Napa Valley Life always kicks off the year with our annual Best of Napa Valley Readers’ Choice Awards. The Readers’ Choice Awards is a community project that offers us a unique opportunity to collaborate with our readers and followers to support and promote Napa’s local businesses. The survey is launched in the Fall through all our channels (print, social media, website, and email) and runs until December 1st. It contains a formidable list of categories where readers nominate and vote for their favorite people, places, products, and services in Napa Valley. At the end of the survey period, we count all the votes in the represented categories, comb through all the write-in nominations to tally candidates who weren’t on the published list, and, if applicable, consider them for the following year’s survey. As a result of last year’s write-in requests, we added a new category for 2024, Best Candy/Sweet Shops. 

Napa Valley has no shortage of fantastic local businesses offering some of the best hospitality, goods, and services that can be found across the globe. Our readers’ participation and thoughtful input are represented within this list, and we are honored to have the opportunity to share the results. Please join us in congratulating all the winners and the many nominees from which there were to choose. 

 

BEST Downtown Tasting Room

Be Bubbly Napa Valley – WINNER

1407 2nd St., Napa // www.bebubblynapa.com

Located in downtown Napa’s trendy SoFi District, Be Bubbly is Napa Valley’s first and only dedicated sparkling wine lounge. Among a wide selection of global sparkling wine and Champagne available by the bottle or glass, Be Bubbly is a popular gathering spot for happy hours, live music, and social events, encouraging patrons and loyal fans to “live life to its bubbliest.”

Acumen Wine Gallery • 2nd

1315 1st St., Napa // www.acumenwine.com

 

Alpha Omega Collective Napa • 3rd

1245 1st St., Napa // www.alphaomegacollective.com

 

BEST Hidden Gem Winery

Chappellet Winery – WINNER

1581 Sage Canyon Rd., St. Helena // www.chappellet.com

For an unforgettable Napa Valley experience, take a trip up to Pritchard Hill and discover Chappellet Winery. The family winery, founded in 1967, is dedicated to maintaining sustainable farming techniques and creating quality, mountain-grown wines that reflect Pritchard Hill’s terroir with depth, longevity, and elegance. Private tasting experiences are hosted with a ‘behind-the-scenes’ tour- on foot or via ATV, with curated tastings that include current and library releases and their Signature Cabernet Sauvignon.

A.X.R. Napa Valley • 2nd

3199 St. Helena Hwy. N, St. Helena // www.axrnapavalley.com

 

Porter Family Vineyards • 3rd

1189 Green Valley Rd., Napa // www.porterfamilyvineyards.com

 

BEST Estate Winery Tasting Room

Sequoia Grove Winery – WINNER

8338 St. Helena Hwy., Napa // www.sequoiagrove.com

Sequoia Grove Winery retains its top spot as Napa Valley’s Best Winery Tasting Room in this year’s survey. Sequoia Grove’s elegant yet approachable wine portfolio is presented to guests through curated tasting experiences in their lively tasting room or among the shady redwoods surrounding the property. Tasting experiences include ‘A Taste of Sequoia Grove’- a selection of four winemaker reds, ‘Wines + Bites,’ which includes four varietal wines paired with small bites, the ‘Cambium Vertical Tasting,’ and ‘The Ultimate Wine & Food Experience: A Taste For Cabernet,’ a multi-course odyssey of unconventional food pairings crafted by winery chef, Britny Maureze paired with the winery’s limited production Single -Vineyard and Reserve wines.

Anderson’s Conn Valley Vineyards • 2nd

680 Rossi Rd., St. Helena // www.connvalleyvineyards.com

 

Schramsberg Vineyards • tied for 3rd

1400 Schramsberg Rd., Calistoga // www.schramsberg.com

 

Aonair Wines • tied for 3rd

647 Greenfield Rd., St. Helena // www.aonairwine.com

 

BEST Wine Collective

Vintners Collective – WINNER

1245 Main St., Napa // www.vintnerscollective.com

Vintners Collective reigns as the People’s Choice winery collective and tasting room. Known for its selection of interesting wines produced by small, family-owned wineries, VC has developed a loyal following. The tasting room is conveniently located in a historic building on downtown Napa’s Main Street and touts a colorful past as a saloon and brothel. VC’s wine club is also a big draw, with a unique collection of wine in every shipment and a busy calendar of vintner-hosted event events for members.

Brasswood • 2nd

3111 St. Helena Hwy., St. Helena // www.brasswood.com

 

The Wine Thief • 3rd

708 1st St., Napa // www.twtnapa.com

 

BEST Outdoor Wine Tasting

Alpha Omega Winery – WINNER

1155 Mee Ln., St. Helena // www.aowinery.com

Experience the best of Napa Valley terroir while sipping award-winning Alpha Omega wines at their picturesque Rutherford Estate. Among private tasting rooms and a lively indoor bar, Alpha Omega touts one of Napa Valley’s most expansive patio/terraces, overlooking a fantastic ‘Las Vegas-esque’ fountain and their estate vineyards, where wine educators present curated selections of AO’s current and library wines from many of Napa’s most renowned vineyards. For chilly afternoons, choose a seat at one of the firepits. Alpha Omega is family and pet-friendly; dogs are welcome on leash.

