SingleThread: One of the Best Dining Experiences of Our Lives

Securing a reservation at SingleThread, a three Michelin-starred restaurant and one of the World’s 50 Best, is no small feat. The bookings open on the first of each month, and the coveted dinner spots disappear within the hour. Knowing we’d be in Healdsburg during our next trip to Sonoma, we made it our mission to lock in a table. With an alarm set for the April release, we were thrilled to secure a 7 PM seating—the perfect time to experience what we hoped would be an unforgettable evening.

SingleThread is more than just a restaurant—it’s a culinary destination that blends Japanese precision with Sonoma’s farm-to-table ethos. We had high expectations going in, but somehow, this experience surpassed them all.

An Unmatched Attention to Detail

Even before stepping foot in the restaurant, SingleThread’s hospitality was evident. The team reached out well in advance to inquire about dietary preferences and special requests, ensuring that every detail was tailored to our experience.

That level of care continued throughout the night. The service was seamless, an intricate dance of precision and warmth. Every movement felt intentional, every course arrived at the perfect moment, and despite spending over three and a half hours dining, time seemed to disappear.

This is what sets SingleThread apart—the ability to immerse guests in an experience so flawless, it feels effortless.

A Culinary Vision Rooted in Nature

SingleThread is the creation of Chef Kyle Connaughton and Head Farmer Katina Connaughton, a husband-and-wife duo who have crafted a restaurant that celebrates both innovation and the land itself.

• Chef Kyle brings a global culinary pedigree, having trained under Heston Blumenthal at The Fat Duck and developed a deep understanding of Japanese Kaiseki traditions.
• Katina oversees SingleThread’s 24-acre farm, ensuring that every ingredient used in the restaurant is sustainably grown, perfectly seasonal, and deeply connected to the land.

This partnership results in a menu that isn’t just about food—it’s a reflection of nature, art, and meticulous craftsmanship.

A Seamless Arrival & A Warm Welcome

The day of our reservation was packed, and in true travel fashion, we found ourselves changing into dinner attire in the car—something we still laugh about.

Arriving at SingleThread’s understated yet elegant entrance, we were greeted by a hostess with a warm smile, confirming our reservation before leading us into the beautifully designed lobby. A stunning sculpture of cranes in a tree immediately caught our eye—a piece so captivating that we later purchased a work by the same artist as a memento of this incredible night.

Before heading to our table, we were offered a welcome drink at the kitchen counter, allowing us to watch the chefs in action—a small but immersive touch that set the tone for the evening.

The “Early Spring Sonoma” Tasting Menu

The seasonal tasting menu was a testament to Sonoma’s finest ingredients, enhanced by Japanese culinary techniques. Every dish told a story, blending flavors, textures, and meticulous presentation into an experience that was nothing short of extraordinary.

Standout Dishes from Our Meal

Shima-Aji with Sakura Blossoms & Sea Lettuce

A beautifully delicate opener—fresh, bright, and perfectly balanced, with floral and umami notes setting the stage for the courses to come.

Dungeness Crab with Pea Tofu & Miso Dashi

One of the most memorable dishes, featuring the sweetness of crab, the earthiness of pea tofu, and an umami-rich miso broth that tied it all together.

Duck Liver Parfait with Walnut, Mizuna & Orange

A rich, luxurious dish with silky duck liver parfait, crunchy walnut, and a burst of citrusy acidity from the orange—an elevated take on a classic pairing.

Ibushi-Gin Black Cod with Shiitake Cream & Caviar (Our Favorite Dish!)

This dish was absolute perfection. The smoky black cod was impossibly tender, complemented by umami-packed shiitake cream and pops of caviar. A dish that lingered on our minds long after the meal ended.

Duclair Duck with Prune, Sunchoke & Chrysanthemum

The tender, deeply flavorful duck was paired with tart prune and earthy sunchoke, while chrysanthemum added a subtle floral note—a dish full of depth and balance.

Meyer Lemon with Caramel & Sencha Tea

The perfect transition to dessert—a vibrant burst of citrus, caramel sweetness, and earthy sencha to round out the savory courses.

Wagashi: A Delicate & Beautiful Finale

The evening ended with an assortment of wagashi (assorted Japanese sweets), each one a tiny, intricate work of art. The matcha and huckleberry pairing was particularly memorable, a simple yet refined way to close the meal.

Wine Pairing: A Journey in Itself

The wine pairing at SingleThread is more than just a complement to the food—it’s a masterfully curated experience. Each glass was selected not only to match the dishes but to enhance the journey.

Some standout pours:

• 2022 Emrich-Schönleber Halenberg Riesling – Bright, fresh, and expressive.
• Pierre-Yves Colin-Morey Saint-Aubin 2021 – A stunning white Burgundy.
• Domaine Boisrenard Châteauneuf-du-Pape 2019 – A bold, classic red.
• IWA 5 Sake – A refined, modern sake that felt right at home on the pairing menu.
• Château d’Yquem Sauternes 2010 – The perfect, luxurious dessert wine to end the evening.

Every selection felt thoughtful and intentional, elevating each dish without overpowering it.

Would We Return to SingleThread?

Absolutely, without hesitation, definitely yes! SingleThread delivered a flawless dining experience, from exceptional service and world-class food to an atmosphere that felt immersive yet intimate.

It’s rare to find a restaurant where everything—from the first sip of wine to the last bite of dessert—feels so deeply connected and meaningful. This meal not only met but exceeded our highest expectations, earning its place as one of our all-time favorite dining experiences. If you’re ever in Sonoma County and can secure a reservation, don’t hesitate—this is a meal worth planning your entire trip around.

Plan Your Visit to SingleThread

📍 SingleThread
📍 131 North St, Healdsburg, CA
🌟 Michelin Stars: ⭐⭐⭐
🍽 Tasting Menu Only

Have you dined at SingleThread, or do you have a fine dining experience that left a lasting impression? Share your thoughts in the comments—we’d love to hear about your most unforgettable meals! 🍽✨

For more photos and videos from this unforgettable evening, check out our Instagram!

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