About Us

Acme Burger owners and creators, Todd and Erica Kniess

Todd‘s passion for food began as a child in Connecticut helping out with the family catering business. He graduated from the Culinary Institute of America in New York and completed his apprenticeship on Grand Cayman Island in the British West Indies. After graduation from the C.I.A., Todd honed his skills at the Four-Star Sazerac Restaurant in the Fairmont Hotel in New Orleans, the 5-Diamond Ritz Carlton Hotel in Naples, Florida, and the Left Bank in Larkspur. Todd then owned and operated Bistro Liaison for 16 years in Berkeley. When it was time for a change, Todd sold the Bistro and his café, Le Petit Cochon, and moved to Sonoma County. It was there he not only found his beloved wive, Erica, but his next challenge, the iconic burger.

With a shared new passion, they combined Todd's culinary prowess and Erica's marketing and design talents to create Acme Burger. 

Opened early 2019, Acme Burger is a true labor of love built to foster the same neighborhood-favorite feel of Bistro Liaison. We're a comfortably casual restaurant focused on building community and simple, local, exceptionally good food at an affordable price. Served with a caramelized exterior and a touch of pink in the middle, the Acme Burger aims to please. We feature Sonoma Mountain Beef burgers (locally raised, hormone and antibiotic free, grass-fed and grain finished), buttermilk fried chicken, Willie Bird turkey burger, the Beyond Burger (plant-based protein), rock cod, pulled pork, freshly prepared sides and salads, house-made soups and chili, local beers and wine, Straus organic soft serve and so much more! Our menu, including gluten-free options, truly offers something for everyone. 

We wholeheartedly believe in investing in the community we live. We love to host Dine and Donate events for local schools and community programs, sponsor local youth athletic and art programs, host Family Day every Tuesday, and offer a first responders discount all day, every day. 

Take a look at what folks have been saying ...

"I normally don't do reviews on places, but this is probably the best burger I've ever had. Loved everything about this place.”

“Outstanding burgers - cooked perfectly and so flavorful! The best in Sonoma County.  The thin cut onion rings are to die for! Really fun and relaxed atmosphere. They have a beautiful patio - I can't wait to try when its warmer out. Great beer & wine menu. We're definitely going back!”

”Excellent quality food at reasonable prices-unusual in Sonoma County anymore!”

“This place rocks! Great atmosphere and service, will definitely be returning. Food was delicious and freshly made with good portion sizes. The outdoor patio area is super cute and very comfortable.”

“Super good! I was so excited that I forgot to take a picture.”

“The BEST BURGER IN THE COUNTY IS NOW IN COTATI, right here at Acme.  And for you vegans/vegetarians: the "Impossible" burger which is 100% plant-based - tastes like real, grass-fed beef!  Thank you Acme!!

Come on by and say hello!