Shadybrook Estate Winery • 2nd

100 Rapp Ln, Napa // www.shadybrookestate.com

 

Domaine Carneros • 3rd

1240 Duhig Rd., Napa // www.domainecarneros.com

 

BEST Wine Bar

Be Bubbly Napa Valley – WINNER

1407 2nd St., Napa // www.bebubblynapa.com

Located on 2nd St, right off the main drag in downtown Napa, Be Bubbly offers an extensive selection of sparkling wine and Champagne produced worldwide, which can be purchased by the bottle, glass, or flight. They also offer still wines (mostly local labels) and an eclectic menu of small bites, including everything from caviar to tater tots. The tasting room is a popular gathering place with weekly live entertainment, unique wine and food pairing events, and a Boujee Bubbly Sunday Brunch.

Market St. Helena • 2nd

1347 Main St., St. Helena // www.marketsthelena.com

 

Cadet Wine & Beer Bar • 3rd

930 Franklin St., Napa // www.cadetbar.com

 

BEST Boutique Winery

Shadybrook Estate Winery – WINNER

100 Rapp Ln, Napa // www.shadybrookestate.com

Shadybrooke Estate Winery sits among the Rapp Ranch Vineyards in the heart of Coombsville. Plan to stay awhile and book a wine-tasting or cheese and charcuterie pairing experience in one of the conversation pits on their patio that overlooks Coombsville’s pristine rolling vineyards. Heighten the experience with the Estate Cave Tasting, which includes a tour and tasting current and library wines paired with cheese, caviar, and chocolates. For the equine enthusiast, the Ultimate Ranch experience includes a horseback ride along the Cabernet vineyards, followed by a curated selection of Shadybrook Estate and Rapp Ranch wines.

 

Sill Family Vineyards • 2nd

2929 Atlas Peak Rd., Napa // www.sillfamilyvineyards.com

 

Krupp Brothers • 3rd

1094 Hardman Lane., Napa // www.kruppbrothers.com

 

BEST Local Winemaker

Thomas Rivers Brown | Mending Wall Winery – WINNER

3730 Silverado Trail North, St.Helena

Thomas Rivers Brown’s passion for wine took him to start his career in the wine business when he began working at Turley Wine Cellars in 1997. He developed his reputation as one of Napa’s most successful winemakers through his work at Schrader Cellars, Outpost, Maybach, Pulido-Walker, Revana, and many other brands, including his own Rivers-Marie, Aston Estate & Caterwaul. Brown’s unwavering dedication to detail, making wine that is the purest expression with minimal intervention, and expertise overseeing all aspects of vineyard operations contributed to his history-making accolades as the youngest American winemaker to score two perfect 100 point ratings from Robert M. Parker and the only two 100 point ratings from James Laube at the Wine Spectator. He is also well known for his efforts to give back to the community through sponsorships of local charitable events and mentoring and training the next generation of winemakers.

Rudy Zuidema • 2nd
Shadybrook Estate Winery

100 Rapp Lane, Napa // www.shadybrookeestate.com

 

Cathy Corison • 3rd
Corison Winery

987 St. Helena Hwy., St. Helena // www.corison.com

 

BEST Wine Tour

Platypus Wine Tours – WINNER

182 Camino Oruga, Napa // www.platypustours.com

Platypus Wine Tours is known for its small-group wine tours designed to show clients a picture-perfect day in Napa and Sonoma wine country. Each ‘join-in’ tour is designed to appeal to each group and is a fun/social way to discover a hand-picked selection of hidden gem wineries that many would not find on their own—along with a picnic lunch. Platypus offers customized private and group tours for corporate outings and events such as birthday parties, wedding guest groups, and more.

Beau Wine Tours • 2nd

1754 2nd St., Suite B, Napa // www.beauwinetours.com

 

Napa Valley Wine Train • 3rd

1275 McKinstry St., Napa // www.winetrain.com

 

BEST Bar/Cocktails

Bistro Don Giovanni – WINNER

4110 Howard Ln., Napa // www.bistrodongiovanni.com

Belly up to the bar at locals’ favorite, Bistro Don G’s, for a handcrafted cocktail, a glass or bottle of wine from their extensive wine list or settle in for a while and order lunch or dinner. Along with its award-winning reputation as Napa’s best Italian restaurant, this local gem has been a neighborhood hangout for locals and vintners since it opened over 30 years ago.

Goose and Gander • 2nd

1245 Spring St., St. Helena // www.goosegander.com

 

Auberge du Soleil • 3rd

180 Rutherford Hill Rd., Rutherford // www.aubergeresorts.com/aubergedusoleil

 

BEST Brewery

Fieldwork Brewing Company – Napa – tied for 1st place WINNER

1046 McKinstry St., Napa // www.fieldworkbrewing.com/napa

Located in downtown Napa’s bustling Oxbow Market District, Fieldwork Napa’s Taproom offers an ever-changing list of beers on tap to order by the glass or flight. Specialty brews include Lagers, Sours, Belgian Ales, and an excellent selection of IPAs. A light menu of salads, pizza, and snacks is available to order, or patrons can bring in nosh from a local Oxbow establishment and enjoy it with a delicious beer. Growlers, 16 oz. cans, and 32 oz. Crowlers can be packed to go or ordered online and picked up for those on the go.

St. Clair Brown Winery & Brewery – tied for 1st place WINNER

816 Vallejo St., Napa // www.stclairbrown.com

Opened in 2013 by longtime friends Winemaker/Brewmaster Elaine St. Clair and President Laina Brown, St. Clair Brown is Napa’s only boutique urban winery, nano-brewery, and culinary garden. The small (two-barrel, all-grain nano brewery (launched in 2018) brews 60 gallons of beer per batch. It includes a weekly rotation of 14+ beers, which can be sampled by the flight or purchased by the bottle to-go. All beers are hand-bottled and hand-labeled by Elaine and Bren in 750ml champagne bottles.

