Kivelstadt was the highlight of our wine country trip. This is a hidden gem with unique, interesting, well-made wines and delicious seasonal farm to table bites from the attached restaurant. Tori who lead our tasting was very knowledgeable about the wines but also geeked out with us about all the birds visiting the feeders nearby. The vibe is very much like hanging out in the back yard with your friends, except your friends also happen to make really good wine and really good food (but like, they're super low key about both). Kivelstadt had been on my list for years but I had never gotten around to it because it's a little out of the way; Turns out it's absolutely worth making the time for.
Steve Kidd
Great experience and some awesome wi nes. Chelsea was a great guide to their wines. Tasting room is awesome as well. Sat outside on a beautiful day and got to know some very tasty wines. Will definitely be going back a lot.
Caitlen P.
A hidden gem! This off the beaten path wine garden is a HIT! I came here with a few friends after we went wine tasting for a nibble, the entire menu was delicious and I wouldn't hesitate to other anything from here! Fun beverages, unique dishes and warm staff with a pleasant backyard feel. I didn't feel rushed and came near closing. I even purchased bottles because I couldn't resist! I highly recommend this pit stop if you're out wandering the tasting rooms and WILL be back again!
Alexis Roucourt
Honestly fantastic. Great space, playground for kids, and the food is far more elevated than I was expecting. The pork belly was incredible. Plus, they accommodated our larger group than the original booking without a single complaint. Easy 5 stars.
Kayli D.
This place exceeded my expectations! I was worried it would be too backyard-y based on the pictures but it actually perfectly combines napa wine tasting with a backyard feel. and the food!! I was blown away by everything we ordered. And Tori was so helpful! I loved hearing everything about this place and I can't wait to come back. The crispy pork belly blew my mind. the pomegranate seeds in the butternut squash mac n cheese added an amazing pop of flavor. and the s'mores cups were so rich!
Ryan A.
I had very high hopes for Kivelstadt as may had touted it's fun atmostphere and good wine. Sadly, that is not what I experienced. We had arrived and been seated but forgotten about after that for 15-20 minutes. We were in no hurry, so not a huge deal, but they were not too terribly busy. Server eventually arrived and seemed annoyed when we said we were there really just to taste wine and had reservations. I was very confused at this point and felt like it could be an interesting tasting to say the least. Fast forward to the wine tasting. The server did not seem interested at all in explaining anything about the wine, which was disappointing, more so we were left with what the wine was and then they walked away. The wine itself was middle of the road as well, which really kept adding to the bad experience. We opted to rush through the tasting as it was very uncomfortable and one I'd prefer to not reexperience. I am hoping it was just a one off, but who knows. The food on the other hand did look pretty good, so I do regret not grabbing something.
Ron O.
We love the vibe and concept behind Kivelstadt Cellars Wines and this beautiful wine garden/lounge. We love the attempt at crafting wine from organic grapes, which based on our experience rarely achieves the type of full bodied, flavorful and balanced wines we seek out. Quite honestly, we didn't like every wine we tasted, but Kivelstadt definitely has a wide range of interesting varietals and winemaking styles that can appeal to people with a wide range of palates. They have a few different types/styles of wine flights to choose from in the $35-40pp range (from some more traditional wines to some very fun and unusual varietals/styles). With 3 people in our party, we got to try 12+ different wines. We especially enjoyed their Sparkling Rose, Rose, Syrah, Estate Pinot Noir, and Old Vine Carignane. (Some of their Carignane vines date back to 1877!) They also make a Gravenstein Apple & Chardonnay Grape cofermented wine (Grav Blanc) which is a light and refreshing drink for those who like both ciders and wine. While enjoying our wine tastings with the very friendly and knowledgeable host, Mike, and a cameo from the owner, Jordan, we picked through a good variety of sharable small plates from their sister restaurant, Carneros Bloom, and we had such an amazing afternoon! Good eats included Elote Corn, Halibut Ceviche, Belly Pork, Butternut Squash Mac, Burrata, and Chicken Bites. Everything was artfully plated and tasted so fresh and yummy. The wine garden/lounge area outdoors is very comfortable and laid back, and pet friendly! Good wines, good food, good service, good ambiance...Where else can you find so much to make everyone happy in one place? If you think you'll be able to frequent them, definitely consider joining their Wine Club... at just 12 bottles a year commitment, you get free tastings for up to 4 people every visit, invitations to member events, 10% off food and so much more. Such a memorable visit. Looking forward to visiting again with our friend who lives nearby and joined their Wine Club ;)
Billie M.
