The concierge at the newly renovated Hilton Wine Country suggested we explore some restaurants downtown that represented the best of "wine country cuisine." Our first stop, Flavors, was closed. The alternate, Syrah Bistro, did not disappoint. An intimate restaurant with vaulted exposed-beam ceilings we didn't need reservations on a Sunday night. To the point: the food was titillating! On my plate that night: warm carrot soup with a syrup glaze and shredded white squash to start followed by a very moist grilled duck breast on mustard-infused spaetzle and spinach, all topped off with scoops of mango, raspberry and white cheesecake sorbet. With a bottle of Pinot Grigio, the meal including tip was a reasonable $40 each. Service was impeccable. Syrah Bistro, 205 Fifth Streeth, Santa Rosa, CA 95401 at 707.568.4002.