Looking for the best restaurants in Napa Valley is kind of like going on a quest for the sharpest needle in a needle stack. You can probably pick a Michelin-starred restaurant on a map with your eyes closed. Napa is kind of known for its world-class dining. In fact, you’ll find more Michelin stars here per capita than any other wine region in the world.
The following is a breakdown of 10 of the best restaurants in Napa Valley.
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La Toque
La Toque is a well-established restaurant with Michelin star status and a reputation for serving truffles and classic French cuisine. This high-end restaurant offers four- and five-course a la carte menus that feature exquisite treats like tuna tartare or crostini with a terrine of foie gras. La Toque really shines with its food and wine pairings, so be sure to consult with the sommelier.
You’ll find this restaurant in the Westin Verasa Napa, but this is anything but your typical hotel food.
La Toque
1314 McKinstry St.
Napa, CA 94559
latoque.com
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The Restaurant at Auberge
This classic Napa staple was one of the first fine dining experiences to come to the Napa Valley. As the brainchild of Claude Rouas, Auberge du Soleil began more than 35 years ago and has since established a legacy as one of the most innovative and inspiring restaurants in the area. With fresh, seasonal and locally-sourced ingredients, Executive Chef Robert Curry creates masterpiece after masterpiece. Maybe that’s why the Restaurant at Auberge has been awarded 12 consecutive Michelin Stars.
The Restaurant at Auberge
180 Rutherford Hill Rd.
Rutherford, CA 94573
aubergedusoleil.aubergeresorts.com/dining/
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The Restaurant at Meadowood Napa Valley
The Restaurant at Meadowood Napa Valley is exactly the kind of place you’d expect to find in Napa. Its blend of luxury and rustic charm exude a Wine Country elegance. In a sophisticated barn-like décor with its polished stone tables and wood columns, the Restaurant at Meadowood is perfect for a special romantic night out. Here you can enjoy impeccably prepared meals with tableside preparations.
The Restaurant at Meadowood Napa Valley
900 Meadowood Ln.
St Helena, CA 94574
www.therestaurantatmeadowood.com
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Kenzo Napa
Kenzo Napa earned its Michelin Star in less than a year after opening, which is remarkable in itself. This world-class restaurant is owned by the same people who own Kenzo Estate Winery in Napa, Kenzo and Natsuko Tsujimoto. Their vision was to bring an authentic Japanese dining experience to Napa Valley.
Kenzo Napa was designed by Natsuko Tsujimoto with spare and minimal décor to create a peaceful sanctuary in which to enjoy the food. Pair anything on the menu with a Kenzo wine or one of the many outstanding available sakes.
Kenzo Napa
1339 Pearl St.
Napa, CA 94559
www.kenzonapa.com
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Bouchon Bistro
This may be as close to France as you’ll get while rooted in the states. Bouchon Bistro is known for its classic French fare prepared with impeccable technique. When you step through the doors of Bouchon Bistro, you may feel like you’ve been transported into a Parisian bistro. Thanks to the adjacent bakery, the bread is always fresh, so grab a baguette and indulge.
Bouchon Bistro
6534 Washington St.
Yountville, CA 94599
www.thomaskeller.com
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French Laundry
No list of Napa Bests would be complete without the iconic French Laundry. This high-end restaurant has been around for 20+ years and has made its way onto every foodie’s bucket list. Every amateur food critic will want to visit French Laundry at least once in their lives. Here, chef Thomas Keller pairs classic French techniques with fresh ingredients in a masterfully orchestrated setting. This is a fine dining experience, but if it’s the budget, don’t pass up a chance to experience French Laundry.
French Laundry
6640 Washington St.
Yountville, CA 94599
www.thomaskeller.com/tfl
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Bottega
Not only is Michael Chiarello one of the original celebrity chefs, but his name is somewhat synonymous with Napa Valley. And his high-end Napa restaurant attracts a crowd from around the world. They may come to catch a glimpse of the star, but they won’t be disappointed with the food they’re served. Bottega’s autumnal décor is warm and welcoming, and the outdoor firepit invites guests to stay for after dinner drinks.
Bottega Napa Valley
V Marketplace
6525 Washington Street
Yountville, CA 94599
www.botteganapavalley.com
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Lucy Restaurant and Bar
This hidden gem is tucked away in the Bardessono Hotel in Yountville. With fresh, seasonal offerings from the Napa Valley area, garden-inspired cuisine and artisanal cocktails, it’s no wonder Lucy Restaurant and Bar is a local favorite. If you can’t get a reservation for dinner, check out the bar for happy hour. It’s always a happening place with specials from 4:30 to 6:30 and affordable small bites. That’s probably how Lucy’s Bar made it to USA Today’s 10 Best list.
Lucy Restaurant and Bar
6528 Yount St.
Yountville, CA 94599
www.lucyrestaurantandbar.com
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Tarla Restaurant
Tarla Restaurant isn’t the fanciest you’ll find in Napa, but it is a customer favorite. Guests rave about the delectable Turkish and Greek dishes for an affordable price, and most are eager to praise the prompt and courteous service. Every dinner you have in Napa probably won’t be at a top-of-the-line place like French Laundry, but that doesn’t mean you should settle for anything less the best food.
Tarla Restaurant
1480 First St
Napa, CA 94559
tarlagrill.com
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Grace’s Table
This bright, modern Napa bistro is recognized as a “Michelin Bib Gourmand.” Chef Mauro Pando’s vision was to create a global kitchen with a focus on comfort foods from around the world. At this downtown Napa restaurant, you’ll find dishes that represent Italian, American and French cuisine with a personal twist that you’ll only find at Grace’s table. While you’re there, splurge on the ganache-layered devil’s food chocolate cake. You will not be disappointed.
Grace’s Table
1400 2nd St.
Napa, CA 94559
www.gracestable.net/
You may have planned your trip to Napa for the wine, but don’t forget that dinner is the perfect pairing. You may come for the wine, but you’ll surely stay for the food.