downtown napa food tour

Celebrating 10 years! Save 10% with promo code 10YRSGFWT on our Flagship tour for Sonoma! Book now!

• Delicious Downtown

Napa Food and Wine Tour (downtown)

Tour Details

• Map Marker Tour Category: Wine Country

Hour Glass Duration: 3+

Saturday 11:30 AM start time for brunch

(CHECK WINTER CALENDAR for 4PM time instead sometimes)

Thursday, Friday and Sunday  start time: 4 pm for dinner

(WINTER CALENDAR MAY BE MORE LIMITED)

Location: To be announced at booking

Info Quick Details:

• Gourmet food paired with luxury wine at notable restaurants
• Half-a glass poured at each stop
• Walking Tour in relevant downtown environment along the river
• Family owned and operated
• Tours run rain or shine
• All-inclusive, except for tipping guide (20% is standard)

What to Expect

Discover downtown tucked into Napa’s riverfront on one of these two carefully curated Napa Valley tours , beginning with two newer restaurants, one of which is already Michelin recognized.

Dinner 4:00 – 7:30 PM    Currently runs Thursday, Friday and Sunday

Brunch 11-2:30 PM     Currently runs most Saturdays – see Yountville Tour   if not running

We will visit and incorporate any of the 4 or more locations from the following list:

• Ox & the Fox
• Sky & Vine at the Archer
• Oxbow Market (on request for private groups)
• We reserve the right to switch restaurants or pull in new stops based on our partner’s availability.

Please be sure to list your food restrictions in the notes so that we may make substitutions PRIOR to the day of your experience.   IE: Seafood, cilantro, nuts, dairy, etc…

Embark on a captivating culinary journey with our Gourmet Food and Wine Tour in Downtown Napa. Join a local food expert for a progressive dinner tour or indulge in a delightful Saturday brunch experience. Explore eclectic wine pairings, engage with master sommeliers, and discover hidden gems celebrated by The Michelin Guide. Immerse yourself in the vibrant revival of a once-quiet ghost town, now pulsating with flavors, music, and creativity.

Your journey begins as our knowledgeable Napa guide welcomes you at the first of four stops, setting the stage for an unforgettable gastronomic adventure. Stroll alongside the river, delving into Napa’s rich history and its significance to the dynamic San Francisco Bay Area. Each restaurant stop promises approximately 30 minutes of indulgence, interspersed with pleasant walks to balance calories and exercise. Be prepared for any weather with layered clothing, and let us know your preferences for special tasting rooms that offer unique flights within walking distance. Details of your meeting point on your chosen day will be confirmed, ensuring a seamless and delightful experience.

Where to Meet

Napa Food and Wine Dinner Tour starts at Ox and the Fox restaurant:

Saturday Bruch Tour starts at Compline Restaurant and Wine Bar:

Related Tours

• Most Popular

Yountville Food and Wine Tour

$255 | 3.5 Hours

For an unforgettable day of gastronomic exploration, reserve our Yountville Culinary Tour in California’s prestigious Napa Valley. This well-rounded experience goes beyond a traditional wine tour, offering a deeper understanding of the intricate relationship between food, wine and the celebrated chefs who have shaped this culinary haven.

• Groups of 6+

Sausalito Food and Wine Tour

From $198 | 3.5 Hours

Our bayside village boasts a handful of famous restaurants on and near the ferry and is a perfect place to spend the lunch hours exploring the top restaurants with some of the world’s most beautiful views. Similar to some of our Napa Valley tours, this experience is intended as a multi-course lunch with wine pairings. Why go to one restaurant when you can enjoy four? It includes 4 sit-down locations in all, including tasty dessert on the beach!

• Flagship Tour

Sonoma Food & Wine Tour

$198 | 3 Hours

Uncover the Secrets of Sonoma through our exclusive walking-food-and-wine-pairing tour, an immersive experience designed to captivate your senses and elevate your appreciation for the region. Savor the artistry of local chefs during sit-down stops between picturesque walks, where you’ll taste the best of Sonoma’s culinary creations.

Request a free copy* of the Napa Valley Visitor Magazine

The Visit Napa Valley Blog

A Perfect Day in Downtown Napa

October 24, 2023.

Downtown Napa is the perfect destination to explore on foot. Visitors will find a slew of tasting rooms, local breweries, boutiques, restaurants, and more spanning several buzzy blocks, and you can spend an entire day strolling around and exploring the many new additions. Don’t miss public art sculptures displayed throughout downtown, and give yourself bonus points for being a sustainable traveler and using your own two feet for eco-friendly transport! 

Morning Walkabout

Start your morning off in Downtown Napa’s Oxbow District and fuel up with a breakfast sandwich at Model Bakery . While there, stroll through Oxbow Public Market , grab a pour-over at Ritual Coffee , and shop local merchants such as Napa Bookmine , Napa Valley Distillery , The Olive Press , and Whole Spice .  

