of loving family dinner. The mushroom tart was earthy and elegant, crisp enough to make you pause and smile. And don’t even get me started on the chocolate lava cake - molten, indulgent, and utterly irresistible. What I really love about El Dorado Kitchen is that it feels connected - to the history around it, to the seasons in Sonoma County, and to guests who wander in seeking a meal that’s both delicious and meaningful. Seating on the patio lets you watch life unfold on the plaza while savoring thoughtfully prepared dishes, local ingredients, and a menu that makes you want to stay just a little longer. If a dinner could make you grin with pure satisfaction and say, “That was awesome,” El Dorado Kitchen will absolutely deliver. You will crave to get back again and again”

“Absolutely outstanding from start to finish. Everything was great — the food, the service, and the atmosphere. What truly impressed me was how even the simplest dishes were elevated to something memorable. The beet salad, which sounds very simple on the menu, was incredibly fresh, perfectly balanced, and full of flavor. The squash soup was just incredible — rich, comforting, and beautifully executed. The service was attentive and warm without being intrusive, and the ambiance made the entire experience feel relaxed yet special. Highly recommend — we will definitely be back.”

“Chef Navarro had an amazing Thanksgiving menu. The wagu beef carpaccio was amazing and the Turkey meal was awesome. Such tasty gravy. And we loved the pumpkin pie. Really delightfully surprised. Lily our server was so nice and thoughtful as well as all the servers and bussers. Very attentive, making sure our glasses were never empty and plates were taken at the right times.”