Whether planning the day’s itinerary around a great meal at lunch or scheduling a quick bite in between wine tastings and adventurous activities, there is a dining spot in Napa Valley for every occasion. From quick deli meals to sit-down leisurely occasions, there is a restaurant option for all styles!

Here is our curated list of where the locals go for a good meal in Napa Valley.


Sit Down Restaurants for Lunch in Napa Valley

Dos Botellas  – in American Canyon 

This warm and inviting sit-down restaurant has dozens of delicious taco options and more to try, plus must-try ceviche tostadas. Wash it all down with a Corona or agua fresca!  

Favorite Menu Item: You can’t go wrong with the classic chicken burrito! Pro-tip: order it “wet” to get it covered in a flavorful red chile sauce.  

Angèle Restaurant & Bar – in Downtown Napa

Angèle is a go-to spot for us – we love the beautiful atmosphere and the outdoor seating with views of the Napa River. This French brasserie is the perfect setting for a casual lunch and afternoon cocktails. And the staff at Angèle is amazing and delivers wonderful service. It's a favorite spot for an afternoon – delicious food followed by exploring the Napa riverfront and downtown.

Favorite Menu Item: Little Gems Salad to start with the Angèle Burger (be sure to add the fried egg, cheese, bacon, and avocado!). The Diane Lane is a delicious cocktail to sip on.




Stateline Road Smokehouse – in Downtown Napa

In the heart of Downtown Napa’s Rail Arts District, Stateline’s saucy and scrumptious menu represents Darryl Bell’s multitude of culinary influences. With roots in Napa Valley’s culinary scene and Kansas City, Chef Bell brings the heat with KC classics like brisket burnt ends and baby back ribs, as well as chef-crafted sides and vegetarian options like the Smoked Maitake Mushroom and Greens Salad.

Favorite Menu Item: 6-piece burnt ends with a side of Rancho Gordo beans & greens.

Kitchen Door – in Downtown Napa

Kitchen Door is a favorite lunch spot with many locals. They have a clean and comfortable, yet elevated atmosphere, with a patio perfect for lunch in the sun. It is perfect for a casual lunch with friends or a dining experience with business partners. The diverse menu offers a choice for everyone. If you ask a local, we're sure they have a favorite dish – that's when you know the food is good! After lunch, explore the the local boutiques in First Street Napa – perfect for an afternoon of shopping.

Favorite Menu Item: Teriyaki Wings and Flatbread with Burrata.




Bistro Don Giovanni - in Napa

Bistro Don Giovanni is a classic for a reason and a go-to lunch spot to welcome friends from out of town, meet a work colleague out of the office, or celebrate a milestone. This restaurant is the essence of Napa Valley – gracious hospitality. While the exact menu items evolve with the seasons, a few must-order items include the Beet & Haricot Verts Salad, Insalata Mista, the Mandilli Pasta with Pesto, and the Grilled Salmon. Finish lunch off with the “Top Shelf” Butterscotch Pudding. (Yes, you have room.)

Favorite Menu Item: Impossible to pick one favorite!




Bistro Jeanty – in Yountville

In addition to the cozy ambiance, the classically-styled French menu at Bistro Jeanty, makes it one of our favorite restaurants in Yountville. The Crème de Tomate en Croute – a creamy and savory tomato soup warmed under a pouf of flaky pastry – is delicious and perfect for lunch or dinner. And, the traditionally prepared beef tartare is high on our list with a side of “les frites”…that’s French for fries. Don’t miss them…dipped in mayonnaise, of course.

Favorite Menu Item: In addition to the items already described, the Cheese Course is always a fun option.




The Kitchen at Priest Ranch – in Yountville 

The Kitchen at Priest Ranch is a true wine country experience – a winery and lunch must-stop all in one, with menu items enhancing the flavors of Priest Ranch wines. In addition to lunch, the kitchen features all day breakfast options, including a Breakfast BLT and “Gas Station Sandwich” with cheesy eggs and house sausage. Come hungry... and linger for the wine.

Favorite menu item: The KPR smashburger with house Cabernet Sauvignon. Hands down! 

Lucy Restaurant + Bar at Bardessono – Yountville

Lucy menus are created with ingredients selected fresh daily from Bardessono's California Certified Organic Farming garden and use only locally and regionally-sourced ingredients from nearby farms and purveyors.  

Favorite menu item: Start with the fresh burrata with house-made mostarda and grilled sourdough.

Farmstead at Long Meadow Ranch – in St. Helena

Farmstead at Long Meadow Ranch is a great spot for lunch, and specializes in local, sustainable, and organic dishes. Farmstead sources most of the ingredients fresh from its very own Napa Valley farm which includes a ranch and vineyards! With cozy seating inside and casual outdoor spaces, it’s a great spot for year-round dining. Everything is good here, and the Long Meadow Ranch Rosé pairs well with everything on the menu – honestly – everything! After your meal, be sure to make time to sample the wines and olive oils at the adjacent General Store.

Favorite Menu Item: Start with the Deviled Eggs, followed by the Lacinato Kale Salad and a side of Cheddar Biscuits.




