Biteclub: Huge RP marketplace nears opening

What’s The Sonoma Mountain Marketplace? Like me, you may have seen signs along Highway 101 in Rohnert Park for the new Sonoma Mountain Marketplace, opening in September.

Calling itself the “largest indoor street fair and farmers market in the North Bay,” the massive indoor space at Sonoma Mountain Village (1400 Valley House Dr., Rohnert Park) will feature more than 150 merchants, a restaurant and sweets shop, interactive actors and plenty of family-friendly activities, according to organizer Dana Bryant.

What we’re loving, however, is the 1910s theme (think Handcar Regatta/Rivertown Revival-esque with plenty of petticoats, waxed mustaches and Derby hats) with strolling actors, dressed-up vendors, and immersive fun for the kids.

While much of the focus will be on non-food vendors (crafts, children’s toys and clothing), BiteClub’s down with the new restaurant, Sonoma Mountain Eats at the Marketplace, and a sweet shop, Sonoma Mountain Sweets. Menus are still in development, but Bryant says the food will be fun takes on sandwiches, steaks, salads, flatbread pizzas and kid-friendly noshes.

We’re also eager to check out a new certified farmers market on-site and vendors like Rohnert Park’s Tre Sorrelle chocolates.

Bryant, a co-founder of Crossing the Jordan, an assistance program for women and children, hopes also to include additional rides and activities for children and a 1920s-themed area with high-end restaurants in the future.

It’s an ambitious project, but one that may bring new life to Sonoma Mountain Village and a year-round indoor activity center for families.

Opening Sept. 6, 10 a.m., and throughout the year on Saturday and Sunday from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. Free admission and parking.

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Farm to Fermentation Fest: BiteClub is gaga for fermented foods - meaning everything from chocolate, wine, cheese, beer and pickles, to lesser-known goodies like water kefir, kombucha and beet kvass. Which is why we’re always first in line at the annual Farm to Fermentation Festival (Aug. 24, 11 a.m. to 5 p.m.) organized by the always-incredible fermentation cheerleader Jennifer Harris.

This year’s event includes a DIY pickle station, fermented root beer float bar, a kraut-off, cheese pairing with Madame de Fromage, 20-plus classes and 45 vendors (including beer, hard cider and mead-tasting).

Get the details and tickets at farmtofermentation.com. Santa Rosa Finley Community Center, 2060 W. College Ave., Santa Rosa.

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Taste of Petaluma: In this season of bounty, the food festivals just keep on coming! The 9th annual Taste of Petaluma kicks off on Saturday, Aug. 23 with more than 50 restaurants, chefs, food purveyors, wineries and breweries taking part.

Every year, BiteClub gets a taste of something new happening in southern Sonoma County at this event, and this year is no exception.

We’re especially excited about newcomers Free Range Provisions & Eats, Red Boy Pizza, Secret Kitchen (a Biteclub fave!), Native Kitchen, Jezebel Donuterie, Roast and Vine, Thistle Meats and Zodiac.

Sheesh, where was I when all these new spots opened?

Get your taste of Petaluma from 11:30 a.m. to 4 p.m., $40, details online at tasteofpetaluma.org.

Still hungry? Check out Heather’s food and dining blog at BiteClubEats.com.