Visit Downtown Napa
Downtown Napa is a beehive buzzing with activity.
Restaurants, wine bars, music venues, shops, and more line the atmospheric streets. Locals and visitors alike roam through town where traffic slows for crosswalks and outdoor seating makes for fabulous people watching.
Foodies will rejoice in a feast for the senses. From bustling hot spots like Morimoto and Oenotri to hidden bistros like Grace’s Table and the Napa Valley Bistro, a world of tastes awaits on almost every corner.
Of course, the wine is the reason for many a visit and downtown Napa does not disappoint. When combined with food, recommendations include Compline, founded by two sommeliers which offers more than 600 wines, in a casual chic environment highlighted by fantastic food. TORC is another favorite. Opened by a husband-and-wife team, this is not your typical Napa Valley restaurant. Think great music, a high-energy open kitchen, and the freshest seasonal ingredients all coming together to complement an incredible wine list which includes small format (read, half) bottles of wine.
For quick bites or fun with the kiddos, visit the Oxbow Market for loads of different options. The delicious and popular Model Bakery almost always features a line make a mental note to get there early. Hop over to Gott’s, a local favorite, for a delectable lunch featuring cheeseburgers, Ahi Poke tacos, 100% beef Fearless Franks and hand-spun shakes. Follow that by a stop into the marketplace for (more) ice cream, cupcakes, strolling and shopping.
A bit like a fun adult playground, a visit to Feast it Forward is like none other. Stop by and partake in high end wine tastings from boutique vintners, chef pop-ups and food demonstrations in the amazing filming studio kitchen, live entertainment, a kids’ play area, and so much more.
Head over to Napa Yard at Oxbow Gardens for unique experiences ranging from pig roasts to paella parties, wine and spirits tastings to classes on perfecting your craft cocktail game, there is something for everyone. With a fun, dog and child-friendly vibe and fantastic indoor/outdoor layout, guests can enjoy a seasonally rotating menu of edible options.
As you navigate the downtown area, be sure to stop by the Napa ARTWalk to view a unique collection of juried sculpture created by artists from the West. Similarly, RAD Napa is a public art district along a two-mile stretch that runs through Downtown Napa. The city believes that when art becomes part of the fabric of a community, every citizen has the opportunity to see new possibilities and create a better future for everyone. Everyone will be thrilled when the Napa Valley Wine Train chugs by. Give a wave and the conductor may even toot the whistle. Another not-to-be-missed spot, the Napa Toy Museum should be on everyone’s short list. Boasting 500 toys dating from the 1890s to the 1960s, the museum is chock-a-block with nostalgia.
Of course, downtown Napa offers amazing wine tasting opportunities all within walking distance of one another. A few notable examples include Napa’s smallest tasting room, Shadowbox Cellars, JaM Cellars where the music is as good as the wine, Be Bubbly, where sparkling wine takes center stage, and the Alpha Omega Collective’s downtown location. For a more cocktail-focused experience, try ArBARetum of Instagramable libations, the Sky & Vine Rooftop Bar above the Archer Hotel, or the Napa Palisades Saloon for a great cocktail without all the fuss.
Park the car, grab some friends and head to downtown Napa where food, wine, cocktails, and fun are all to be had within a few short blocks of one another.
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Cole’s Chop House
Consistently recognized as one of the “Top 100 Best Steakhouses in America” by OpenTable, Cole’s Chop House serves up epic steaks, among other delectable dishes, seven nights a week. Owned by the husband-and-wife team of Eric and Heather Keffer, Cole’s Chop House has built an incredible reputation for award-winning food, signature cocktails, world-renowned wine, and impeccable service at its home base in beautiful downtown Napa.
In addition to national accolades, Cole’s has worked hard to become and remain “Napa Valley’s Favorite Steak House.” Specializing in prime dry-aged meats, Cole’s Chop House is obviously known for its incredible steaks, chops, and seafood producing only the highest quality products from legendary supplier, Chicago-based Allen Brothers. Expect nothing less than the best.
Begin your meal with one of the signature appetizers ranging from Beef Carpaccio to the Grilled Mexican White Prawn Cocktail or the decadent Wild Mushroom Crostini with Red Wine Reduction Sauce and Truffle Oil. If a salad suits your fancy, try the Warm Baby Spinach Salad with pears and Nueske's apple wood smoked bacon vinaigrette or perhaps the Little Gem with avocado and a tangy citrus vinaigrette.
Of course, the tantalizing steaks, tempting chops and seductive seafood are constant menu offerings, but there is also an amazing rotation of seasonal add-ons and side dishes that are sure to please any palate. Try the Cold Water Maine Lobster Tail or, enjoy this summer’s sauteed sweet corn, enlivened by shallots, thyme, and a rich blue cheese butter - the perfect accompaniment to any fantastic menu item.