Mad Fritz Brewery and Malthouse • 2nd

393 La Fata St., St. Helena // www.madfritz.com

 

Calistoga Inn Restaurant and Brewery • 3rd

1250 Lincoln Ave., Calistoga // www.calistogainn.com

 

BEST Family Restaurant

Gotts Roadside – WINNER

644 1st St., Napa // 933 Main St., St. Helena // gotts.com

Gotts Roadside is Napa’s favorite family restaurant. With two locations—one in downtown Napa and the other in St. Helena—the lively roadside restaurants serve a classic gourmet diner menu with something for everyone. Also voted as Napa’s best place for a burger, the options are many, and the handcrafted shakes are calorie-worthy. For the health-conscious, their delicious salads are made to order, as are the fresh seafood tacos and poke bowls. Also impressive is their beer and local wine list.

Filippis Pizza Grotto • 2nd

645 1st St., Napa // www.realcheesepizza.com

 

Hop Creek Pub • 3rd

3253 Browns Valley Rd., Napa // hopcreekpub.com

 

BEST Mexican Food

La Calenda – WINNER

6518 Washington St., Yountville // www.lacalendamex.com

Named after an Oaxacan parade that kicks off celebrations, Thomas Keller’s La Calenda is a cheerful gathering place with indoor and outdoor seating and a lively bar. The restaurant specializes in traditional Oaxacan dishes prepared with fresh, artisanal ingredients. The menu presents an ample selection of Antojitos ( Appetizers) that run the gambit from fresh chips and guacamole, quesadillas, tostadas, colorful salads, and pork or fish tacos. The Platos Fuertes are artfully prepared with fresh chicken, slow-cooked pork, and seafood with flavorful accompaniments. The restaurant also touts an ambitious beverage program, with a full-service bar specializing in tequilas and mezcals. Beer and local wines are selected in partnership with the Mexican-American Vintner’s Association.

Fridas Mexican Grill • 2nd

1533 Trancas St., Napa // www.fridasmexicangrill.com

 

C CASA • tied for 3rd

610 1st St., Napa // www.myccasa.com

 

Don Pericos • tied for 3rd

1106 1st St., Napa // www.donpericos.com

 

BEST Italian Restaurant

Bistro Don Giovanni – WINNER

4110 Howard Lane, Napa // www.bistrodongiovanni.com

Bistro Don Giovanni has been recognized for its outstanding menu and convivial neighborhood atmosphere for three decades. Frequented by locals, guests may dine inside the lively restaurant, at the bar, outside on the deck, or the expansive garden patio with fountain seating. Don G’s menu offers fresh, seasonal interpretations of traditional Italian dishes that are sustainably farmed and organically sourced. Favorites include hand-tossed, wood-fired pizzas, homemade pasta, and daily fish and meat specials, all expertly presented by their professional staff (and even Giovanni himself as he’s often on site.) Bistro Don Giovanni has all the ingredients for a memorable dining experience— a lively atmosphere, an outstanding menu, and impeccable service.

Bottega Napa Valley • 2nd

6525 Washington St., Yountville // www.botteganapavalley.com

 

Oenotri • tied for 3rd

1425 1st St., Napa // www.oenotri.com

 

Scala Osteria & Bar • tied for 3rd

1141 1st St., Napa // www.scalaosteria.com

 

BEST Asian Food

Morimoto Asia – WINNER

790 Main St., Napa // www.morimotoasianapa.com

Iron Chef Masaharu Morimoto’s namesake restaurant on the Napa River offers an intimate dining experience, an eclectic menu, and a casual atmosphere. The sleek dining room invites guests to dine at a diverse selection of community tables, a generous bar, or private cubbies where hearty appetizers, delicious soups, dim sum, and signature dishes that highlight Chef Morimoto’s favorite Asian flavors are served. The drink menu includes an excellent selection of beer, wine, whiskey, and sake.

Empress M • 2nd

221 Silverado Trail, Napa // www.empressm.us

 

Eiko’s Napa • 3rd

1300 1st St., Suite 385, Napa // www.eikosnapa.com

 

BEST Sushi

Morimoto Napa – WINNER

610 Main St., Napa // www.morimotonapa.com

Iron Chef Morimoto’s Napa restaurant has been a popular spot to dine and hang out since its opening on the Napa Riverfront over a decade ago. The creative menu offers a wide selection of Asian dishes, but the biggest draw is the high-end, inventive selection of sushi, sashimi, and maki preparations served in artful preparations. The ambiance of the restaurant adds to the allure. After enjoying some sake from the Sake and Japanese Whiskey Bar, the open-style, warm, yet modern décor invites guests to dine at one of the group tables, a private banquet, the sushi bar, or the outdoor patio, promising an unforgettable culinary experience.