Not only did we have an amazing wine tasting with Mike directing our tasting at KivelStadt Cellars, but the appetizers were also excellent. Favorites: wine: Zinfandel(cherry/blueberry) served chilled and Grav Blanc( tart apple wine - lovely, not sweet), and Syrah - organic wines with a flare. Food: smoked elote, aquachile halibut, tomato & burrata, and chicken bites. Mike gave us the five star service in a relaxing garden setting with the most wonderful playground structure for the children/grandkids.
Emilie S.
my mouth is watering just thinking about my visit this past weekend to Kivelstadt. This is a must stop when you're in Sonoma, even worth making a trip just for this spot. Only took about an hour driving up from San Francisco midday on a Friday. We did the KC Labs and Off the Beaten Path tastings and loved the variety. Gravignon Blanc and the Native Son were some of our favorites. The food is amazing, you have to get the Glazed Pork Belly. The pork is cooked to tender perfection and pairs deliciously with the mushrooms. The aguachile is a bit more like a crudo and was perfect for the hot sonoma weather in September. We spent a few hours here in their comfortable outdoor seating and left with a few bottles. The wine club benefits are definitely worth it, with free tastings and generous discounts on bottles. The service was great, sharing just enough about the wines but also giving us space to taste slowly and enjoy the warm weather. Looking forward to my next visit to Kivelstadt - I'm telling my friends we're coming every weekend now Update 10/8: As promised, came back for another tasting. Tori guided us through the wines again. She is the absolute best. Let us take the tasting at our own pace and answered any questions we had. Even provided suggestions for other wineries to check out in the area. We had the aguachile again and loved it. Had the elote for the first time and it was great as well. You really can't go wrong with any of the food here. The panna cotta was the star though, love that it's seasonal. Can't wait for our next visit
Nathalie G.
It's a brilliant idea to have a playground within a nice restaurant and wine bar. We were able to keep our 2-year-old entertained on the playground right next to our table while we were waiting for our food. We ordered a wine flight and liked every wine. The food was also delicious. We would definitely like to come back!
my mouth is watering just thinking about my visit this past weekend to Kivelstadt.This is a must stop when you’re in Sonoma, even worth making a trip just for this spot. Only took about an hour driving up from San Francisco midday on a Friday. We did the KC Labs and Off the Beaten Path tastings and loved the variety. Gravignon Blanc and the Native Son were some of our favorites.The food is amazing, you have to get the Glazed Pork Belly. The pork is cooked to tender perfection and pairs deliciously with the mushrooms. The aguachile is a bit more like a crudo and was perfect for the hot sonoma weather in September.We spent a few hours here in their comfortable outdoor seating and left with a few bottles. The wine club benefits are definitely worth it, with free tastings and generous discounts on bottles.The service was great, sharing just enough about the wines but also giving us space to taste slowly and enjoy the warm weather.Looking forward to my next visit to Kivelstadt - I’m telling my friends we’re coming every weekend now ?
Sykes T.
The food here is always interesting and delicious. Had the fresh halibut tacos. So good!
Natasha D.
THIS place is amazing! They have a large outdoor area, which has a playground for kids and it is also super dog friendly. I don't have kids but my friend does and it was nice for her to relax a bit and enjoy adult time as her kid played. Monica was our server and was great and patient with us! I am not local but will be coming here soon!
Leon A.
Kailey P. I didn't see anything regarding 5% service charge on the menu. I guess it's possible I missed it, but I was told it went to the kitchen staff when I asked about it. Added note: $91.00 for two cheeseburgers with fries and two beers.
Nida B
What a wonderful lunch we had!Our party had 6 adults and 4 kids. We were seated thoughtfully and comfortably near the play area.The food was a true highlight of seasonal, local ingredients. I wish I had a favorite!The peach, mozzarella, bacon sandwich was a delightful combo. The veggie cuban a surprising winner. The grilled cheese in focaccia was devoured by the kiddos.We ordered each desert. The pana cotta was perfect, the s’mores in a jar and the Alaskan ice cream.Amazing food! Excellent dining experience!
