"Set up on a hill above an endless—and undulating—vista of vineyards, Auberge du Soleil has been maintaining the luxury standard in Napa for thirty years. Though it's since spawned two sister hotels (Solage and Calistoga Ranch), Auberge du Soleil is the reigning patriarch in Napa Valley, particularly when it comes to old-school indulgences and creature comforts (the other two spots are a bit more modern and laid-back). Here, the cottage-like rooms are organized into private little villages (they all feature patios and terraces). With two Michelin stars, Auberge's main, global-inflected restaurant draws a crowd that swells well beyond hotel guests—the Japanese breakfast is particularly dreamy. Don’t miss the spa: While hotel treatments often aren’t that great (particularly for their generally inflated price tags), this was one of the best massages we’ve ever had, particularly because it was followed by a soak in the outdoor bathtub. Meanwhile, Quintessa Winery, one of our favorites, is just across the street."

"Set up on a hill above an endless—and undulating—vista of vineyards, Auberge du Soleil has been maintaining the luxury standard in Napa for thirty years. Though it's since spawned two sister hotels (Solage and Calistoga Ranch), Auberge du Soleil is the reigning patriarch in Napa Valley, particularly when it comes to old-school indulgences and creature comforts (the other two spots are a bit more modern and laid-back). Here, the cottage-like rooms are organized into private little villages (they all feature patios and terraces). With two Michelin stars, Auberge's main, global-inflected restaurant draws a crowd that swells well beyond hotel guests—the Japanese breakfast is particularly dreamy. Don’t miss the spa: While hotel treatments often aren’t that great (particularly for their generally inflated price tags), this was one of the best massages we’ve ever had, particularly because it was followed by a soak in the outdoor bathtub. Meanwhile, Quintessa Winery, one of our favorites, is just across the street."

"Just a short walk from downtown Yountville and its bevy of great restaurants, Bardessono definitely boasts one of the best locations in the valley. With sleek, streamlined décor, excellent tech in room, and the almost impossible-to-accomplish LEED platinum rating, the vibe here is decidedly modern without sacrificing luxury. The grounds are incredibly lush, with the addition of a few well-placed water features, giving you the sense of an outdoor experience despite the relatively compact property."

"COVID-19 update: Hotel closed indefinitely. This hotel has its own cabernet-producing vineyard, so you get the full Napa Valley experience without even leaving the property. There's plenty else to do on site, from walking the stunning grounds and hanging out at the pool, to gathering eggs from their deluxe new coop. Should you book a stay in the early fall, you can join the pruning, harvesting, and crushing of the grapes. Each of the fifty rooms has a fireplace and a private deck, and occupies its own, secluded lodge, which guarantees plenty of privacy. While Calistoga Ranch makes for a great romantic holiday, it’s kid-friendly too, with a new family pool and a lunchbox menu just for little ones. Should you want to go out (it is Napa, after all) you can borrow one of the ranch's cars."

"Formerly the Carneros Inn, the 28-acre resort is now under new ownership but still maintains its farmhouse-style charm, with a few welcome updates. Like many Napa hotels, rooms here are situated in individual cottages, each outfitted with rocking chairs and an outdoor shower and fire pit. An adults-only pool overlooking the neighboring vineyard is probably the most Instagrammed thing on property, but it's totally idyllic all the same. "

"Although it's eighty rooms strong (and has the spa, restaurants, and pool to accommodate that many guests), Hotel Yountville feels like a small, quaint, boutique hotel. The cozy, updated interiors match the grand stone building that houses them. Definitely ask for a room with a fireplace."

"If making the pilgrimage to Napa Valley is a must for any foodie or wine-lover, then Meadowood in St. Helena—officially one of the world's best hotels—is most certainly Mecca. In the Restaurant, Chris Kostow continues to wow critics, guests, and chef friends alike with his vision, passion, and downright deliciousness (proof: Kostow's cookbook A New Napa Cuisine). Plus, there's no better place to sleep off a three Michelin-starred meal than in one of their cozy rooms by a roaring fire (unless you count the massage table at the seriously idyllic spa)."

