FRIENDS OF THE CAFE
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SCHOOL GARDEN NETWORK
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SOLAR WORKS
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GOOD NEWS
Written by Satya Roth, January 2023
As a Junior at Credo High School Satya wrote this review of Cafe Aquatica for an English class assignment that was published by her school in a tour guide book called Peeling the Grape
The Best Place to Feel Poetic
You know the feeling - when you’ve lost yourself somewhere so beautiful, so awe-inspiring, that time seems to stop. Somewhere so romantical that even Anne from Green Gables would have no words to describe it. For me, the place I go to satisfy that feeling has always been Cafe Aquatica and the mouth of the Russian River. Maybe it's the time-worn rustic wooden shingles, the pick-up window on the side, or the turquoise and orange sign that reads ‘Cafe Aquatica’ in big, swirling letters. Or it could be the glass panelled french doors that are plastered in stickers (one says to “Be kind, dammit!”), but there is something about this place that makes me step back and think ‘wow, how special is this?’ every time.
Postcard perfect and almost magical, Cafe Aquatica is tucked behind the rolling coastal hills in the tiny town of Jenner. Boasting 136 people and probably as many seals, Jenner is one of the most charming and breathtaking NorCal coastal towns. The weather can have a mind of its own, changing like a crystal in the light - each new side vastly different, but each more beautiful than the last. Just a few moments gazing at the expanse of the Russian river, the quaintly colourful houses nestled into the hillside, or the windswept coastal pines that dot the landscape will be enough to enthral you in Jenner’s rugged beauty - and what could be a better place to take it all in then on the patio of Cafe Aquatica with a warm drink and hearty chowder?
Just imagine - it’s a misty Saturday afternoon, latte and clam chowder in hand, as you watch the Russian River meander by just before it mingles into the sea. You're sitting on the deck behind Cafe Aquatica, taking in the view. A wooden lawn chair is sturdy beneath you, soft and worn from time spent on the harsh coast. Gentle white noise of surf rolling in and out drums in the background as you listen to the warm, earthy melody of a folk song. The sound drifts from a small stage nestled on the rocks of the river bank just to your right - a strumming guitarist sits atop a stool. Steam swirls up from your food, mingling with the crisp, salty sea air as you look out into the river.
Stepping inside the cafe you’ll find the walls speckled with prints from local artists along with cookbooks and teas for sale. Walk in a little further and you’ll find chalk menu boards displaying an assortment of coffees and teas, pastries and seasonal dishes. I cannot speak much to the coffee myself, but I’ve heard it's top notch, and their chai and golden tonic is to die for. The cell service can be spotty and wifi has not made its way in, but I like to think that it's better that way. More than just a quaint coffee shop, Aquatica is a place to step back, think, and soak yourself in the beauty of the Northern California coast.
You know the feeling - when you’ve lost yourself somewhere so beautiful, so awe-inspiring, that time seems to stop. Somewhere so romantical that even Anne from Green Gables would have no words to describe it. For me, the place I go to satisfy that feeling has always been Cafe Aquatica and the mouth of the Russian River. Maybe it's the time-worn rustic wooden shingles, the pick-up window on the side, or the turquoise and orange sign that reads ‘Cafe Aquatica’ in big, swirling letters. Or it could be the glass panelled french doors that are plastered in stickers (one says to “Be kind, dammit!”), but there is something about this place that makes me step back and think ‘wow, how special is this?’ every time.
Postcard perfect and almost magical, Cafe Aquatica is tucked behind the rolling coastal hills in the tiny town of Jenner. Boasting 136 people and probably as many seals, Jenner is one of the most charming and breathtaking NorCal coastal towns. The weather can have a mind of its own, changing like a crystal in the light - each new side vastly different, but each more beautiful than the last. Just a few moments gazing at the expanse of the Russian river, the quaintly colourful houses nestled into the hillside, or the windswept coastal pines that dot the landscape will be enough to enthral you in Jenner’s rugged beauty - and what could be a better place to take it all in then on the patio of Cafe Aquatica with a warm drink and hearty chowder?
Just imagine - it’s a misty Saturday afternoon, latte and clam chowder in hand, as you watch the Russian River meander by just before it mingles into the sea. You're sitting on the deck behind Cafe Aquatica, taking in the view. A wooden lawn chair is sturdy beneath you, soft and worn from time spent on the harsh coast. Gentle white noise of surf rolling in and out drums in the background as you listen to the warm, earthy melody of a folk song. The sound drifts from a small stage nestled on the rocks of the river bank just to your right - a strumming guitarist sits atop a stool. Steam swirls up from your food, mingling with the crisp, salty sea air as you look out into the river.
