Stoney Bottom, Anderson Valley Charming Gardens and Cottages Located in Beautiful Coastal Mendocino County
Located in Beautiful Coastal Mendocino
Stoney Bottom’s six-acre garden was designed and hand-built by the former head of the San Francisco Botanical Garden. Located in Boonville, in the heart of Anderson Valley, it is an inviting short-term stay and a memorable setting for intimate gatherings, culinary experiences, and larger celebrations.
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. With meandering paths, a grand lawn, shaded gathering spaces, and a deep sense of place, it offers the kind of relaxed, transportive setting that makes a meal feel especially memorable. It’s the perfect setting for intimate dinners like this Pinot Fest celebration.
With a focus on local sourcing, sustainable practices, and thoughtful hospitality, Stoney Bottom works to have a lower environmental impact with solar power, organic and restorative land management, and a deep respect for the natural rhythms of the gardens. Ingredients are sourced from neighboring farms, wineries, cheesemakers, and co-ops, celebrating the abundance and character of Anderson Valley.
Learn About the Stoney Bottom Anderson Valley Team
Meet Dominic Phillips
Tell us more about your events and hospitality background?
I have spent my career in event planning and hospitality, finding meaningful ways to build engaging experiences and foster true community. I worked to promote a national presence for Slow Food through Slow Food Nation, and co-founded the Good Food Awards, bringing people together through food that is not only delicious but also authentic and responsibly made. I also co-owned a wine-bar restaurant focused on local, small-batch production and farm-to-table dining.
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 the most incredible partners in creating celebratory experiences. From local winemakers and chefs to farmers growing the most gorgeous produce, as well as designers, florists, and photographers, Anderson Valley offers an extraordinary creative community. Together, they help shape gatherings that feel generous, grounded, and deeply connected to this place.
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. Each morning and evening, we walk the dog and take in the quiet magic of the land — the exquisite lighting, new shoots pushing through the soil, and flowers unfurling with life.
The grand lawn, where we host weddings and gatherings, feels like a natural gathering place. Beneath the shade of the old walnut tree on warm afternoons, we sometimes stretch out on the cool grass, simply absorbing the moment. There is an ease to the property that invites people to slow down, share a glass of wine, gather around a table, and feel part of something rooted and real. 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 and goats dotting the hills, the incredible local produce, and breathtaking views at every turn. Even a quick drive to the store feels like a fun country outing. Mornings begin with dappled sunlight and evenings close with colorful sunsets. For anyone who loves food, wine, nature, and a slower, more soulful way of gathering, Anderson Valley feels like a hidden treasure. 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.
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.