What the Fork

Head next door to The CIA at Copia and take a walk through the expansive outdoor culinary gardens. Stop for a selfie with the giant fork sculpture, “Fork,” by local artist Gordon Huether. Take a walk inside Copia at the Chuck Williams Culinary Arts Museum , shop for culinary delights at the The Marketplace at Copia , have a meal at The Grove , or a cocktail at The Haven .  

Things are Brewing

Ready for a beer? Before heading across the river, pop into Fieldwork Brewing , Trade Brewing , or Napa Yard - Oxbow Gardens for a quick pint. You can also bookmark these spots for later if you’d rather do a pre-dinner beer tasting.

Time for Lunch 

Walk over the First Street bridge and continue along First Street. Ready for a lunch break? For a convenient grab and go bite, hit up The Dutch Door , Contimo Provisions , or Frankie's Deli & Market and then find a seat at the community tables at Dwight Murray Plaza. If you want to sit down for a more leisurely lunch, head to Norman Rose Tavern , Grace’s Table , or Eiko’s , all of which offer outdoor patio seating as well as indoor dining.  

Stroll & Shop

Now that you’re all fueled up, walk off those calories consumed with a little retail therapy. First Street Napa is the go-to spot for shopping, and you’ll find a handful of new shops that have opened up in the past year including Riza Plants , C’est La Paire for chic boots and handbags; The Bennington Napa Valley for vintage finds; and Copperfield’s Books . Honey Whiskey Boutique as well as nearby Tay & Grace offer up beautifully curated women’s clothing and accessories that capture the Napa Valley lifestyle.

Don’t forget to stop at the Napa Valley Welcome Center  for souvenirs to take home (and get some local insider tips for how best to explore the Valley's other charming towns while you're at it).

Time for Wine

Luckily for you, there are more than 45 tasting rooms in the Downtown Napa area, all within easy walking distance of one another. Many of these tasting rooms are walk-in friendly, but it's always a good idea to make a reservation beforehand for a better experience. Here's just a few of the many tasting rooms in Downtown Napa:

• Alpha Omega Collective Tasting Room
• Azur Wine Lounge
• Brown Downtown Napa
• Gamling & McDuck
• Keplinger Wines
• Kerr Cellars
• Mayacamas Downtown
• T-Vine Winery
• Wine Girl Napa Valley  

Spots for Snacks

If you’re hungry but not quite ready for dinner at this juncture, grab a seat on the patio and have a quick snack at Compline (try the duck fries, you won’t regret it), Bounty Hunter BBQ (the pimento cheese dip is out of this world), or Napa Palisades Saloon (chili-dusted fried cheese curds? Yes, please!).

Downtown Dinner Options 

Whatever cuisine you crave, it’s pretty likely you’ll find it in Downtown Napa. If you’re looking to go all-out, level up with alfresco sushi and seafood overlooking the river at Morimoto , surf and turf at Cole’s Chop House , French delights at Angèle Restaurant & Bar , or farm-to-table global fusion at Torc .

For a more casual vibe, try delicious Italian at Oenotri , authentic Spanish tapas at Zuzu , modern Thai dishes at Osha Thai , or handmade American comfort food at local-favorite  Kitchen Door .  

Late Night 

The sun has gone down, but you’re not quite ready to call it a night. Downtown Napa has some awesome spots where locals and visitors can keep the party going. Head up to the rooftop bar at Sky & Vine Rooftop Bar at Archer Hotel and enjoy reverse happy hour starting at 9 pm, or stop at The Arbaretum for Instagrammable hand-crafted cocktails,  Wilfred's Lounge for island-inspired cocktails and cuisine, Chispa for tequila-centric cocktails and unexpected bar bites, or The Fink for perfectly crafted cocktails in a speakeasy vibe.

Karen Wibbenmeyer

As the Sr. Manager of Digital Marketing, Karen brings you the Napa Valley experiences to share, savor, and discover.

Experience Napa Valley

Tasting rooms & wine bars, restaurants, book your stay, boutique inns.

Nestled among rolling hills, charming neighborhoods, and storied vineyards are the most charming boutique inns

From impeccable design to lavish landscapes, Napa Valley hotels have the creature comforts and amenities for you and your loved ones

A wonderland for grown-ups, Napa Valley resorts cater to outdoor and fitness enthusiasts, bon vivants and those seeking serenity

Need more travel planning tips or recommendations for your Napa Valley trip?

