The Carpe Diem Wine Bar serves delicious local Californian cuisine paired with a variety of the finest wines from around the world. Established by three friends in June 2010, this venue has quickly become renowned as the go-to spot in Napa for local singles, friends, and anyone who enjoys a relaxed dining experience. Although the restaurant section of this establishment closes earlier, depending on the day, the bar remains open and active well into the night.
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.
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.
Enjoy nitrogen cocktails and lollipops that are truly bone chilling at Eikos. Essentially a Japanese restaurant, Eikos offers a range of signature dishes that attract the crowds. Spicy Edamame, House Made Gyozo, Dynamite Scallop Nigiri and Wagyu Steak Medallions are a must try at this venue. Locals love the classy ambience here, along with the late night dining on weekends. The sake list is extensive, attracting the diners. However, the star of the menu is the after-dinner list which features Duet Of Liquid Nitrogen Lollipop Ice Cream, Dragon Breath Popcorn and Mochi Ice Cream. Save some place for the Nitro Capirinha too.
Bottega is located in the food mecca of Yountville, in the heart of the Napa Valley. Celebrity Chef Michael Chiarello puts together a seasonally changing menu featuring authentic Italian dishes (following the traditional Italian menu progression) made with local, organic and artisinal ingredients. Almost anything they can make themselves in house, they do. And then there's dessert, which is a whole different story featuring the popular sweet fritto misto with chocolate arancini and crispy fried cream. The ambiance is cozy and elegant, featuring warm colors, a fireplace and a covered outdoor lounge perfect for enjoying warm Napa nights. Bottega is truly one of the Napa Valley's culinary crowned jewels.
Fans of Thomas Keller's French Laundry (conveniently located just down the street) will enjoy the more casual Bouchon Bistro on Washington Street in Yountville. This affordable fine-dining establishment serves delicious French bistro treats with a warm Epi baguette. If you can't get a table, try sitting at the bar and getting a drink or enjoying oysters flown in from around the world. The simple menu (served for both lunch and dinner) contains classic bistro dishes, such as Steak Frites, Lamb, Mussels, Croque Madames and Roasted Chicken. Be sure to save some room for dessert! Try the Mousse au chocolat noir or the Profiteroles for a taste of delicious French sweets. Bouchon is often very busy, so be sure to book ahead, especially for parties larger than four.
Flora Springs tasting room or usually referred to as 'The room' is the place where you sample the exquisite wines produced at the Flora Springs winery. Set in a modern and contemporary space, it is sure to impress you with the selection of wines it offers. You can sip on some fine wines while enjoying splendid views of the hills of Napa Valley from their rooftop lounge. Their courtyard picnic area fosters a festive vibe and is a great place to relax with your family and friends. Wine tasting for individuals as well as groups is offered.
Located near the Lakeville Highway, at first glance Ernie's Bar appears to be no more than a defunct auto/garage shop with a vintage Chrysler sticking out its front. Once inside, it is a cool dive bar that attracts a lot of bikers making rest-stops from the highway. The selection of beers is rumored to be exceptional for wallet-friendly prices and Ernie's is considerate enough to offer a shuttle-service to its patrons to avoid any DUIs. Sit out on the patio and have a cold one as you talk shop with bikers.
Clif Family Winery is a family owned vineyard which offers up excellent wine tastings with artisan food pairings. Known mainly for their Clif Bar, an energy snack popular among cyclists, one can sample some of their best vintages such as Estate Zinfandel, Grenache, and of course, Cabernet Sauvignon, which is their specialty. Enjoy a glass with some spectacular views of the verdant vineyards when you visit here.
Located on the second floor of Napa’s Andaz Hotel, this sophisticated outdoor lounge offers its guests an extensive menu of regionally inspired cocktails, craft beers and delicious local wines. Drinks can be accompanied with light bites, desserts or try their amazing Mac n Cheese or grass-fed beef burgers from the food menu. The place is spacious and has comfortable seating with large communal tables and fire pits. Guests can savor their favorite cocktails and wines, while enjoying the music of Andaz Artists.
Brasswood Cellars situated in the heart of St Helena is a winery featuring multiple tasting rooms as well as a guided tour of the facility. The exquisite wine produced here in small batches using locally grown grapes is quite popular amidst wine connoisseurs in the city. You can tour the beautiful Estate Vineyards and learn about their entire wine making process as you will uncover how the concoction came to be stored in large, elegant wooden casks where they are left for fermentation. Moreover, you can also learn the nuances of wine tasting in the Sensory Room at Brasswood Cellars under expert guidance during your visit here. Overall, if you already not an oenophile, this place will turn you into one.