Made in Petaluma: 5 tasty things to try produced here in town

Locally made sauces, butter, honey, sausage and bread|

Petaluma has been an internationally known food production mecca since the 1930s when it became 'The Egg Basket of the World,' helping to popularize the cheap-to-produce protein during the Great Depression. These days, things are a bit more posh but still downhome with dozens of products made right here in town, from sweets to spirits. Here are five to try.

Alvarado Street Bakery

Dating back to 1979, this McDowell Street bakery was touting healthy breads long before it was trendy. They helped popularize sprouted grains, which has more fiber, less gluten and is easier for the body to break down than traditional breads. The company is employee-owned, meaning profits are split between everyone from executives to janitors. Sometimes that means a $30,000 end of the year bonus, which is probably why Forbes named them on of America's best businesses to work for in 2013.

Where to find them: These breads can be found nearly anywhere, from Safeway to Whole Foods.

More info: alvaradostreetbakery.com

FA Nino's sauces

When Chuck Ross lost his job in the recession, he decided to launch his own business that celebrated his Latin roots. Using family recipes and big flavors, he launched a line of sauces like chocolate chipotle Adobo sauce, mango habanero hot sauce and bourbon, sage and tarragon barbecue sauce. You can schedule a private tasting at their Industrial Avenue facility by calling 338-1772.

Where to find them: These sauces are in Oliver's Market and many local grocers, and Lagunitas Brewing Company.

More info: faninos.com

Lavender Bee Farm honey

A visit to this Chapman Lane farm with its rows of fragrant purple blooms feels almost like a walk in Provence. The Petaluma lavender blossom honey has floral notes and earned a gold medal from the Sonoma County Harvest Fair. Fun fact: honey is the only food that never goes bad.

Where to find them: 764 Chapman Lane (open by appointment only, call 789-0554)

More info: lavenderbeefarm.com

Angelo's Meats

When Angelo Ibleto came to America from Italy in the 1960s, he brought with him a tradition that dated back decades. In addition to jerky, sausage and salami smoked here in Petaluma, you can also grab a hearty sandwich or a jar of homemade marinara sauce at Angelo's Wine Country Deli in Sonoma. They also do catering, for those that love meat and a party.

Where to find them: 2700 Old Adobe Road

More info: angelossmokehouse.com

McClelland's Dairy butter

Established in 1965, this neighborhood business is part production farm, part tourist playground. In addition to an annual pumpkin patch with hay rides and a kid's jungle gym, they also offer farm tours where you can try your hand at milking. In 2009 they launched their own line of creamy organic butter that is made in the old-world Irish tradition.

Where to find them: 6475 Bodega Ave.

More info: mcclellandsdairy.com

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