It is said that food can show us the way to a man’s heart. But is it only men? Well, no! Food is one thing that captivates and sparks excitement in every individual, regardless of age, profession, or personal background. The world has several countries, towns, and cities, with their own set of cultures in place.
These elements can draw a boundary between people but one thing that stands superior and unites people across the globe is food. Restaurants have come up and people go up and about to have a taste and try various cuisines, and that too of various places. Speaking of restaurants and good food, one cannot miss the variety of restaurants in Downtown Napa Valley!
1. About Napa:
One of the cozy cities in California, which also happens to be the county seat of Napa County, is known as Napa. It is known for its famous wineries and is also a part of the Wine Country, in Northern California.
Napa is famous as a tourist site, and it attracts tourists all over the year for its restaurants, art and culture, and wineries.
As interesting as the name “Napa” sounds, the origin of the word is debatable. It is said that the word “Napa” is of Native American origin, and is roughly translated to a string of words such as a “grizzly bear”, “house”, “motherland” and even “fish”. After several discussions, the conclusion that was arrived at was that the most possible translation of the word could come from a Patwin word which means house.
1.1. Napa Valley:
To get a good taste of what Napa Valley has to offer, the best thing one can do is visit Downtown Napa Valley. A tourist’s dream and is known for its wide variety of recreational activities, alongside the amazing restaurants, wineries, theatres, and shows.
Click here to learn more about what you can do while in Napa.
1.2. Oxbow Public Market:
When discussing Napa Valley, one thing that has to be mentioned is the Oxbow Public Market. This is a local gathering of the best restaurants and wineries and is located in the district of Oxbow in Napa.
The market constitutes an area of about 40,000 sq ft and has brought together several renowned food business owners, wine bars, cafes, etc. The place encapsulates a large populace and it overlooks the Napa River. There is an additional space to sit by the river. The special feature of this market is that it brings together a large gathering of local food vendors, and artisan cafes and also features the farmers’ local produce.
1.2.2. Why Is It Special?
As mentioned before the accumulation of the local vendors and cafes, in one place which is a public market is already special in itself. However, there’s something more special to it which makes it extra-ordinary. The market runs on the mission of ensuring to provide organic and sustainable produced local plantations, which includes the region’s specialty items and other products that are rich in quality.
Additionally, it also promises to practice organic and sustainable farming rules.
2. Best Restaurants in Downtown Napa
Downtown Napa is renowned as the “foodie haven”, and that is all thanks to the numerous, wonderful and tempting restaurants, the area has in store for all its visitors.
Here are the 13 best restaurants in Napa Downtown which have captivated residents and tourists alike:
2.1. Angele Restaurant and Bar:
Capturing the essence of French cuisine, and mixing it up with a tinge of local flavors, is what Angele is known for. The 2002 establishment’s unique French flavor and hospitality are unmatched. It is no wonder that the place has several accolades to its name.
The restaurant is nestled in a building along the Napa River, and the quality of scenic beauty matches the top-notch taste of the restaurant. The atmosphere just adds to the plus points of the restaurant.
2.1.1. What’s Cooking?
The menu has separate sections for lunch dinner and even drinks. Below mentioned are a few dishes that are popular, and have won over the tourists there.
- Risotto
- Oysters on the half shell
- Escargot
- Beef tartare
- Veal Sweetbread
2.1.2. Must Try
No doubt that all the dishes of this French-with-local flavors restaurant are mouthwatering, however, one dish that customers have described as a “stand-out” is the Risotto.
2.2. Bounty Hunter Wine Bar & Smokin BBQ
A wine connoisseur’s happy place, and a haven for all barbecue lovers, Bounty Hunter Wine Bar & Smokin BBQ provides exactly what one needs for a perfect weekend.
With shelves filled with excellent quality wine and beer, this place is of decent size and can be perfectly described as cozy.
2.2.1. What’s Cooking?
- Cole Slaw
- Pulled pork sandwich
- The Beer Can Chicken
- BBQ Platter.
2.2.2. Must Try
From the variety of drinks and the delicious mouth-watering BBQ, a must try and the customer’s favorite is the Pulled Pork Sandwich, the Beer Can Chicken and BBQ Platter.
2.3. Celadon
With a mesmerizing view of the Napa River, Celadon is a perfect place for a romantic date but also provides for a group dining situation. The restaurant has its special outdoor patio where the customer can choose to be served or remain indoors. In both cases, rest assured the customer is not going to miss the taste or the scenic beauty.
Celadon is an award-winning restaurant and is known for its “Global Comfort Food”. The menu features, Asian, American, and Mediterranean Cuisines, alongside several seasonal dishes.