Stepping inside the cafe you’ll find the walls speckled with prints from local artists along with cookbooks and teas for sale. Walk in a little further and you’ll find chalk menu boards displaying an assortment of coffees and teas, pastries and seasonal dishes. I cannot speak much to the coffee myself, but I’ve heard it's top notch, and their chai and golden tonic is to die for. The cell service can be spotty and wifi has not made its way in, but I like to think that it's better that way. More than just a quaint coffee shop, Aquatica is a place to step back, think, and soak yourself in the beauty of the Northern California coast.
Cafe Aquatica in Jenner serves up locally roasted coffee with a side of scenic views
www.pressdemocrat.com/article/news/patrons-of-sonoma-coast-cafe-enjoy-views-brews-and-local-music/
Delicious lattes, sandwiches and baked goods at Cafe Aquatica in Jenner all come with one of the best side dishes in the entire Bay Area: a commanding view of the Russian River estuary.
At low tide, this means a front-row seat to sea birds, deer and foxes foraging for tiny critters in the sand. At high tide, there’s a veritable cavalcade of kayakers, stand-up paddlers and sometimes water bikers zipping by.
If the food and views aren’t enough, Cafe Aquatica also consistently serves up hearty helpings of an inimitably west county vibe. Most of the produce is grown locally. The coffee beans are roasted in Sebastopol. The music — yes, there’s live music every weekend — is performed by singers and players from right here in our backyard. All the seating was crafted by North Bay carpenters. View full article HERE
BY MATT VILLANO FOR THE PRESS DEMOCRAT/November 15, 2023
www.pressdemocrat.com/article/news/patrons-of-sonoma-coast-cafe-enjoy-views-brews-and-local-music/
Delicious lattes, sandwiches and baked goods at Cafe Aquatica in Jenner all come with one of the best side dishes in the entire Bay Area: a commanding view of the Russian River estuary.
At low tide, this means a front-row seat to sea birds, deer and foxes foraging for tiny critters in the sand. At high tide, there’s a veritable cavalcade of kayakers, stand-up paddlers and sometimes water bikers zipping by.
If the food and views aren’t enough, Cafe Aquatica also consistently serves up hearty helpings of an inimitably west county vibe. Most of the produce is grown locally. The coffee beans are roasted in Sebastopol. The music — yes, there’s live music every weekend — is performed by singers and players from right here in our backyard. All the seating was crafted by North Bay carpenters. View full article HERE
BY MATT VILLANO FOR THE PRESS DEMOCRAT/November 15, 2023
Jenner by the Sea
SMALL IN SIZE, BIG ON THE OUTDOORS
travelagentapparel.com/blogs/local-stories/jenner-by-the-sea
For a town of just 136 people, Jenner packs in a lot.
Since it’s located at the mouth of the Russian River, water activities are a natural and a kayak is the best way to see the town and the beautiful surroundings. Grab a cup of coffee and one of the delicious, house-made pastries at Café Aquatica and walk across Highway 1 to Watertreks EcoTours to rent a kayak. The put-in is right back across the highway and from there you can paddle to where the river empties into the Pacific, keeping a respectful distance from the colony of harbor seals lolling about on the water’s edge. There are few places where you can observe these guys this close in the wild. The beach is also home to driftwood structures constructed by beachcombers with a penchant for building ephemeral structures made from the sun bleached, water-borne logs tossed ashore. Come back in a week and they will likely be gone.
SMALL IN SIZE, BIG ON THE OUTDOORS
travelagentapparel.com/blogs/local-stories/jenner-by-the-sea
For a town of just 136 people, Jenner packs in a lot.
Since it’s located at the mouth of the Russian River, water activities are a natural and a kayak is the best way to see the town and the beautiful surroundings. Grab a cup of coffee and one of the delicious, house-made pastries at Café Aquatica and walk across Highway 1 to Watertreks EcoTours to rent a kayak. The put-in is right back across the highway and from there you can paddle to where the river empties into the Pacific, keeping a respectful distance from the colony of harbor seals lolling about on the water’s edge. There are few places where you can observe these guys this close in the wild. The beach is also home to driftwood structures constructed by beachcombers with a penchant for building ephemeral structures made from the sun bleached, water-borne logs tossed ashore. Come back in a week and they will likely be gone.
