Inside SingleThread Restaurant & Farm: A Michelin-Starred Retreat

When it comes to merging the artistry of the authenticity of sustainable farming with fine dining, few places do it better than SingleThread Restaurant. Located in the heart of Sonoma County, this Michelin-starred retreat is more than just a dining destination. It’s a love letter to the land, with California Prunes playing a starring role in both its history and its innovative dishes. At the helm are Chef Kyle Connaughton and Head Farmer Katina Connaughton. This duo whose shared vision elevates the relationship between farm and table.

Prunes: A Connection to Sonoma County’s Heritage

Before Sonoma County became synonymous with wine, it was actually known as the “buckle of the prune belt.” As Kyle Connaughton explains, “This area has such a rich history with prunes. For us, weaving that history into our menu is incredibly meaningful. It ties our dishes to the land and to the legacy of this region.”

At SingleThread Farm, the team grows two distinct varieties of plums that are dried into prunes, creating an ingredient that embodies the essence of Sonoma County. Prunes as an ingredient are not just delicious—they’re a tribute to sustainable farming practices and the Connaughtons’ dedication to honoring the past while pushing culinary boundaries.

Growing Prunes: A Labor of Love

Head Farmer Katina Connaughton shares the meticulous process behind cultivating their prized prunes. “When we came onto this property, the soil needed a lot of love,” she recalls. “We put so much energy into rehabilitating it, creating something that not only serves us now but will serve future generations.”

The prune trees thrive under Katina’s careful stewardship, their branches laden with fruit during the harvest season. She describes the process with pride: “The trees are absolutely loaded with prunes, sometimes to the point where we have to wedge in wood to hold up the branches. It’s a joy to see that abundance, knowing how much work went into making it possible.”

Once harvested, drying the plums into prunes takes place on-site, ensuring maximum freshness and flavor. Then they find their way into the restaurant’s kitchen, where their versatility shines.

A Dish to Remember: The Prune Parfait

At SingleThread Restaurant, every dish tells a story. One standout on their seasonal menu is the Prune Parfait, a celebration of texture, flavor, and history. The dish features:

• Farm-fresh lettuces: Salanova lettuces from the farm provide a vibrant, crisp base.
• Duck liver parfait: A silky, savory parfait sourced from a local family farm.
• Poached Prunes in tea: Delicately poached prunes bring sweetness and depth to the plate.
• Dried and pureed Prunes: Layers of chewy, dried prunes and a luxurious prune puree add complexity and balance.

Chef Kyle explains the inspiration behind the dish: “We wanted to showcase prunes in multiple forms, highlighting their versatility. Each bite offers a different texture and flavor, making it a truly immersive experience.”

This dish isn’t just a treat for the palate—it’s a nod to the region’s prune-growing heritage and the hard work that goes into cultivating these gems.

Sustainability and Community at SingleThread

The Connaughtons’ commitment to sustainability extends beyond their farm. At SingleThread, prunes are part of a larger narrative about responsible sourcing and collaboration with local producers. “We’re not just using what comes from our farm,” says Kyle. “We’re also supporting other farmers and artisans in the area, celebrating their contributions on our menu.”

Katina adds, “For us, farming is about more than just growing crops. It’s about building a community and fostering good change every day.”

This holistic approach is evident in every aspect of SingleThread’s operations – from the mentorship programs they run to the preservation projects that ensure no ingredient goes to waste.

Why Prunes Deserve the Spotlight

Prunes may not always get the recognition they deserve, but at SingleThread Restaurant, they’re celebrated as a culinary treasure. Their natural sweetness, rich texture, and culinary versatility make them an ideal ingredient for both sweet and savory applications. Whether poached, dried, or pureed, prunes bring a unique depth of flavor to the table.

Plan Your Visit to SingleThread Farm & Restaurant

For those seeking an unforgettable dining experience, Single Thread Restaurant offers more than just a meal—it offers a journey through the seasons and the stories of Sonoma County. From the care that goes into growing and drying their own prunes to the artistry of dishes like the Prune Parfait, every detail reflects the Connaughtons’ passion for excellence.

Reserve your table today and discover why SingleThread Farm & Restaurant is not only a Michelin-starred retreat but also a tribute to the land, its history, and its future.

Interested in learning more about SingleThread Farm & Restaurant?

Our friends at CA GROWN featured SingleThread Farm & Restaurant on their website in the article below.