22 Best Restaurants in Napa, CA
Whether you're a fellow local or a visitor looking to savor the best of what this city has to offer, join me on this culinary journey as we explore some of the best restaurants in Napa, California, that have made an indelible mark on my palate.
While this list showcases some remarkable restaurants, it's important to note there are many other exceptional dining establishments in Napa that are not featured here. Our aim is not just to guide you to popular eateries but to encourage you to venture out and experience the city's diverse culinary landscape for yourself.
Winston's Cafe & Bakery
I have to say, one of the best spots for breakfast in the area has to be Winston's Cafe & Bakery.
As a food enthusiast, I always look forward to my weekend mornings spent there.
The freshness of the ingredients and the skillful care that goes into each item served is truly remarkable.
One of my favorite dishes is their French toast fried in crisp rice cereal - it's hands down one of the best things I've ever eaten.
The outside is delightfully crispy, while the inside remains tender and delicious.
Their eggs benedict on an English muffin is another must-try, with perfectly poached eggs and crispy potatoes.
The breakfast experience wouldn't be complete without their fantastic coffee, which pairs beautifully with the rest of the meal.
Now, let's talk about their baked goods.
I've never been disappointed by their selection, but my absolute favorite is the sour cream citrus roll.
It has a homemade taste quality to it that's hard to find outside of family kitchens.
Galpão Gaucho Brazilian Steakhouse
Let me tell you about one of my favorite dining experiences in the area - Galpão Gaucho Brazilian Steakhouse.
This place offers an all-you-can-eat option in a contemporary, group-friendly space, making it perfect for celebrations and gatherings.
The moment I stepped into Galpão Gaucho, I was impressed by the ambiance and the service.
From the amazing salad bar to the variety of meats cooked to perfection, there's something for everyone to enjoy.
I was particularly impressed by the juiciness of even the well-done beef, and the complimentary Brazilian cheese bread and chimichuri sauce were to die for.
Among the meat servings, the shrimp and the pork tenderloin stood out as my favorites, and I couldn't get enough of the fried bananas.
Not only was the food heavenly, but the service was exceptional as well.
The attention to detail, like serving an on-the-house tres leches cake for my birthday, made the experience even more memorable.
It's been a while since I dined there, but I can still remember the flavors and the atmosphere vividly.
The Dutch Door
If you're looking for a casual take-out spot in Napa, The Dutch Door is definitely worth a try.
It's located just around the corner from the Alpha Omega wine tasting room - a small, hole-in-the-wall sandwich place but one of the best in Napa Valley.
You can check out their website here.
My go-to choice is the Korean fried chicken sandwich, which is absolutely delicious.
The batter and crispiness are perfect, and the sandwich isn't smothered in sauce, so the crisp remains intact.
The bun is good, and the meat isn't dry, which is a bonus.
I've also tried their vegan chili fries, which are pretty interesting and healthier than your regular chili fries.
The place itself has a nice vibe, with good music and a few cute seating options.
Small World Restaurant
One of my favorite places to eat in the area is Small World Restaurant.
It's this casual storefront eatery that serves delicious Mediterranean fare like falafel, pitas, burgers, and gyros.
Whenever I'm in the mood for some great Mediterranean food, I always head over there.
I love sitting outside at the restaurant, enjoying the weather and the people-watching.
The atmosphere is family-friendly, and it's always bustling with locals and visitors alike enjoying their meals.
But their takeout options are just as good in case you want to grab a quick bite on the go.
One of the dishes I can't resist is their amazing lamb gyro.
It's seriously the best I've ever had, and I know I'm not the only one who thinks so.
Their falafel, hummus, and pita bread are also top-notch and never disappoint.
Cordeiro's Steakhouse
I recently had the pleasure of dining at Cordeiro's Steakhouse, and I must say, it was a wonderful experience.
The elegant white-tablecloth setting, stone walls, and patio create a beautiful atmosphere, perfect for date nights or special occasions.
When I went, I ordered the steak, which was incredibly tender and cooked to perfection.
I'm not usually a fan of red wines, but the wine selection at Cordeiro's changed my mind – it was simply amazing.
From the table-side Caesar salad preparation to the complimentary dessert, everything was top-notch.
Sunshine Cafe
One of my favorite places to enjoy breakfast in our beautiful city has to be Sunshine Cafe!