Kivelstadt was the highlight of our wine country trip. This is a hidden gem with unique, interesting, well-made wines and delicious seasonal farm to table bites from the attached restaurant. Tori who lead our tasting was very knowledgeable about the wines but also geeked out with us about all the birds visiting the feeders nearby. The vibe is very much like hanging out in the back yard with your friends, except your friends also happen to make really good wine and really good food (but like, they're super low key about both). Kivelstadt had been on my list for years but I had never gotten around to it because it's a little out of the way; Turns out it's absolutely worth making the time for.
Great experience and some awesome wi nes. Chelsea was a great guide to their wines. Tasting room is awesome as well. Sat outside on a beautiful day and got to know some very tasty wines. Will definitely be going back a lot.
A hidden gem! This off the beaten path wine garden is a HIT! I came here with a few friends after we went wine tasting for a nibble, the entire menu was delicious and I wouldn't hesitate to other anything from here! Fun beverages, unique dishes and warm staff with a pleasant backyard feel. I didn't feel rushed and came near closing. I even purchased bottles because I couldn't resist! I highly recommend this pit stop if you're out wandering the tasting rooms and WILL be back again!
Honestly fantastic. Great space, playground for kids, and the food is far more elevated than I was expecting. The pork belly was incredible. Plus, they accommodated our larger group than the original booking without a single complaint. Easy 5 stars.
This place exceeded my expectations! I was worried it would be too backyard-y based on the pictures but it actually perfectly combines napa wine tasting with a backyard feel. and the food!! I was blown away by everything we ordered. And Tori was so helpful! I loved hearing everything about this place and I can't wait to come back. The crispy pork belly blew my mind. the pomegranate seeds in the butternut squash mac n cheese added an amazing pop of flavor. and the s'mores cups were so rich!
I had very high hopes for Kivelstadt as may had touted it's fun atmostphere and good wine. Sadly, that is not what I experienced. We had arrived and been seated but forgotten about after that for 15-20 minutes. We were in no hurry, so not a huge deal, but they were not too terribly busy. Server eventually arrived and seemed annoyed when we said we were there really just to taste wine and had reservations. I was very confused at this point and felt like it could be an interesting tasting to say the least. Fast forward to the wine tasting. The server did not seem interested at all in explaining anything about the wine, which was disappointing, more so we were left with what the wine was and then they walked away. The wine itself was middle of the road as well, which really kept adding to the bad experience. We opted to rush through the tasting as it was very uncomfortable and one I'd prefer to not reexperience. I am hoping it was just a one off, but who knows. The food on the other hand did look pretty good, so I do regret not grabbing something.
We love the vibe and concept behind Kivelstadt Cellars Wines and this beautiful wine garden/lounge. We love the attempt at crafting wine from organic grapes, which based on our experience rarely achieves the type of full bodied, flavorful and balanced wines we seek out. Quite honestly, we didn't like every wine we tasted, but Kivelstadt definitely has a wide range of interesting varietals and winemaking styles that can appeal to people with a wide range of palates. They have a few different types/styles of wine flights to choose from in the $35-40pp range (from some more traditional wines to some very fun and unusual varietals/styles). With 3 people in our party, we got to try 12+ different wines. We especially enjoyed their Sparkling Rose, Rose, Syrah, Estate Pinot Noir, and Old Vine Carignane. (Some of their Carignane vines date back to 1877!) They also make a Gravenstein Apple & Chardonnay Grape cofermented wine (Grav Blanc) which is a light and refreshing drink for those who like both ciders and wine. While enjoying our wine tastings with the very friendly and knowledgeable host, Mike, and a cameo from the owner, Jordan, we picked through a good variety of sharable small plates from their sister restaurant, Carneros Bloom, and we had such an amazing afternoon! Good eats included Elote Corn, Halibut Ceviche, Belly Pork, Butternut Squash Mac, Burrata, and Chicken Bites. Everything was artfully plated and tasted so fresh and yummy. The wine garden/lounge area outdoors is very comfortable and laid back, and pet friendly! Good wines, good food, good service, good ambiance...Where else can you find so much to make everyone happy in one place? If you think you'll be able to frequent them, definitely consider joining their Wine Club... at just 12 bottles a year commitment, you get free tastings for up to 4 people every visit, invitations to member events, 10% off food and so much more. Such a memorable visit. Looking forward to visiting again with our friend who lives nearby and joined their Wine Club ;)
Not only did we have an amazing wine tasting with Mike directing our tasting at KivelStadt Cellars, but the appetizers were also excellent. Favorites: wine: Zinfandel(cherry/blueberry) served chilled and Grav Blanc( tart apple wine - lovely, not sweet), and Syrah - organic wines with a flare. Food: smoked elote, aquachile halibut, tomato & burrata, and chicken bites. Mike gave us the five star service in a relaxing garden setting with the most wonderful playground structure for the children/grandkids.
