Terrapin Creek Cafe & Restaurant
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Terrapin Creek Cafe & Restaurant
TERRAPIN CREEK opened in 2008, envisioned as a casual neighborhood spot where friends and neighbors could enjoy the best ingredients our seasons have to offer. Most importantly, the kitchen is committed to using the highest quality local produce and meats in all of its dishes. Through a working friendship with Bay Area farmers, TERRAPIN CREEK is expanding the notion of comfort food to include dining that is casual, affordable, and responsible.

TERRAPIN CREEK showcases both local and global cuisines using seasonal and locally sourced ingredients. Guests can select from a menu of raw treatments, such as oysters on a half shell and carpaccio from the raw bar, to a range of appetizers and entree plates as well as an assortment of artisan cheese and desserts.
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1. Follow US-101 North to Petaluma. 2. Take the East Washington Street Exit, cross over the freeway, and head west. 3. Continue for about 25 miles to Bodega Bay. 4. Turn left on Eastshore Road. Terrapin Creek will be on your immediate right in the Blue Whale Center. 1. Follow Highway 12 (Bodega Highway) from Santa Rosa through Sebastapol and Bodega to its end at the Coast Highway One.
Gift certificates are available in any denomination. Give us a call, come on in, or email us at info@terrapincreekcafe.com. TERRAPIN CREEK is always seeking motivated individuals looking for a challenging yet fulfilling work environment. Positions are available for both front and back of the house.
Reviews (29)
Carol E.
Carol E.
Jan 29, 2022
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Very attentive staff and wonderful food. We were three lady customers very hungry after an afternoon of tide-pooling at Pinnacle Gulch. Shared 1/2 dozen local oysters, octopus for starters. Two of us had the duck entree and one had swordfish. Delicious all around. Coconut passion fruit pans cotta for dessert. Left extremely satisfied and happy. Will be back!!!
Gary C.
Gary C.
Dec 31, 2021
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I finally came back after 5 years! We made a reservation for Monday evening on Dec 27th. I thought it was a Monday and it would be less crowded. I guessed that doesn't apply during Christmas/new year holiday?
All the great memory came back when I approached the building from the dark road (so little street lights on the way here from Santa Rosa!)
After studying the menu, we've discussed some of our favorite dish during the last visit, but it was so long ago so we decided to try as many dishes as we can. We liked the starters more than the entrees base on the menu, so we decided to create
David Stark
David Stark
Dec 30, 2021
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Holy smokes, where have you been my whole life, can't tell you how many times I've driven through Bodega- starving, not wanting to be in line with the tourist with their clam chowder and fried fish, just not me thing. The nice woman (Dannille at Sonoma coast winery) turned me on to this place. WOW, now all look forward to on my way back home to Sea Ranch is to stop off at Terrapin- you will not be disappointed, great service, good food- the duck is out of the park good.. Cheers
Carmen Bidad
Carmen Bidad
Dec 14, 2021
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Great experience with scrumptious food. The presentation and atmosphere was exceptionally wonderful. We will return.
Kim T.
Kim T.
Dec 09, 2021
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Came back here 3 years later and the food is still amazing! Since 3 years ago, the menu hasn't changed much. No complaints though because everything was still delicious.

We ordered a lot of food for 2 lol pretty sure the server was shocked.

Appetizers:
- oysters 10/10 so fresh and sweet
- crab cake (they only give you one) 7/10 it was good but not amazing for the price and portion. Could use more oranges cause it was a little salty.
- octopus salad 8/10 octopus was cooked perfectly, the sauce was interesting like a curry kind of, and the almonds were a great touch
- scallops 10/10
Chris T.
Chris T.
Nov 15, 2021
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We made a reservation on Thursday for this restaurant at 4:30 on Saturday. We traveled from the Galt/Lodi area in the Central Valley for a wine club pick up in the Healdsburg area. Heard and read great reviews for the Terrapin Creek Cafe.
The food & service was truly excellent. Our server was Gillaume, was very friendly, knowledgeable and courteous. Our friends ordered the crab cake, Petrale sole, Mediterranean fish stew, and we had the sliced vegetables salad, sole and duck breast. Everything was prepared very well and presented beautifully.
In my humble opinion, this is perhaps the best restaurant
Neel B.
Neel B.
Nov 07, 2021
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100% worth every penny. Great apps, great food, great wine, great desserts. Not a super expansive menu but everything they do, they do excellently.
Meng Syn
Meng Syn
Oct 27, 2021
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Camping at Bodega Dunes , the highlight of our long weekend was finding this absolute GEM of a Restsurant. This Michelin Star restaurant serves an amazing Duck from Liberty Farms in Petaluma. I also had the Octopus Cauliflower Salad that was perfect . The owner/chefs wife makes the wonderful pastry deserts- we really enjoyed the Panna cotta and the warm chocolate cake. Great friendly staff as well. A must try .
Veronica F.
Veronica F.
Oct 24, 2021
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Holy smokes! this place is a gem. it feels so homey and cozy inside with the fireplace and just overall interior. food and wine were delicious. rick was our server and we had him as a server elsewhere about 3 years ago! he's so sweet and knowledgeable. i definitely recommend coming here and make a rez far in advance! best restaurant in bodega bay (and there are very few true fine dining places here).
Jessica Mahnken
Jessica Mahnken
Oct 23, 2021
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My husband & I enjoyed a wonderful meal here last night. We had the oysters, crudo, scallops, squash soup, crab cakes, bread, & cheesecake, all shared amongst the two of us. We both enthusiastically agreed that very bite was perfectly prepared & absolutely delicious. The service was both warm & professional, as well. Terrapin Creek is highly recommended!
Michel A.
Michel A.
Oct 23, 2021
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Drove out for early dinner at this Bodega Bay restaurant. Closed for a year because of the pandemic, now opened again for dinner 4:30-8:30 Thursday through Monday. We always receive a warm reception and tonight was no exception. The menu has a mouth watering array of starters and main courses at very reasonable $s especially given the exceptional ingredients and skills of the kitchen team. The restaurant was opened by husband Andrew and wife Liya in 2008 and has been a Sonoma County favorite ever since. Tonight we started with caesar salad for her and charred octopus and roasted cauliflower salad
Wayne S.
Wayne S.
Oct 17, 2021
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Last night we returned to Terrapin creek. Again the evening exceeded our expectations. From the first Raw oyster to the last taste of dessert every bite was delicious.