You can check their menu and location here.
Every time I walk in, I'm greeted with a quirky, fun, and slightly nerdy atmosphere that I absolutely adore.
When it comes to the food, I've tried a variety of dishes, and I've never been disappointed.
The seasonal stuffed French toast is out of this world, and the eggs with biscuits and gravy are perfect for a hearty breakfast.
One time, I decided to go for their shrimp omelet, and I can't stop thinking about how delicious it was!
I've also heard great things about their chicken and waffles, and the lighter option of heirloom tomato toast is a delightful choice as well.
Oh, and I can't forget to mention their Marvel-themed bathrooms!
It's a fun touch that adds to the unique charm of Sunshine Cafe.
Boon Fly Café
One of my go-to places for a weekend breakfast in the area has to be the Boon Fly Café.
Located at the Carneros Resort & Spa, the café offers a casual Californian dining experience with a modern roadhouse vibe.
The first thing I love about this place is their mini donuts – fresh, hot, and coated with cinnamon sugar, they are simply irresistible!
While the wait time for a table can sometimes be a bit long, especially during peak hours, the lively atmosphere and delicious food make up for it.
I've had a variety of dishes here, including the chicken and waffles, which come with a large fresh waffle and a generous portion of chicken on the bone.
The maple syrup and honey butter provided are the perfect addition to this dish.
The breakfast burrito is another popular choice.
The omelets at Boon Fly Café are also worth trying.
They're fluffy and made with fresh ingredients.
Yak and Yeti
I absolutely love dining at Yak and Yeti in Napa.
Their Nepalese dishes are both authentic and mouthwateringly delicious, making them a perfect spot to satisfy my cravings for Indian and Nepalese cuisine.
One of my favorites is the kukuhru chicken and eggplant - it's simply to die for!
Besides that, the lamb biriyani rice is aromatic and adds a delightful touch to the meal.
What pleasantly surprised me was the tandoori multi-plate, which had three types of meats, including salmon.
Mixing it with raita, brown rice, and naan was a heavenly experience.
And, if you're a fan of shrimp, you must try their tandoori shrimp, which is unbelievably fresh and bursting with flavor.
The restaurant itself has a cozy indoor seating area and a lovely shaded outdoor dining area for those hotter days.
Accessibility is also not a problem here, as it is wheelchair-friendly and offers a kids' menu.
Hog Island Oyster Co
I recently decided to check out Hog Island Oyster Co for a night out with friends, and I must say, I was quite impressed.
We started off with the Market Greens salad, which was fresh and flavorful.
I decided to go for the Rustic Seafood Stew as my main course, and it was a delightful choice!
The stew came piping hot, brimming with various succulent seafood in a delicious tomato-based broth.
The oysters, which are a highlight of this place, were extremely fresh and shucked to perfection.
We also tried the grilled oysters, which were good but not as amazing as the ones I've had at their San Francisco location.
The Manhattan chowder, made à la minute, was light and brothy, which I appreciated.
However, the standout dish for me was the garlic fries - they were the best I've ever had and tasted just as great as the ones at their other locations.
The Waterfront Seafood Grill
Whenever I have friends visiting from out of town, or I'm just in the mood for some delicious seafood, I always go to The Waterfront Seafood Grill.
Their food is consistently amazing, and I especially enjoy their outdoor dining area on the shady side, where you don't have to worry about the sun.
I can never resist ordering their vodka martini with blue cheese olives - it's just the perfect way to start a meal.
As for the main courses, you can't go wrong with the surf and turf or the Chilean sea bass.
They never disappoint!
If you're looking for a special dinner or a place to impress your out-of-town guests, I highly recommend trying the pan-fried branzino or the ahi poke, as they're always perfectly cooked and seasoned.
Not only is the food great, but the atmosphere on their patio overlooking the Napa Riverfront is just perfect for a relaxing and enjoyable evening.
They even provide blankets and propane heaters to keep you warm on those cooler nights.
Bistro Don Giovanni
I have to say, one of my favorite places in the area for Italian cuisine has to be Bistro Don Giovanni.
Just recently, I visited for the third time, and although the experience was slightly different, I still had an overall enjoyable time.
I love the unique dishes they offer, and the variety on the menu is always a delight.
The setting at Bistro Don Giovanni is gorgeous - whether you choose to sit indoors by the fireplace or outdoors by the fountain, you're in for a treat.