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3 Perfect Redwood Getaways In and Around Sonoma
https://www.sonomamag.com/3-perfect-redwood-getaways-in-and-around-sonoma/?gSlide=14www.sonomamag.com/3-perfect-redwood-getaways-in-and-around-sonoma/?gSlide=14
From a pair of close-to-home excursions to the perfect long weekend away, these three itineraries offer plenty of hidden gems to visit.
After fueling up at Jenner’s Café Aquatica (pictured) with a cup of joe, head straight to nearby Pomo Canyon Campground for a hike. A magnificent redwood grove studded with impressive fairy rings (redwoods growing in a circle), ferns, and wildflowers winds through the area near the lower-numbered campsites.
BY DANA REBMANN MARCH 2022
https://www.sonomamag.com/3-perfect-redwood-getaways-in-and-around-sonoma/?gSlide=14www.sonomamag.com/3-perfect-redwood-getaways-in-and-around-sonoma/?gSlide=14
From a pair of close-to-home excursions to the perfect long weekend away, these three itineraries offer plenty of hidden gems to visit.
After fueling up at Jenner’s Café Aquatica (pictured) with a cup of joe, head straight to nearby Pomo Canyon Campground for a hike. A magnificent redwood grove studded with impressive fairy rings (redwoods growing in a circle), ferns, and wildflowers winds through the area near the lower-numbered campsites.
BY DANA REBMANN MARCH 2022
Windswept Beaches & A Seafood Smackdown
Highway 1 Loop, Bodega Bay to Jenner
https://www.sonomamag.com/dream-drives-3-perfect-day-trips-to-experience-spring-in-sonoma-county/?gSlide=29
Behold what might be the most Instagrammed road trip of all. Nearly every turn along this famous stretch of Highway 1 spotlights a jaw-dropping coastal vista — and don’t worry if you miss one, for there will always be another pullout just ahead.
Arrive in Bodega Bay in the morning for an early hike along the narrow straits of the PINNACLE GULCH TRAIL (check tides first). Hidden within the Bodega Harbour golf course subdivision, this trail is an often-overlooked gem of the regional park system. After, at the south end of Bodega Bay just as you enter town, SONOMA COAST VINEYARDS offers self-guided flights for two with pre-poured carafes. The winery has just released an excellent 2020 rosé.
Then, hungry from the morning’s jaunts, it’s time for a challenge — let’s call it the crab-n-clam taste test. First, split a bowl of clam chowder and a crab roll with a friend at SPUD POINT CRAB COMPANY, the tiny seafood shack across from Spud Point Marina on Westshore Road in Bodega Bay. Then hop in the car and wind ten miles north to split the same combo at CAFÉ AQUATICA in Jenner — and hold a Food Network-worthy debate over the winner. My money is on the Café Aquatica crab roll, with fresh Dungeness mixed with celery — and not too much aioli — on a bed of arugula, holding down a brioche roll with housemade pickles. It’s a tad more complex than its Spud Point doppelganger, which, while more abundant and bready, veers into the Thousand-Island-secret-sauce category. That said, I’m almost split on the clam chowder, with Spud Point literally tipping the scales with more butter and cream.
BY JOHN BECK MARCH 2022
Highway 1 Loop, Bodega Bay to Jenner
https://www.sonomamag.com/dream-drives-3-perfect-day-trips-to-experience-spring-in-sonoma-county/?gSlide=29
Behold what might be the most Instagrammed road trip of all. Nearly every turn along this famous stretch of Highway 1 spotlights a jaw-dropping coastal vista — and don’t worry if you miss one, for there will always be another pullout just ahead.
Arrive in Bodega Bay in the morning for an early hike along the narrow straits of the PINNACLE GULCH TRAIL (check tides first). Hidden within the Bodega Harbour golf course subdivision, this trail is an often-overlooked gem of the regional park system. After, at the south end of Bodega Bay just as you enter town, SONOMA COAST VINEYARDS offers self-guided flights for two with pre-poured carafes. The winery has just released an excellent 2020 rosé.