my mouth is watering just thinking about my visit this past weekend to Kivelstadt. This is a must stop when you're in Sonoma, even worth making a trip just for this spot. Only took about an hour driving up from San Francisco midday on a Friday. We did the KC Labs and Off the Beaten Path tastings and loved the variety. Gravignon Blanc and the Native Son were some of our favorites. The food is amazing, you have to get the Glazed Pork Belly. The pork is cooked to tender perfection and pairs deliciously with the mushrooms. The aguachile is a bit more like a crudo and was perfect for the hot sonoma weather in September. We spent a few hours here in their comfortable outdoor seating and left with a few bottles. The wine club benefits are definitely worth it, with free tastings and generous discounts on bottles. The service was great, sharing just enough about the wines but also giving us space to taste slowly and enjoy the warm weather. Looking forward to my next visit to Kivelstadt - I'm telling my friends we're coming every weekend now Update 10/8: As promised, came back for another tasting. Tori guided us through the wines again. She is the absolute best. Let us take the tasting at our own pace and answered any questions we had. Even provided suggestions for other wineries to check out in the area. We had the aguachile again and loved it. Had the elote for the first time and it was great as well. You really can't go wrong with any of the food here. The panna cotta was the star though, love that it's seasonal. Can't wait for our next visit
It's a brilliant idea to have a playground within a nice restaurant and wine bar. We were able to keep our 2-year-old entertained on the playground right next to our table while we were waiting for our food. We ordered a wine flight and liked every wine. The food was also delicious. We would definitely like to come back!
Restaurantji Recommends
my mouth is watering just thinking about my visit this past weekend to Kivelstadt.This is a must stop when you’re in Sonoma, even worth making a trip just for this spot. Only took about an hour driving up from San Francisco midday on a Friday. We did the KC Labs and Off the Beaten Path tastings and loved the variety. Gravignon Blanc and the Native Son were some of our favorites.The food is amazing, you have to get the Glazed Pork Belly. The pork is cooked to tender perfection and pairs deliciously with the mushrooms. The aguachile is a bit more like a crudo and was perfect for the hot sonoma weather in September.We spent a few hours here in their comfortable outdoor seating and left with a few bottles. The wine club benefits are definitely worth it, with free tastings and generous discounts on bottles.The service was great, sharing just enough about the wines but also giving us space to taste slowly and enjoy the warm weather.Looking forward to my next visit to Kivelstadt - I’m telling my friends we’re coming every weekend now ?
The food here is always interesting and delicious. Had the fresh halibut tacos. So good!
THIS place is amazing! They have a large outdoor area, which has a playground for kids and it is also super dog friendly. I don't have kids but my friend does and it was nice for her to relax a bit and enjoy adult time as her kid played. Monica was our server and was great and patient with us! I am not local but will be coming here soon!
Kailey P. I didn't see anything regarding 5% service charge on the menu. I guess it's possible I missed it, but I was told it went to the kitchen staff when I asked about it. Added note: $91.00 for two cheeseburgers with fries and two beers.
What a wonderful lunch we had!Our party had 6 adults and 4 kids. We were seated thoughtfully and comfortably near the play area.The food was a true highlight of seasonal, local ingredients. I wish I had a favorite!The peach, mozzarella, bacon sandwich was a delightful combo. The veggie cuban a surprising winner. The grilled cheese in focaccia was devoured by the kiddos.We ordered each desert. The pana cotta was perfect, the s’mores in a jar and the Alaskan ice cream.Amazing food! Excellent dining experience!