The tables are spaced well, so you don't feel cramped, and the prices are quite reasonable.
As for the food, I've had some excellent meals here, especially the pesto pasta.
Their lamb shank is simply perfect, and their pastries are always a hit.
I highly recommend reserving a table outdoors if possible, as their beautifully maintained garden is worth experiencing.
It's the ideal spot for a family gathering or a quiet, romantic dinner.
Cole's Chop House
I recently decided to treat myself to a night out and dined at Cole's Chop House in Napa.
As I walked in, I was impressed by the ambiance of the historic building with exposed stone walls and a mahogany bar.
It felt like a perfect blend of old-world charm and modern sophistication.
As a steak lover, I was ecstatic to try their premium steaks.
I opted for the Filet Mignon and was not disappointed.
The steak was cooked to perfection, tender and juicy, just how I like it.
The sides were equally delicious, complementing the star of the meal.
What truly made the night memorable was the exceptional service.
I also couldn't help but notice the thoughtful touch of a "Happy Anniversary" card for a nearby couple celebrating their special day.
Pasta Prego
I absolutely adore Pasta Prego!
This cozy, white-tablecloth setting has become my go-to spot for classic Italian fare and an extensive wine list.
It's not too far from my home, nestled in a quiet neighborhood, which makes it even more appealing for a relaxing dinner.
The food is always top-notch, with fresh and homemade ingredients that create bold and delicious flavors.
My personal favorites are the Pasta Diablo and the Risotto with Pork Chop and Pork Tenderloin.
I also appreciate the fact that my kids love the pasta and pizza here, making it a perfect spot for family dinners.
The atmosphere is just perfect - not too loud, not too quiet, which is a real treat for someone like me who enjoys a peaceful dining experience.
Their wine list is impressive, and the Tiramisu is absolutely to die for!
TORC
I can confidently say that TORC is one of the best dining experiences I've ever had in Napa.
This restaurant offers global farm-to-table dishes and delicious wines in a beautiful setting with stone walls and an open kitchen.
I started with their deviled eggs and burrata crostini, which were absolutely divine.
Then I tried the quail and the vanilla cake for dessert, and I was blown away by the quality and flavors of each dish.
As for drinks, I'm a big fan of beers, so when I heard that they brewed their own double IPA, I had to give it a try – and it did not disappoint!
When I visited TORC on a weekend at 4 pm, I was pleased to find out that they have happy hour deals and open seating at the bar, which meant no reservation was needed.
I highly recommend trying their sweet potato pakora; it's simply amazing.
Mother's Tacos
I recently stumbled upon Mother's Tacos, and let me tell you, it was a game-changer for me.
I have tried their alpastor, loaded fries for my kids, and the carne asada tacos based on my pal Harley's recommendation.
I usually hate spending over $4 for a taco, but I didn't feel that way after I ate here.
The tacos were delicious, with high-quality meat, not just the butcher scraps that other places seem to be using.
The alpastor was absolutely bomb, and even the tortillas looked hand-made.
My kids devoured the loaded fries and couldn't stop raving about how good they were.
But it's not just the food that makes Mother's Tacos stand out; the warm, caring service and the array of fantastic salsas truly make it an extraordinary experience.
Every bite transports you to Mexico, and the affordable pricing makes it easy to keep coming back for more.
FARM at Carneros
FARM at Carneros is one of my favorite spots for a delicious and unique brunch experience.
Their beautiful property and stylish outdoor eating area make it a great place to enjoy a meal with friends and family.
You can find more information about their menu and atmosphere on their website.
One of the things that set FARM apart from other restaurants in the area is their family-style brunch option, where you can choose four different entrees to share with your group.
They offer a diverse selection of dishes that change over time, keeping their menu fresh and exciting.
Some of my personal favorites have been the Bacon Lobster Roll, Poached Egg & Potatoes, and their incredible French Toast with Chantilly Cream.
Heritage Eats
I absolutely adore the food at Heritage Eats.
Their main offering is bowls and loaded fries, and I must say, all of them are really good.
The steak bowl, especially with half salad and half rice, was really nice, and the Dirty OG fries were delicious too.
Another thing that makes Heritage Eats a must-visit for me is their delicious fusion of Asian/comfort food that originated as a food truck in Napa.
