Aside from lush vineyards and serene pastoral settings, Napa Valley is renowned globally as a resplendent haven for food and wine connoisseurs. From its farm-to-table ethos to Michelin-starred restaurants, enchanting eateries, and upscale wine-tasting rooms and lounges, there are so many incredible places to indulge your senses.
To inspire you to explore this dream destination, today’s Napa food & wine guide gives you a taste of popular restaurants, a chic wine-tasting room, and a trendy rooftop bar.
Whether you’re seeking a sophisticated and refined fine dining excursion that caters to the desires of your tastebuds or you’re looking to relax in a cozy, charming eatery that specializes in comfort food with a modern twist, Downtown Napa is one of the best places in California to enjoy an epicurean experience.
Where To Eat Breakfast in Napa, California
To brighten your morning, the following restaurants in Napa offer a plethora of exquisite breakfast and brunch dishes, designed to satisfy your cravings and satiate your appetite.
Olive & Hay
Located within the luxurious Meritage Resort & Spa, their signature restaurant, Olive & Hay, creates a warm and inviting atmosphere that’s ideal for a hearty breakfast or brunch.
With its modern take on farmhouse-inspired decor, featuring warm wood tones, rustic wine barrels, and industrial finishes, the restaurant offers a wonderful ambiance for dining. Bright natural light streams through large windows, creating a tranquil and welcoming space to start your day. The indoor and outdoor seating options make this a fabulous dining spot for any season, whether you’re soaking up the morning sun on the patio or enjoying the calming dining room’s ambiance on a chilly winter morning.
Aside from the picturesque setting, the Wine Spectator award-winning restaurant serves a variety of flavorful, delicious dishes ranging from Avocado Toast topped with smoked salmon, capers, pickled red onions, and everything seasoning, served alongside perfectly roasted potatoes to the Nut House Granola, which is a tasty mix of Greek yogurt, honey, fresh berries, and banana. In addition to an extensive breakfast menu, the restaurant also serves lunch and dinner, so it’s a fantastic place to visit any time of day.
Winston’s Cafe & Bakery
If you’re seeking a quaint and captivating casual environment for a delectable breakfast, including freshly baked pastries, artisanal bagels, and healthy dishes, look no further than Winston’s Cafe & Bakery. This popular, family-owned cafe and bakery (which just opened a few years ago), has quickly captured the hearts and bellies of both locals and tourists.
This bustling cafe is renowned amongst Napa residents for its wide assortment of superb pastries (ranging from Pumpkin Cheesecake Muffins and Scones to Pineapple Fritters and Boston Creme Donuts). Aside from the assemblage of sugary treats, they also serve a variety of healthier options, including my personal favorites – the Superfood Bowl, brimming with chia seeds, oats, coconut milk, seasonal fruits, and passion fruit honey, as well as the Avocado Bagel, topped with red bell pepper pesto and pepitas. They also serve Eggs Benedict, Huevos Rancheros, French Toast, and many more breakfast and brunch options.
In addition to their large selection of breakfast dishes, the playful retro vibe combines vintage-inspired decor with a modernized feel. Their friendly and attentive staff exude a cheerful attitude, which makes diners feel right at home. Plus, the talented baristas behind their coffee bar whip up everything from creamy Matcha Lattés to shots of rich Espresso, making it a great spot to get your day started with a cup of Joe and a bite of something delicious.
For these reasons and more, it’s no wonder they recently earned recognition in the Napa Valley Register 2024 Napa Valley’s Finest list as one of the best local breakfast spots and one of the best local bakeries in Napa, California.
Where To Eat Lunch in Napa, California
From lively, casual eateries that offer reimagined, modernized versions of classic dishes to European-inspired restaurants set in a warm, beautiful atmosphere, Napa is home to several delightful restaurants that are great for enjoying a leisurely lunch.
Angèle Restaurant & Bar
Situated along the Napa River, the award-winning Angèle Restaurant & Bar exudes the epitome of rustic elegance.
