Contact
The Swiss Hotel
18 W Spain St
Sonoma, CA 95476
(707) 938-2884
About Swiss Hotel
The Swiss Hotel is a historic landmark in Sonoma, California, originally built in 1836 as a saloon and boarding house for gold miners. Over the years, it has been restored and renovated several times, and it now offers five charming guest rooms, a restaurant, and banquet areas.
One interesting fact about the Swiss Hotel is that it is said to be haunted by several ghosts, including a young girl who allegedly died in a fire in the building many years ago. Some guests and staff members have reported seeing apparitions, hearing unexplained noises, and feeling strange sensations while staying or working in the hotel.
Despite its spooky reputation, the Swiss Hotel is a popular destination for visitors to Sonoma Valley, who appreciate its historic charm, convenient location, and warm hospitality. The hotel and restaurant are highly rated by guests, who praise the friendly staff, delicious food, and cozy atmosphere.
The hotel is located in a prime location in Sonoma, California, just steps away from the historic Mission Solano de San Francisco and the Sonoma Plaza. This makes it an ideal base for exploring the rich history and culture of the Sonoma Valley, including its many early California sites.
In addition, the Swiss Hotel is also located within a short drive from dozens of wineries, including both world-famous and boutique vineyards in the Sonoma Valley and Carneros appellations. This makes it an ideal destination for wine lovers who want to explore the local vineyards and taste some of the best wines the region has to offer.
Beyond the wineries, the Swiss Hotel is also conveniently located near other popular attractions in the region, including the village of Glen Ellen, Jack London State Park, Sonoma Raceway, and the Napa Valley. This makes it an ideal choice for visitors who want to experience all the best that the Sonoma and Napa regions have to offer.
The Dining Experience – Lunch
The Swiss Hotel offers a dining experience that combines classic California cuisine with a touch of Swiss and European flair. The restaurant is open for breakfast, lunch, and dinner, and serves a variety of dishes that are made with locally-sourced and seasonal ingredients.
One of the standout features of the Swiss Hotel’s dining experience is its garden dining area, which offers a charming and intimate setting for guests to enjoy their meals. The garden is filled with lush greenery and colorful flowers and is the perfect place to relax and enjoy a meal in the fresh air.
The menu at the Swiss Hotel changes seasonally to take advantage of the freshest local ingredients. Some of the signature dishes include the Swiss-style rösti, made with potatoes and served with a variety of toppings, as well as the classic French onion soup and the popular burger, made with grass-fed beef and served with crispy fries.
The Swiss Hotel also has a full bar that offers a wide selection of local wines and craft beers, as well as cocktails made with fresh ingredients and artisanal spirits.
The Food
Glarifee
The Glarifee, also known as the Glazed Irish Coffee, is the Swiss Hotel Sonoma’s signature drink and a favorite among guests. The drink has a rich and flavorful history, having been created in 1968 and its recipe kept a closely-guarded “family secret.”
While the exact recipe for the Glarifee is not known, it is believed to be a twist on the classic Irish coffee, which typically consists of coffee, Irish whiskey, and whipped cream. The Glarifee is said to feature a glazed caramel topping, which adds a sweet and indulgent note to the drink, while still maintaining the bold and robust flavors of the coffee and whiskey.
Note, this drink is on their dessert menu in case you don’t find it. Although labeled as a dessert cocktail, we had no problems pairing this with our appetizers and entrees. I asked the bartender if she knew the recipe and she told me she’s been working in the Swiss Hotel for more than 10 years and she still doesn’t know what’s in it!
Fried Calamari
The fried calamari at the Swiss Hotel is absolutely delicious! The fact that it was prepared perfectly, with a crispy and springy texture that was not at all rubbery, is a testament to the quality of the dish and the skill of the chef.
The addition of spicy marinara and lemon aioli as dipping sauces is also a great touch, as it adds both flavor and complexity to the dish. The spicy marinara provides a zesty kick that complements the delicate flavor of the calamari, while the lemon aioli adds a tangy and creamy element that enhances the overall taste and texture of the dish.
Margherita Pizza
The classic combination of fresh mozzarella, marinara sauce, and basil is a timeless favorite that never fails to satisfy.
The fact that the Swiss Hotel offers a cauliflower crust option for those who prefer a gluten-free option is also a great touch. This ensures that all guests can enjoy this classic pizza without having to worry about dietary restrictions.
The pizza is well-executed, the combination of fresh ingredients and high-quality mozzarella cheese should provide a burst of flavor with each bite. The crust should be perfectly cooked, with just the right amount of chewiness and crunch, and the marinara sauce should be tangy and slightly sweet, with just enough acidity to balance the richness of the cheese.
Buttermilk Fried Chicken Sandwich
The Buttermilk Fried Chicken Sandwich at the Swiss Hotel is a delectable and satisfying dish that would be sure to please anyone looking for a delicious and hearty meal.
The combination of crispy, tender fried chicken, tangy and flavorful Asian slaw, and zesty sriracha aioli, all nestled within a soft and buttery brioche bun, creates a flavor profile that is both rich and satisfying. The use of buttermilk in the chicken marinade is also a great touch, as it adds a tangy and slightly acidic flavor that complements the other ingredients perfectly.
The choice of french fries or mixed green salad as a side also adds a nice touch of versatility to the dish, allowing guests to choose a side that suits their tastes and dietary preferences.
Final Thought
Overall, the Swiss Hotel in Sonoma, California, is a charming and inviting boutique hotel that offers a unique and memorable experience for its guests. From its prime location in the heart of the Sonoma Valley wine country to its beautifully appointed guest rooms, to its delicious dining options, the Swiss Hotel has something to offer everyone.
One of the standout features of the Swiss Hotel is its attention to detail and commitment to quality, which is evident in everything from its locally-sourced and seasonally-inspired menu to its cozy and comfortable guest rooms. The hotel’s commitment to sustainability, as demonstrated by its use of eco-friendly products and practices, is also a noteworthy feature that sets it apart from other hotels.
Whether you’re looking for a romantic getaway, a wine country adventure, or a relaxing weekend away from the hustle and bustle of everyday life, the Swiss Hotel is a great choice. With its charming and inviting atmosphere, high-quality amenities, and exceptional dining options, it’s no wonder that the Swiss Hotel is a favorite destination for travelers from around the world.
