For the past 10+ years, every Autumn my heart begins to long for Northern California's beautiful landscapes, crisp mornings and warm sunny afternoons relaxing on the veranda of a picturesque winery enjoying a delicious glass of local wine.
This year, I wanted to add something different to our experience, so I set out to scour the internet for something interesting, yet relaxing. There was not much 'scouring' to do as it turns out. I quickly found 'Savor Healdsburg' Food Tours. We like food!
I purchased tickets online a few weeks in advance and to be honest- I was nervous to tell my fiance about it- as he is not much of an 'adventurer' when it comes to spending his vacation time with a group of strangers. I told him delicately, and he took it in stride. (He's patient that way)
Fast-forward to the day of our Tour. We arrived in the town square of beautiful, quaint downtown Healdsburg about 30 minutes early (another one of my beloved's endearing qualities. Always early) . There were clearly plenty of choices when it came to dining and shopping in the area. Lucky for us, we did not have to make that decision, as Savor Healdsburg has already done the legwork.
We sat in the park and enjoyed watching children laughing, dogs playing and a young Bachelor Party participant frolick in the central fountain. Really.... In the fountain. In his boxers....(another story)
Finally it was the appointed time of our very first Food Tour and we were greeted byTammy, our Tour Guide for the day.
She was prompt, approachable and friendly. She gave us all a short history of Healdsburg that was both informative and entertaining. Our Fellow Foodies were also friendly and excited to begin.
My sweet man was clearly still tentative about this event, I could tell by the way he was holding his breathe, lagging behind and not making eye contact (I'm pretty quick to pick up on his nonverbal communication) So I held his hand so he wouldn't bolt and we struck out on a sunny afternoon for an adventure.
We visited SHED, Campo Fina,Bravas Bar de Tapas, Gustafson Winery Tasting Room, a side trip to the historic Costeaux Bakery for one of our Fellow Foodies, then a final trip to Moustache Baked Goods for a sweet treat to take home. The food was delicious and well proportioned. The wait staff was friendly and prepared for our group at each of our stops.
By the end of the tour, we were certainly not hungry, but not overstuffed. We had enjoyed an adult beverage or two, but not over indulged. We learned alot about each business, but were never bored. And, most importantly, the love of my life was laughing and conversing with the Foodies and had a great time.
Bravo! Savor Healdsburg! You got us through our first Food Tour with flying colors.
Thank you so much. We now have a few 'favorites' on our list for next years' trip to Sonoma Valley.
Sincerely,
D. Bricker and a slightly more confident Fiance'