Worth the Drive

One of the most common things I hear after a session: "I had no idea Pleasanton was this charming."

If you're coming in from San Ramon, Dublin, Livermore or anywhere in the Tri-Valley, here's my advice: block off the whole day.

Downtown Pleasanton has independent shops, great coffee and some of my favorite restaurants all within a short walk of the studio. And Livermore's wine country is less than 10 minutes away.

Bring your spouse, a friend or the whole family. Your headshot session is just the starting point.

Here are a few of my favorite spots near Nina Pomeroy Agency Portrait Studio at 4725 1st Street:

☕ Coffee

Inklings Coffee & Tea | 530 Main St The go-to on Main Street. Coffee, tea, and a good vibe whether you stay a while or grab something to go.

Primrose Bakery | 350 Main St. A full-service bakery on Main Street with cakes, cannolis, eclairs and more. Dog-friendly, open early and the kind of place that's hard to walk past without stopping in.

Bocado: Un Petit Bistro | 320 St Mary St French-inspired crepes, coffee and pastries. If you're coming in for a morning or midday session, this is a great spot to start or end your day.

🍽 Eat

Nonni's Bistro | 425 Main St. A Pleasanton staple with a European bistro feel. Live music on Fridays. Good for a relaxed lunch or dinner after your session.

Locanda Amalfi | 349 Main St. Their Neapolitan pizza was ranked in the top 5 in the world in 2025. Worth the stop.

SideTrack Bar + Grill | 30 W Angela St. A local favorite with a patio, full bar and some of the best smoked meats in the area. Dog-friendly and a great spot for a casual lunch or dinner after your session.

Elia | 310 Main St. Greek restaurant on Main Street. Great for a dinner out, especially with a group.

Wild One Grill | 349 Main St. Fresh ingredients, big flavors. The mole enchiladas and main dish salads have a loyal following. Outdoor seating too.

Meadowlark Dairy | 57 W. Neal St A Pleasanton institution since 1949. Soft-serve ice cream, drive-thru or walk-up, and the line is always worth it. This one is a must.

🍷 Sip

The Wine Steward | 641 Main St. A wine bar and retail shop that's been on Main Street for over 20 years. Two levels, a great local selection and knowledgeable staff. One of my favorites.

Cellar Door | 4469 Railroad Ave. Cocktails, small bites and a patio. Great way to wrap up the day.

🛍 Shop

Good Common Sense | 620 Main St. Natural bath products like hand wash, lotion, soaps and deodorants as well as skin care, beauty, and haircare items. A super fun shop!

Town Center Books | 555 Main St. An independent bookstore right on Main Street. Thoughtful selection, friendly staff and the kind of place you walk into for one book and leave with three.

Girlfriends Boutique | 549 Main St. A women's boutique right on Main Street. Good variety of styles.

🍷 Livermore Wine Country

1. Murrieta's Well | 3005 Mines Rd. One of the most photographed wineries in the valley. Historic grounds, outdoor seating near the original well and patio food pairings. Open Thu–Sun.

2. Wente Family Vineyards | 5050 Arroyo Rd. California's oldest continuously operated family winery. Beautiful estate grounds, a full restaurant on property and a stunning setting for a long afternoon. Reservations recommended.

3. McGrail Vineyards | 5600 Greenville Rd. Rolling hills, panoramic views and the option to do a private igloo tasting overlooking the vineyard. One of the most scenic spots in Livermore.

4. Concannon Vineyard | 4590 Tesla Rd. Founded in 1883. Large outdoor lawn for picnicking, indoor tasting rooms and a classic Livermore setting. Great for groups.

5. Darcie Kent Estate Winery | 7000 Tesla Rd. A barn tasting room with original artwork by the owner throughout. Beautiful vineyard views and a personal, unhurried experience.

6. Las Positas Vineyards | 1828 Wetmore Rd. Elevated views over the valley, a great sparkling wine selection and live music on Friday and Saturday evenings.

Make a Day of It

My recommendation: book a morning session, grab brunch or lunch at any of the recommendations above, then spend the afternoon at one or two wineries. Bring the family, bring a friend, or come solo and meet some new ones, Pleasanton is that kind of place.

Need a custom itinerary based on your timing, party size, or interests? Just ask me when you book. I love sharing this town with the people who trust me with their headshots.

Ready to plan your visit? Book your session below and I'll help with the rest.