"The Poetry Inn is somewhat isolated up in the Stag's Leap District (it's about a twenty-minute drive from downtown Napa), and although the rooms feel accordingly secluded and private, almost all of them have excellent views of the nearby hills. The décor is understated but elegant (leather sofas, natural woven wicker chairs, and cozy woven throws). If you're interested in an extended trip, look into their three-bedroom farmhouse that's available for monthly rental; it’s complete with a full kitchen and a private pool."

"Due to an abundance of white-washed, barn-like architecture, walking around this elegant newcomer feels like taking a stroll through a posh horse stable, with white, clean lines, and tall ceilings (but certainly no horses). Like most resorts in the area, rooms are organized into studio cottages with private patios, and their pool scene is nice and roomy, with plenty of deck space and lounge chairs. You'll be in good hands, food-wise, with their Michelin-rated restaurant, and a pretty serious spa. Calistoga is known for its mud baths (the geo-thermal heat and mineral-rich mud make for a healing restorative bath), and we've heard that Solage offers one of the best around. "

"Hotel prices in Napa can get outrageous fast, and Wydown is our favorite pick in the mid-price range. The location in downtown St. Helena is pretty unbeatable, as you can walk to all of the shops and tasting rooms. Book well in advance—there are only twelve rooms, and they go fast."

"It's hard to imagine that Thomas Keller initially opened ad hoc as a temporary dining space—it's been a beloved Yountville dinner spot since it first opened back in 2006. This laid-back spot offers a four course menu that changes daily and showcases the comfort food Keller grew up with (fried chicken, macaroni and cheese, and some seriously good salads with blue cheese and bacon). It's a fixed menu, with no substitutions except for a few add-ons, which always sell out."

"This place is right off Highway 29, and if you're not looking carefully you could drive right by it. Bistro Don Giovanni is known for classic Italian fare, with excellent homemade pasta—the fettuccine Bolognese with duck ragu is a must-order. Ask to sit outside in the charming garden space. "

"French Chef Philippe Jeanty first came to the US back in the '70s to work in the first Moët & Chandon restaurant in Napa, and he's been in the valley ever since. His eponymous bistro in downtown St. Helena is French country in the best, most quaint way—sit on the idyllic outdoor patio. "

"If you're a Food Network addict, it's worth putting Bottega on your list so you can taste Michael Chirello's Italian menu in person. It can feel a little bit touristy, meaning it can get loud and busy, but the service is surprisingly good and the signature ricotta gnocchi is undeniably awesome."

"Another mandatory stop on the Thomas Keller tour of Napa, Bouchon is Keller's take on casual French bistro food. It's sort of impossible to call out the best menu items because everything is great. Bonus: they have a late-night menu, which can be a game-changer on a long Napa night after too many wine tastings."

"Another mandatory stop on the Thomas Keller tour of Napa, Bouchon is Keller's take on casual French bistro food. It's sort of impossible to call out the best menu items because everything is great. Bonus: they have a late-night menu, which can be a game-changer on a long Napa night after too many wine tastings."

"Greg Cole (the former Executive Chef and owner) originally came to Napa to work for Chef Jeanty (of Bistro Jeanty fame) in the kitchen at Domaine Chandon. This spring, he and his wife sold their share in this cozy restaurant to their long-time General Manager and Chef de Cuisine Marcos Uribe took over as head chef. Not to worry—Uribe has been trained by Cole over many years, and we've heard the menu and food quality are still just as good."

"Cindy's Backstreet Kitchen (named for Chef Cindy Pawlcyn who, with a James Beard award under her belt, is a big name on Napa's food scene) is housed in a cool little 1920's building that used to be a bordello. The menu is a nice mix, with items that feel elevated, but not too fancy to keep it from being a neighborhood joint. Pawlcyn makes great use of the restaurant's wood-fired oven with duck meatballs and braised pork shoulder, or try classics like the avocado and papaya salad or the lobster cobbler."