Long been known for its lively bar scene, Cole’s comfortable yet upscale environment hasn’t changed. Mixologists are standing by to create a classic cocktail or, something more unique like a signature Strawberry Lemon Drop made with Silverado Trail Strawberry Infused Vodka. Bourbon lovers will rejoice in the award-winning bourbon and whiskey selections, some including house-made bitters or port-soaked cherries. Stop by for one of their seasonal specialty cocktails, or enjoy the full dinner menu, available at the bar.
An extensive wine list includes more than 50 wines available by the glass. The world-renowned wine list features selections from around the globe, influential domestic labels, and small-production hidden gems from Northern California, notably, the Napa Valley.
Located on Main Street in Napa’s bustling downtown, the edifice for Cole’s Chop House comes with a rich history. Housed in the Williams-Kyser building in the first commercial block constructed north of the Napa creek, the hand-hewn structure made use of local rock and timber. Built in 1886, a wide assortment of businesses have called the building home, among them an exhibition hall for the Napa and Solano County fairs as well as the local armory, the Napa Beauty College, tractor supply, the superintendent of schools, Valley Vacuum and even the Duck Pin Bowling Alley.
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Riverfront Napa
Conveniently located in the heart of downtown Napa, the Riverfront Promenade is located at South Main between Third and Fifth streets and includes the area’s most well-known restaurants, shops and hotels including Morimoto Napa, Shoppe Twelve, The Waterfront Seafood Grill and the elegant Riverfront Residences.
The Riverfront building and the historic Napa Mill each bring an Old-World elegance to the vibe while fun stores like Helen Lyall and Scott Lyall, Shoppe Twelve, and Live & Well keep things fresh.
Start your day at the Napa Valley Coffee Roasting Company for a bracing cup of coffee. First opened in 1985 the roastery is modeled upon European cafes and housed in a landmark Victorian building. Take a leisurely walk along the waterfront, keeping an eye peeled for wildlife including river otter, heron, a multitude of ducks and more. To get closer to the action, try a romantic ride with Napa Valley Gondola where gondoliers provide a sightseeing tour in the grand Venetian style. For the more adventurous, try a paddle with Napa Valley Paddle with stand-up paddle boards or kayaks, whichever your fancy.
When you’re ready for refreshment, there is almost no end to the possibilities. Try Wilfred’s Lounge where the rooftop bar overlooks the river or Angele Restaurant & Bar. Napa General Store offers a delightful lunch experience with its rustic charm, featuring locally sourced ingredients and a scenic view of the Napa River. From seafood at The Waterfront Seafood Grill to the taste of Mexico at Los Agaves and everything in between, the Riverfront doesn’t disappoint.
The Fink serves up fabulous cocktails and a side of fun and funky music to boot. When your day comes to an end, spend a restful night at one of many fine hotels including the Napa River Inn at the historic Napa Mill.
DINING
- Los Agaves Napa – Authentic Mexican food
- Entrecot – A taste of true Argentinian cuisine
- Morimoto Asia – Inventive, high-end Japanese fare & artful cocktails
- Morimoto Napa – Western/Japanese cuisine by Iron Chef Masaharu Morimoto
- Waterfront Seafood Grill – Fresh, quality seafood restaurant
SHOPPING
- ÆRENA Gallery – Contemporary art and sculpture; curiosities old and new
- Helen Lyall – Some of the greatest designer clothing, shoes & accessories
- LIV & Well Boutique – Curated organic, sustainable, and thoughtful items for women
- Scott Lyall clothes for men – One-on-one experience that fits everyone’s lifestyle
- Shoppe Twelve – Boutique clothing for every style
- Shoppe Twelve Girl – Boutique clothing for girls
- Sidestreet – Travel/shaving accessories, fine cigars, custom suits/shirts
SPECIALTY
- Napa Valley Roasting Company – Freshly roasted specialty coffee
- Zuniga Optical – Luxury eye care shop
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Napa Valley Bike Tours
Fresh air, sunshine, the cool breezes in our hair. What could be better than getting outside in the beautiful Napa Valley? For those looking for a different sort of adventure, Napa Valley Bike tours offers a host of riding experiences. Choose from self-guided tours that allow the freedom to plan your own trip whether it be purely sightseeing, exercise, wine tasting, or a combination of all three. On the other hand, guided tours are perfect for small groups and include options for ebikes, pedal bikes, wine tasting, picnics, and more. Napa Valley Vine Trail offers a safe, scenic route, allowing you to traverse through picturesque vineyards from downtown Napa to Yountville.The truly adventurous can even combine biking with ballooning for half or full-day excursions. Two Napa Valley Bike Tour locations make booking a tour easy. Check out downtown Napa as well as the charming town of Yountville for options. With 36 years of experience, let the experts at Napa Valley Bike tours choose the perfect tour for you and your group that will showcase the beautiful Napa Valley while enhancing your visit.