Be inspired year-round. Sign-up for our bi-monthly newsletter to get insider tips, travel inspiration and upcoming events

Looking for more Napa Valley inspiration? You can request a free copy* of the Napa Valley Visitor Magazine

VISIT NAPA VALLEY

• 1001 Second Street, Suite 330
• Napa, CA 94559
• (707) 226-5813

NAPA VALLEY WELCOME CENTER

• 1300 1st St #313
• (707) 251-5895  |  (855) 847-6272

© 2024 Visit Napa Valley

Subscribe to our bi-monthly e-newsletter to get Napa Valley insider tips, travel inspiration and upcoming event information.

View our Privacy Policy for details on use and storage of your personal data

Things to do in Downtown Napa: A Traveler’s Guide

• by HANA-LEE SEDGWICK
• on SEPTEMBER 1, 2023

Stroll the Napa Downtown riverfront

Napa Valley boasts plenty of beautiful spots to call home during a visit, but if you’re looking for a wide variety of things to do and see all in one convenient location, downtown Napa is the place to be. This once sleepy town at the south end of Napa Valley has undergone a major renaissance over the past decade and is now home to luxury lodging , hip wine bars, celebrity-led restaurants , wine tasting rooms, and beautiful river walks. So park the car, forget about traffic, and take advantage of the urban oasis that is downtown Napa. Here’s your guide to making the most of a visit.

2023 Holiday Gift Guide For Everyone On Your List

The Ultimate Wine Lover’s Reading List

20 Best Restaurants in Napa Valley

The 15 Best Wineries in Calistoga

• Napa & Sonoma
• Food, Wine & Nightlife
• Wine Tasting & Winery Tours

Downtown Napa Food and Wine Tour

• Small group ensures personal service
• Tour is wheelchair accessible
• Explore the city with a local guide
• 3-hour foodie walking tour of downtown Napa
• Stop for seven gourmet tastings
• Experience California's cutting-edge cuisine

Inclusions & Exclusions

• Food tasting
• Wine tasting
• Local guide
• Small-group tour
• Walking tour
• Gratuities (optional)

Departure & Return

Oxbow Market

Ends at Vintners Collective, 1245 Main St.

Additional Info

• Confirmation will be received within 48 hours of booking, subject to availability

• Gift Certificates

CHECK AVAILABILITY  or call  707-253-7733

• Food & Wine
• Group Events
• Napa Wedding Photos
• Restaurants
• Wine Tasting Rooms
• Daytime Activities
• Transportation & Tours

The Best Way to Indulge in a Napa Valley Food Tour

Don’t forget to download a copy of our free Vacation Guide to Napa Valley. It contains top recommendations for restaurants, shopping, wineries, and excursions like the Napa Valley Food Tour ! Our Vacation Guide is a useful tool for planning as well as making your way around the valley once you arrive! It also has info on our lovely accommodations right here at Churchill Manor.

Satisfy Your Cravings on These Napa Valley Food Tours

Guided tours are a wonderful way to experience a region. Select one of the following tours (or plan to take one of each!) for a culinary tour of Napa.

Gourmet Walking Tour

Downtown Napa has a variety of restaurants and wine tasting shops and it can be a little overwhelming to decide which one to visit first. Gourmet Walks takes the guesswork out of it. Sign up for one of their 3-hour walking tours and enjoy and enjoy 7 stops with tastings at each. The tours begin at Oxbow Market and end in the heart of downtown. You’ll walk a leisurely 1-mile with plenty of time to sit and enjoy small bites at each restaurant. Visit their website for pricing and additional tour info.

Foodies on Foot

The folks at Foodies on Foot have found a way to combine cuisine and history in one fell swoop. During your tour, you’ll not only get an introduction into the region’s history and culture, you’ll also get to taste the offerings from 7 different eateries. The company’s Napa tours include the Oxbow Market Tour, the Historic Napa Mill Tour and a Segway Foodie Tour. Check their website for pricing and to book your reservations.

Other Napa Valley Food Tour Options

If you prefer a DIY tour, feel free to check out the following hotspots on your own!

The Napa Farmers Market

Oxbow Public Market

The  Oxbow Public Market  is a fantastic environment in which you can gain a better understanding about local products. The market is packed full of everything from wine and cheese shops to cafes and sweets in this awesome multipurpose space. Explore it on your own at your leisure. Just don’t forget to stop by the following shops at the  Oxbow Public Market :  Hog Island Oyster Bar, C Casa, Kitchen Door, Ca’ Momi, Napa Valley Distillery, Annette’s Chocolates, Kara’s Cupcakes, Cate & Co.

Enjoy a Napa Valley Food Tour and then Relax at Churchill Manor

Come and enjoy luxury in the heart of downtown Napa. We can’t wait to welcome you to Churchill Manor.

Related Posts You May Enjoy:

• 4 Reasons Napa Valley Walking Tours Are a Fantastic Way to Experience Wine Country
• 5 of The Best Places to Indulge in Napa Valley Pizza
• Enjoy 10 Days of Food, Wine and Music at Festival Napa Valley

Napa Drunken History Tour

History with a twist!