"Snag a spot at the long, low, white marble bar at this local favorite where you can look right into the open kitchen. The rustic California-style menu offers up dishes like a whole fish and gorgeous heirloom tomatoes that don't need to be served with anything but olive oil. We can get behind that. "

"With a large, open dining room and casual vibe, Farmstead is our pick for big groups or for when you're traveling with kiddos (fried chicken Tuesdays are a family favorite). The cuisine takes farm-to-table as literally as possible—vegetable dishes change every day based on the fresh box of produce the chefs receive that day from Rutherford Estate. "

"Nestled discreetly in a historic former steam laundry in Yountville, The French Laundry has been a pilgrimage-worthy destination for years. It's another lauded establishment by Thomas Keller–the only American-born chef to have two three-starred Michelin restaurants. Although you'll pony up for a meal like this, it's a once-in-a-lifetime experience. Even if you can't get a reservation, experience it vicariously through the gorgeous three-acre garden across the street from the restaurant, which is open to the public."

"A requirement every time we're in Napa, Gott's Roadside is basically a fancy diner with unbelievable food. In other words, it's perfect for kids and a Napa-quality meal without the white tablecloths. There are also several other locations in Northern California including St. Helena and San Francisco. "

"Napa is a short drive from some of the country's best oyster beds, so it's worth taking a break from all of the farm-to-table vegetables to check out the offerings from the nearby ocean. If you have time, head over to Point Reyes National Seashore and stop at their oyster farm for a taste of the bounty fresh out of the ocean."

"Given its grand amenities–including its own nine-acre vineyard–this hotel and spa is definitely more of a resort, therefore not the best bet if you're looking for a quaint-style inn or hotel. The customer service is excellent, as is the spa. It offers tastings in it's cellars and is only about a ten-minute drive from downtown Napa if you're looking to explore or head out to dinner. "

"Chef Ken Frank's formal bistro in the Westin Verasa Hotel is the embodiment of the traditional, old-school Napa dining experience. In addition to the nine-course tasting menu, we recommend springing for the wine pairing here—it's totally worth it and a great opportunity to see how the region's best wines hold up in a dining setting."

"Cindy Pawlcyn was a big part of the first generation of chefs who established Napa as a culinary destination, and her casual grill has been equally loved by tourists and locals for the 30 years since. Order the Mongolian pork chop and onion rings, and take advantage of their wine list, which is surprisingly comprehensive for such a laid-back spot. "

"Masaharu Morimoto is best known as the original Iron Chef, though his restaurants are actually even better than the TV hype. The vibe here is more urban than you'd find at other restaurants in the valley since it's right downtown in Napa. Meanwhile, the Asian food is also a nice way to break up the local California cuisine."

"Although the interior at this spot is a little Napa-quirky (think green leather and lime and orange-striped banquettes), they serve up unshakably good Italian right in the center of downtown. The pasta recipes are creative and original, and the pizza crusts are the perfect, slightly chewy Neapolitan consistency."

"Richard Reddington’s Redd Wood is sort of the classic embodiment of what some call the "new Napa." The fresh-feeling, casual Yountville spot was decorated by Erin Martin (she has a shop in St. Helena and is one of the area's best decorators) and is famous for its spot-on pizzas. "

"Solage Calistoga is a relative newcomer on the hotel scene here, and Solbar is one of its best amenities. Featuring a large, open dining room that looks out onto an outdoor garden and seating area, it's a nice quiet spot for California-style cuisine. It's a great place to meet people for drinks, but we recommend sticking around to try the truffled organic chicken."

"Meadowood is one of the most luxurious spots in the region, so it's only fitting that its restaurant is decadent and opulent enough to live up to the hotel. Christopher Kostow's program, which is a traditional nine-course tasting menu, has been Michelin-starred for several years in a row. And while it might seem trite to discuss décor in a place where the food is the focus, the subtle, elegant design of this spot is a perfect fit for the cuisine."

