Stoney Bottom, Anderson Valley An Undiscovered Inn & Wedding Venue
Located in Beautiful Coastal Mendocino
Stoney Bottom’s 6 acre garden was initially designed and hand-built by the former San Francisco Botanical Gardens director as his retirement project. Located in Boonville, it is the perfect short-term stay or venue for hosting large celebrations.
With a focus on sustainability, they are solar-powered, avoid single-use plastics, and offer toiletries primarily composed of plant-based ingredients. They leverage the greywater, reject harsh pesticides in the expansive gardens, and use primarily organic, local ingredients in the meals served onsite. They source ingredients from neighboring farms, wineries, cheesemakers, and co-ops for food they cannot grow themselves.
Learn About the Stoney Bottom Team
Meet Rachel Maloney
Tell us more about your culinary background & chef role at Stoney Bottom?
My background is actually restaurant design, but for the past 10 years I’ve been with IDEO as an Executive Director with our Food and Beverage portfolio. This has given me the opportunity to work across food product design, menu concepting, branding, and hospitality. So, although not classically trained in culinary, I’ve spent a lifetime feeding people—I’ve always been drawn to the kitchen not by technique, but by instinct and a deep love of taking care of others. I love any excuse to gather people around a table and believe a good meal sets the stage for connection, conversation, a little chaos, and a lot of joy.
What do you want to share about Stoney Bottom?
Tucked into a quiet corner of Anderson Valley, Stoney Bottom feels like a secret garden — full of beauty, warmth, and a little bit of magic. It’s the perfect setting for intimate dinners like this one—we’re definitely excited to host!
What do you love most about Anderson Valley?
We’re new to the valley, but what’s struck us most is the community — intimate, thoughtful, creative, and deeply supportive. We’re excited to grow roots here and become even more a part of it.
Meet Dominic Phillips
Tell us more about your events and hospitality background?
I have spent my career in corporate events, finding meaningful ways to tell brand stories and foster true community. I also co-founded the Good Food Awards, bringing people together through food that is not only delicious but also authentic and responsibly made. Through both endeavors, I have worked to create spaces where people feel at ease and can connect meaningfully.
My partner, James, a dentist by trade, is the driving force behind our commitment to the land. He loves tending the gardens and ensuring that new life continues to take root and flourish.
Finally, we have friends partnering with us to handle the events and catered meals. They are super talented and have the Midas touch with food and decor. Such fun to host parties with them.
What do you love most about Stoney Bottom?
Stoney Bottom is a rare and extraordinary place, and we feel incredibly fortunate to call it home. Originally designed as a showcase garden by Walt Valen, the former head of San Francisco’s Strybing Arboretum, the property spans six acres of Anderson Valley charm and serene natural beauty. Each morning, we walk the dog and take in the quiet magic of the land—new shoots pushing through the soil and flowers unfurling with excitement.
The grand lawn, where we host weddings and gatherings, feels like a natural gathering place. Beneath the shade of the old walnut tree, we sometimes stretch out on the grass, simply absorbing the moment. Whether it’s the slower pace, the deep connection to nature, or the richness of the local culture, living at Stoney Bottom fills us with joy and appreciation. It’s truly humbling.
What excites you most about living in Anderson Valley?
Before you even turn off Highway 101 toward Boonville, there’s a feeling—something wild and welcoming that draws you in. The rolling hills, vibrant with wildflowers, the towering redwoods standing tall and grounding, the morning fog that lingers before giving way to brilliant blue skies—it all creates a landscape that is utterly enchanting.
Then, of course, there’s the abundance: the vineyards, the apple orchards, the sheep dotting the hills, the incredible local produce, and breathtaking views at every turn. Even a quick drive to the store feels like a country outing. Mornings begin with dappled sunlight and evenings close with colorful sunsets. And on top of all this, there is the sense of community here in Anderson Valley—warm, open-hearted, and always ready to welcome you in. It’s a truly special place.