Sonoma Cheese Factory — Restaurant in Sonoma

The Sonoma Cheese Factory is an iconic gem nestled in the heart of Sonoma Valley. With a rich legacy spanning 90 years, this delightful establishment continues to captivate visitors with its award-winning cheeses, locally-sourced goods, and warm hospitality.

Staff Excellence: From the moment you step inside, the friendly staff envelops you in a warm embrace. Their passion for cheese and commitment to customer satisfaction are palpable. Whether you're a seasoned cheese connoisseur or a curious first-timer, they take the time to understand your preferences and guide you toward the perfect selections.

Expert Gift Recommendations: Looking for a unique gift? Look no further! The staff's expertise shines when it comes to helping you choose the ideal present. Whether it's a cheese sampler, a gourmet pairing, or a beautifully wrapped cheese-themed gift basket, they've got you covered. Their personalized recommendations make every visit memorable.

Cheese Heaven: The sheer variety of cheeses at the Sonoma Cheese Factory is mind-boggling. From creamy Brie to tangy blue cheeses, each wheel tells a story. Don't hesitate to ask for samples--the staff happily offers tastes of their finest creations. And if you're unsure, they'll patiently explain flavor profiles, origins, and pairings.

Locally-Sourced Goodies: Beyond cheese, the factory boasts an impressive array of Sonoma's Best wines, homemade fudge, and other culinary delights. It's a treasure trove for foodies seeking authentic, regional products. Plus, their wine bar offers tastings, adding to the overall experience.

Cozy Atmosphere: Whether you choose indoor seating or the charming patio, the ambiance invites relaxation. Sip on a cappuccino, savor gelato, or enjoy a panini sandwich while surrounded by cheese-themed decor. And don't worry about parking--the ample free parking behind the store ensures a stress-free visit.

In summary, the Sonoma Cheese Factory isn't just a shop; it's an enchanting journey through flavors and hospitality. The staff's genuine enthusiasm and knack for gift recommendations elevate the experience. So, next time you're in Sonoma, make a beeline for this cheese...

Had very poor experience when we stopped as part of a bus tour. Sonoma Cheese Factory has a ridiculous system of ordering. You have to go to front, wait in line and place your order. Then you have to go to back, wait in line AGAIN and pay for your order. THEN you have to go back up front and WAIT AGAIN for your order. After placing my order and paying and waiting up front for 25 minutes for my sandwich I asked what was taking so long and got a curt reply. After waiting another 10 minutes I asked again as out tour bus lunch stop was for 45 minutes and the employee was again unhelpful. After complaining a THIRD TIME I was treated rudely so I requested a refund. I was then told to go to the back and had to WAIT AGAIN for the manager who issued a refund without an apology. I had to continue on the tour without a decent meal and barely made it back to the bus on time. This delay prevented our ability to explore and shop in Sonoma and should not have happened My recommendation is to eat elsewhere especially if you have less than an hour to waste. My recommendation to Sonoma Cheese Factory is to update your ordering system and educate your employees on courtesy to customers. You are serving a tourist clientele and you need to get up to speed and do...

The second star is for the various, well-protected cheese samples. The Lavender Cheddar was a particular favorite of mine.

Now for the missing stars. First up, so many flies. They had all the door wide open, which meant that the customers were just bombarded with flies as they walked around. I didn't want to order a sandwich here because of the issue, but my family was eating there, so I sucked it up.

I got the Sonoma deli sandwich. It was just okay. There was a lot of mustard, which overwhelmed the overall flavor of everything else in the sandwich.

Lastly, we sat in the indoor café area to eat. While there, I witnessed 10 customers walk up to the café counter, many of whom looked like they wished to order, but there was no employee present. They missed all of those sales because the employees kept wandering out to the patio or around to the front.

Overall, I understand that we were there on a Thursday, which may not be the busiest day of the week and was reflected in staffing levels, but the overall atmosphere and service quality of this establishment was very disappointing. Frankly, I'm amazed they remain able to serve food with the quantity of flying...