"Restaurant Terra has garnered countless Michelin stars since 2007, but we're partial to its more casual little sister, Bar Terra, the exposed brick walls and leather banquettes here make for a comfortable, intimate setting. It's a small but creative menu with a subtle Asian influence, offering signature ramen and broiled, sake-marinated black cod. They also have a great selection of small plates for sharing."

"The city gave Garcia's a permit to set up in the parking lot of Pancha's, which is one of our favorite little local bars, and you'll find them there most evenings. Tacos like the well-loved fish and el pastor will only set you back between one and two dollars, which is a major blessing when your wallet is starting to feel the strain of too many big, wine-heavy dinners."

"Sitting somewhere between a community gathering hub and a winery, Ashes & Diamonds, a new Napa Valley-owned spot by Kashy Khaledi is looking to shake things up. Khaledi cut his teeth as an ad exec at the likes of Capitol Records and MTV before deciding to get into the wine business. The first clue that Ashes & Diamond is unlike any other winery in the Napa Valley is the design: porthole windows, stark white facade, and mid-century modern furnishings are a nod to the Napa Valley of the 1960s thanks to LA-based architect Barbara Bestor. As for the wine itself, Khaledi brought in organic and biodynamic wine makers Steve Matthiasson and Diana Snowden Seysses who are churning out a particularly good Blanc (a blend of Sauvignon Blanc and Sémillon from three vineyards in the Oak Knoll District and Yountville). And, in a true nod to his music roots, Khaledi tapped Brian Roettinger, who concepted the album cover of Jay-Z’s Magna Carta Holy Grail, to design the wine labels. Their yearly membership program starts at three bottles ($345), and perks include access to the "leaders and conspirators" conversation series, plus, themed ticketed dinners throughout the year. "

"Laura Rombauer pretty much has Napa style nailed, and her store reflects it. Housed in a historic brick building, she specializes in items for tabletop decorating, like rainbow-hued Claude Dozorme steak knives, Simon Pearce serving bowls, and imported linens in wonderfully subdued colorways."

"Napa is not particularly known for its retail, but the long-standing Foot Candy is enough to justify the drive. It's sweet and jewel-box-like, and lined with all the classics like Christian Louboutin, Manolo Blahnik, and Jimmy Choo. "

"Erin Martin is one of the most respected interior designers in the area, thanks to her dark, industrial, cool-girl style. Her shop on Main Street in St. Helena showcases some of the bigger stuff like couches, along with art books, unique jewelry, and other knick-knacks."

"We've long been fans of this exceptional boutique since we discovered its original location in Dallas. Founded by Brian Bolke and his late partner, Shelly Musselman, the space brings some of the world’s best designers and homeware all under one beautiful roof. Like its Texan sister store, you’ll find Rochas, Marni, Proenza Schouler, Delpozo on the shelves, along with Diptyque and Cire Trudon candles—and most recently, our very own goop by Juice Beauty skincare. "

"Nothing says small town like a local movie theater, and this spot—one of the last single-screen theaters in the country—is truly a neighborhood treasure. It's incredibly well-maintained, and since they typically have a good selection of kids movies in the afternoon, it's a great rainy-day activity to keep in your back pocket."

"There's almost no better way to experience the rolling hills of the landscape here than to see them from above—between the views and the close quarters, a balloon ride is surprisingly romantic, too. The folks at Napa Valley Balloons have been in the business forever—and since these trips typically start at ungodly early hours, they're considerate enough to arrive with plenty of coffee in hand."