R + D Kitchen • 2nd

6795 Washington St., Yountville // www.rd-kitchen.com

 

Eiko’s Napa • 3rd

1300 First St., Suite 385, Napa // www.eikosnapa.com

 

BEST Local Burger

Gotts Roadside – WINNER

644 1st St., Napa // 933 Main St. (Hwy.29) St. Helena // www.gotts.com

Gotts Roadside is undoubtedly the best-known place to go to grab one of Napa Valley’s best burgers. Gott’s prides itself on using locally sourced, fresh ingredients and its knack for creating gourmet roadside specialties. The beef burgers are 100% Niman Ranch and are topped with lettuce, tomato, cheese, onion, and a secret sauce. Among the many creative options to take it to the next level, the California Burger is topped with a fried egg, bacon, and balsamic onions. Try one with blue cheese, avocados, pickled jalapenos, BBQ sauce, or Kimchi with spicy gochujang mayo. All burgers are available on a fresh roll or lettuce wrap, and for the less carnivorous, Impossible meat or veggie burgers are also on the menu.

R + D Kitchen • 2nd

6795 Washington St., Yountville // www.rd-kitchen.com

 

Goose & Gander • tied for 3rd

1245 Spring St., St. Helena // www.goosegander.com

 

The Charter Oak Restaurant • tied for 3rd

1050 Charter Oak Ave., St. Helena // www.thecharteroak.com

 

BEST Local Pizza

Bistro Don Giovanni – WINNER

4110 Howard Lane, Napa // www.bistrodongiovanni.com

Bistro Don Giovanni’s pizzas are made fresh to order in their wood-fired oven and include a selection of popular flavors such as the Margherita or the Bambini with pepperoni, tomato, mozzarella, and french fries on top. Menu options change with the season, including mouth-watering choices like Proscuitto and Figs with Gorgonzola or the BLT- heirloom tomatoes, guanciale, arugula, and burrata. Enjoy a fresh pie indoors or outside on the garden patio, or order a couple online and take them home to enjoy.

Filippis Pizza Grotto • 2nd

645 1st St., Napa // www.realcheesepizza.com

 

Pizzeria Tra Vigne • 3rd

1016 Main St., St. Helena // www.pizzeriatravigne.com

 

BEST Barbeque

Bounty Hunter Wine Bar & Smokin’ BBQ – WINNER

975 1st St., Napa // www.bountyhunterwinebar.com

Bounty Hunter Wine Bar & Smokin’ BBQ is a staple on downtown Napa’s restaurant scene. It’s a place to sit down, relax, and enjoy some delicious BBQ while accessing an impressive wine selection featuring over 400 highly allocated wines with 40 wines available by the glass. Local menu favorites include the BH Beer Can Chicken, smoked brisket, and St. Louis Ribs. Keep an eye out for their Prime Rib specials. Bounty Hunter hosts fun events and has a top-notch catering team to bring the smoker and BBQ to any party or event.

Red Rock Café & Back Door BBQ • 2nd

1010 Lincoln Ave, Napa // www.backdoorbbq.com

 

Busters Southern BBQ • 3rd

1207 Foothill Blvd., Calistoga // www.busterssouthernbbq.com

 

BEST Place to Eat Seafood

The Waterfront Seafood Grill – WINNER

720 Main St., Napa // www.waterfrontseafoodgrill.com

Matt Cordeiro’s seafood restaurant established itself as a flagship culinary destination when it opened on Napa’s riverfront almost two years ago. The restaurant, headed by Executive Chef Jesus Mendez, focuses on fresh, classic seafood dishes. The airy restaurant boasts inside dining and outdoor patio seating and a formidable bar featuring six outdoor seats sequestered for prime riverfront views. Specialties include a raw bar menu, caviar, oysters, crab, and shrimp, a bountiful selection of appetizers, and main courses, including lobster, shrimp, fresh catch, pasta, and a handful of steaks and chops.

Hog Island Oyster Co. • 2nd

610 1st St., Napa // www.hogislandoysters.com

 

Morimoto Napa • tied for 3rd

610 Main St., Napa // www.morimotonapa.com

 

Celadon • tied for 3rd

500 Main St., Napa // www.celadonnapa.com

 

BEST Vegetarian Menu Options

R + D Kitchen – WINNER

6795 Washington St., Yountville // www.rd-kitchen.com

Part of the Hillstone Group, R + D Kitchen in Yountville is one of three locations in California. The popular neighborhood restaurant on Washington Street brings “sophisticated and fresh cuisine to a smart and convivial crowd.” Inspired by California’s indoor/outdoor culture, the menu includes an eclectic selection of appetizers from sushi to meatballs but is best known for its sandwiches, as the bread and rolls are baked on-site. For the vegetarian, the choices are plenty, starting with the Vegetable or Avocado Roll sushi, the jalapeno queso and guacamole Dip Duo with hand-cut tortilla chips, the Emerald Kale Salad with roasted peanut vinaigrette, the Veggie Club sandwich with feta, pickled onion and avocado and a myriad of options among the recently added Honor Pizza selection, which can be ordered to go.

Yak and Yeti • 2nd

3150B Jefferson St., Napa // www.yakandyetinapa.com

 

C CASA • 3rd

610 1st St., Napa // www.myccasa.com

 

BEST Bakery

Bouchon Bakery – WINNER

6528 Washington St., Yountville // www.thomaskeller.com

Since its opening in 2003, Thomas Keller’s famous Bouchon Bakery in Yountville has been a tourist and local favorite attraction. In the style of classic French boulangeries, the bakery features a wide selection of artisanal breads and classic desserts inspired by Chef Keller’s memories of life in France. An espresso or custom blended coffee alongside one of Pastry Chef Nicholas Bonamico’s handmade viennoiserie, confections, pastries, tarts, and cookies keep the sidewalk on Washington Street very busy as anxious patrons line up to order their delights.

