Over the long Winter Wineland weekend, I made a pit stop at Barndiva in Healdsburg. Just off the square, it is an open and inviting space. Chefs de cuisine Michael Ellis and Jaime Dillion are doing some nice work here, cooking in an easy and comfort food oriented style, usingsustainableranchers, fishmongers and farmers. They call it “Modern Country” which works for me.

I tried a first course dish of Goat Cheese Croquettes made with Laurel Chenel cheese and house-made tomato jam. This was served with a local organic dipping sauce sprinkled with lavenderblossoms. Perfectly made, well presented, it paired well with a glass of 2005 Fort Ross Chardonnay from the Sonoma Coast.

(0 to 20) otv rating
food: 16
service: 14
vibe: 14
price $$ to $$$

231 Center Street-Healdsburg, Ca -(707) 431-0100
online