After opening and running north Napa’s popular and successful Fumé Bistro for the past 20 years, restauranteur, Terry Letson, set some big goals for himself – opening not one but three new restaurants in a short span of time. Slowed considerably by pandemic-related delays, Letson nonetheless persevered and the first of the three, Sunshine Café, opened in August 2021, becoming an instant hit with locals and visitors alike.

“Almost immediately, Sunshine Café was famous for its milkshakes,” said Letson. “The food was a quick second and now we’ve got loyal fans who come from all over the valley to join us for a meal.”

The bright space is eclectic and fun with colorful paintings of food splashed across the walls and comfy booths perfect for an intimate dining experience. In addition to its famous milkshakes, Sunshine Café serves breakfast, an all-day brunch, as well as lunch. “Supper” has also just added to the repertoire.

Located on bustling Trancas Avenue, Sunshine’s location is a perfect stopping-off spot for locals as they navigate errands, kid’s sports, or shopping. For visitors, the location is central to wineries in the surrounding area and makes a tasty start to a planned day of wine tasting.

With menu items that range from eggs to pancakes and everything in between, plus a full bar to wet your whistle, Sunshine Café has something for everyone. Nods to the beautiful Napa Valley and the greater Bay Area are evident throughout the menu and the restaurant works with local bakers, farmers, and gardeners to bring the freshest local ingredients into the kitchen each day.

Two examples include the “Not Your Everyday Avocado Toast” which pairs Panorama wheat bread with Laura Chenel goat cheese, avocado, eggs, and a cherry tomato-shallot relish; and in the BAS (short for Big A** Salad) department, the “Willy Bird Cobb Salad” features Willy’s own turkey atop local greens, with bacon, blue cheese, and a farm fresh egg, all tossed in a delicious vinaigrette.

Despite those pesky Covid-related staffing shortages, Sunshine now has a full staff of like-minded teammates who work hard to provide amazing food and great service in a relaxed atmosphere.

Letson’s early success with Fumé Bistro has bred further success with Sunshine Café and his two other recently-opened restaurants, Sunshine’s next door neighbor, North Spirits and Tapas, and downtown Napa’s Petit Soleil.
“Sunshine Café is a great hometown diner,” said Letson. “Breakfast and lunch are always fresh and delicious. And our new supper offerings include hearty dishes like meatloaf, organic chicken pot pie, and more. Something for everyone in a fun environment.”