Napa Drunken History TOUR

Welcome to Napa

Home of sophisticated day drinking.

Have you ever wondered how Napa became the most recognized wine producing region in the world? Want to hear the stories of some of the colorful characters that made Napa famous? The Napa Drunken History Tour is the tour for you. 

The Destination

Napa, california usa.

Napa, CA. In the heart of Napa Valley, with over 60 wine tasting rooms, world class restaurants and bars. Napa is a destination unto itself and needs to be explored as part of your Napa Valley vacation experience. This quaint town on the banks of the Napa River has a story to tell and you can be one of the first to hear that on one of our many tours.  

Want to get your day started of the right way? If you are an early rising day drinker or perhaps someone on East Coast time this tour is for you. Your tour includes three stops at local establishments where you can experience a local microbrew, boutique wine tasting and distilled spirits tasting along with light food pairings.  Learn how to taste each beverage the right way and discover how Napa became the world-renowned drinking destination it is today.

Getting a later start?  Want to enjoy your morning before the drinking starts? The afternoon edition is the tour for you. Your tour includes three stops at local establishments where you can experience a local microbrew, boutique wine tasting and a food and craft cocktail pairing.     Learn how to taste each beverage the right way and discover how Napa became the world-renowned drinking destination it is today.  

Large Heading

Small heading.

Lorem ipsum dolor sit amet, consectetur adipiscing elit. Suspendisse varius enim in eros elementum tristique. Duis cursus, mi quis viverra ornare, eros dolor interdum nulla, ut commodo diam libero vitae erat. Aenean faucibus nibh et justo cursus id rutrum lorem imperdiet. Nunc ut sem vitae risus tristique posuere.

“The tour was fantastic!  We had a great time and left learning more about Napa and how Napa became what it is today”

Here are 5 fun stops between Sacramento and San Francisco to hit on your next road trip

I f you have some time to spare on your drive from Sacramento to San Francisco, consider taking a stop and exploring more of Northern California.

Cities around the region have their own culture, history, food and fun. Here are several detours you can take, depending on your route:

Downtown Napa

If you’re taking Interstate 80 West, you’ll hit the Napa area, known for its wineries, hilltop views and restaurants.

There’s a downtown area, where you can find everything from quick bites to international cuisines and dishes prepared by Michelin-starred chefs. Dining options include fusion Japanese food at Hal Yamashita, a bistro at Grace’s Table — which has a Michelin Bib Gourmand — or Italian at Pasta Prego.

You can also shop at local stores offering jewelry, clothes and other knick-knacks. If you need to unwind after your long drive, there are fine art galleries, spas and salons, too.

And for those not in the driver’s seat, you can enjoy Napa’s pride and joy — wine. There’s wine tasting rooms in downtown, as well as breweries and bars.

Total travel time: According to Google Maps, adding a stop at downtown Napa from downtown Sacramento to San Francisco will result in a total travel time of about 2 hours and 8 minutes. The route is 111 miles. Please note that travel times may change due to traffic and road delays.

Sonoma, about 67 miles on Interstate 80 from Sacramento, is also known for its wine — locals will tell you it’s more relaxed and less touristy than its neighboring Napa Valley.

Depending on how far into Sonoma County you’re willing to go, you can choose from a handful activities , including vineyard walking tours, garden tours, hot air balloons and biking.

Sonoma has a rich history which is commemorated by landmarks throughout the Sonoma Plaza . There, you can see Mission San Francisco Solano, Sonoma Barracks which was formerly a military post for U.S. soldiers and The Blue Wing Inn.

If you’re looking for a snack for your road trip, Sonoma offers picturesque dining, farm-to-table options and experiences, such as food tours.

Total travel time: Adding a stop at Sonoma Plaza from downtown Sacramento to San Francisco will make the entire trip about 2 hours and 19 minutes, and 112 miles.

If you’re taking Interstate 5 South, then you can make a stop at Lodi, the Central Valley’s wine country.

You can explore its handful of wineries , or take in the fresh air at one of Lodi’s parks and nature preserves , such as the Cosumnes River Preserve, Woodbridge Ecological Reserve or Grizzly Island Wildlife Area.

There are also museums, shops and full-service spas.

Total travel time: Adding a stop in Lodi from downtown Sacramento to San Francisco results in a drive about 2 hours and 16 minutes and a total of 120 miles.

If you’re hankering to learn some history, you can make a stop in the small town of Locke from Interstate 5, almost 30 miles from Sacramento.

The Locke Historic District is a National Historic Landmark, housing the largest remaining rural Chinatown in America. Built in 1915 by Chinese immigrants, Locke was home to 600 people . It had four restaurants, stores, a post office and two slaughterhouses, according to the Locke Foundation, among other buildings.

