Sonoma Grille, Amherst

The owners of Sonoma Grille distill their restaurant’s essence into a single image: a bold black “S” entwined with grape vines. This symbol is a recurring motif—even stamped on the brushed chrome panels of a railing—and it embodies the California-influenced style of Sonoma Grille's six distinct dining spaces. But the West Coast essence shines brightest at the polished wood bar, which houses racks of international and house wines and a cot for overprotective winemakers. On many nights, these rooms reverberate with music from live ensembles.

Sonoma Grill’s chefs complete the laid back, yet upscale atmosphere with homey takes on traditional French, Italian, and American dishes. Appetizers such as pan-seared crab cakes and baked brie serve as overtures to bowls of panko-crusted lobster mac ‘n’ cheese and plates of grilled Atlantic salmon with a Canadian maple glaze.