Where to eat, drink and shop in Healdsburg.

Healdsburg is one of the most appealing towns in the Sonoma Valley. Just ten miles north of Santa Rosa, it's a nice blend of sophisticated and sleepy.

The historic plaza, which provides a shady respite on warm days, is lined with stylish shops and restaurants. There's even plenty of free parking off Healdsburg Avenue between Matheson and Mill Streets.

If you don't have time to visit a lot of wineries, Selby Winery, Hauck Cellars, Rosenblum Cellars, Topel Winery, Souverain, Gallo, Lake Sonoma Winery, Artiste Winery, Todd Hollow Vineyards, Kendall-Jackson, and La Crema all have tasting rooms within a block or two of the town plaza.

When it's time to eat, rather than drink, there are several good restaurants within walking distance. The Healdsburg Bar & Grill serves up-market pub grub inside, and on the attractive patio. If you're looking for a burger made with freshly ground Meyer natural Angus Beef, this is the spot. Add Apple-wood smoked bacon, Alexander Valley gourmet pickles, and a basket of truffle oil and Parmigiano Reggiano fries.

Beer drinkers should head to the Bear Republic Brewing Company, a couple of blocks down Healdsburg Avenue. With locally grown fruits and cheeses, the Brewer's Tasting Plate is a healthy alternative to the expected chicken wings and burgers. The Press features a grilled chicken breast, caramelized onions, Brie, and bacon on a sourdough baguette. What's not to like about that.

On the north side of the plaza, Bistro Ralph has bistro classics like Chicken Paillard, Hangar Steak, and Duck Confit.

Willi's Seafood and Raw Bar, on Healdsburg Avenue just past North Street, features small plates, and as the name suggests, fresh shellfish. On warm, summer days, their patio is a slice of heaven.

The menu is so diverse that it‘s hard to settle on just a few plates. The Buttermilk-battered Calamari and Warm Spinach Salad were sensational. And the Bellweather Farms Carmody Cheese Fondue with charred corn, chiles, and Fritos at the next table looked fantastic.

If you're still tipsy from tasting, Healdsburg has great shopping - everything from expensive housewares and designer dog duds to antiques and fine art. Healdburg's Classics Antiques is a must-visit for serious bric-a-brac browsers. We picked up a pair of crystal desk lamps with Bakelite accents for $55.

Once you're ready to taste again, Rodney Strong Vineyards is just a few minutes away at 11455 Old Redwood Highway.

If you'd like to stay the night, the Healdsburg Inn on the Plaza is a great choice.

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