12 Essential Restaurants in Santa Rosa

"Santa Rosa’s somewhat rowdier side comes to life at downtown’s Mexican hot spot, La Rosa. The margarita menu is as long as your arm, matched by the beer and cocktail lists. Grab a seat in one of the cowhide chairs to gaze upon posters promoting Mexican wrestling matches and old Pedro Infante movies. Keen on a skinny margarita? We suggest the Cholita Linda, which swaps earthier mezcal for tequila. Big combination plates of everything from fajitas and tamales to birria and chimichangas seem designed for groups. And that’s ok because there is plenty of room inside and out for parties of all sizes." - Christina Mueller