We have to hand it to Northern California wine country as a destination that continues to re-invent itself. Napa and Sonoma valleys have always had top wine. But now, Appellation Healdsburg ties it together as a culinary hotel that levels up the local food scene, too.
A New Venture From Chef Charlie Palmer
Charlie Palmer is one of America’s most-decorated chefs with more than 20 Michelin stars under his hat. And now, he is cooking up something new in hospitality. As co-founder of Appellation Hotels, he’s developing a new luxury portfolio with a team that includes Christopher Hunsberger, a former president of Four Seasons Hotels and Resorts.
The inaugural property in the collection is the 108‑room Appellation Healdsburg in the heart of wine country in Sonoma County, California, which opened in late summer 2025.
Despite being spread over eight acres with two swimming pools, terroir spa, fitness center, and over 10,000 square feet of event space for meetings and weddings, the vision for this resort is a culinary-forward approach. Hotel registration takes place at a butcher block-inspired desk inside the lively restaurant. It leaves no doubt about the food-first vibe, as guests can enjoy welcome canapes and botanical beverages.
Culinary Cradle of California
Charlie Palmer has seen big changes come since he moved with his young family to this once-quiet corner of Sonoma County wine country. “There aren’t many places that have everything within a 30-mile radius—an abundance of fruit and vegetables, artisanal cheesemakers, great seafood, and people raising everything from premium poultry to lamb and beef,” he shared. “And that’s before you even start on the world-class wine.”
Over the past two decades, as Chef Palmer has grown local agricultural relationships, he has introduced classic venues such as Dry Creek Kitchen, Spirit Bar, and Hotel Healdsburg to the up-and-coming destination. Moving away from his downtown footprint, Palmer’s new Appellation Healdsburg resort is on the outskirts of town, about 2.5 miles north. Three classic Sonoma County wine appellations come together here. They are Russian River, Alexander, and Dry Creek valleys.
Guided by a Culinary Approach
For Appellation Hotels, hospitality begins in the kitchen. Both restaurants feature a hyper-local sensibility. It’s all about flavors of the region to celebrate Sonoma rather than just existing in it. Folia Bar & Kitchen, with its wood-fired hearth, is the centerpiece. The alternative, Andys Beeline Rooftop, is an elevated retreat overlooking the vineyards.
Guests gravitate to the lobby’s central open hearth grill in Folia’s dining room, which seats 200 for breakfast, lunch, and dinner. Floor-to-ceiling windows, an open kitchen, and terrace with fire pits, garden beds, olive trees, and fruit trees beyond set the tone for wine country dining. As the day draws in, they may head for the rooftop bar and restaurant. It’s where million-dollar sunsets and stargazing await.
In an extension of the culinary-first experience, Crafted is the hotel’s program of classes and workshops in hands-on maker spaces. This is where guests gather, creating a connection with local craftspeople and artists. Learning activities change seasonally, and there’s also a show kitchen at The Grange, a barn and event space.
It’s significant to note that Folia is a personal dream-come true-for Chef Charlie Palmer. After all, it’s none other than his professionally trained son, Chef de Cuisine Reed Palmer, who manages the restaurant.
Another point of pride salutes the brand’s flagship property as both independent and international. Small Luxury Hotels of the World has welcomed Appellation Healdsburg as a member of its collection of 650 hotels in 90 countries. In California, only eight boutique hotels have an SLH affiliation.
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FAQs
Q: Where is the Folia Bar & Kitchen?
A: Chef Charlie Palmer’s Folia Bar & Kitchen is 101 Dovetail Lane at the Appellation Healdsburg resort in Healdsburg, California. It is about 80 miles north of San Francisco.
Q: What are Folia Bar & Kitchen’s operating hours?
A: Folia Bar & Kitchen serves a three-course dinner Wednesday through Sunday at $85 per person. The à la carte menu is offered nightly; breakfast and lunch are served daily. Weekend brunch is served Saturday and Sunday 10 a.m. to 2 p.m.
Q: What is the second restaurant at Appellation Healdsburg?
A: Andys Beeline Rooftop is the second restaurant. It is open daily from 4 p.m. to 11 p.m. for cocktails and dining. They recommend making a reservation.