Our service even though they were packed was timely and done with a cheerful flair.

I am looking forward to a return visit at the earliest opportunity.
Mike K.
Mike K.
Oct 16, 2021
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We went here for our 20 anniversary today. Service was good, the food was excellent.
It's expensive, but you leave feeling it was worth it. The sole was fresh that day, perfect texture. Desert was a warm freshly made cake with cream cheese frosting, toasted coconut, with a drizzle of caramel.
Merit C.
Merit C.
Sep 11, 2021
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World traveler celebrating my 75th birthday at this restaurant. This is the BEST food I have had in America. Paris is the only equal. Just caught salmon, baked. Corn soup, not chowder, that tasted like fresh corn on the cob. Deconstructed bread pudding, no raisins, that tasted nothing like the childhood desert. Chocolate something with cream cheese icing that tasted like whipped cream. Lovely ambiance and the waiter, RICK, knew his job and made the whole experience a delight.
Michael K.
Michael K.
Sep 07, 2021
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The service and food here was excellent!

We shared the Duck Breast, which was cooked beautifully medium rare, and the Corn Soup was so amazing! Def coming back when we're hungrier!
John Wilkes
John Wilkes
Aug 13, 2021
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Small restaurant a little off the beaten path with wonderful corn soup and duck breast - so good that we went back the next evening, which is something we almost never do. There's a great wine list, including some very nice choices by the glass. Of our two waiters, the first was amazing - engaging, humorous, helpful.
Janette S.
Janette S.
Aug 10, 2021
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On a whim we pulled into this parking lot and walked inside and crossed our fingers and and asked if this little gem of a restaurant had a table for four on a Sunday night. And luck was on our side they had one. From the moment we were sat until the check was delivered our service was flawless and this is understandable since this amazing restaurant is owned and operated by a husband and wife team. We ordered the corn chowder, homemade pasta with butter sauce for my daughter, Caesar Salad, and Rib Eye for three. They also have a wonderful wine selection as well as a full bar. If headed to Bodega
Jeremy R.
Jeremy R.
Aug 06, 2021
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We we're excited when our neighbor scored a reservation at Terrapin so a bunch of us could have dinner together. It was a little early at 5pm but that was the only reservation they would give us for a party of 7. We arrived and were seated promptly. The menu was as posted and they don't have any specials. We asked for separate checks but the waitress said they don't do that which makes it difficult when you have a large group. We ordered and chatted and enjoyed an pleasant evening with our friends. The hamachi crudo was the star of our dinner with fresh fish, a bright sauce and
Taylor Durand
Taylor Durand
Jul 22, 2021
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Exceptional service and food. We had reservations for our anniversary but unfortunately our puppy got in a few gulps of saltwater that afternoon and started puking an hour before our dinner. They were very accommodating allowing us to pushback our reservation and ultimately taking it to go. The duck and scallops are amazing. As was the single whiskey cocktail, prepared by Debby, I enjoyed as I waited.
Pablito R.
Pablito R.
Jul 12, 2021
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I have to say... this place WAY exceeded my expectations. Food can be a bit challenging in Bodega Bay, but this place is a MUST if you are staying the weekend or in the area for the night.

I can't remember his name but the server of French heritage was terrific. I always ask what are their personal favorites on the menu as well as what is popular by people who eat there. He was incredibly helpful throughout.

