Restaurants
Napa:
Bistro Don Giovanni/Scala Osteria
Bistro Don Giovanni's (Don G's to the locals) has been a longtime staple in the valley. The food is always consistent and the new and improved wine list showcases Italian and Napa Wines. Scala is their sister restaurant that opened in January 2023and showcases southern Italian cuisine. Pizzas are a must, but the go to is the Ravioli al limone and Caggiano salsicce e broccoli rabe (grilled spicy sausage with butter and garlic).
Cadet Beer & Wine Bar
This hotspot is where industry people gather and drink wines that you normally wouldn’t find on wine lists and allows for plenty of discovery. The energy here is high, the vibe is relaxed and the staff is very knowledgable. They also offer up “power hour”, half off all wines by the glass and draft beers Monday, Tuesday, & Thursday through Sunday from 5pm to 6 pm and the “weekly winemaker” on Wednesdays.
Chispa
This new addition to downtown Napa is focused more on cocktails that revolve around tequila. Drinks are on point and food are a true delight. Margaritas and the seafood tower are the go to's, but get the Ricky Bobby and some fried chicken. If you know, you know.
Compline
The hour of Compline signaled the completion of the working day, when vineyards fell quiet and the lights went on. Compline offers up an in-depth and expansive wine program that caters to both locals and visitors alike. The ever changing menu is thoughtfully put together with fresh ingredients. The California Cheese Board is always a hit! Also, their wine shop which is a few doors down has a great selection.
Hog Island Oysters:
Oysters...nuff said.
https://hogislandoysters.com/restaurants/napa/
La Taberna/Zuzu's
Tapas at its best here in Napa Valley. Jamon, empinadas,and perroning some albariño. Both places are casual and fun spots to hang out at. Ask for the secret wine list of vintage Spanish wines. You won't be disappointed.
Morimoto Napa
This downtown spot has been a staple since 2010. The food showcases the culinary artistry of Chef Masaharu Morimoto. The elegant and inviting atmosphere is always inviting for guests and expect a wide range of dishes from sushi and sashimi The food is always delicious and fresh. Cocktails are made to perfection and complements any of the food. The wine list has something for everyone. Service is on point. Go for the fatty tuna, hamachi tacos and go for the wagyu A5 if you can.
Oenotri
Since opening in 2010, Oenotri has consistently put out some of the best Italian food. They serve southern-Italian cuisine of rustic dishes built around the freshest local product available. The pizzas are baked in a wood-burning oven, imported from Italy and are must order when here. While having a wine list that showcases Napa producers, their strength lies with their selection of the most sought after Italian wines. Pizzas are always a hit and their house cured salumi’s are a must.
StateLine Road Smokehouse
Coming soon to Napa's Art Rail District, Chef Darryl Bell has done a few pop-ups around the Valley, Napa Farmer's Market and was the favorite at this year's BottleRock concert. Menu items will include brisket, ribs, chicken, pulled pork and burnt ends.
TORC
One of our favorite places, when you walk into TORC, the open space is playing A Tribe Called Quest and the vibe is unintimidating. The menu is crafted to showcase seasonal ingredients and sourced from local farmers and purveyors. The wine list is one of the best in Napa, with local wines being the focus and including wines from all over the world. We recommend the pakora, deviled eggs, the NY Strip for 2 and if you want pasta, ask for some truffles added to it.
The Wine Thief
Owner Andy Renda has curated a wine collective showcasing wine brands that are some of the most sought after wines. You're set up in a private tasting experience led by Andy and he'll guide you through the nuances and share stories about these wines. He has a "Thick as Thieves' wine club where you can have a mix of wines from the collective as your wine club allocation.
Bay Grape
Bay Grape has a great selection of wines that you might not have heard of or not used to seeing. But that’s the point. No pretension in their wine list and the staff is very knowledgeable and friendly.
YOUNTVILLE:
Bottega
Italian food at it finest. Bold flavors and a wine list with a focus on Italy and Napa Valley. They've recently expanded the cocktail list so head up to the comfortable bar and order a Negroni or 2. Food recommendations include Polpo (Octopus), Ricotta Gnocchi della Nonna, and Raviolo.
https://www.botteganapavalley.com/
Bistro Jeanty
The essence of a neighborhood bistro in Yountville. Bistro Jeanty has been a staple for over 20 years and doesn't disappoint. Classic dishes such as Escargot, Croque Madam and Sole Meunière (Petrale sole filet with mashed potatoes & lemon caper butter sauce)are not to be missed. French and Napa Valley focused wine list along with the intimate indoor/outdoor dining make this a great experience in Napa.
The French Laundry
The bucket list for foodies and hospitality people alike. Although the menu has changed since we were here in 2011, the experience remains unreal. How I described the experience is that it's a spa for your stomach and senses and to just enjoy the ride!
https://www.thomaskeller.com/tfl
RUTHERFORD:
Auberge
This is the place where locals tell the out of town visitors to head up there for some of the best views of Napa Valley. Take in the sights with some Champagne along with some small bites.
https://aubergeresorts.com/aubergedusoleil/
La Luna Market & Taqueria
Serving Napa since 1968, this is authentic Mexican food. The burritos are monstrous and damn good. Get the Carne al Pastor- you won't be disappointed.
ST. HELENA:
Press
In our opinion, the best wine list that showcases Napa Valley and its history of wine. You can go through this list finding Napa Valley wines throughout the 1950's to current vintages. The food pays homage to not only Napa Valley, but to California cuisine and purveyors.
https://www.pressnapavalley.com/
Farmstead
Part of the Long Meadow Ranch brand, this place has a bit of everything for everyone. Outdoor seating, bar seating, indoor seating- anywhere you were sitting was a great spot. The Mini Ham Sandwiches with Pepper Jelly is out of this world along with the Dunguness Crab Roll, a California staple. You can also go next door and do a wine tasting without leaving the property.
https://www.longmeadowranch.com/
Cook
Another place locals love, this small eatery is a tough table to get. Fresh ingredients and focusing on Northern Italian food and a wine list that has hidden gems throughout, go for the house-made pastas. The favorite is fazzoletti bolognese and house made ricotta and the braised short ribs. You won't be disappointed.
Calistoga:
Sol Bar at Solage
Things to do at Sol Bar: sit by the pool, order rosé or a cocktail and enjoy.
https://aubergeresorts.com/solage/dine/solbar
Buster’s Southern BBQ
In the tiny town of Calistoga, there is one place where people flock to for some great BBQ and that's Buster's. The recipes for the sauces are all passed down from generations and this place is a great lunch spot. In the summer, the line is usually pretty long so plan accordingly. Tri-tip and pulled pork is the way to go.
https://www.busterssouthernbbq.com/
Johnny’s Restaurant
A local bar to watch all the sports you need after wine tasting. Located in the Mount View Hotel, settle up to the bar and get the Johnny's Smashburger or the El Cubano. Beer and Cocktails are the go to drinks here.