Nestled on the Petaluma River’s left bank, Water Street Bistro offers French-inspired café eats, such as homemade waffles, sandwiches, soups, and salads. The eatery is a classy yet casual neighborhood breakfast or lunch spot with tasty, affordable fare.

Try the light-as-air Bacon and Swiss Quiche or Goat Cheese and Sausage Quiche with a cup of coffee for a satisfying start to your day. Other menu items include the Warm Turkey and Ham Muffaletta, Crab Chowder, and the Chicken Hazelnut Terrine. Owner and chef Stephanie Rastetter focuses on providing a welcoming atmosphere and highlighting the riverfront as a community gathering spot. The bistro has a comfortable blend of colorfully painted walls, faux-leopard banquettes, oversized plants, and mirrors. Outdoor dining on the patio with a view of the river and the Balshaw Bridge completes the laid-back, European ambiance.

Water Street Bistro is open Wednesday through Monday for breakfast and lunch.

CC-BY-SA-2.0/Flickr stu_spivack