If you visit today , you can see some of the buildings as they were years ago. You can check out the town’s Chinese school and the Dai Loy Museum, or grab drinks at Al the Wop’s Saloon and at the Chinese Cultural Shop.

Total travel time: Adding a stop at Locke from downtown Sacramento to San Francisco results in a drive of about 1 hour and 56 minutes, and 104 miles.

Downtown Martinez

Located by the Delta and the southern shore of the Carquinez Strait is Martinez, one of the oldest towns in California. About 63 miles from Sacramento and 35 miles from San Francisco, you can take this detour off Interstate 80.

You can explore its charm and growth as a city in its downtown. In the area, you’ll find restaurants serving a variety of cuisines, shops and museums, including the The Cobra Experience, which houses classic cars.

Total travel time: Adding a stop at downtown Martinez from downtown Sacramento to San Francisco results in a 1 hour and 47 minute drive. It’s about 97 miles.

What do you want to know about life in Sacramento? Ask our service journalism team your top-of-mind questions in the module below or email [email protected] .

©2023 The Sacramento Bee. Visit sacbee.com. Distributed by Tribune Content Agency, LLC.

• Arts & Culture
• Spas & Wellness
• Restaurants
• Bars & Nightlife
• Wine Tasting
• Craft Brews
• UPCOMING EVENTS
• Arts & culture
• Spas & Wellness
• EAT AND DRINK
• BArs & Nightlife
• Wine tasting
• Bikes & Sites Scavenger Hung
• Bed & Breakfasts
• Lodging Specials

STAY AWHILE

Book your trip to downtown napa.

• LODGING TYPE
• Bed & Breakfasts
• Lodging specials
• Itineraries
• Plan Your Event
• Interactive Map
• Transportation
• INSPIRATION
• Plan your event
• TRAVELING HERE

MY CULINARY ESCAPE

My world-class wine scene, my outdoor refresh, my creative inspiration, cheers to mom — the ultimate guide to mother’s day in napa.

No matter how old we get, Mom never stops being special. She should be celebrated at all times of the year, of course, but Mother’s Day is a perfect opportunity to really show your appreciation to the wonderful woman who is such an important part of your life. And what’s better than a trip to the heart of California’s stunning wine country to do that? Whether you’re looking for the perfect Mother’s Day brunch to treat her to or the place to spend an afternoon sipping, swirling and savoring, we’ve got you covered. Check out our suggestions for stops Mom will adore this Mother’s Day in Napa.

If your mom is a fan of wine — and let’s face it, who isn’t? — you won’t go wrong with a visit to any of Napa’s tasting rooms.

• Wine Girl Napa Valley This chic, approachable wine bar aims to curate an atmosphere that is open to anyone who likes to enjoy a good glass of wine and can appreciate a well-crafted aesthetic. While anyone can come in for a tasting, Wine Girl is perfect for the gals, making it a must-stop for Mom.

• Bar Lucia Mother’s Day is about celebrating all the incredible moms in our life, not just one. It’s fitting, then, to head to Bar Lucia, a casual spot in Oxbow Public Market offering sparkling wines, rose and cocktails. Founded by Kara’s Cupcakes owner Kara Lind, Bar Lucia pays homage to the line of incredible women who came before Lind herself. The name “Lucia” is inspired by Lind’s great-grandmother, Andrea Luci, and her daughter, Lucia, making Bar Lucia a testament to five generation’s worth of culinary tradition and passion for wine.

• Be Bubbly What’s more celebratory than popping a bottle of bubbly? This year, salute Mom the right way with a visit to Be Bubbly, Napa’s first and only sparkling wine-dedicated wine bar. This is the perfect stop to pop in for a glass of sparkling wine and toast to all the wonderful things you appreciate about her. They’ve also recently renovated, so even if you’ve been before, you should definitely stop by to enjoy the new space.
• Chateau Buena Vista To really make this a special occasion, go for luxury at Chateau Buena Vista. At this elevated sipping spot, you can invite Mom to sink into a plush velvet couch and spend her afternoon enjoying caviar, chocolate and of course, champagne.

Brunch is, of course, the most important meal of the day — or at least it is when you’re visiting Napa. Treat your mom to the morning she deserves with any of these fabulous brunch specials curated especially for her.