Then, hungry from the morning’s jaunts, it’s time for a challenge — let’s call it the crab-n-clam taste test. First, split a bowl of clam chowder and a crab roll with a friend at SPUD POINT CRAB COMPANY, the tiny seafood shack across from Spud Point Marina on Westshore Road in Bodega Bay. Then hop in the car and wind ten miles north to split the same combo at CAFÉ AQUATICA in Jenner — and hold a Food Network-worthy debate over the winner. My money is on the Café Aquatica crab roll, with fresh Dungeness mixed with celery — and not too much aioli — on a bed of arugula, holding down a brioche roll with housemade pickles. It’s a tad more complex than its Spud Point doppelganger, which, while more abundant and bready, veers into the Thousand-Island-secret-sauce category. That said, I’m almost split on the clam chowder, with Spud Point literally tipping the scales with more butter and cream.
BY JOHN BECK MARCH 2022
Cafe Aquatica: A Coastal Oasis
https://travelagentapparel.com/blogs/food-drink/cafe-aquatica
Cafe Aquatica is postcard perfect. It’s perched on the edge of the Russian River just before it empties into the sea. The crisp air and steam from a thoughtfully brewed cup of coffee blend together creating an extraordinary aromatherapy to help finally exhale. Cell service is spotty, and trust us, it's better that way. Take a moment to catch your breath.
"We're keeping it coastal," says owner Rachel Kulinski. "We're just focusing on the seasonal and the organic." Kulinski was an employee at the cafe, but she purchased the business in October 2018. She knows she's got a good thing going and is seeking to build on what's working. The cafe is small, cozy, and rustic but the food and drink is top-shelf. The crab sandwich on fresh-baked bread brioche and brothy clam chowder spot-on, as are the made-from-scratch, buttery pastries and locally roasted coffee.
The deck out back got expanded and covered so you can enjoy the views in all kinds of weather. On the weekends you'll hear local musicians strumming from the riverside stage. There is also a selection of locally made items—hand-carved spoons, waxed canvas lunch bags, fruit preserves—that are perfect for taking on a hike or picnic. You'll also find a curated display of art from local creatives, both on the walls and for sale inside.
You can also take Cafe Aquatica to go, of course, packing scones and coffee as you head further north up Highway One to the Jenner Headlands, or as you paddle the adjacent river on kayak or paddle board, listening to the live music waft over the water as ospreys glide overhead and harbor seals bob and dive.
WRITTEN BY STETT HOLBROOK
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Where to Get the Best Bagels in Sonoma County
A dozen places in Sonoma County to grab a great bagel on National Bagel Day
https://www.sonomamag.com/where-to-get-the-best-bagels-in-sonoma-county/?gSlide=2
Cafe Aquatica in Jenner is a charming place on the coast for breakfast or lunch. While this quaint coastal cafe may only have one bagel sandwich on the menu — the savory Smoked Lox Bagel with cream cheese, smoked salmon, greens and everything seeds on a toasted bagel — you can craft your own bagel from the modest sidebar menu. An open-faced bagel topped with avocado and a poached egg is a delicious, filling breakfast, or try the vibrant beet spread and roasted portobello mushrooms on a gluten-free bagel, courtesy of Mama Mel’s Kitchen.
BY MACI MARTELL JANUARY 2022
A dozen places in Sonoma County to grab a great bagel on National Bagel Day
https://www.sonomamag.com/where-to-get-the-best-bagels-in-sonoma-county/?gSlide=2
Cafe Aquatica in Jenner is a charming place on the coast for breakfast or lunch. While this quaint coastal cafe may only have one bagel sandwich on the menu — the savory Smoked Lox Bagel with cream cheese, smoked salmon, greens and everything seeds on a toasted bagel — you can craft your own bagel from the modest sidebar menu. An open-faced bagel topped with avocado and a poached egg is a delicious, filling breakfast, or try the vibrant beet spread and roasted portobello mushrooms on a gluten-free bagel, courtesy of Mama Mel’s Kitchen.
BY MACI MARTELL JANUARY 2022
The Best Places to Stop Along Highway 1 in Sonoma County
from www.sonomamag.com/best-places-to-stop-along-highway-1-in-sonoma-county/?gSlide=12
As the weather warms up, we’re itching to get outside more. And what could be a better way to enjoy spring while taking in the gorgeous Sonoma County scenery than a road trip along Highway 1?
The longest state route in California, Highway 1 lines the Sonoma Coast along the Pacific Ocean, passing through Bodega Bay, Jenner, Fort Ross and other spectacular and charming spots for a stroll, a meal, some wine or simply taking in the views. Click through the gallery above to read about our favorite stops on a classic Highway 1 road trip along the Sonoma Coast.