The quaint French-inspired bistro (located within a historic boathouse) features refined countryside decor with earthy accents such as exposed beams and vintage touches, creating a tranquil yet sophisticated setting. The riverside location adds a magical element, offering stunning views of the water and surrounding foliage – which is especially captivating during Fall, as the leaves on the trees have started changing color. It’s a serene spot to indulge in a leisurely lunch, whether you’re seated on the outdoor terrace or in the dining room.
Signature dishes include the Quinoa Salad, made with arugula, pickled beets, Castelvetrano olives, and feta, as well as a fluffy omelet with comté cheese, served alongside a crisp garden salad, both of which I can say are absolutely divine. Each dish is a perfect balance of fresh ingredients and French-inspired techniques. To no surprise, their chef, Josue Alvarado, recently received the award of first place for “Best Chef” in the Napa Valley Register 2024 Napa Valley’s Finest list, in addition to the restaurant being ranked as one of the best outdoor dining spots in Napa.
C Casa at Oxbow Public Market
A few years ago when visiting Napa Valley, I happened to discover C Casa at the Oxbow Public Market.
Not only is this bustling Mexican eatery one of the trendiest restaurants in Napa (as it serves a variety of creatively designed, south-of-the-border dishes that infuse inventive flavors with vibrant colors) but a couple of years ago, it expanded into a stunning new private dining area set within the market. With its bright, airy, and colorful decor, the indoor/outdoor restaurant has rapidly grown into one of the most popular places to eat lunch in Napa, California.
The open kitchen adds to the vibrant ambiance, where you can watch the chefs craft each dish with precision. Whether you’re grabbing a quick bite or lingering over a meal with friends, C Casa offers a welcoming space to enjoy elevated street food. A must-try is the Salmon Taco, featuring perfectly cooked salmon paired with fresh, smoky flavors. The side of Succotash, brimming with hearty, seasonal vegetables, is the perfect complement to this flavorful dish.
After lunch, enjoy a leisurely stroll around Oxbow Public Market, where you can find everything from fresh produce and artisanal-made chocolates to handcrafted home goods, collectibles, and unique treasures. Known for its vibrant atmosphere and focus on locally sourced ingredients, it’s a fun spot to explore Napa’s diverse flavors, whether you’re indulging in fresh oysters (at the renowned Hog Island Oyster Co), gourmet tacos (at C Casa), or olive oils (at The Olive Press). There are so many intriguing places to visit that you can easily spend a couple of hours tasting and shopping at each business located within this bustling culinary hub.
Norman Rose Tavern
For a laid-back lunch with a cozy touch, Norman Rose Tavern offers a relaxing retreat in the heart of Downtown Napa. The restaurant combines a balance of casual charm and refined touches making it a favorite among locals and visitors.
The rustic decor, featuring wooden furnishings and red leather bar stools, creates a timeless yet inviting atmosphere. Known for its unpretentious ambiance and inviting setting, the casual restaurant and bar is a great spot for catching up with friends or enjoying a quiet moment in between wine tastings (as it’s surrounded by dozens of renowned wine-tasting rooms, all within walking distance).
If you’re in the mood for a light and healthy lunch, a couple of the dishes that I highly recommend include the Roasted Beet and Goat Cheese Salad (which is accented with frisée, candied walnuts, and champagne vinaigrette), and a side of their Roasted Brussels Sprouts, which are caramelized to perfection, making for a flavorful and satisfying lunch.
If you’re craving something heartier, they’re also known for serving outstanding burgers and sandwiches, including their House Roasted French Dip (served on a Sciambria torpedo roll with caramelized onions, horseradish cream, and au jus), the Buttermilk Fried Chicken Sandwich (including watercress, red onion, and peppercorn dressing), and their Rancho Gordo Midnight Bean and Barley Burger (served with swiss cheese, sliced avocado, and sriracha aioli).
Where To Eat Dinner in Napa, California
If you’re looking to enjoy the best cuisine in a gorgeous atmosphere, then you’ll be enthralled to discover an award-winning, top-rated fine dining establishment located in the heart of Napa.