• Mother’s Day Brunch at the Meritage Resort & Spa Nothing says, “I appreciate you, Mom” like an extravagant brunch. The Meritage Resort & Spa is hosting a buffet-style brunch in the iconic Meritage Ballroom, featuring a wide variety of mouthwatering options, such as a smoked salmon station, a prime rib carving station and so much more. No matter what kind of brunch she prefers, you can be sure she won’t be leaving hungry.
• Mother’s Day at The Grove at Copia If your mother is someone who can appreciate truly excellent food, The Grove at Copia is the perfect place to take her for a decadent Mother’s Day brunch. Enjoy a wide selection of brunch items as you unwind in Copia’s own culinary gardens, where much of the menu’s ingredients are sourced from. They are also offering a prix-fixe dinner menu for those who’d prefer to eat a little later, from 12 PM – 7 PM.
• Mother’s Day Brunch and Dinner at La Toque Go all out with a Michelin-rated meal at La Toque. This excellent example of Napa’s best fine dining is the perfect place to treat Mom to a truly unforgettable meal. In addition to a wide, seasonally-inspired menu, La Toque also features an extensive wine list that is the longtime recipient of the Wine Spectator Grand Award, the world’s highest honor for restaurant wine programs.

Moms work hard. For Mother’s Day, give her some space to unwind and relax. A trip to a luxurious Napa Valley spa is sure to leave her feeling refreshed, rejuvenated and smiling.

• Spa Terra You’ll find this underground oasis directly behind the Meritage Resort & Spa, making it a convenient stop if you’re already attending Mother’s Day brunch in the Meritage Ballroom. Here, your mom can step into a world of bliss and serenity surrounded by natural stone and water features, and allow her stress to melt away with a calming facial or soothing massage.

• Rooftop Spa at Archer Hotel Rise above the stress of daily life — literally. Give your mother the gift of relaxation high above the streets of Downtown Napa at the Archer Hotel’s peaceful Rooftop Spa. She’ll feel refreshed from head to toe while enjoying handcrafted drink accompaniments courtesy of Sky & Vine .

• Halehouse Spa at Stanly Ranch If Mom’s been needing a little more of a full mind, body and spirit reset, Halehouse is the place to go. Surrounded by stunning views of the Stanly Ranch property, Halehouse offers a holistic, whole-body approach to wellness, using a wide array of techniques such as energetic healing practices, hyperbaric oxygen therapy and more.
• The Spa at Napa River Inn This fully organic spa utilizes all-natural ingredients in all of its treatments for a clean, relaxing experience. And though we know that Mom is young at heart and doesn’t look a day older than 25, she might still appreciate the anti-aging remedies offered at this historic location.

Classic retail therapy is sometimes the best medicine for a stressful life — and as a mom, we’re sure she’s got no shortage of stress. Show your care for mom with a stop at any of Napa’s wide variety of local shops, where she can buy — or rather, you can buy her — something special to commemorate a perfect Mother’s Day.

• Compline Wine Shop This chic shop and tasting bar is a wine lover’s dream. You can browse hundreds of bottles of carefully curated fine wines, all stored at cellar temperature to maintain the best possible quality. The tasting bar offers daily flight tasting, as well, so you can take a break from browsing to sip for a bit.
• Betty’s Girl Betty’s Girl stands as a true testament to the creativity and passion for artistry that Napa is so proud of. Combining vintage inspiration with stylish modern designs, Betty’s Girl offers a wide collection of unique, handmade pieces, as well as a great variety of vintage finds. While it’s a great stop on any Napa trip, the special, handmade quality of each of these clothing pieces makes this a unique place to find Mom’s new favorite closet staple.

• Oxbow Public Market Whether your mom is a bookworm, a connoisseur of fine olive oils or just loves to browse artisan goods of all kinds, she’ll adore a trip to Oxbow Public Market, one of the best places in Napa to stroll and shop. You’ll also find several fantastic restaurants tucked inside the market, so we encourage you to stop for lunch in between shops.

• First Street Napa Make her feel as pretty on the outside as she undoubtedly is on the inside with a shopping trip along First Street, Napa’s premier shopping destination. Browse boutiques, jewelry stores and more, each offering a unique take on Napa’s signature laid-back luxury style.

UNIQUE EXPERIENCES

Napa has so much more to offer beyond wine tasting, shopping and more. Check out a few more unique experiences to make Mother’s Day a truly special one this year.

• Napa Valley Wine Train Whether you’ve explored Napa before or you’re a first-time visitor, the Napa Valley Wine Train is an entirely new experience. Choose from a variety of trips aboard a beautifully restored historic train and unwind with tasting flights, multi-coursed meals and more.

