A San Francisco to Sonoma County Transit Adventure
Embark on a thrilling journey from the heart of San Francisco to the enchanting landscapes of Sonoma County through public transportation. It is not just a commute; it is an adventure brimming with culinary delights and cultural experiences. Sit back and enjoy the beauty of the North Bay. Take advantage of the SMART Connect Micro Transit Shuttle that can take you directly from the SMART Train to Bricoleur Vineyards. Here are our top picks for your journey start to finish:
Stop 1: San Francisco Ferry Building
San Francisco Ferry Building
The Ferry Building is an iconic gateway to San Francisco, serving as a historic landmark and a vibrant civic gathering place for residents and tourists. The Ferry Building celebrates local culture and cuisine as a community hub, showcasing small regional producers. With a diverse array of locally-owned shops and restaurants, there are plenty of activities to enjoy while waiting for your ferry journey to Sonoma County.
Cholita Linda
Looking for a bite to eat before heading onto the boat? Cholita Linda has you covered with handmade Latin American fusion. Cholita Linda makes everything from scratch, from hand-battered fish tacos to agua frescas. Embracing a philosophy of fresh, vibrant food, Cholita Linda's dishes capture the essence of Latin America and echo its traditions, culture, and warmth. In Peru, "Chola" or "Cholita" is an affectionate term for a girl of native or mixed heritage, and "Linda" means pretty or sweet—a perfect representation of the food cooked at Cholita Linda.
Gott's Roadside
Founded by brothers Joel and Duncan Gott, sons of Carry Gott, our Co-Head Winemaker, Gott's Roadside is where you'll find top-notch, locally sourced classics: juicy cheeseburgers, Ahi Poke tacos, and fresh salads. Pair your favorites with California wines or local beers for a perfect match. At Gott's Roadside, every detail matters, and nothing is ever ordinary.
Blue Bottle Coffee
Pre-boat caffeine fix? Blue Bottle Coffee has two locations in the Ferry Building Marketplace— a modern espresso bar in the North Nave and a newer Tasting Room in the North Arcade. They've got you covered, from espresso delights to drip coffee and New Orleans iced coffee. Indulge in daily desserts mainly made with organic ingredients, plus coffee-friendly bites like granola and Belgian waffles. Blue Bottle takes a hands-on approach to every step possible to discover and preserve the true nature of excellent coffee.
Ferry Plaza Farmers Market
Arriving on a Saturday morning? Take advantage of the Ferry Plaza Farmers Market. Run by the nonprofit organization Foodwise, the Ferry Plaza Farmers Market is renowned and cherished for the excellence and variety of its fresh farm products sourced from California's innovative, sustainable growers, food artisans, and chefs. Recognized nationwide, it is one of the premier farmers markets to explore.
Stop 2 : Larkspur Ferry Terminal
Larkspur Ferry Terminal
As you arrive at the Larkspur Ferry Terminal and head towards the Larkspur SMART Train station, don't miss the chance to explore an array of incredible shops and restaurants at Marin County Market.
Marin Country Mart
Since 1975, Marin Country Mart is a modern village with organic eateries, fitness, wellness, services, boutiques, and family events. Situated between the Larkspur Ferry Terminal and SMART Train Station, it caters to Marin County communities as well as San Francisco locals who want a break from the city.
Hog Island Oyster
A Bricoleur Vineyards favorite: Hog Island Oyster. Indulge in oysters and local seafood with stunning bay and Mt. Tam views. Sip a drink at the bar, glimpse the shucking line, and choose a table inside, on the patio, or grab some seafood to cook at home from Hog Island's counter. They prioritize a farm-to-plate experience caring for customers and the planet while having a lot of fun!
Stop 3 : Marin County -Sonoma-Marin Area Rail Transit (SMART)
Climb aboard the Sonoma-Marin Area Rail Transit (SMART) train for a smooth ride from the allure of Marin County to the lively energy of Sonoma County in Northern California. It’s not just a train; it’s your bridge between these remarkable regions. SMART train is designed for residents and visitors, taking them through the San Francisco North Bay’s scenic beauty and cultural richness.
Stop 4 : Charles M. Schulz Sonoma County Airport – Sonoma-Marin Area Rail Transit (SMART)
Since August 2019, energy-efficient and environmentally friendly diesel-powered trains operated by the Sonoma-Marin Area Rail Transit have been providing passenger service between the Charles M. Schulz Sonoma County Airport station at the north end of Santa Rosa and Larkspur in Marin County and vice versa.
Stop 5 : SMART Connect Micro Transit Shuttle
SMART Connect is a convenient, on-demand shared shuttle service that bridges the gap between the SMART Sonoma County Airport Station, Charles M. Schulz-Sonoma County Airport (STS), and nearby businesses, including Bricoleur Vineyards. Whether you're a traveler connecting between the train or a visitor ready to kickstart your wine-country adventure. SMART Connect streamlines your journey. Booking a ride on the SMART Connect shuttle is made simple through the Ride Pingo App.
Here are some other phenomenal businesses you can visit through the SMART Connect shuttle.
Russian River Brewing Company Windsor
Russian River Brewing Company, established in 1997 as part of Guerneville's Korbel Champagne Cellars, has gained national recognition. Their Santa Rosa pub is known for the sought-after Pliny the Younger ale, available for only two weeks in February. On October 11, 2018, they unveiled a new 85,000-square-foot brewpub! This expansion includes beer production, administrative offices, a brewpub, an outdoor beer garden, a gift shop, a tasting room, and ample parking space. The increased capacity allows wider distribution of their beers across existing and new California markets.
John & Ash Co
At John Ash & Co., dining is a true homage to the best of Wine Country cuisine. Located adjacent to the stunning Vintners Resort, with its picturesque vineyards and gardens, this restaurant pioneered in Sonoma County, advocating seasonal, locally sourced fare paired impeccably with regional wines.
Kendall-Jackson Wine Estate & Gardens
Take your wine country experience to the next level with a seated food & wine pairing experience at Kendall-Jackson Wine Estates and Garden. These exceptional tastings pair limited-production wines with original bites created by their culinary team.
Hook & Ladder Winery
Hook & Ladder Winery, carrying on the legacy of the De Loach family in the Russian River Valley, was established in 2003 by the pioneering vintners Cecil and Christine De Loach. Now led by their grandson, winemaker Jason De Loach, Hook & Ladder highlights the appellation's diversity in limited-production wines from their estate vineyards. The winery's name honors Cecil De Loach's 17-year career as a San Francisco firefighter.
From the Ferry Building’s lively culinary scene to the picturesque vineyards, the journey from San Francisco to Sonoma County via public transportation is a gateway to a world of cultural and culinary luxury as you uncover the local flavors and experiences at each stop. Public transport isn’t merely a means of travel; it’s a cultural immersion and an entry to the diverse experiences that Sonoma County has in store. We hope to see you soon!
