Things To Do In Healdsburg - New Openings 2013

Every seasoned San Franciscan knows that instead of lamenting the fog-filled summer days, hopping in a car and trekking up to the sleepy Sonoma town of Healdsburg is a savvy way to soak in some rays — not to mention a few glasses of vino. And, yes, we know we brought you an in-depth guide of the artsy town’s must-see spots, but a recent visit unearthed many noteworthy developments. So, go ahead — call in sick, play hooky, do whatever it is you gotta do and head over to these new spots, stat!

Chalkboard

Yes, we were all a bit shaken up when we heard that the cult-classic restaurant Cyrus was closing down, but look on the bright side: It's been replaced by the seriously impressive eatery, Chalkboard. The unique menu boasts a wide range of seasonal and small dishes in a simple yet inviting environment. Be sure to order the "Candy Bar" for dessert — life-changing business.

Chalkboard, 29 North Street (near Healdsburg Avenue), Healdsburg; 707-473-8030.

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Healdsburg Shed

An expansive escape for food-minded shoppers, Healdsburg Shed is a neat collective that fuses together gardening, grub, shopping, and creative endeavors. After swinging open about two months ago, the airy, industrial space provides light bites, kitchenwares, wines, and other fun tools — you can literally get lost in all its offerings. Stop in for a stimulating class on everything from kombucha brewing to beekeeping, or throw back a glass of wine on the patio. This place is an inspiring hub for all things sustainable and scrumptious.

Healdsburg Shed, 25 North Street Healdsburg (near Healdsburg Avenue), Healdsburg; 707-431-7433.

Pizzando

It was only a matter of time before an artisanal pizza joint moved into the Healdsburg hood. A sister resto to local hotspot Spoonbar (so you know it’s got to be good), Pizzando serves up fresh Italian fare in a rustic setting, with a slew of outdoor seating to boot. If you’re looking for an inexpensive bite that satisfies those food cravings after a wine-drenched outing, this is it. Nom!

Pizzando, 301 Healdsburg Avenue (at Matheson Street); 707-922-5233.

The Mercantile Shop

While the Healdsburg square is littered with great wineries, coffee shops, and restaurants, we’ll be frank — there were definitely not enough enticing retail options. Now, the Mercantile Shop is changing the wine-country shopping game with its quaint selection of local knickknacks for the home and beyond. Shop racks of cool basics by LNA and rad, one-of-a-kind jewelry pieces. Founded last year by fashion editor and stylist Monica Schweiger and Kelly Ferris (who happen to be BFFs), the collective offers a super eclectic mix of hard to find products, right in the heart of Healdsburg.

The Mercantile Shop, 333 Center Street (near Matheson Street); 707-473-0617.

Photo: Via Healdsburg Shed