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Petit Soleil
Trena Madrigal always dreamed of owning her own restaurant and when Petite Soleil was on the market, she grabbed her chance and took ownership in October 2022, Madrigal been going strong ever since even winning Best Breakfast from “The North Bay Bohemian” and Best Breakfast in Napa in the “Press Democrat’s” Best of Napa.
Tucked away in a quiet neighborhood just off the beaten path, this hidden gem is bursting with positive energy. Mismatched dishes and thrifted coffee mugs with kitchsy sayings are highlights of the space which is open and bright with a cheerful vibe.
With an emphasis on fresh ingredients, Petit Soleil serves up delicious dishes with nearly everything made in house. Madrigal insists on as much “from-scratch” as possible.
While decisions are often difficult, customer favorites include breakfast standbys like huevos rancheros served in a homemade tortilla bowl with both roja and tomatillo salsa as well as scrambles, omelets and Benedicts, or “bennies,” including a keto version served on ham and veggies rather than an English muffin. For lunch, the grilled chicken sandwich on homemade focaccia with pesto aioli is a big hit. Or try the Petite burger which comes topped with all the fixings.
Whatever you choose, know that Chef Sonia Cuevas Flores stayed the course following the ownership change and remains true to the cause – keeping customers satisfied.
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Kitchen Door
Kitchen Door offers a delightful blend of globally inspired dishes in a relaxed, family-friendly atmosphere, perfect for enjoying a casual yet sophisticated dining experience. Led by Michelin awarded Chef Todd Humphries, Kitchen Door delivers delicious flavors and warm hospitality that food lovers have come to expect from this beloved Napa spot. Think sophisticated cuisine with an abundance of flavors as well as local, seasonal, and Ingredient-driven handmade fare. The menu is crafted by classically trained chefs and celebrates eclectic flavors from around the globe. A full bar program and an expansive wine and beer list are perfect additions. Together, the seasonal menu and local-focused drink menu make Kitchen Door a quintessential wine country dining destination.
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Blue Diamond Jeweler
Recently changing hands, Napa’s Blue Diamond Jeweler’s new owner, Altaf Amlani, welcomes you into the store. The owner of three Los Angeles-area jewelry stores – voted best jeweler by the LA Times – Amlani is excited to become a Napa Valley resident and meet his newest neighbors. He’s restocked the shelves with everything from engagement and wedding rings, beautiful watches, custom designed jewelry and more. Stop by and say hello!
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There’s no better way to do Napa than a Shop Sip & Stroll! Every Thursday evening in June there will be exclusive special offers, surprise-and-delights, and of course savings on shopping and sipping throughout the various districts in Downtown Napa. Retailers will be partnering with tasting rooms on fun activations, and it’s the perfect reason to head to Downtown Napa for Thursday night fun!
Throughout the summer, The Grove at CIA at Copia will welcome top pizzaiolos to showcase the art of pizza making during the first annual Summer of Pies. This event, which kicks off June 1, features new menus weekly.
• June 1-16: Napoletana • June 19-23: Roman Taglioshpsho
La Onda, a festival by BottleRock, will be held June 1-2 and features more than 30 musical acts that spans several genres like Mexican, Latin pop and Spanish rock.
Revel in a season of unparalleled live music, showcasing a lineup of diverse and electrifying performances at The Meritage Resort and Spa, in the heart of Napa Valley. Here are the three in June:
• Thievery Corporation - June 2
• Parliament Funkadelic - June 9
• Brit Foyd - June 21
The Napa Valley Community Market is coming to Napa Yard beginning Thursday, June 13 from 5 to 8 p.m. and continuing every second and fourth Thursday through September. An evening market is very different from a morning version of the Farmers Market. Like the great market in the Sonoma Plaza and Napa’s late-lamented Chef’s Market, they’re almost community parties.
Cookbook Fest at The Yard by Feast It Forward
Cookbook Fest is a groundbreaking book festival that merges the worlds of literature and gastronomy—bringing together renowned cookbook authors, celebrated podcasts, and enthusiastic food lovers. Over three unforgettable days (June 21-23) in the heart of Napa Valley, immerse yourself in this whirlwind of delicious experiences, all designed to ignite the senses and nourish the soul: from live podcast recordings to author book signings to engaging hands-on cooking interviews.
Ackerman Heritage House Tea Ceremonies
Spend a leisurely afternoon enjoying an afternoon tea ceremony with a Napa twist at an 1889 Victorian Estate. Enjoy tiers of dainty tarts, savory bites, seasonal house-made butter and premium teas served on authentic antique china and sterling silverware carefully curated by Lauren Ackerman. In June, there are two dates: June 22 and June 23.