The Model Bakery • 2nd

1357 Main St., St, Helena // 644 First. St. Napa // 6523 Washington St., Yountville // www.themodelbakery.com

 

Buttercream Bakery & Diner • 3rd

2297 Jefferson St., Napa // www.buttercreambakery.com

 

BEST Place for Breakfast/Brunch

Gillwoods Café – WINNER

1313 Main St., St. Helena // www.gillwoodscafe.com

For over 30 years, St. Helena’s Gillwoods Café reigns as one of Napa Valley’s local treasures. Family-owned and operated, owner Jennifer Fradelizio, her mother Debbie, and most of their staff have been serving up sumptuous breakfasts and lunches in their cozy diner on Main Street to a loyal following of regulars and visitors where everyone feels at home. Favorite breakfast items include their house-baked cinnamon rolls, smoked salmon eggs benedict, bacon bloody Mary, and anything covered in their Country Gravy. (In January, The Fradelizios announced they were selling Gillwoods to local entrepreneurs Julio Sarabia and Arely Guzman, who will be carrying on the Gillwoods legacy.)

The Model Bakery • 2nd

1357 Main St., St, Helena // 644 First. St. Napa // 6523 Washington St., Yountville // www.themodelbakery.com

 

Boon Fly Café • 3rd

4048 Sonoma Hwy., Napa // www.boonflycafe.com

 

BEST Place for a Sandwich

Genova Delicatessen – WINNER

1550 Trancas St., Napa // www.genovadelinapa.com

A Napa institution since its opening in 1985, the DeVincenzi family’s Genova Delicatessen is known for its fresh sandwich bar, where patrons take numbers and wait in droves to custom-order sandwiches and salads from a cornucopia of choice meats, cheeses, accoutrements, and breads. Specialty sandwiches include a variety of Italian meats, cheeses, and antipasti, such as sundried tomatoes, marinated mushrooms, roasted peppers, grilled eggplant, and anchovies, served on a generous selection of breads and rolls. Genova’s homemade pasta, lasagna, and imported Italian delicacies such as cakes, cookies, olive oil, crackers, and a bountiful wine selection are popular among Napa’s locals and wine country picnickers.

Oakville Grocery • 2nd

7856 St. Helena Hwy., Oakville // www.oakvillegrocery.com

 

Sunshine Foods Market • 3rd

1115 Main St., St. Helena // www.sunshinefoodsmarket.com

 

BEST Upscale Restaurant

The French Laundry – WINNER

6640 Washington St., Yountville // www.thomaskeller.com/tfl

Since its opening in 1994, The French Laundry has set the bar for fine dining, not just in Napa Valley but around the world. Its prestigious reputation revolves around its distinctive menu, curated daily, many ingredients from its on-property organic gardens, and intense focus on impeccable service. Whether booking a table inside the historic dining room or dining al fresco on the balcony or courtyard, scoring a seat is a once-in-a-lifetime experience for many. The three Michelin star restaurant is celebrating its 30th anniversary in 2024.

Coles Chophouse • 2nd

1122 Main St., Napa // www.coleschophouse.com

 

Press • 3rd

587 St. Helena Hwy. // www.pressnapavalley.com

 

BEST Outdoor Dining

Bistro Don Giovanni – WINNER

4110 Howard Lane, Napa // www.bistrodongiovanni.com

Voted this year by readers as Napa’s Best Italian restaurant, Best Bar/Cocktails, and Best Local Pizza, Bistro Don Giovanni’s expansive outdoor seating has also won it the top choice for outdoor dining. The restaurant significantly invested in expanding its garden terrace during the 2020 COVID pandemic to accommodate outdoor seating, and it seems to have paid them back in spades. Guests are seated at cozy tables surrounded by fragrant rosemary bushes, protective draping to thwart sun and inclement weather, and a lovely fountain to complement the al fresco experience. The popular restaurant, open daily for lunch and dinner, presents fresh interpretations of traditional Italian dishes, all sustainably farmed and organically sourced.

Auberge du Soleil • 2nd

180 Rutherford Hill Rd., Rutherford // www.aubergeresorts.com

 

Farmstead at Longmeadow Ranch • 3rd

738 Main St., St. Helena // www.longmeadowranch.com

 

BEST Local Coffee Shop/Bar

The Model Bakery – WINNER

1357 Main St., St, Helena // 644 1st St. Napa // 6523 Washington St., Yountville // www.themodelbakery.com

With three locations up and down Napa Valley, the popular Napa Bakery serves up some of the best coffee in the area. Its proprietary blend of coffee beans custom-roasted by Seattle-based coffee company Caffe Vita offers a multi-layered combination of medium and dark-roasted coffees with toasted hazelnut, vanilla, and cocoa aromas with medium body and moderate acidity, with a smooth, buttery finish. The menu includes choices such as the Americano, an espresso, a café au lait, a latte, and a delectable pastry and dessert selection to enjoy alongside.