• Napa Gondola Tours Give Mom a taste of Italy with a gondola tour along the Napa River. These charming gondolas can accommodate groups of up to six people, making this a great choice if you’re looking for an outing for the whole family. Your mom can relax as you sip wine, listen to the soothing music provided onboard and gaze out at the scenic river views surrounding you.
• Catch a Show If your mom is a fan of live performances — paired of course with artisan wines and handcrafted cocktails — then she’ll love the gift of a ticket to a show at one of Napa’s many acclaimed performance venues, such as the Uptown Theatre , Blue Note Napa or JaM Cellars .
• Soar Above the Valley Here’s an experience she’s not likely to forget — take your mom on a flight high above the Napa Valley in a hot air balloon. You can book a flight with either Balloons Above the Valley or Napa Valley Balloons , and both offer custom packages that you can curate for your specific experience. You just might want to make sure she’s cool with heights before taking her up!
• Cooking Classes with CIA at Copia As one of the most prolific culinary schools in the country, it’s safe to say that the Culinary Institute of America knows good food. Share the gift of learning a new skill and indulging in some delightful bites (paired with drinks, of course!) with a cooking class at the CIA at Copia. You can choose from a variety of options, making it easy to choose the cuisine and difficulty level you know is right for her.

Mom’s Meant to Be Here

Every mom is amazing in a different way. One thing they all have in common? They want to feel truly appreciated on Mother’s Day. This year, take her to enjoy the best of what Downtown Napa has to offer. Consider extending your visit to an overnight stay to experience the full extent of adventures available to you. And if you can’t take her to Napa right away, why not give the gift of travel, and give her a trip to look forward to? However you choose to spoil her, we’ll see you soon — and in the meantime, you should probably call your mom. (Seriously, call her right now. She’ll be thrilled to hear from you.)

MORE FROM THE BLOG

Raise a glass to days filled with endless adventures and enchanted evenings spent sipping and savoring

With toast-worthy events happening year-round, there’s always something to celebrate in Downtown Napa! Take a peek at what’s coming up and start planning your next adventure.

#DOWNTOWNNAPA

In partnership with:.

The Dish: Three new restaurants, a chef’s podcast, Food & Wine’s Dana Cowin comes to town and more

This week: Union Kitchen & Tap opens in P.B., Hayes Burger opens in North Park, Randy’s Donuts expands, Trey Foshee launches “Braise” podcast and Ambrogio by Acquerello plans a Michelin 4-hand dinner

• Show more sharing options
• Copy Link URL Copied!

Union Kitchen & Tap, with locations in Encinitas and the Gaslamp Quarter, opened its third location in Pacific Beach earlier this month.

Union took over the 6,000-square-foot restaurant space formerly occupied by Backyard Kitchen & Tap at 832 Garnet Ave. The new space has indoor and outdoor seating, a full bar and lounge with multiple TVs for sports viewing.

Union Kitchen & Tap’s menu features new American food, with dishes like shrimp and grits, gumbo, watermelon salad and steaks, as well as desserts like peanut butter pie and carrot cake. Brunch is served from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. Saturdays and Sundays, offering bottomless mimosas when ordered with entrees like skilled cornbread Benedict or chicken & waffle. Hours at the new location are 4 to 10 p.m. Tuesdays-Fridays and 10 a.m. to 10 p.m. Saturdays and Sundays. Visit instagram.com/unionpb .

Hayes Burger expands to Normal Heights

Hayes Burger, the 4-year-old Americana smash burgers-and-fries eatery in Barrio Logan, opened it second location March 6 in Normal Heights.

The new burger shop at 3460 Adams Ave. is at the former home of Young Cluck, a Southern-fried chicken sandwich shop that has temporarily closed to relocate.

Hayes Burger’s menu is simple, with just hamburgers, cheeseburgers, fries, soft drinks and beer. Visit hayesburger.com.

Randy’s Donuts shop planned in Bonita

Randy’s Donuts, the Los Angeles-based doughnut chain known for the gigantic doughnut sculpture on its flagship store, will open its second San Diego location later this year in Bonita.

Franchisee Emilio Tamez of Tamez and Sosnoff Hospitality Group opened the first location last May at 3425 Murphy Canyon Road in Kearny Mesa. Tamez and Sosnoff is planning its second location at 3001 Bonita Road, Suite 200, in Chula Vista.

Founded in 1952 at 805 W. Manchester Blvd. in Inglewood, Randy’s Donuts has 44 locations in the U.S. and Asia. Randy’s serves more than 60 moderately priced, never-frozen classic and contemporary doughnut varieties. Raised, cake and filled options share the menu with premium varieties with toppings that include matcha tea, Nutella spread, churros, bacon and breakfast cereals. Visit randysdonuts.com .

George’s Foshee hosts ‘Braise’ podcast

Trey Foshee, the operating partner for George’s at the Cove and Sandpiper Wood Fired Grill & Oysters restaurants in La Jolla, has launched a podcast, “The Braise,” which is now available on Apple Podcasts and Spotify.

The 30-minute to one-hour podcasts feature Foshee chatting with colleagues within the 40-year-old George’s restaurant company and beyond. The debut episode on Feb. 16 featured George Hauer, founder and namesake of George’s restaurant. Foshee has also interviewed former George’s bartenders Stephen Kurpinsky (now a brand ambassador for Mr. Black Spirits) and Sam Peters (now owner of SPK Hospitality). Most recently he interviewed former George’s chef Christopher Kostow, who now owns three restaurants in Napa Valley. Next up will be Hotel La Jolla chef Anthony Wells, who former was executive chef at Juniper & Ivy.

