Flickering candles; flame-enhanced tableside preparations; a kindling of connections. Ember casts a warm glow within the reimagined Meritage Resort and Spa. The recently opened premier steakhouse is the grand resort’s newest restaurant concept. Intimate, with a mere 50 seats, Ember is cozy and indulgent. It’s a special place, ideal for special occasions, and destined to become the region’s go-to for celebratory events.
Polished yet rustic, Ember boasts a Frank Sinatra meets Gene Autry vibe, where classic martinis and 6+ week-aged Manhattans are served alongside the best prime cuts, all within view of a massive steer that peeks out from his canvas behind the bar. The interior—of teal blues, dark browns, stonework, and marble—is softly illuminated by candles that lend a radiant and sultry aura. The warm and inviting hospitality is emblematic of the Ember name.
And though the environment alone is incentive for a reservation, it’s Chef Cary Roy’s menu that stars. Chef Roy ensures every detail exceeds expectations with carefully curated entrees such as a Double R-Ranch Ribeye, Tomahawk, and New York Strip cuts, as well as succulent Kurobuta Iberico Pork Chops paired with an array of classic steakhouse sides. (Think mac & cheese, jumbo asparagus, and truffle fries, among other items.) He sources items locally and gathers many ingredients from Meritage’s on-site chef’s garden and chicken coop, located within the estate vineyards. Menu highlights include ember-themed preparations such as a tableside torched Potato Pavé and Ember Bone Marrow served on a grill plate above a bed of smoldering herbs and a Smoked Negroni. And sushi lovers will be pleased to find a choice of four “rolls,” including the decadent Ember Roll with lobster, shrimp, wagyu and truffle charcoal mayo.
Naturally, like most Napa Valley-located restaurants, Ember’s wine list is stellar. The Meritage property is home to Trinitas Cellars, so these wines are naturally offered, in addition to old-world selections and top labels from local vintners. Knowledgeable sommeliers will guide guests towards the perfect pairing. Ember guests are also encouraged to visit Sora, a whimsical new bubbles bar that compliments the property’s three other on-site tasting rooms, for a pre-dinner flight of sparkling wine and champagne.
These new dining experiences are part of the extensive $25 million reimagining of The Meritage Resort and Spa, long a Napa Valley hospitality favorite and known as the gateway to the best of California Wine Country. Offering a well-balanced mix of natural beauty, restfulness, and adventure, the retreat is now home to redesigned vineyard view rooms, two expanded pools, local wellness favorite Spa Terra, and six elevated dining options, of which Ember takes center stage.
“At Ember, every detail was designed to kindle deeper connections while gathered around the table,” said Joe Leinacker, Managing Director for The Meritage Resort and Spa. “With its intimate, warm atmosphere and indulgent menu, Ember was conceived as a place for celebrating the moments in life—both large and small—that are deserving of that special extra spark.”