He also made wonderful pairing recommendations. I was hesitant on one of the recommendations as I am not a Zin fan. The wine by itself was not something I would have ever ordered after
Helena A.
Helena A.
Jun 21, 2021
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If I could give a 10 star review, I would!!! From the minute we walked in the door to the minute we left, the service was outstanding!!!! The staff and service was superb! They have a sense of humor which made conversing very easy and enjoyable! We ordered a series appetizers and it was brought out in a timely manner.

Everything was AMAZING! The food was impeccably prepared and plated. A dozen Oysters to start with a Moscow Mule, Vieux Carre and an Arnold Palmer for the child. Hamachi and the sauce was melt in your mouth delicious. The scallops are to die for! Octopus and cauliflower salad was
Angie C.
Angie C.
May 29, 2021
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Dinner reservations are hard to get but we walked in for lunch and it easy to nab a socially-distanced table on a weekend!

Miyagi oysters were spot on. Crab cake was amazing. Octopus salad was excellent. I loved the house made lamb sausage with house made pasta.

Everything was well composed, thoughtful, fresh, and left us excited for more. Service was excellent!

Highly recommend this new-American-with-Asian-influence seafood-forward restaurant in Bodega Bay. Don't forget to share a dessert.
John Stephen
John Stephen
May 29, 2021
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Great food and friendly staff. The Petrale Sole was good, but the real star of the meal was the crême fraiche cheesecake - so light and moist, and the cherry and vanilla flavors were great
Susan L.
Susan L.
May 12, 2021
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Went to Terrapin for weekend getaway to Bodeca Bay. Cozy clean atmosphere with superb personable service. However it was the food that really knocks it out of the part. One of the best meals I have had. Perfect after a day of hiking and eating fresh sea food. Octopus salad with roasted cauliflower was super tender, Crudo Hamachi melted in your mouth, hearty Leek Potato Soup, Duck breast cooked to perfection , home made pasta with home made duck sausage was very satisfying. We loved our dessert, creme fraiche cheese cake and and coconut panna cotta. Coffee was fresh pressed and wine was
Ellie O.
Ellie O.
May 10, 2021
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Just love this place !
They are serving lunch , Friday thru Sunday .
They serve until 2:30 & reopen at 4:30 .
The yelp hours say updated two months ago , so they
Must of just started this .
Campers ordered it for take out , that's so cool , gourmet while camping , got to love it .
Many mention the lamb pasta , it is so good , hearty , rich , delicious .
The Patrale sole with forbidden rice , omg .
Just delicious.
Service is on point .
Never intrusive .
They have pulled pork on the lunch menu and lobster rolls , both sound intriguing.
Kathleen Riley
Kathleen Riley
May 01, 2021
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If I could give this place 10 outta 5, I would. I don't want to be, "that person", but I'm a food enthusiast, and I've worked in food and bev for 11 years. This was the best meal I've had in... 5 years, easily. We ordered the charred octopus salad, hamachi crudo, seared Hokkaido scallops, pan-seared Alaskan halibut and crème fraîche cheesecake with raspberries and vanilla.
The octopus salad was the best I've ever had. Not chewy at all, so tender and perfectly paired with cauliflower and an amazing sauce.
The scallops had a nice sear and came with a sunchoke purée that was insanely delicious
Jiahui L.
Jiahui L.
Apr 25, 2021
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Shaved veg salad (4.5 stars): candied pecans, avocado, blue cheese. Refreshing, with just enough cream and spice from the blue cheese

Potato leek salad (4.5 stars): creamy and not too heavy. Nice for the chilly weather

Lamb pasta (5 stars): unexpectedly one of our favorites! Spiced lamb sausage with nice crunch from small clumps of bread crumbs on al dente pasta

Duck breast (4 stars): tender with crispy skin, on a bed of soy based cabbage and shiitake

Seafood stew (4 stars): tomato based and great for the chilly weather. Loved that all the seafood components, including the fish, were all cooked
Leann V.
Leann V.
Apr 23, 2021
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I drove 9 hours and had seen many amazing reviews for this place. I ordered the duck, crab cake, and a salad. The fingerling potatoes in the duck consisted of a 1/2 of a diced potato. The crab cake was stale and soggy. The salad with the crab cake was slimy. The salad, only request. Add avocado .. I get 2 small pieces.. for over $100 for this is disgusting. Working in the food industry for over 15 years, I definitely expected way more than this legit trash.
Steven Moreno
Steven Moreno
Dec 27, 2018
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Terrapin Creek is food heaven.This is a small sized restaurant that has exquisite food, nothing tastes bad from their menu. It is fine dining at it's best. All meats, vegetables and fish are purchased locally. Their desert is superbly made and every bite is sensational. It is cozy and eloquent. A place for the wife, girlfriend or family ( get a sitter for small children ) savor the experience.
It is expensive. A meal for two with appetizer, main course, alcohol drink, dessert, tea or coffee will run over $100 not including tip. It is worth every penny. Reservations are required and self parking