4-hands Michelin dinner at Ambrogio

Ambrogio by Acquerello restaurant in La Jolla will host two Michelin-starred Italian chefs for two meal services on April 30.

Milanese chef Silvio Salmoraghi, who co-owns Ambrogio by Acquerello, will co-create an eight-course prix-fixe dinner with Fabio Ugoletti of Mar’Sel at Terranea Resort in Palos Verdes. Seatings will be offered at 5 and 8 p.m. April 30. Tickets are $245, before tax and tip. The restaurant is at 7556 Fay Ave., La Jolla. For reservations, visit ambrogiobyacquerello.com.

Cowin, Deckmans team up for sustainability

Dana Cowin, the former editor of Food & Wine Magazine who now runs the sustainability-focused Progressive Hedonist , is partnering with Drew and Paulina Deckman, co-owners of soon-to-open 31ThirtyOne restaurant in North Park, on a charity event from 2 to 6 p.m. May 4 at Stehly Farms Organic in Valley Center.

Progressive Hedonist organizes sustainable meals where people can gather to discuss ways to heal the planet. The Deckmans own Deckman’s en el Mogor in Baja’s Valle de Guadalupe, which practices sustainable farming and fishing practices.

Cowin will be the featured speaker at the $300 event, which will include a cocktail hour, tasting stations, Tommy Gomes’ “Fishmonger Show” and a four-course dinner designed by chef Drew Deckman featuring wines from female-owned, sustainable Baja wineries. A portion of proceeds will benefit ZeroFoodprint and San Diego’s Foodshed farmers co-op. For tickets, visit the3131.com/progressive-hedonist .

Deckman cooks at Rancho Valencia

Besides hosting the sustainability dinner for Dana Cowin on May 4. chef Drew Deckman will also be a guest chef at a dinner April 25 at the Rancho Valencia Resort & Spa in Rancho Santa Fe.

Deckman will collaborate with Rancho Valencia’s executive chef Emiliano Safa and chef de cuisine Christopher Gentile on a multi-course outdoor dinner featuring locally and sustainably sourced farm and fish ingredients. The dishes will be paired with Baja wines and local trumpeter Gilbert Castellanos will entertain. The dinner is from 6-9 p.m. April 25 and tickets are $325. Reserve at (858) 759-6240 or online at https://tinyurl.com/ykb45bk6.

[email protected]

Get U-T Arts & Culture on Thursdays

A San Diego insider’s look at what talented artists are bringing to the stage, screen, galleries and more.

You may occasionally receive promotional content from the San Diego Union-Tribune.

More from this Author

San Diego Dining and Drinking

Mama’s Day tasting event returns with new leader, new location and new date

April 19, 2024

Review: Cygnet Theatre’s thrilling and lavish ‘Natasha, Pierre’ a Russian feast for the eyes, ears

April 15, 2024

Entertainment

JFest set to return in May with its first internationally renowned headliner: Mandy Patinkin

April 14, 2024

Two years into running the San Diego Gay Men’s Chorus, Charlie Beale is ready for a ‘Freak Out’

Review: Well-staged drama ‘Stew’ stirs up family history, laughs, conflicts and surprises

April 13, 2024

Sublime restaurant rises again in downtown Oceanside

April 12, 2024

More in this section

Brewery Rowe: Sapporo now brewing Japanese beer with an Escondido accent

Also this week, San Diego beer festivals are roaring back after a long pandemic break

This downtown San Diego doughnut mainstay is expanding — and relocating — to an office high-rise

Donut Bar has closed its B Street location and is moving to a much larger space near Little Italy where it will offer a variety of doughnuts and pastries, served with a side of augmented reality experiences

April 11, 2024

San Diego stores: Uniqlo and Venchi gourmet chocolates and gelato head to UTC

Trader Joe’s is opening two stores, and two readers share why they love a new cafe and a European bistro, both in Lemon Grove

April 8, 2024

Three new restaurants to try this week and free pizza in Vista

The Laundry Pub, Our Green Affair Cafe and Bonjour Patisserie have debuted, and Tony Pepperoni will give away pizzas on April 27 to mark location’s first anniversary

April 5, 2024

Wheels-free: Three local food truck owners have opened restaurants. We tried them all

Take a seat inside the new brick-and-mortar locations of Shawarma Guys, Rosemarie’s Burgers and Prieto’s Mexican Food Court

New Rise Southern Biscuits’ unique service model promises piping-hot pastry

The first San Diego location of this North Carolina-born chain hosts its grand opening on Saturday near San Diego State University