Hot Dining Spots In The Napa Valley, California

Monique Elliott-Smith

While primarily known throughout the world as a premier wine region, Napa does not disappoint when it comes to the culinary arts. However, Napans are loyal to a few dining spots. We list the most popular here.

Exterior of ABC

1. Alexis Baking Company

Bakery, Cafe, American, Vegetarian

Exterior Model Bakery, Napa
© Monique Elliott-Smith
Alexis Baking Company, affectionately referred to as ABC, began as a wholesale baking company in 1985 and has since grown into one of the most popular bakeries in Downtown Napa. While still offering a wide range of classic pastries and elaborate cakes to fulfill your sweet tooth, the business has expanded to include a café that serves breakfast and lunch. The café maintains an informal atmosphere where orders are taken at the counter and tables are available on a first-come, first-served basis.

2. Model Bakery

Bakery, American

Gotts Roadside Interior, Napa
© Monique Elliott-Smith
The English muffins at Model Bakery have a reputation of their own. The bakery offers an assortment of organic artisanal breads and pastries as well as coffee for customers to enjoy while they make their selections. While bread remains the main focus, the bakery also offers a selection of quiches, sandwiches, and seasonal salads.

3. Gott's Roadside

Bar, Bistro, Diner, Market, American

View from Auberge Bistro & Bar
© Monique Elliott-Smith
With two locations in the Napa Valley, it’s hard to pass up a quick stop at Gott’s during your time in Napa. The Gott’s menu features diner classics as well as gourmet burgers, sandwiches, salads, and seafood. Be sure to indulge in one of their famous milkshakes; the mint confetti and black and white flavors are sure to please. The Napa location is adjacent to the Oxbow Public Market, providing plenty of shops to explore before or after lunch.

4. Auberge du Soleil Bistro & Bar

Restaurant, French

Exterior of Ciccio
© Monique Elliott-Smith
Nestled in the eastern mountains of Rutherford, this Relais Chateau resort features a casual bistro and bar with one of the best views in the valley. With a chic yet relaxed atmosphere, this spot is perfect for lunch or afternoon drinks with panoramic views of Napa. The menu is reminiscent of that of a French bistro. Locals visit Auberge for a respite from the activity of the valley floor and to be reminded of the natural beauty of Napa Valley.

5. Ciccio

Bistro, Restaurant, Italian, Vegan

Entrance at Bistro Don Giovanni
© Monique Elliott-Smith
While Ciccio is a relatively new addition to the Napa Valley culinary scene, it has quickly found her way into the hearts of locals. Ciccio is a family-owned restaurant, and their fresh Italian-American menu is conducive to family-style dining. The menu changes seasonally and offers a few appetizers, pizzas, pastas, and main dishes each day, a simplicity that is both refined and refreshing.

6. Bistro Don Giovanni

Bistro, Restaurant, Italian, Mediterranean, Vegetarian

Located among the vineyards between Napa and Yountville, Bistro Don Giovanni is the quintessential Napa Valley restaurant. The cuisine is inspired by Neapolitan heritage and is enhanced by their use of locally sourced meats and fresh vegetables; many come from the garden behind the restaurant. Their wide selection of handcrafted pastas cannot be matched.

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