Napa Valley Roasting Co. • 2nd

710 Main St., Napa // 1400 Oak Ave., #A, St. Helena // www.napavalleycoffee.com

 

Barnhouse Napa Brews • 3rd

1004 Clinton St., Napa // www.barnhousenapa.com

 

BEST Local Food Truck

Clif Family – Bruschetteria – WINNER

709 Main St., St. Helena // www.cliffamily.com

Cliff Family’s famous Bruschetteria won the top ranking again this year for its unique and ever-changing menu of bruschetta, rotisserie chicken, salads, and sides. Overseen by Chef John McConnell, he uses a creative approach using seasonal ingredients sourced from the certified organic Clif Family Farm and trusted local purveyors. Popular menu items include the Funghi Bruschetta and the Nashville Hot Chicken Sandwich, served with either the Polenta Tots or crispy Brussels Sprouts. On Wednesday, loyal followers line up for their weekly Street Food menu, which celebrates seasonal ingredients and global flavors with a specialty menu.

Imagination on Fire • tied for 2nd

1790 Soscol Ave., Napa // www.imagination-onfire-com

 

The Original Burgerdog • tied for 2nd

1600 Atlas Peak Rd., Napa // www.theoriginalburgerdog.com

 

Tacos Chavez • tied for 3rd

75 Coombs St., Napa // @TacosChavez

 

Di Filippio’s Woodfired Pizza • tied for 3rd

Napa // www.difilippopizza.com

 

BEST Candy/Sweet Shop

Anette’s Chocolate & Ice Cream – WINNER

1321 1st St., Napa, Oxbow Market: 610 1st St., Napa // www.anettes.com

Since opening in 1991, Anette Madsen Yazidi, her brother Brent Madson, and Mary Stornetta have worked together to share their passion for creating a fantastic ensemble of handmade, artisan chocolates, truffles, brittles, dessert sauces and ice cream. Their award-winning chocolates are made with the finest ingredients, are locally sourced, and are known for their rich flavors and smooth textures. The original location downtown offers handcrafted ice cream and mocha, and the Oxbow location carries a condensed menu of the shop’s most coveted items. Among the most popular are the Chocolate Truffles, available in a wide selection of flavors, the peanut brittle, and chocolate sauces, several wine-infused.

Kollar Chocolates • 2nd

6525 Washington St., Yountville // www.kollarchocolates.com

 

Woodhouse Chocolates • 3rd

1367 Main St., St. Helena // www.woodhousechocolate.com

 

BEST Hotel/Resort

Auberge du Soleil – WINNER

180 Rutherford Hill Rd., Rutherford // www.aubergeresorts.com/aubergedusoleil

Dubbed “the Quintessential Napa Valley Adult Getaway,” Auberge du Soleil is one of Napa’s most beautiful resorts. Showcasing breathtaking views, the 50-room property offers private cottages, deluxe rooms and suites, and an award-winning fine-dining restaurant beloved by visitors and locals. Nestled among 33 acres of heritage olive and oak trees, Auberge du Soleil offers guests a taste of Provence in California wine country and a feeling of relaxed sophistication and understated elegance, earning its reputation as wine country’s most iconic property.

The Estate Yountville • 2nd

6481 Washington St., Yountville // www.theestateyountville.com

 

Silverado Resort • tied for 3rd

1600 Atlas Peak Rd., Napa // www.silveradoresort.com

 

Indian Springs • tied for 3rd

1712 Lincoln Ave., Calistoga // www.indianspringscalistoga.com

 

BEST Boutique Lodging

North Block Hotel – WINNER

6757 Washington St., Yountville // www.northblockyountville.com

The North Block Hotel in Yountville offers comfortably chic accommodations conveniently located in Yountville, the center of Napa Valley, and within walking distance of some of Napa Valley’s most iconic restaurants, shopping, and winery tasting rooms. Twenty guestrooms along the courtyard offer private entrances and balconies or patios so guests can enjoy the beautiful California weather. The hotel has an on-site restaurant and bar, a heated pool and hot tub, a fitness studio, a Spa, and cruiser bikes for leisurely rides through Yountville or, for the more adventurous, a jaunt along the nearby Vine Trail.

The Vintage House at the Estate Yountville • 2nd

6541 Washington St., Yountville // www.theestateyountville.com

 

Harvest Inn • 3rd

1 Main St., St. Helena // www.harvestinn.com

 

BEST Golf Course

Silverado Resort – WINNER

1600 Atlas Peak Rd., Napa // www.silveradoresort.com/napa-valley-golf

Home to the PGA Fortinet Golf Championship, Silverado’s two championship golf courses—designed by Johnny Miller—make it the only Napa Valley Resort with 36 holes of championship golf. Surrounded by the golden hills of Atlas Peak and oak-lined fairways, both courses offer dozens of water crossings, elevation changes, and stunning visual routings as far as the eye can see. The course has been recognized for its many accolades, including the NGCOA Regional Golf Course of the Year, Best Golf Weekend Getaway -San Francisco Magazine, and Golf Week’s Top 200 Resort Golf Courses, to name a few. Limited to members and resort guests, a day on links promises an exclusive and all-time classic golf experience.

Napa Valley Country Club • 2nd

3385 Hagen Rd., Napa // www.napavalleycc.com

 

Chardonnay Golf Club • 3rd

2555 Jameson Canyon Rd., American Canyon // www.chardonnayclub.com

 

BEST Day Spa/Salon

The Spa at Solage – Winner

755 Silverado Trail, Calistoga // www.aubergeresorts.com/solage/spa/

Inspired by Calistoga’s natural hot springs, the Spa at Solage invites guests to “detox, retox, and repeat” in their award-winning 20,000-square-foot spa. The Spa features the renowned Calistoga mud and mineral water therapies that have attracted spa-goers to the northern stretch of Napa Valley since the 19th century. At the heart of Solage is The Bathhouse, which delivers the ultimate wellness experience, featuring exclusive geothermal pools with temperatures ranging from 98° to 103°. It is a sensational start or end to one of their many relaxing massages or wellness treatments.

