The Bird Restaurant: Iconic Santa Rosa Eatery Revived with Classic Pub Fare & Vibrant Atmosphere

After the closure of this celebrated landmark restaurant and bar on Santa Rosa Ave, the much anticipated return of The Bird, does not disappoint. Inhabiting the location of the formerly beloved Rincon Valley restaurant Roberto's / Basilico; They kept some of the best aspects of these two great Santa Rosa institutions to craft a newer and better version of both. Retaining some beautiful hand-carved wood scrollwork from Willie Birds and their inimitable naugahyde booth seats, along with the classy white marble and mirrored-back bar of Basilico, the new location brings a welcome update to this exceptional local bar and restaurant brand. Familiar, friendly faces behind the bar and kitchen offer up a menu of sandwiches, steak, turkey, and pub fare. This new location brings back the excellent meal options that made this restaurant so popular for many years. Add to that a new, large patio and outdoor bar area- this is going to seriously up the ante for the Rincon Valley restaurant and bar scene. A short walk from wherever you are, or drive over and admire the newly paved parking lot (finally!) which clearly shows that owner Joe is serious about turning this place into a local destination for great food and drinks in a stylish, well-appointed, and expansive location - ready for another 50-year run.

First time in Santa Rosa, first time to The Bird. Walked in and was immediately seated, the ambiance was perfect for my taste. From the beautiful bar to the black piano floor and they even have an actual piano in the building. The owner Joe came over and introduced himself which I appreciate greatly. He was a pleasure and informed us about the special. It was a fantastic experience and the food was to die for... smoked poppers, wood fire pizza, special was the halibut with home made pasta / pesto. Washed down with an old fashion. Drinks were always readily available.

Let me tell you about the religious experience I just had at The Bird in Santa Rosa. I ordered the turkey soup, feeling all responsible and cozy, like I was about to knit a scarf and watch reruns of “The Great British Bake Off.” But then—plot twist—I threw in their Special Red Pepper Sauce. Friends, this was no longer soup. This was a liquid pep talk from the universe. One spoonful and suddenly I felt like I could run for mayor, finish my taxes, AND finally assemble that IKEA bookshelf that’s been haunting me since 2021. The pepper sauce transformed a wholesome turkey hug into a spicy, zesty motivational speaker in a bowl. It was like the turkey was saying, “Shhh… I’ve got you,” and then the red pepper sauce jumped in like, “NO YOU DON’T—LET’S DANCE, BABY!” Honestly, I half expected confetti to pop out of the bowl. If you go to The Bird and don’t order this exact combo, you’re basically robbing yourself of joy. Get the turkey soup. Add the sauce. Prepare for enlightenment. ⸻

Haven't been here for years, had the Super Bird sandwich, it's my favorite thing to eat here, and I was not disappointed. Maxine was very nice, and very efficient. She was busy, but we didn't feel rushed, and she came by several times to make sure we were good. She makes a great margarita, and an a better Long Island Ice Tea.

Came in randomly. I had the Thanksgiving plate. It was delicious. I’m full. The pizza is crispy and delicious as well. Parking was right on the side of the building and they have a full bar.

The Bird. Used to be at a different location where it was called Willie Bird Restaurant. At the old location what I clearly remember es the fact that all of there Turkey based meals, whether an open plate or a sandwich the Turkey was carved off the bird. No pressed, sliced deli Turkey. I’m glad to say they have continued that practice at the new location on Sonoma Highway! I had the Turkey dip as an appetizer with their homemade potato chips. The dip was tasty, and the potato chips were a little bit greasy but good nonetheless. I then ordered one of my favorite sandwiches in the world the Montecristo. I have had better, and I have had worse but I will still say the turkey that is carved directly off of bone and put onto sandwich will always be a better sandwich than one made with pressed sliced deli turkey. Not bad at all. Oh and a very smokey Bloody Mary topped it off. All in all…I’ll go back!

Everyone there is the greatest. Love going there. The food is phenomenal! All around Everyone is the best! Shout out to the owner Joe, Arman and the back of house!

The Bird is a great restaurant if you want to have Thanksgiving dinner. The turkey was moist and very good. Definitely worth coming if you are craving thanksgiving food.