John Beck, Heather Irwin, Meg McConahey, Linda Murphy and Grace Yarrow contributed to this article.
The longest state route in California, Highway 1 lines the Sonoma Coast along the Pacific Ocean, passing through Bodega Bay, Jenner, Fort Ross and other spectacular and charming spots for a stroll, a meal, some wine or simply taking in the views. Click through the gallery above to read about our favorite stops on a classic Highway 1 road trip along the Sonoma Coast.
John Beck, Heather Irwin, Meg McConahey, Linda Murphy and Grace Yarrow contributed to this article.
BEST LOCAL RESTAURANTS IN SONOMA COUNTY PART 2
from janacontrerasphotography.com/blog/best-local-restaurants-in-sonoma-county-part-2/
Cafe Aquatica: This place is magical. It is so peaceful and makes you feel like you are escaping reality. The owner is just the sweetest. (Seriously there are so many amazing business women I have meet through making this blog post and I am loving it!)
I had the crab sandwich and it was to die for. Some of the best crab I have had and the bread it came on was so good. I almost wanted to go back and ask where their buns were from. This place is worth making the trip to Jenner and making a day out of eating all their yummy food.
I had the crab sandwich and it was to die for. Some of the best crab I have had and the bread it came on was so good. I almost wanted to go back and ask where their buns were from. This place is worth making the trip to Jenner and making a day out of eating all their yummy food.
Weekend Nook: Cafe Aquatica
from https://blog.freepeople.com/2014/01/cafe-aquatica/
Every weekend, my Love and I try and get up with the sunrise on Sunday morning… jump on the bike (if weather permits) or in the VW bus… and find a little nook in a coffee shop. A nook where we can read the paper (I know… people do, in fact, still do this by hand), sip on a hot drink, play a game of chess or dominoes, and watch the sun greet the day. We live in Sonoma, where little nooks are everywhere, but none quite like Aquatica. Café Aquatica sits on the cliffs of Highway 1 in Jenner, California. A small tiny town (population: 136… yes, as in one hundred thirty-six) that will pass by if you dare blink (most great things do… don’t they?).
Something about this place… the subtle reminders hand painted on the walls: “be kind,” “friendship,” “love”…the crashing waves of the northern pacific coast line, the perfect hue of blue. Most of all, the coffee IS the best I have had… and their food is even better. The baked goods? No words. I’ve stayed for hours before (no, they don’t have WiFi and I would never bring a computer in here) reading and writing… watching the locals come in and catch up over their morning cup. A great way to catch up on Charlie’s life, even if you’ve never met him before.
If you ever find yourself in Northern California… make a stop here. Sit for a while. Take out a pen. You will be…happy. Other favorite nooks in Northern California I should find? I would greatly appreciate your input… always on the hunt. Much love to all of you and yours.
Something about this place… the subtle reminders hand painted on the walls: “be kind,” “friendship,” “love”…the crashing waves of the northern pacific coast line, the perfect hue of blue. Most of all, the coffee IS the best I have had… and their food is even better. The baked goods? No words. I’ve stayed for hours before (no, they don’t have WiFi and I would never bring a computer in here) reading and writing… watching the locals come in and catch up over their morning cup. A great way to catch up on Charlie’s life, even if you’ve never met him before.
If you ever find yourself in Northern California… make a stop here. Sit for a while. Take out a pen. You will be…happy. Other favorite nooks in Northern California I should find? I would greatly appreciate your input… always on the hunt. Much love to all of you and yours.
Top Choice Cafe in Jenner by www.lonelyplanet.com
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This is the kind of North Coast coffee shop you’ve been dreaming of: fresh pastries, fog-lifting organic coffee and chatty locals. The expansive view of the Russian River from the patio and gypsy sea-hut decor make it hard to leave, especially at weekends when a strumming guitarist adds to the California dreamin' ambience.
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Review from Sonoma Magazine
www.sonomamag.com/guide/listings/cafe-aquatica/
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Perched on a rocky knoll just above the Russian River estuary, this casual beach shack is an insider’s secret. Not only does the café micro-roast its own coffee (with excellent pourovers), but also makes its own soups, breads and other baked goods using organic and non-GMO ingredients each morning. The food is ridiculously good, especially when you’re sitting outside watching paddleboarders float by.
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