Hazel is getting ready to welcome guests to a new location in Occidental. The farm-driven restaurant will soon reopen at a new address at 3688 Bohemian Highway, relocating to one of the town’s historic properties while continuing the seasonal dining experience it has become known for.
Owned by husband-and-wife team Jim and Michele Wimborough, Hazel first opened in 2015 and has showcased locally sourced ingredients through Mediterranean-inspired cuisine. The couple’s culinary backgrounds include renowned Bay Area restaurants such as Boulevard, Zuni, and Kokkari.
According to the restaurant’s website, the menu will continue to emphasize local, seasonal ingredients prepared with care. Signature dishes such as crispy fried Brussels sprouts, slow-braised pot roast, and the Hazel Sundae are expected to remain, alongside new additions debuting with the reopening. Pastry chef Michele Wimborough will also continue creating the restaurant’s house-made desserts, including pies, cakes, cookies, and fruit shortcakes.
The restaurant takes its name from Jim Wimborough’s great-grandmother, whose love of cooking and generous hospitality inspired the concept. Those values continue to shape Hazel’s approach, with the owners describing every guest as someone they hope to welcome as if into their own home.
An official opening date has not yet been announced, though reservations are expected to become available once the restaurant completes its transition to the new space.
