Most People Don’t Know These Small Towns In Northern California Have Top-Rated Restaurants

There are so many good restaurants in Northern California. But what makes a restaurant top rated? We’ve featured restaurants with great views, well-loved specialties, and even a restaurant that started as a winery. The coveted Michelin Star rating is a fool-proof way to ensure where you’re dining is the crème de la crème. Below is a list of restaurants that have received Michelin Stars and are located in small towns.

Cyprus Website

Cyrus is a restaurant in Geyserville, located in Alexander Valley– a picturesque valley full of vineyards. A meal at Cyrus begins in their "bubble lounge" with a glass of Champagne or a martini. Guests are seated at one long table where they meet the chefs. Diners are then sat at private tables in a room with views of Alexander Valley. After the main course guests are taken to the Chocolate Room and presented with a parting gift.

Diavola Pizzeria & Salumeria Facebook Page

Also located in Geyserville, Diavola Pizzeria & Salumeria is listed in the Michelin Guide under the "Bib Gourmand" section to denote a restaurant with good value and good cooking. Try their pizza margarita or rigatoni with pork cheek. No reservations are needed. They have dine-in and carry-out.

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The Boonville Hotel & Restaurant

Boonville Hotel & Restaurant is featured in the Michelin Guide for its "simple but arresting plates" made from produce from their own garden. The town is in Mendocino County and the population hovers at about 1,000 people. The menu changes frequently so check out the website before heading to Boonville.

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Harbor House Inn Restaurant Website

The restaurant at the Harbor House Inn in the town of Elk was awarded two Michelin Stars. The creative and fresh 8-course tasting menu changes daily. Enjoy your meal on the deck with a stunning view of the coast. Reservations are required.

Post Ranch Inn Website

Sierra Mar in Big Sur is perched on a cliff overlooking the coastline. Nearly every table in the restaurant has incredible views. They really make the most of their incredible location with a heated outdoor deck and a firepit. The dinner is a seasonal four-course menu that changes daily. Located at the Post Ranch Inn, this fine dining restaurant serves lunch, and dinner, plus breakfasts for guests.

Big Sur Smokehouse Website

Big Sur Smokehouse in Big Sur is southern barbecue served in a coastal setting. Located off of Highway 1, this classic barbecue place serves platters with all good sides you’d expect with top-notch barbecue. They don’t accept reservations so pop-in when you’re driving by and grab a table.

Have you ever dined at a Michelin Star restaurant? Tell us about your experience.