Cochon Volant BBQ in Sonoma

Cochon Volant BBQ Smoke House serves classic American barbecue—ribs, brisket, pork shoulder, chicken and more—smoked over almond wood. It is delicious BBQ, in Sonoma, no less, not Memphis. The menu is here.

“For over 25 years, Chef Rob Larman has been a creator of memorable food experiences in the San Francisco Bay Area,” as the restaurant’s website explains. “Born in Southern California, he grew up in San Francisco and is a graduate of the Culinary Program at City College. As a chef and restaurateur, he has worked at some of the Bay Area’s highest profile kitchens such as Kuleto’s in San Francisco and Casa Madrona in Sausalito.”

“The casual spot has upscale touches, too, such as Sonoma-style sauces, boutique beer and wine,” adds Sonoma Magazine.

For Mexican food, El Molino Central is delicious. The Chronicle review is here.

Both are reasonable and unpretentious roadside restaurants. For more upscale dining, we like The Girl & the Fig. We have their cookbook at home.

Author: jeffpelline

Jeff Pelline is a veteran editor and award-winning journalist - in print and online. He is publisher of Sierra FoodWineArt magazine and its website SierraCulture.com. Jeff covered business and technology for The San Francisco Chronicle for 12 years, and he was a founding editor and Editor of CNET News for eight years, among other positions. Jeff has a bachelor's degree from UC Berkeley and a master's from Northwestern University. His hobbies include sailing, swimming, and trout fishing in the Sierra. View all posts by jeffpelline