Foodies from all over the world flock to this romantic jewel in the Napa Valley, considered to be one of the most outstanding restaurants in the world. The exquisite American-French food defies description or convention. Chef Thomas Keller takes care to use as much produce from the restaurant's private garden as possible, as well as making sure no ingredient is repeated anywhere on the nine-course daily tasting menus. The French Laundry's extraordinary food is exceeded only by its excellent service. Patrons are always impressed by the knowledge of the head Sommelier and enjoy the tasteful recommendations. A table at the French Laundry is a heavily coveted prize, so make sure to reserve far in advance.
Providing freshly baked breads and deserts for Chef Thomas Keller's Yountville restaurants: The French Laundry, Bouchon and ad hoc, Bouchon Bakery delights its customers with many of the same treats. The bakery is small and quaint. Inside you'll find a small display case filled with macaroons, tarts, cookies and Chocolate Bouchons. The delicacies of sweets doesn't end there, though, more often it starts with Chocolate Bouchons. Chocolate Bouchons are up-right, moist brownies with a warm chocolate center that bursts into your mouth with the first bite, all lightly sprinkled with confectioner's sugar. On weekends, the bakery serves decadent donuts. The "TKO" (Thomas Keller Oreo) is an unusual treat of two buttery chocolate cookies with a white cream filling sandwiched in between. The bakery also serves ready-made sandwiches on baguettes. Prices may seem high, but sweets are so rarely made or packaged with so much detail and passion.
Locals and tourists alike flock to Brix Restaurant to watch the chef concoct his excellent dishes. With a panoramic view of the Napa hillside and a decor of warm Impressionist tones, the award-winning Brix Restaurant makes for an elegant night out. Featuring classic Californian delicacies with a twist of French-influence, the food severed here is always a delight to the palate. You can order a five-course tasting dinner that comes Japanese-style in a bento box. The on-site wine store offers an extensive and eclectic variety, running the gamut in price.
Located in the Carneros Inn, Boon Fly Cafe offers healthy breakfast and brunch options. Hamburgers, parmesan prosciutto, eggs Benedict, Canadian bacon, sourdough bread, and of course, mac 'n' cheese are well done and highly acclaimed. Inn guests and those on a wine tasting trip generally fill the place and therefore breakfast times are booked way in advance. Waiting guests are treated to gourmet coffee and parking is convenient.
Popular wisdom holds that this is the restaurant that kicked off the latest round in the fine dining craze in the North Bay. That may or may not be true. What is a fact is that chef Cindy Pawlcyn, who has since been influential in the creation of many other Bay Area restaurants, started here and is still involved in kitchen operations at her flagship restaurant. The atmosphere at Mustards is upscale roadhouse with an airy dining room and walls that are almost entirely made of windows. The staff is lively and and efficient.
This relaxed, cozy eatery is popular with local vintners and a great recommendation for excellent food. No wonder, as its owners are Giovanni and Donna Scala who also own Scala's Bistro in San Francisco. The wood and tile dining area, adorned with lots of fresh flowers and pottery, features a huge fireplace and glassed-in kitchen. Outside, a sprawling patio overlooks adjacent vineyards. The traditional Italian cuisine is impeccably prepared. Recommended dishes include the Trenne Pasta with Lamb, Artichokes, Olives, Roasted Tomatoes and Ricotta Salata. The wine list features local and Italian vintages and the service is first-rate.
The Epicurean Connection is a neighborhood cheese shop and cafe that has gained its popularity through its dedication to quality and friendly service. Not only does the shop sell rare artisan and farmstead American cheeses, but they also offer craft beers, a wonderful selection of wines, olive oils, jams and much more. The interior is reminiscent of a picnic, with benches and baskets of fresh fruits, so indulge yourself in some Southern and Cajun food after you've made your purchases and relax. Located in Sonoma, where they are known for their wine and cheese, it would be a pity to miss out on this gem while visiting.
This casual dining eatery offers upscale twists on American classics. Must-haves include the scrumptious Organic Fried Chicken and Champagne Battered Fish n' Chip. You will need to visit many times to cover the extensive menu. The lip smacking dessert menu comprises of Homemade Butterscotch Pudding and Chocolate Cookies or Market S'Mores made at your table with melting chocolate and delicious graham crackers. The menu changes seasonally so go ahead and make your taste buds happy!
The Auberge du Soleil, located in the Napa Valley's Rutherford, is one of the area's premier luxury accommodations, so it should come as no surprise that the Restaurant at Auberge du Soleil is one of Napa's most delicious and coveted reservations. The restaurant serves contemporary California cuisine taking heavy influence from the Mediterranean cuisine which is all too deserving of the Michelin star they have maintained for many years. The prix fixe menus include seasonal dishes that utilize fresh and locally sourced ingredients where possible. Being in the heart of wine country, the wine list is nothing less than stellar. Try to get a seat on their gorgeous terrace where you can enjoy a breath of fresh air.
Protea is a casual street food restaurant that serves some of the tastiest street foods from around the world. They have a daily changing menu and the popular items being the Cubano sandwiches, empanadas, rice bowls and fish tacos to name a few. All dishes are prepared using the traditional and authentic cooking styles and guests can enjoy their meals at the outdoor patio overlooking the mountains.
At the sleek-looking Ad Hoc, chef Thomas Keller takes the average American meal and turns it up a notch. Although the decor may be sparse, with plain white walls and chrome tables, the food is anything but. For starters, ease into the Haricots Verts and Garden Fig Salad, and then move your way up to the Bacalao & Chick Pea Soup. Finish off the night with a heavenly Chocolate Bread Pudding topped with whipped caramel cream. Though pricey, the meals leave you wishing you could eat Keller-style every day.
Fine Italian cuisine at Cucina Paradiso is inspired by the chef's imagination and possibly a stint at Cefalu. Stellar creations of linguini, carpaccio, caprese, ravioli di Anatra, and pollo arrosto make the ristorante worth visiting. The vegetarian preparations are satisfactory. The place is often packed but that doesn't compromise on the quality of the service. Reserve to avoid disappointment.