The Culinary Celebration of Napa Valley Restaurant Month
As the holiday season comes to a close, Napa Valley gears up for one of the most delightful periods of the year—the annual Napa Valley Restaurant Month. This cherished event, running from January 1 to January 31, showcases the region’s exceptional culinary scene, offering both locals and visitors an unprecedented opportunity to savor exquisite dining experiences at remarkable prices.
A Gourmet Extravaganza Awaits
Napa Valley is renowned for its diverse culinary offerings, ranging from Michelin-starred dining rooms to beloved local eateries. During Restaurant Month, about 50 participating restaurants across the region present exclusive menus designed to highlight the creativity and quality that define Napa’s food scene. As Linsey Gallagher, president and CEO of Visit Napa Valley, aptly put it, this month is a celebration of the “sense of place” that characterizes the culinary community. It’s a time for all food enthusiasts to explore Napa’s rich dining landscape, often through new and unexpected flavors.
Highlights of Dining Experiences
The restaurant offerings are as varied as the region’s wines. Calistoga’s Lovina, a woman-owned establishment led by a female chef, tempts diners with a $49 weekend brunch complete with a choice of mimosa, espresso martini, or Bloody Mary. For dinner, guests can opt for a $75 multi-course meal that showcases the best of the local ingredients.
Not to be missed is St. Helena’s Harvest Table, where diners can indulge in a $65 three-course dinner that celebrates seasonal flavors, paired expertly with wines from Napa Valley’s vineyards. These experiences highlight the festive nature of the month, inviting guests to enjoy the culinary artistry at work.
Michelin-Starred Elegance
For those looking for something truly special, the Restaurant at Auberge du Soleil in Rutherford offers a menu priced at $75 for a Michelin-starred, three-course lunch. Diners can relish breathtaking hillside views alongside optional wine pairings, making each meal an immersive experience in Napa’s beauty and bounty.
La Toque in Napa presents a unique “Tour de France” journey through its $75 four-course tasting menu, highlighting distinct regional cuisines from France between January 7 and the end of the month. This culinary adventure gives guests a taste of diverse landscapes and culinary traditions, all while remaining rooted in Napa’s local ambiance.
Breakfast Delights
Restaurant Month isn’t just for lunch and dinner; breakfast offers abound too. At the iconic Bouchon Bakery in Yountville, patrons can enjoy a buttery croissant and coffee for just $9, or a savory ham and cheese baguette paired with tomato soup for $18. These offerings make grabbing breakfast a delightful occasion, setting the day off to a tasty start.
Special Lodging Packages
For those traveling from afar, Napa Valley Restaurant Month also features special lodging packages perfect for an extended culinary getaway. The Carneros Resort and Spa is one such destination, offering a luxurious stay in a cottage, daily breakfast for two, and a three-course chef-selected tasting menu for two at its on-site restaurant, FARM, starting at an enticing $499 per night.
Exploring Wineries with the Napa Neighbor Program
Complementing the dining extravaganza, the Napa Valley Vintners association is continuing its popular Napa Neighbor Program. This initiative provides California residents with discounts on tastings, tours, and winery experiences throughout the valley. With over 75 participating wineries—including prominent names like Baldacci Family Vineyards, Cakebread Cellars, and Robert Mondavi Winery—this program creates a fantastic opportunity to explore Napa’s exquisite wine offerings while enjoying reduced prices.
Discover More Offers
As Napa Valley Restaurant Month unfolds, it presents an unmatched chance to indulge in the region’s culinary prowess. With a blend of delicious dining options, attractive lodging packages, and wine experiences available at a discount, this month-long celebration promises a delightful gastronomic adventure. For a full list of participating restaurants and additional offerings, explore the Napa Valley Restaurant Month and Napa Neighbor Program.