Hazel, a rustic Mediterranean-inspired restaurant from Jim and Michele Wimborough, is getting ready to reopen in Occidental at 3688 Bohemian Hwy.
The new location will move into the former home of Barley & Hops, following a temporary closure at 3782 Bohemian Hwy, according to a recent liquor license application. Co-owner Michele Wimborough tells What Now that there is no exact opening date yet, as the team is still navigating county approvals. Hazel’s return marks a continuation of the Wimboroughs’ vision to create a community-focused restaurant where local, seasonal, and sustainable ingredients are central.
Jim and Michele Wimborough have cooked in Bay Area kitchens for over 15 years, including Zut! on Fourth, Grand Café, and Boulevard. Hazel represents their long-held dream of opening a small-town restaurant where they could raise their son, Graham, and engage with the local community. The restaurant features two wood-fired ovens that serve as the focal point for an ever-changing menu, blending rustic Mediterranean-inspired dishes with house-made baked goods.
The menu highlights a mix of starters, pizzas, and mains, including pork ribs with pomegranate barbecue sauce, fresh mozzarella pizza, mushroom pizza with truffle oil, braised pot roast, roasted chicken, ribeye, and Alaskan halibut. Vegan and gluten-free options are available, and additional toppings and modifications are offered where possible.
Hazel’s pastry program, led by Michele, features fruit shortcakes, pot de crème, sundaes, and a variety of cookies and cakes. The restaurant also offers a carefully curated selection of wines, beers, ciders, coffee, and teas, including local and organic options.
Named after Jim’s great-grandmother, Hazel, the restaurant carries on a tradition of generous hospitality and home-inspired dining. Jim and Michele aim to welcome customers as if they were guests in their own home while highlighting the bounties of Western Sonoma County in every dish.