"Although it's unabashedly touristy, the wine train is an easy, laid-back way to experience the geography of the region, and a great way to do it with kids. You can sign up for a winery tour or a lunch, but we like it best at dinner, when you can watch the sun set over the hills as you chug along. "

"Leslie Rudd is also the owner of the Dean & DeLuca brand, and his eponymous winery is everything you'd expect from the owner of the original gourmet food destination. Stunning grounds, classically big California Cabs, an elegant tasting experience, and of course, a solid selection of Dean & Deluca goodies for purchase. Rudd's daughter, Samantha, works full time at the vineyard, making the business a true family operation."

"This rustic old stone winery was built in 1886, and painstakingly restored after a long period of disrepair. It's situated at the top of a hill, but the long, winding road you'll take to get there offers some pretty fantastic views. There are several different tour options, all centered around their famous Cabernet Sauvignon."

"Okay, we know it's random, but Model makes the best English muffins (yes, they're that good). Oversized and layered with cornmeal, they're insanely light and often-copied. Model has been an institution in the area for almost 100 years, which means you can also trust them for great bread if you're putting together a picnic with other items from Oxbow. They also have a location in St. Helena."

"Oxbow Public Market is kind of like a gourmet farmers' market that's open 24/7, with vendors ranging from a vegetable grocer, to a wineshop, to an ice cream parlor. It's also home to some of our other favorites in the area, like Gott's and Hog Island Oyster. "

"The historic, ivy-covered stone building where Stags' Leap hosts its tastings was built in 1890 using stone mined in a local quarry. The building and its lush grounds, which feature a bocce court, fruit orchard, native plant gardens, and an ancient stone cellar, are steeped in the history of the region; the house is even rumored to be haunted by a friendly ghost."

"White wine lovers who can't stand another big California red love Hanzell, a small vineyard with an intimate, laid-back tasting experience and a very high quality wine. With a stellar Chardonnay in the cellars, they're part of a small but celebrated group of wineries focused on Northern California whites."

"Odette is the newest property from the PlumpJack group (they're also behind the PlumpJack and CADE vineyards), and like its sister properties, the estate is Gold-LEED certified—a major accomplishment that's very difficult for a winery to achieve. Their first vintage, a 2012 Cabernet Sauvignon, just became available in February of 2015, and we’re hearing great things so far."

"Without question, Quintessa is one of our favorite wine tasting experiences in the valley—it's also one of the locations where we recommend springing for a tour. The grounds are truly breathtaking (they include a calm, clear lake surrounded by vines), and you'll finish up at a perfect hilltop perch, taking in a grand view of the valley while you sip on one of Quintessa's red blends. Photos: KAZ2.0"

"Founded by and Englishman (and an avid gardener) and currently owned by LVMH, it's no surprise that Newton Vineyard boasts one of the most beautiful grounds in the region. The lush parterre is planted above the Chardonnay cellar, which keeps the underground space cool naturally. The vintners here are known for excellent unfiltered wines."

"This laid-back vineyard is one of the few places in Napa that's known for excellent Pinots, so it's a great way to break up the schedule if you're trying to squeeze in multiple vineyards in a day. The newly-renovated tasting room includes a huge fireplace for cooking in the great hall, which promises to be a welcome addition to their already-impressive food and wine pairing program."

"Although it's a gorgeous property and the sparkling rosé brut is a standout, the best thing about Schramsberg is its rich history. The vineyard still carries the name of Jacob Schram, the German immigrant who bought the vineyard in 1862, and the original Victorian home that he and his wife built when they first bought the property still stands (it was declared a historical monument back in 1957). The vineyard also keeps an excellent record of notable events where their wines were served—every presidential administration since Nixon has served their sparkling wines to official guests."

"For a sophisticated, grown-up tasting experience, book an appointment at Shafer Vineyards. They're some of the most respected and longstanding winemakers in the valley, and their Chardonnay and Merlot (which you'll sip in their clean-lined, warmly decorated tasting room, with sweeping views of the property) are classics."