I must say, their pork belly baos are a classic and an absolute must-try!
Also, the Thai fries are loaded with generous portions of meat and sauce, making them extra tasty.
Andie's Café
One of my go-to spots in Napa for a delicious and satisfying meal has always been Andie's Café.
Their made-to-order burgers are simply amazing, and they're probably the best quick burger in the area!
I love how they ask you how you'd like your burger cooked, and they always seem to get it just right.
I usually order a medium-rare burger here, and it comes out perfectly cooked every single time.
Aside from their burgers, the breakfast burritos at Andie's are top-notch, too.
It's just the kind of hearty meal you need to start your day on the right foot.
When it comes to their fries, they really hit the spot, offering excellent taste and value for money.
And if you're in the mood for something sweet, try their raspberry shake – it's divine!
What I appreciate most about Andie's Café is that whether I'm in the mood for breakfast or lunch, I can always count on a meal that fills me up without breaking the bank.
Plus, they never disappoint in the beverage department, with their iced mochas being my personal favorite.
Tannya's Taqueria
I just can't get enough of Tannya's Taqueria.
The colorful murals and outdoor seating make this Mexican staple restaurant a fun and casual place to hang out.
Whenever I have friends or family visiting, I make sure to take them here for an authentic Napa experience.
Edgar, in particular, is always so friendly and informative, helping us pick between vegetarian and meat choices.
Over time, I've tried almost everything on the menu, but my personal favorites are the hard taco with mole chicken and the potato flautas.
The atmosphere at Tannya's Taqueria is also perfect for a laid-back night out.
The indoor-outdoor vibe, coupled with the green and airy surroundings, makes for a comfortable and enjoyable dining experience.
Plus, the food is affordable and delicious - what more could you ask for?
Las Palmas
I must say, I'm quite lucky to live near Las Palmas in Napa.
This place has become my go-to spot for delicious Mexican food, and I find myself visiting at least once or twice a week.
I love the laid-back atmosphere with the bar and faux palm trees that make me feel like I'm on a mini-vacation.
I can't get enough of their tacos, burritos, and seafood dishes – all bursting with authentic flavors.
Every time I try something new, I'm never disappointed.
One of my favorite things to order is the Chili Verde burrito with jalapeños mixed in.
It's not for the faint of heart, but it definitely keeps me on my toes and my taste buds begging for more.
To add an extra kick, I usually ask for their habanero sauce, which is out of this world.
Compline Restaurant
One of my favorite spots to unwind and enjoy some top-notch Californian cuisine in Napa is undoubtedly the Compline Restaurant.
This stylish wine bar and workshop venue boasts a cozy indoor-outdoor atmosphere that never fails to impress.
I also cannot resist ordering their famous burger and duck fat fries – these are an absolute must-try!
Getting the burger well done, it's always incredibly juicy and delicious.
Apart from the great food, the service and ambiance at Compline are top-notch.
I've tried several dishes like the coconut and tofu soup, and the carbonara, and I always make sure to save some room for their delectable brown sugar cheesecake.
Petit Soleil
One of my favorite places to start the day in Napa is Petit Soleil.
This charming cafe boasts delicious breakfast options and a cozy atmosphere that makes it the perfect spot to unwind.
From the moment I walk in, I'm greeted with the aroma of freshly baked pastries and bread, all made from scratch in-house.
The blueberry lemon ricotta bread is a must-try – light, fluffy, and sinfully delicious when paired with a steaming cup of coffee.
The French-American vibe at Petit Soleil always makes me feel right at home.
And the service is just as delightful as the food.
Susie, one of the waitresses, is genuinely friendly and attentive to every detail.
I often order the Keto Benny for a healthy yet satisfying meal.
It's made with fresh vegetables and sweet onions, and I love to add shrimp to make it even more delectable.
The portions are generous, so be prepared to take some leftovers home.
Petit Soleil offers both indoor and outdoor seating, making it the ideal spot to enjoy a meal, no matter the weather.
Final Thoughts
With so many incredible dining options in Napa, it's always tough to decide on a favorite.
From the mouth-watering tacos at Mother's Tacos to the heavenly pastries at Winston's Cafe & Bakery, there's always something new and exciting to try.
Not only are these restaurants known for their delicious dishes, but they also offer unique atmospheres and outstanding hospitality.
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