La Toque at The Westin Verasa Napa
La Toque is a cornerstone of Napa Valley’s fine dining scene, helmed by renowned Chef Ken Frank, a 14-time recipient of the coveted Michelin star. As a Wine Spectator “Grand Award” winner—an honor bestowed on only 93 restaurants globally—La Toque (which translates to the chef’s hat) is revered amongst fine dining enthusiasts and discerning travelers for its harmonious food and wine pairings and impeccable service.
Located within The Westin Verasa Napa, the contemporary French restaurant features a sleek, elegant interior with sophisticated floral arrangements and a warm glow that enhances the sultry atmosphere. The space exudes an air of quiet luxury, as it’s complemented by the team’s meticulous attention to detail, from the perfectly set tables (flanked by a modern cylindrical vase adorned with flowers) to the seamless blend of stylish design with minimalist touches. The romantic candlelight softly illuminates each table, making all the reflective surfaces (including the wine glasses) sparkle like radiant gems.
During our visit, I indulged in the Pescatarian version of the Chef’s Tasting Menu, which showcases their mastery of wine-friendly cuisine. Highlights included Pacific Spot Prawns in tamarind broth paired with Laherte Frères Rosé Champagne and New Zealand Ora King Salmon with Regiis Ova Caviar Sabayon, complemented by a 2021 Chablis Grand Cru. And, of course, the unparalleled dessert – a Roasted Caramelized Apple with brown sugar crème fraiche sherbet and candied pecans, to top it off. If you opt for the wine pairings in addition to the tasting menu, you’re in for a treat – as it creates a truly indulgent, sumptuous dinner, as each course is thoughtfully paired to elevate the dining experience. It’s a sensational feast that will delight your senses.
When asked, ‘How did you get your start, and why did you first open La Toque?’, Chef Ken exclaimed, “I was simply in the right place at the right time. My family was living in France for a year when I was 16 and I needed a job. So I started washing dishes at a nearby hotel and I’ve been in the kitchen ever since. I just needed a job, and it became the start of a charmed career. Back in the US to finish high school I started working in a local French restaurant, again because I needed a job. But I really loved cooking and was learning fast. I got a break at age 21 with my first head chef job at La Guillotine on Sunset Bl. The press loved it, a young American chef serving some of the best food in LA. That led to more great opportunities, and I ended up being the opening chef at Michael’s in Santa Monica. After that became a nightmare, I decided it was time for me to have my own place. Patrick Terrail who owned Ma Maison told me to call it La Toque. I lined up 12 investors at $5,000 each and bought half of the restaurant that became the original La Toque in the fall of 1979.”
Whether you’re visiting Napa with friends, family, or your significant other, La Toque is the perfect setting for a memorable evening or a celebratory dinner.
Where To Go Wine Tasting in Napa, California
While there are a variety of award-winning wineries to explore around Napa Valley, if you want to experience an upscale atmosphere and esteemed wines (without having to book an Uber or exhaust yourself driving all over the valley), you’re in luck, as Downtown Napa is home to 55 wine tasting rooms, in addition to bustling bars and lounges.
Levendi Wine Tasting Room
To start with, Levendi Wine’s modern wine-tasting room blends sleek design with rustic charm, featuring warm wood tones, the glow of colorful backlighting (that illuminates the live edge bar), and an impressive display of wine bottles.
Located in the heart of Downtown Napa, the inviting ambiance is complemented by knowledgeable staff (like their General Manager, Steve Ebol) who passionately guide guests through their offerings. I even learned that Steve (a true evangelist of the winery) helped accelerate the rapid growth of the brand, as he was responsible for selling over 1200 bottles within the first year he brought it into a restaurant that he was managing at the time, helping to establish its presence amongst food and wine aficionados.
Levendi’s reputation as a highly acclaimed winery is well-earned. Standout bottlings like the 2019 Legacy Howell Mountain Cabernet Sauvignon earned 94 points from Wine Advocate, while the 2020 Sweetwater Cabernet Sauvignon and 2020 Rutherford Cabernet Sauvignon each received 91 points from Wine Spectator and James Suckling, respectively. The 2021 Mazaika Cabernet Sauvignon scored 90 points from Wine Spectator, and their 2020 Symphonia Bordeaux-style red blend was awarded an impressive 93 points by the Beverage Tasting Institute. These accolades underscore Levendi’s dedication to crafting wines of exceptional quality, making a visit to their gorgeous tasting room a must for wine enthusiasts.