The Spa at the Estate Yountville • 2nd

6481 Washington St., Yountville // www.theestateyountville.com

 

The Spa at Silverado Resort • 3rd

1600 Atlas Peak Rd., Napa // www.silveradoresort.com

 

BEST Boutique Shopping for Women

BoHo Lifestyle – WINNER

1012 1st St., Napa // www.boholifestyle.com

Boho Lifestyle is one of downtown Napa’s busiest boutiques. Opened in 2013, the shop is operated by a team of ten women trained to dress women best based on trends, body shape, and personality—and it appeals to customers of all ages. Touted as a lifestyle shopping experience, its owner has created a bohemian vibe with the creativity of her product selection and every element of the shop. The affordable clothing, shoes, hats, and jewelry, combined with their friendly fashionistas, attract its loyal following.

Muguette Renee Boutique • 2nd

1409 2nd St., Napa

 

Helen Lyall Clothes for Women • tied for 3rd

650 Main St., Napa // www.helenlyallclothesforwomen.com

 

Elyse Walker • tied for 3rd

1381 Main St., St. Helena // www.elysewalker.com

 

BEST Jewelry Store

Creations Fine Jewelers – WINNER

3341 Solano Ave., Napa // www.creationsfinejewelers.com

As the third-generation owners and operators of their family business, Brian and Melissa Doughty uphold the legacy Creations Fine Jewelers has defined since its founding—quality, style, service, and craftsmanship. The full-service boutique jeweler welcomes clients with a warm and beautiful showroom full of luxury designer lines and handcrafted pieces that can be designed and customized by a staff of GIA-certified experts and craftsmen. They also provide repair and appraisal services.

Napa Valley Jewelers • 2nd

1300 1st St., Suite 365, Napa // www.napavalleyjewelers.com

 

Padis Jewelry & Tasting Room • 3rd

1400 1st St., Napa // www.padisgems.com

 

BEST Art Collection & Galleries

Gordon Huether Studio – WINNER

1821 Monticello Rd., Napa // www.gordonhuether.com

Gordon Huether, German-American artist and CEO of Gordon Huether + Partners, Inc., opened his Napa Studio on Monticello Road in 2008. Huether is best known for his large-scale sculptures, privately commissioned pieces, and fine art – many of which are designed and fabricated in the Napa studio by a team of artisans. The 15,000-square-foot facility houses a design studio, project gallery, fabrication facilities, and the Hay Barn Gallery, which features a revolving collection of Huether’s fine art.

di Rosa Center for Contemporary Art • 2nd

5200 Sonoma Hwy., Napa // www.dirosaart.org

 

Yountville Art Walk • 3rd

Washington St., Yountville // www.yountville.com/arts-culture

 

BEST Dog-Friendly Hangout

Alston Park – WINNER

2099 Dry Creek Road., Napa // www.cityofnapa.org

North Napa’s 157-acre Alston Park is a favorite attraction for walkers, hikers, picnickers, and their four-legged family members. Owned by the City of Napa, the open park contains three miles of winding trails for walking, hiking, and dog walking with various elevations, terrain, and sweeping views of Napa Valley. Canine Commons is a dedicated area where dogs can roam and run off-leash and a popular spot where locals gather–especially on weekends.

Oxbow Public Market • 2nd

610 1st St., Napa // www.oxbowpublicmarket.com

 

The Studio by Feast it Forward • 3rd

1031 McKinstry St., Napa // www.feastitforward.com

 

BEST Wine Country Event

BottleRock Napa Valley – WINNER

Napa Valley Expo, Napa // www.bottlerocknapavalley.com

Produced by Latitude 38 Entertainment and JaM Cellars, in 2023, BottleRock marked its 13th season in Napa Valley. The six-stage event attracts over 120,000 concert-goers for the three-day music, food, and wine festival who come to experience some of the world’s top name bands with headliners such as Robert Plant, No Doubt, Red Hot Chili Peppers, Tom Petty, Neil Young, and Lizzo to name a few. However, the festival is much more than a concert. It is also one of the region’s hottest food and wine attractions, featuring local vintners and culinary creations from many of Napa’s top restaurants and chefs. The Culinary Stage is a show of its own, featuring celebrity chefs such as Snoop Dog, Giada De Laurentiis, Jose Andre, Michael Mina, and Guy Fieri, among others.

Napa Valley Porchfest • 2nd

Downtown Napa Fuller Park Neighborhood // www.napaporchfest.org

 

Music in the Vineyards • 3rd

www.musicinthevineyards.org

 

 

EDITORS PICKS

Napa Valley presents many interesting people, places, and things to do, making narrowing down the voting categories in our Readers Choice Awards challenging. So, as a consolation, in this section, we supplement the readers’ picks to recognize a handful of noteworthy contenders that did not fall into the parameters of the designated categories but deserve an honorable mention.   