2.3.1. What’s Cooking?
- Calamari
- Lamb Shank
- Bread pudding
2.3.2. Must Try:
A walk by the Napa River and a table in the open garden space is the customer’s favorite and recommended too!
2.4. Charlie Palmer Steaks.
A chic boutique hotel situated inside the Archer Hotel, Charlie Palmer Steaks, is an excellent go-to for wine, steaks, seafood, and chops, and even has a section to cater to the vegetarian populace.
Originally a part of a grand franchise, Charli Palmer Steakhouse has branches in NYC and Washington DC.
Special mention for the extraordinary selection of wine, which even got them awarded by the Wine Spectator. Their wine selection showcases the best of Napa and Sonoma wines which are paired with their exquisite menu.
2.4.1. What’s Cooking?
The name of the restaurant makes it clear that Charlie’s specializes. That is their specialty, however, that does not limit them from adding seafood, desserts, and a wonderful range of wine and other quality drinks. Below mentioned are a few highlights from the menu:
- Oyster
- Lamb lollipops
- Baked potatoes
- Tater tots
- Filet Mignon
2.4.2. Must Try
Among the delicious meaty experiences there, the filet mignon and lamb lollipops are a must-try for visitors.
2.5. Cole’s Chophouse
Steak lovers are in for a treat, since they may be getting a taste of one of the most classic steakhouses in Napa. It is a classic American steakhouse and visitors can expect good luck with drinks too. They feature localized drinks, cocktails, and also specialties from around the globe, including whiskey selections.
2.5.1. What’s Cooking?
Below are the highlights of the menu at Cole’s:
- Blue cheese
- Chops
- Onion rings
- Creamed spinach
- Steak
2.5.2. Must Try
It goes without mentioning that the steaks are a highlight at Cole’s. Apart from that the chops and creamed spinach are something that one should give a try!
2.6. Gott’s Roadside
If you like fast food, this place is for you! This restaurant is all about adding a modern twist to the traditional California-inspired dishes. With a total American vibe, the place has the most amazing burgers, sandwiches, fries, and hot dogs, with an equally amazing price list as well.
If you are in California with a bunch of your friends, running on a small budget, and looking to save, this place is perfect for you!
The place also has its range of beer, wine, and ice creams, hence standing out for anyone who may not desire a complete meal.
2.6.1. What’s Cooking?
With its variety of fast food to lure the public, these are menu highlights at Gott’s:
- Garlic Fries
- Sweet Potato Fries
- Onion rings
- Ahi burger
- Ahi Tuna Burger
2.6.2. Must Try
The fast food establishment has drawn crowds for its range of amazing burgers and beers. Their burgers and special ice creams are a must-try for everyone who happens to pass by.
2.7. Hog Island Oyster Bar
This place is a retreat for seafood lovers! They primarily deal with fresh oysters, and what’s interesting is that these oysters are grown and harvested by them in Tomales Bay.
They claim to provide the freshest seafood experience to the residents of Napa.
Located in the Oxbow Public Market, one can trust the restaurant to have a taste of the fresh shellfish, oysters, sea clams, and other local dishes that have been rejuvenated by the chef and his tasteful magic.
2.7.1. What’s Cooking?
- Shucked oysters
- Clam Chowder
2.7.2. Must Try
The customers have been awestruck witnessing the shucking of the shells, hence shucked clam shells are a must-try whenever one decides to grace Hog Island, Oyster Bar.
2.8. Napa Valley Bistro
A collaborative effort between two friends who also happen to be friends resulted in the establishment of this popular restaurant in Napa. The original aim of the restaurant was to introduce dishes by adding a twist and giving rise to their touch. The menu brings forth several dishes that showcase the tastes and flavors around the globe.
From Mexican dishes to American classics including lamb burgers, this place has everything and even includes vegetarian-friendly menus, proving itself to be a hub for everybody.
2.8.1. What’s Cooking?
- Grilled salmon
- Crab cake
- Grilled rib eye steak
- Sweet potato fries
- Chicken Empanadas
- Cajun shrimp
- Alaskan Halibut
2.8.2. Must Try
From the wonderful variety of delicious food on the menu, Chicken Empanadas, Cajun Shrimp and Alaskan Halibut have stood out the most and have become a customer favorite.
2.9. La Toque
If French cuisine is what calls you, this place is worth your time and money! A Michelin-star restaurant and the recipient of the Wine Spectator’s highest award for its amazing wine and warm hospitality.
Their food and wine pairings are considered to be the best, and they constantly try to explore more such pairings by tasting to ensure that their customers are getting the best.
