Nick Demarest talks about closing Harvest Moon
Nick and Jen Demarest, owners of Harvest Moon Café, will close the doors of the successful dining spot on First St. West on the Plaza on Labor Day. They opened the restaurant, a favorite with locals, in January 2006 with 35 seats. Nick said the main factor in their decision was that “from what we started out to do, to where we are today, we totally did it.” He added, “I want the community to know that I’ve said what I want to say, through my food.”
Demarest said that from the beginning their business plan was for locals, so they were able to grow the business despite the economic downturn of the early years. Even during the peak tourist season months, Nick recognizes at least 50% of the faces that come in. Connection with the community is a big part of their business. They’ve seen their customers become parents or grandparents, customers have died, “You see people go through a lot.” One local couple credits Harvest Moon with saving their marriage – they had such a good meal when they went there to talk about divorce that they changed their minds and worked on a reconciliation, over subsequent dinners there.
“I want to say ‘Thank you, Sonoma.’” Demarest is proud that they created something which is inclusive, where everyone is welcome. He also is proud of supporting local farmers, citing especially his relationship with Paul and Candi of Paul’s Produce. “As a cook, when I hold in my hand a vegetable and I know the person who grew it, you can’t beat that.”
The entrepreneurs, both graduates of the Culinary Institute of America, began this venture with outstanding credentials in their background including jobs at places such as Chez Panisse and Le Toque. “Failure was not an option,” since we opened it with four credit cards and a home equity loan.” He mused that young people can’t do that now, in this area. He worries that Sonoma is not a healthy eco-system that supports diversity in businesses, jobs and housing.
Demarest remarked that he and Jen are excited with the business model of their buyers, and wish them great success with their venture.
And the community will be glad to know that no later than September the Demarests will open a new venture for breakfast and lunch on Hwy. 12 in the Springs, Baker and Cook. This time the focus will be on Jen and her remarkable baking, available now at the Friday Farmers’ Market. Nick , satisfied with having achieved his personal and professional goals, is looking forward to taking time off from dinners to help Jen get started.
6 thoughts on “Nick Demarest talks about closing Harvest Moon”
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My husband and I are so sad to hear of Harvest Moon’s closing. When asked by visitors or other locals what is our favorite restaurant in Sonoma, we always answered “Harvest Moon”! All the best in your new venture – we will hurry to make a booking before September 1st.
For both myself and my wife, Harvest Moon has been hands down our favorite restaurant in town for the last decade-plus, and when people came to visit looking for a local recommendation it was at the top of my list and I always received raves in response from the friends I sent there. We will definitely be checking out the new place!
So sad to hear the news but am happy for Nick and Jen. They are amazing people I have gotten to know over the past 12 or so years. Harvest Moon is the only place in Sonoma I have gone for dinner in the past 6+ years. Why u ask? Because it is HANDS DOWN the best place to eat in Sonoma! The Harvest Moon and all its staff will be greatly missed but the good news is Sonoma will have an incredible new place to go for breakfast and lunch. Best of luck Nick and Jen!
My fiancé and I went there on our very first date, our anniversary and we even had my surprise engagement party there! We supported the fire efforts there and supported the “shop local” campaign. I get married on September 7th, and we fly back to Sonoma on the 3rd, so we will miss the closing. What a great place to lose! Best of luck in the springs, I be sure to visit!
It’s great when we say we are sad because that means you have made a lasting loving impression. Truly a success story! Thanks for all the great dinners and great memories! You supported my nephew, little Nick in his career path with the 7 1/2 years he spent with you and now on his third year with Chez Panize family. My first date with my amazing love of my life, John, was on September 8 2016. You are blessed with your talents and vision and I will continue to be one of many fans for life!
What a loss for the community! Harvest Moon is the place we go for all our special occasions. The food was always exceptional and the staff just super. And sitting out on the patio as the day comes to an end is nothing short of breathtaking. We will deeply miss Nick and Jen’s place on the plaza.