As summer approaches in a county with one of the fastest-growing restaurant scenes, what does a small town tucked away in the redwoods have to offer? “A lot!” we locals would say.
Historically, Occidental is known for its classic Italian American family-style dinners and bohemian “Summer of Love” vibes. And while that original spirit will never fade, many locals feel our little town is on the precipice of positive change. As Occidental Pride prepares for its third annual “OUT in the Woods” celebration on Sept. 27, and the Occidental Farmers Market and Community Council both bring home the rewards of a recent Creative Sonoma grant, a metamorphosis is on the way. Local businesses are geared up to take on this new era — and our food and drink scene is no exception.
Altamont General Store
Starting with the ever-bustling Altamont General Store on Main Street, Andzia and Jenay Hofftin opened their doors in 2020, breathing new life into the Occidental dining scene. In addition to their already vibrant menu of what they call “seed-to-service” Hawaiian-inspired fare, don’t miss out on their plate lunches with sides of mac salad and kimchi, or their summertime slushies in a variety of fun flavors. The Hofftins also have a packed schedule of events, including the reopening of their beer garden with DJs and dancing, and a rare hometown show with the Rainbow Girls.
Altamont General Store, 3703 Main St., Occidental, CA 95465 | www.altamontgeneralstore.com
Inn at Occidental
Just up the road on Church Street, Matt and Victoria Meblin, owners of the Inn at Occidental, host a locals’ happy hour at their in-house wine bar Wednesday through Sunday, 4—7 p.m. Fridays from 5—6:30 p.m., they feature tastings with a different hyperlocal winemaker each week. When summer hits, they’ll launch a courtyard concert series complete with barbecue and oysters on holidays. Be sure to try their signature Spritz when the outdoor bar opens in June.
Inn at Occidental, 3657 Church St., Occidental, CA 95465 | www.innatoccidental.com
Hazel
Michele and Jim Wimborough have become something of legends over the past decade with their locals’ favorite restaurant Hazel on Bohemian Highway. To the dismay of many, they’ll be closing their doors toward the end of the year. Before they leave, enjoy summer on their outdoor patios with seasonal pizza specials or your go-to favorites. Watch for news of a 10-year anniversary celebration this summer.
Hazel, 3782 Bohemian Hwy., Occidental, CA 95465 | www.restauranthazel.com
Two Trees Tea House
At the far south end of Main Street under the redwoods, you’ll find the new kids on the block: Two Trees, Occidental’s community teahouse created by my husband Chris and me. Join us year-round for a sliding-scale, donation-based community tea service. Book a Chinese-style tea tasting, and explore our line of ethically sourced organic teas, blends, herbal tisanes and pre-loved teaware in a serene, plant-filled, community-focused enclave. Keep an eye out for our events, workshops, cooking classes and live music gatherings — particularly our seasonal soirée, “Speakteasy!”