So that the customers can enjoy the finest delicacies, La Toque’s has a special service through which the customer’s menu is decided by the Chef and he ensures that customers enjoy their experience and come back to rejuvenate their tastes.
2.9.1. What’s Cooking?
- Amuse Bouche
- Truffles
- Rosti Potato with Ossetra Caviar
- Duck
2.9.2. Must Try
The Rosti Potato with Ossetra Caviar has won over the customer’s heart. People can’t stop appreciating the caviar and the texture of the potato that has been cooked to perfection.
2.10. Model Bakery
If you are one of those who looks forward to dessert, this place is for you! This bakery has been serving Napa for over 90 years. With the softest English muffins, sweetest bread, and creamiest pastries, this bakery has won over the hearts of many including Oprah, and was featured in Oprah’s favorite list in 2017, in her magazine.
If you are not one with a sweet tooth, you can visit them for their coffee and tea, and that will not be disappointing.
2.10.1. What’s Cooking?
- English muffins.
- Breakfast Sandwich
- Scones and Croissants
2.10.2. Must Try
From among the range of sweet dishes, English muffins are a favorite of many many. In addition, the breakfast sandwich is also one that people loved because of how filling it made people and was indeed perfect for breakfast.
2.11. Sweetie Pie’s Bakery
Anyone who loves pastries and pies can trust Sweeties with all their heart. Located in the main hustle and bustle of Downtown Napa, and nestled in the legendary Napa mill.
Sweetie Pies has a menu that includes a perfect breakfast menu, which includes bread, pastries, croissants, coffee, and pies. The breakfast menu is not lengthy and promises to provide the best morning with their tasteful, yet modest menu.
One can easily drop by the bakery on their way home from a morning walk since the place is not extensively far from Downtown Napa.
2.11.1. What’s Special?
- Breakfast egg sandwiches
- Scones and pastries
- Croissants
- Latte
2.11.2. Must Try
The place prides itself on its breakfast menu and the public seems to be impressed by it too. Therefore, one can visit them while on a morning walk, and have warm breakfast egg sandwiches, with croissants and a latte to go.
2.12. TORC
With mind-pleasing music playing, this restaurant which has its bar is run by a husband and wife. With their dedicated efforts, they have been able to achieve several accolades year after year from the Wine Spectator.
TORC gives one the fine dining experience with the warm California flavors and the cozy setting of a bar by its side.
The fact that they have been winning awards from the Wine Spector consistently speaks for itself being one of the best places for top-notch wine.
2.12.1. What’s Cooking?
- Pumpkin soup
- Lobster risotto
- Diver scallops
- Beet salad
- Beef short rib
- Alaskan Halibut
2.12.2. Must Try
From among the various mouth-watering dishes on the menu, the Diver scallops, or just scallops seem to have impressed the public at large. The Lobster Risotto is also a customer favorite. One should also make sure to choose from among the variety of desserts on the menu.
2.13. ZuZu
Spanish cuisine in Napa? ZuZu has got you!
This 2002 establishment attracts customers for its amazing Spanish cuisine, homely decor inspired by the Mediterranean, and cheerful atmosphere.
The most popular item on the menu is the Paella, a Spanish rice-based dish, grilled seafood, and the infamous Tapas.
With the burst of so many flavors on the menu, ZuZu has managed to attract locals and tourists and gain their love and support as well. The weekend remains especially busy at ZuZu. they serve lunch and dinner, and there may be arrangements for happy hours as well, which may need to be monitored regularly to avail them.
2.13.1. What’s Cooking?
- Tapas
- Paella
- Boquerons
- Queso Frito
- Flat iron steak
- Lamb chops
- Octopus-based dishes: Grilled octopus, Octopus with Black Garlic Aioli
- Prawns
2.13.2. Must Try
Tapas and Paella are the highlights of this extremely mouthwatering menu. These two dishes have been appreciated by many, who have even recommended them to their acquaintances.
3. Conclusion
Napa Valley is a foodie’s paradise, and Downtown Napa proves this statement further. The visitors are in for a treat because they have many restaurants to choose from, and none of them will disappoint their expectations.
French cuisine, Asian cuisine, American cuisine, Spanish cuisine, or even seafood you name it, and you have it! Napa is not a disappointment to the wine connoisseurs either, cause they are in for a treat. Several of the restaurants have received accolades for their excellence and great service.
In addition, Napa has in store the best wines in the world, and there are quite a few restaurants that even suggest wine pairings with their books. The area is perfect for satisfying your mind all many restaurants are along the Napa River and add a perfect scenery for the restaurant visitors.
Rest assured, Napa has something or the other for everyone, and one will not regret visiting any of the restaurants mentioned above.
Last Updated on by Pragya Chakrapani