"If you're a child of the '90s, you'll recognize this house and some of the roads as Hallie's Dad's house from the The Parent Trap. Nostalgia aside, this estate offers beautiful grounds and exceptional wines. The Staglin Family are also well known philanthropists—since opening the vineyard, they've raised and donated more than $800 million for mental health research. "

"You'll have to venture off the beaten path to find this spot, but that only makes uncovering it feel even more special. Run by matriarch Mary Weber Novak and her two daughters Beth and Lindy, this family-owned operation is also a serious #fempire. Spots here go fast, so book tastings well in advance. "

"Inglenook is one of two wineries owned by the Coppola family, and it's sort of a must-see for any Napa itinerary worth its snuff. The gorgeous, historic chateau is far and away one of the grandest buildings in the valley, and the wine (winemaker Phillip Bascuales was trained at Château Margaux) is worthy of the estate."

"Like many of the vineyards in this area, Seavey is a family-owned business: All five of the Seavey children are involved with the business in some capacity. Winemaker Jim Duane is an alumnus of Mondavi and Stag's Leap, meaning that this is a man who knows his way around a Cabernet Sauvignon. "

"With only 8 acres (they only produce 1,000 cases per year), Anomaly is probably the smallest vineyard on our list. A visit to the boutique winery (which will likely be led by owner Steve Goldfarb) is always intimate, and the cabs are sophisticated but really approachable."

"Opus One only produces one blend every season, and their vintages represent some of the most upscale and expensive wines on the market. The estate, which is meticulously maintained, is fittingly grand. We recommend making an appointment for one of their informative tours if you have time—they have a cavernous cellar (the French oak barrels are only used once) and a very large lab, plus, it's fascinating to find out what it takes to make wines that usually sell for more than $200/bottle. "

"Downtown St. Helena is filled with adorable stops, and this local chocolatier, where all the goodies are hand-made by a husband-and-wife duo and their daughters, is one of our favorites. Their boxes are the perfect finishing touch for a picnic lunch."

"Female winemaker Cathy Corison is sort of a legend when it comes to women in the wine business, and she runs her namesake vineyard with her husband, William Martin. Although the tasting experience is laid-back and casual, the wine is an incredibly elegant, old-school Cabernet Sauvignon. "

"There's nothing original about recommending a visit to Robert Mondavi's Oakville estate, but considering his pivotal role in making the valley into the celebrated wine-making region it is today, a Napa trip isn't really complete without paying homage. Although the experience can be a little over the top, the visitor center and tastings are well thought-out and informative, and the wine is fantastic. "

"Storybook Mountain (named for its original founders, two brothers named Grimm) is a totally unique, rural California winery experience. The organic vineyards are known for their Zinfandel, and it's worth taking the time to explore their caves, which were part of the original vineyard and are buried so deeply that they never require artificial cooling."

"Caymus is a family operation (the Wagners are in their third generation of winemaking on the property, where they've been making wine since 1972) and the family history and values that tie the vineyard together are elegantly woven through their tasting experience. In addition to trying their excellent Cabs and Zinfandels, you’ll hear about the family's history in the region. Photo: m anima"

"In 1984, art and architecture buff Jan Shrem (the original owner of this estate), partnered with SF MoMA to put on a design competition inviting modern architects to submit proposals for the design of the winery. The commission was awarded to Michael Graves, the modernist who later became famous as a member of the New York Five. In addition to the Graves-designed building, the property is scattered with Shrem's notable collection of modern art, which includes works by Jean Dubuffet and Francis Bacon. The selection of wines here is pretty broad, so it's an excellent option if you're traveling with a big group with a lot of tastes. It's a must-see for guests staying at nearby Calistoga Ranch."