During my visit, I enjoyed the Estate Flight, featuring the 2021 Perspective Chardonnay, 2022 Estate Chardonnay, 2023 Nicoletta Rosé of Pinot Noir, and the 2021 Late Harvest Chardonnay. We were also treated to an artisan cheese plate that complemented the nuanced flavors of the wines. With passionate and knowledgeable staff guiding each tasting, Levendi Wine provides a blend of education and indulgence, offering a memorable experience for visitors.
Sky & Vine Rooftop Bar at the Archer Hotel Napa
Last, but certainly not least is Sky & Vine Rooftop Bar – a trendy lounge and bar that’s perched atop the luxurious Archer Hotel Napa, making it one of Downtown Napa’s most vibrant destinations for wine, food, and unparalleled city views. Helmed by renowned celebrity chef Charlie Palmer (who has received 13 Michelin stars, two James Beard awards, and the title of “Best Chef in America” in 1997), this ultra-cool rooftop venue is the perfect blend of culinary excellence and stylish ambiance, making it a hotspot for both locals and visitors.
The design of Sky & Vine is as impressive as its offerings. The rooftop bar features sleek fire pits, cozy lounge seating, and panoramic views of Napa Valley, creating an inviting yet elevated atmosphere for indulging in food and wine offerings. Whether you’re watching the sun set behind the rolling hills or enjoying the sparkling city lights, the ambiance sets the tone for an unforgettable evening.
The bar’s chic vibe is further elevated by a buzzing energy, especially on weekends, when it becomes a social hub for wine enthusiasts and food lovers alike. When I visited a few years ago (on a solo trip), I waited in line for about an hour just to get in, as it’s one of the most popular hangout spots in the city. To my surprise, people were so friendly, that while waiting to head up to the rooftop bar, a group of gals invited me to join their festivities as they were in town that night celebrating a bachelorette party. Truly a fun and memorable experience to say the least!
The menu at Sky & Vine reflects Chef Charlie Palmer’s culinary philosophy of pairing fresh, local ingredients with bold, vibrant flavors. During my recent visit, I savored the House-Made Cheese & Charcuterie Board, which included standout selections like Bermuda Triangle goat cheese, Point Reyes Toma, and Midnight Moon Swiss, alongside premium meats such as prosciutto and salami. I paired it with a glass of Böen Pinot Noir, sourced from the nearby Russian River Valley—a pairing that perfectly balanced the richness of the charcuterie.
Whether you’re a wine enthusiast, a foodie, or simply looking for a fun hotspot to hang out at, Sky & Vine Rooftop Bar is a must-visit in Napa. Its combination of exceptional culinary offerings, trendy ambiance, and breathtaking views cements its status as one of Napa’s most popular dining and lounge destinations.
Discover The Ultimate Epicurean Experience in Downtown Napa
As the holidays approach, there’s no better time to experience the charm of Downtown Napa in Northern California.
Don’t miss the 10-day Winter WINE-derland Passport event (from November 29-December 8, 2024), which offers two wine splashes at over 20 tasting rooms (including Levendi, JaM Cellars, Wine Girl, and more). A portion of the proceeds benefits Jameson Humane, making it a festive and philanthropic way to explore Napa’s renowned wine scene.
To learn about other upcoming events and attractions happening in Downtown Napa, check out DoNapa’s event schedule online.
Whether you’re planning a romantic getaway or a seasonal escape with friends, Downtown Napa delivers an unforgettable experience combined with unparalleled food and wine offerings, all set within the bucolic beauty of Northern California’s picturesque wine country.
To discover other inspiring destinations, top-ranked hotels, outstanding restaurants, wineries, and incredible vacation spots, explore the Travel section on Inspirations & Celebrations.
[Disclosure: Brought to you in collaboration with the Downtown Napa Association. Meals and tastings hosted by Downtown Napa and the featured venues. While I was compensated, all opinions are my own.]
