Tolay’s patio runs the length of the restaurant’s front side, a long covered stretch with heating that stays comfortable even on cool Sonoma evenings. The space feels open to the surrounding Sheraton grounds rather than enclosed, so there’s actual airflow and views beyond the immediate dining area. You’re eating contemporary American food—seasonal plates with local ingredients, the kind of cooking that takes itself seriously without being fussy. The restaurant draws from both the hotel crowd and locals willing to drive to Petaluma for a proper dinner.

Dogs stay outside on the patio; they won’t be allowed into the dining room itself. The staff will bring water for your dog without asking, and they’re genuinely comfortable with animals at the tables. There’s no separate dog menu, but they’re often willing to provide plain grilled chicken or similar if you ask. Most tables have enough space that a dog lying down doesn’t create obstacles for servers, though you’ll want to position your dog to the side rather than in the walking lane.

The patio runs along Baywood Drive with the Sheraton’s manicured grounds on the other side—not a high-traffic street, and the hotel setting keeps things relatively quiet. The covered structure means you can dine in light rain, though heavy downpours will send you inside. Sunset views work well from most tables depending on the season. Dinner service runs through the evening, and the patio typically stays open as long as the kitchen is running. Parking is hotel parking, which is ample and easy. If your dog is nervous around other diners or needs to move around frequently, the length and openness of the patio gives you options for where to sit—ask your server about quieter spots when you arrive.