"With all of the luxe experiences Napa has to offer, it can be easy to forget that the wineries are, at heart, agricultural ventures: Frog's Leap really feels like a farm, in the best possible way. The winery is housed in cavernous old barn, and the farmhouse has a big, wide porch for tastings (which are by appointment only). If you're lucky, you might even catch winemaker John Williams and his scruffy companion, Abbie, driving around the property in Williams' vintage Chevy. "

"While there's no land to see on this visit (Hunnicutt is exclusively a winery, not a vineyard), the team possesses a real artistry when it comes to wine-making, putting it near the top of our list. In addition to the classic Napa Cabernet Sauvignon, we love the Zinfandel and Chardonnay—and if sitting on their sunny porch for your tasting isn't hands-on enough, sign up for a tour and tasting in their newly-finished caves."

"While the focus in Napa is understandably on wine, the region is also fantastic for growing olive trees (and, of course, making olive oil). This spot is located in an old bank, and the vault has been converted to a tasting room where you can try oils from the surrounding region or greater California."

"Chef Chris Cosentino has earned a reputation as one of the culinary world's top talents (he's held his own in the TV sphere as the winner of Top Chef Masters). At Acacia House, his penchant for classic American dishes is evident on the menu. For the vegetarians among us, the whole roasted eggplant is exceptional, finished with capers, pistachios, and blistered tomatoes. If you're looking for a heartier protein, go for the Striped Bass. And if you happen to find yourself tiring of wine, there's an inventive cocktail list from which to choose, which includes a traditional Mexico City margarita. "

"The Charter Oak, is the highly anticipated follow-up from Christopher Kostow and Nathaniel Dorn, who previously earned three Michelin stars for the Restaurant at Meadowood. Located in the former Tra Vigne, lovingly run by Michael Chiarello for some 30-plus years, the space has undergone a soup-to-nuts renovation (the iconic lion statues outside still remain) and the result is a warm brick-and-wood interior, a substantial patio, and a more casual family-style menu. Chef Curtis Di Fede takes the helm of this restaurant that elevates the art of simple American food. (And we mean simple: Most of the dishes feature minimal ingredients and are meant to be shared.) This means, hearth roasted figs with local honey for starters, coal roasted cabbage, and cauliflower with a mushroom au jus. It's hugely popular, so be sure to snag reservations ahead of time. "

"The relaxing setting on the patio is one of the main draws of this bistro-style restaurant. Located in the Hatt Building, an historic 1890s ship chandlery, the space has the feel of a French brasserie. The menu is solid, with French favorites such as duck confit and roast chicken. "

"In this red barn right on the Carneros Resort property, weekend brunch is a major thing, both for visitors and locals, thanks to diner favorites like green eggs and ham, a triple stack of griddle cakes, and breakfast tacos—despite it not taking reservations. (Oh, and a bacon Bloody Mary, obviously.) If you have to be in and out, don't miss the made-to-order cinnamon doughnuts or scones. "

"Nestled between the Napa and Sonoma Valley, the FARM, the Carneros Resort's warm, though undoubtedly fancier dining option (the other is the roadhouse-style Boon Fly Café) is known for its stellar farm-to-table line-up. Much of the menu is dictated by what's seasonally thriving, so that may be heirloom tomatoes, little baby lettuce, beets, and carrots; meats and fish come from nearby farms, including the Bay Area. Napa-raised chef Aaron Meneghelli's dishes are a nod to his Italian roots, too, with orecchiette pasta, ricotta gnocchi and summer squash, and Urbani truffled burrata being some of our favorites to order. (There's also a gorgeously plated five-course tasting menu if you want to go all in.) The wine list is obviously impressive too, and the cellar features some 490-plus options, including Carneros bottles plus many other sustainable and biodynamically farmed options. "

"To dine here is to indulge in authenticity and flavor, as well as minimalism. Owner Kenzo Tsujimoto, the businessman and vintner behind Kenzo Estate Winery, has created a space that evokes his Japanese heritage: light woods and clean lines complement the simple design and allow the authentic Japanese dishes, stars on their own, to shine. The menu is prefixed, and you’ll pay a pretty penny, but it’s an experience you'll likely never forget."