Brasswood Bar + Kitchen – in St. Helena

A gathering place for locals and visitors alike, Brasswood Bar + Kitchen serves comfort food, celebrating Napa Valley's local bounty by making elegant wines and crafting dishes that pair perfectly. Guests can eat lunch and dinner on the patio overlooking the grounds, inside the booths or at the bar.

Favorite Menu Item: Ahi Tuna Salad with seared tuna, kalamata olives and a creamy mustard vinaigrette – and a side of truffle parmesan fries, of course.

Calistoga Inn Restaurant & Brewery – in Calistoga

Take a scenic drive north to Calistoga – it is worth it! Have a seat on the beautiful outdoor patio overlooking the Napa River and just take in the laidback Calistoga vibe. If you and your guests are hungry, we recommend starting with the Cheese & Charcuterie Board (Humboldt Fog goat cheese is to die for!)

Favorite Menu Item: Turkey & Brie Sandwich.




Sam’s Social Club at Indian Springs – in Calistoga

Named after resort founder Samuel Brannan, Sam’s is an artful and eclectic place to gather for great conversation and a convivial lunch. Choose from hearty sandwiches and handhelds like the Mortadella, opt for Fish tacos with cilantro lime slaw, or take your pick of thin crust pizzas.

Favorite Menu Item: The Country – a thin-crust combo pizza that pairs perfectly with views of the Palisades.

Fast Casual Lunch Spots in Napa Valley

Buster's Southern Barbecue – in Calistoga

Besides excellent BBQ, Buster’s has a friendly staff and atmosphere. It’s a great local spot with music and has both indoor and outdoor dining. If you love the scent of smoky barbecue food and savory flavors, you will be in your happy place at Buster’s! You’ll find us there on Sundays enjoying the weekly live jazz & blues on the patio.

Favorite Menu Item: Four-Piece Pork Rib Dinner with Baked Beans, Potato Salad, Side of Bread, and Hot BBQ Sauce.




Giugni’s Deli – in St. Helena

Hidden between the tasting rooms and boutiques on Main Street St. Helena, you can find one of the best-kept secret deli spots in Napa Valley! Giugni’s Deli over delivers on the classic deli sandwich paired with a canned soda and a bag of potato chips. With the wide variety of deli meats and all the accouterments you could ever want, you can curate the most perfect sandwich. Additionally, enjoy the nostalgic ambiance with the vintage signage, trinkets, and photos that have accumulated over the last 50 years. All sandwiches are made to order – from slicing the deli meat to the fresh rolls – and don’t forget to ask for the secret sauce, “Giugni Juice,” to get the ultimate experience!

Favorite Menu Item: Jalapeño Cheddar Roll with Peppered Turkey, Pepperjack, Lettuce, Sprouts, Horseradish, Avocado, and Mustard!




Gott's Roadside – in St. Helena

Gott's Roadside in St. Helena has our favorite garlic fries EVER. We love this location because of the great outdoor space. There are a ton of picnic tables, so it's easy to go with a group. And, while the line looks intimidating, it always moves fast. Go! You will be happy you did!

You can also check out the Gott's Roadside in Downtown Napa for another family-friendly lunch option.

Favorite Menu Item: Double Cheeseburger with Garlic Fries and a Black & White Shake.




Contimo Provisions - in Downtown Napa

We love an elevated sandwich and Contimo definitely delivers! The culinary genius behind everything the team at Contimo prepares is expertly served up in simple fare – seasonal sandwiches, salads, sides, biscuits, and a cookie you can’t say “no” to! Pork lovers will truly be delighted, as Contimo produces some of the best ham and bacon you’ll ever try. Sample it in the classic Hot Ham & Cheese Sandwich (or whichever seasonal rendition they have on the menu), the Ham & Jam Biscuit, or the Bacon & Molasses Biscuit.

Favorite Menu Item: Hot Ham & Cheese Sandwich, Chocolate Chip Cookies, and an Arnold Palmer.




Loveski Deli - in Downtown Napa

Located in the Oxbow Market in downtown Napa, Loveski Deli is the newest labor of “love” from Chef Christopher Kostow and his wife Martina. Not only do we appreciate the diversity that this Jewish deli brings to Napa Valley, the food is delicious, comforting, and nostalgic. You can find us savoring a bowl of Matzo Ball Soup on a chilly day, or diving into the sky-high Reuben Sandwich. The Farm Salad is crisp and satisfying and the Freshly Baked Bagels never disappoint!

Favorite Menu Item: Farm Salad with a Scoop of Chickpea Salad.




Mothers Tacos

Inspired by all mothers and one dreamy trip to Mexico City, Mothers tacos serves authentic Mexico City tacos, made with “amor de madre,” in a typical Mexican market taqueria setting. The lines get long for their slow-cooked suadero (beef) tacos, and Chicharron taco – crispy fried pork belly with pico de gallo and fresh avocado. Want to venture boldly into new taco territory? Ask for a carne asada mulita with marinated grilled steak and seared with crunchy cheese.

Favorite Menu Item: Campechano Queso Taco with suadero beef & house-made chorizo.


This short list of delicious suggestions is just a tiny cross-section of ideas from the Visit Napa Valley team, but it barely scratches the surface! There are so many excellent options, all located within a 35-mile long, 5-mile wide place we call home. Visit us here in Napa Valley and build your very own list of favorites – the exploration will be worth it!