We will be staying in this area to celebrate two birthdays. We have reservations at Cyrus, but it seems crazy to spend a minimum of $300/person for food (for parties of 8, you must use their private dining room). So, while I might be forgoing an amazing dining experience, I would prefer to actually being doing something interesting, rather than just eating terrific food. Any clever ideas? Are there dinners in any wineries? One other question, would a crowd that was looking forward to Cyrus be disappointed with Dry Creek Kitchen?

On other days, we will have 6 kids with us (primarily 7 and 5). Any neat ideas for the kids? Can the kids go to Willi's for dinner?


Any help would be appreciated.

Cyrus is amazing, Dry Creek Kitchen is also very good, tho not in the same league as Cyrus. If you go to Dry Creek Kitchen, try the tasting menu. Dinner for 2 was included with our stay at the Hotel Healdsburg, where the DCK is located. Enjoy your trip! ***kim***

Well if someone HAS to east at Cyrus they probably won't be disapointed. Its Foodie Nirvana. Personally I agree with you, and I'm a local. I like Dry Creek Kitchen too, and Willie's is great ....esp. if you ask to be seated in the patio. Kids OK at Willies not so much at Cyrus or Dry Creek Kitchen.
The kids might really like a walk/picnic in the Armstrong Woods in Guerneville. Big Redwood trees, and a majestic silence. Kids love the Powell Candy Store in the Sq. in Hbg...there are also free concerts on Tues night in the Sq. and a farmer's market on Tues, and Sat. I don't know where you are staying, but you might like to check out a vacation rental house rather than a B&B or hotel, esp. if you have children.... Try www.sonomacountyvacations.com Some houses have pools... or big yards... Price is probably about the same as a hotel/B&B.

We went to the Farmers Market and music in the Square on Tuesday when we were in Healdsburg. It was fun. You can also get snacks and drinks at the Oakville Market, just across the street. They also have a guest chef at Oakville on Tuesdays. When we were there they had huge pots of paells that looked and smelled delish.
When are you going? Tuesdays in the Square I think is till Labor day?

Well, I'm, a local and don't care at all for DCK-no thank you !! Cyrus is fine if you want to spend the $$$$.
Willi's will be fine for kids-it is mostly small plates and they will love the fries ! You can check out the menu at http://willisseafood.net

The kids might get a kick out of a lunch at the Jimtown Store in the Alexander Valley.

If you're visit is prior to Labor Day
you could take the kids for swim at the Veterans Memorial Beach
call 707-433-1625 for info.
or check around for possible kayak or float trips on the Russian River.

kleroux mentioned a trip to the Armstong Woods-if you keep driving west on Hwy 116-you'll find some neat beaches
to explore out by Jenner & Bodega Bay.

Now, here's what I'd do with kids that age-take them on safari !
http://safariwest.com
This place is a blast for all ages !
Advance rezzies are a must !

Where about is your lodging and what time of year will your vist with us be?

R5

I agree with razzledazzle. Jimtown Store is kid-friendly...well, PEOPLE-friendly! We also arranged a private dinner there once for a group and it was delicious and amazingly good. The outdoor, rustic, vine-covered patio was pleasantly lit and colorfully decorated, service superb. But it is not a formal spot; antithesis of DCK.

Is the Center Street Cafe still open? That would be a great place to take kids. I can't imagine spending all the $$$ on 5 and 7 year olds at Willi's!! It's a must for adults, though.

My experience with 5 & 7 yr olds, esp. at a place like Willie's is that they can graze and eat what they want from the adults plates. No need to order specially for them. Center St. Cafe etc. is the usual deli food....its nice to expose kids to something different.