"Silver Oak has long been lauded for its Cabernets–consistently selling out of its releases for years (the same goes for the Pinot Noirs and Sauvignon Blancs produced by tis sister winery, Twomey). Run by Vintner David Duncan, the absolutely gorgeous space is located in the center of the valley, in the middle of Oakville. The winery throws the biggest release-day parties of the year, a tradition (and category) cemented since the 1980's when wine enthusiasts started showing up the day of the release. This is an all-around beautiful, successful vineyard not to be missed. "

"Simply striking, in all ways: The Kenzo Estate is owned by Japanese-American businessman and vintner Kenzo Tsujimoto and is a work that marries his affinity for the region, wine, and simple aesthetics. After falling in love with Napa Valley decades ago, Tsujimoto debuted his wine in 2008 to much acclaim–but it wasn’t until 2010 that is dream of opening a tasting room for the public came true. Nestled in a drop-dead gorgeous valley, the estate covers 3,800 acres that include sweeping vineyards and a tasting room. "

"A new addition to the California wine trail, Stewart has quickly become a favorite for its top-notch Napa varietals. The Yountville-based wine business is a family affair—run by Michael Stewart and his children—so it's only natural they wanted to open a tasting room with a convivial, easygoing vibe. The Stewarts tapped interior designer Ken Fulk to give the brand-new space, which also includes a café and a library, a lived-in, time-worn feel complete with a Syre stone facade, lots of outdoor space, a wood-burning fireplace, and a mix of antiques culled from Brimfield and Paris flea markets. "

"Lauded as one of the most highly regarded Cabernet Sauvignon producers in the region, this winery boasts deep family roots. Husband and wife Jeff and Valerie Gargiulo founded their establishment in the early nineties after more than a decade prior of inspiration and coaching from Valerie’s cousins, who were esteemed Napa wine makers. Over the years they pursued their quest to create incredible wine from their now two vineyard locations in Oakville–a hands-on operation that consists of Jeff, Valerie, daughter April, and son-in-law Mitch. (Fun fact: April is the founder of the best-selling, cult-favorite serum Vintner's Daughter.)"

"This Italian deli has been serving build-your-own sandwiches since the 1970s. Pick your bread base (we recommend the dutch crunch roll), and then take your pick from the endless meat, cheese, and fixings choice, including “Giugni juice”, the deli’s famous homemade balsamic vinaigrette, which we suggest adding to anything and everything you order. Arrive before 11am or call ahead to order, as the line can be long, and remember to bring cash. Photo @whatgraceeats"

"By appointment only, this vineyard and winery sits on 42 acres of what was an original 1880’s farmstead. Founded by husband-and-wife duo Gil and Beth Nickel in 1997, the property has retained all of the site’s original Queen Ann charm but houses a thoroughly modern wine operation. The Nickel family is committed to sustainability and employs the most modern production methods—the entire property is solar powered and organic. Underneath the newly built fermentation barns you’ll find a cavernous barrel cellar that stores the winery’s single vineyard Cabernet, Merlot, Chardonnay, and Syrah. They offer both tours and private tastings."

"Sometimes the best way to get a taste of the local scene (especially in a tourist-centric place like St. Helena) is to seek out the busiest hometown dive. We think it's fun just to belly up to the bar and chat with the regulars, but Ana's also has a pool table, a jukebox, and performances by local bands to mix things up a bit."

"Counting Robert Mondavi and Cakebread as its neighbors, this small, family-owned and operated winemaker doubles down on its small-but-mighty Cabernet Sauvignon. (This spring, they played host to our first-ever Napa road-to-table event.) Here, second generation vintner Zoe Johns, who took the helm of Turnbull at the age of 33, brings her vision for a modern vineyard to life: a tasting gallery features a rotating roster of artwork from artists like Berenice Abbott, Ansel Adams, Edward Weston, and Herb Ritts, while a more elaborate private tasting and pairing program leans heavily on what's freshest from the garden. It goes without saying that the vineyard views are pretty killer from just about everywhere on property, too. "