 

BEST New Place to Hang Out

The Lincoln Napa – WINNER

505 Lincoln Ave., Napa // www.thelincolnnapa.com

Established in 2023 by industry veterans Mike LeBlanc and Adam Snyder, The Lincoln is a casual American gastropub with a warm and inviting atmosphere welcoming families, friends, locals, and visitors with an extensive menu that puts a spin on classic favorites and an extensive beverage menu showcasing local beer, wine, and spirits. Situated along the scenic Napa River, a seat inside the cozy interior with a floor-to-ceiling fireplace exudes a speakeasy vibe while offering views of the river and an expansive patio, where patrons can dine, hang out at the fire pits or play engaging games like oversized Jenga, Connect Four, Corn Hole or Ping Pong.

 

BEST New Food Truck

Joella’s Deli – WINNER

2485 Stockton St., Napa // www.joellasdeli.com

Joella’s Deli is one of Napa’s 2023 new additions to the gourmet food truck scene. Launched in May, the bright orange truck, known for its “big flavors,” specializes in the highest quality soups, sandwiches, and salads. Proprietor/chef Ian Rosenstrauch makes everything from scratch- including the buns for his famous fried chicken sandwich and meatball parm sub, the hot sauce, and even the pickles.

 

BEST Wine Shipping

Cartons & Crates – WINNER

3250 California Blvd., Napa // www.cartonsandcrates.com

Known as one of the area’s wineries’ favorites, Cartons and Crates has been helping customers fulfill and ship wine and other packaging and shipping services for premium wine, fine art, antiques, and wine country products for over 37 years. The Cartons and Crates team is personable, knowledgeable, and committed to excellence. And the best part—They are open seven days a week.

 

MOST Anticipated Restaurant Opening

Slanted Door – tied for 1st place WINNER

1650 Soscal Ave., Napa // www.slanteddoor.com

After ten years of planning, Chef Charles Phan opened the third iteration of his popular Vietnamese restaurant, Slanted Door in Napa. Opened at the former Kitchen Collective space on Soscol Avenue, the sleek, new space makes excellent use of the inner courtyard, bar, and inside dining area. For Slanted Door fans, the innovative menu includes many familiar dishes, such as Shaking Beef, Chicken Claypot, Slanted Door Spring Rolls, and Crab Cellophane Noodles. The wine list is extensive, featuring local Napa and Oregon wines with a few European labels and over 20 wines by the glass. The bar program focuses on traditional cocktails with a fresh twist.

 

Charlies Napa Valley – tied for 1st place WINNER

1327 Railroad Ave., St. Helena // www.charliesnv.com

After much anticipation, the beloved home of Cindy’s Backstreet Kitchen was relaunched as Charlie’s in Fall 2023. Opened by French Laundry chef Elliot Bell, the globally inspired, community-driven menu is sourced from local purveyors and colleagues, and the interior is designed and appointed by local artists. The wine country casual décor is designed to feel like a friend’s dinner party and complements the coastal-inspired dishes on the menu.

 

BEST New Wine Bar Concept

Folklore – WINNER

1226 3rd St., Napa // www.folklore-napa.com

Folklore Napa is a hidden gem for lovers of great music, food, wine, cocktails, art, and more. The brainchild of owners Faith Henschel-Ventrello and Steve Ventrello, this unique spot offers guests an inviting space to grab a bite, coffee, cocktail, or wine from an impressive selection of local and international labels while browsing through an eclectic collection of new and pre-loved vinyl records and CDs. The nonprofit public radio station KCMU 103.3 FM, which Henschel-Ventrello started around 2017, also broadcasts from the space.

 

BEST New Restaurant

Scala Osteria & Bar – WINNER

1141 1st. St., Napa // www.scalaosteria.com

Bistro Don Giovanni’s sister restaurant, Scala Osteria, opened in downtown Napa’s burgeoning restaurant scene with much acclaim. The bistro focuses on traditional Southern Italian seafood-centered recipes meant to be shared with family and friends. Guests are invited to relax in the warm and vibrant dining room, which includes a beautiful oyster bar and a delightful menu with something for everyone, including fresh seafood, salads, house-made pasta, and Neapolitan-style pizzas.

 

BEST Animal Welfare Organization

Jameson Animal Rescue Ranch – WINNER

www.jamesonanimalrescueranch.org

Founded in 2014 by Monica and David Stevens, Jameson Animal Rescue Ranch (Jameson Humane) was established to improve animal welfare through global collaboration and education for the benefit of all life. Guided by instincts, Jameson has not followed the traditional path of “animal rescue” but instead listened to the community and responded holistically to the needs of animals and their human guardians. The impact-driven nonprofit organization collaborates and educates to inspire change in animal welfare and includes various novel solutions for adoption, fostering, community and animal assistance, disaster preparedness, and approaches driven by education, prevention, and intervention.

 

BEST Place to Go Late Night

Ace & Vine – WINNER

505 Lincoln Ave., Napa // www.aceandvine.com

In a town where most eating and drinking establishments close by 10 pm., Ace & Vine stands as the premier entertainment destination in Napa Valley. Open 24 hours a day, seven days a week, the casino/sports bar offers non-stop excitement at various gaming tables, where patrons can try or showcase their gambling skills playing Texas Hold’em, Three Card Poker, Blackjack California, Pat Now, and Baccarat. In addition to the exhilarating gaming action, Ace & Vine provides a remarkable sports viewing experience. Guests can watch the most significant sporting events on giant HD screens strategically placed throughout the card room and all bar areas. Ace & Vine is the place for those seeking entertainment after a day of experiencing all Napa Valley has to offer. It welcomes visitors to unwind and enjoy a vibrant environment, making it the go-to spot for gaming enthusiasts and sports fans.