Foodography: A visual exploration of Dean & Deluca

While in Napa, one can work up quite an appetite traveling from one winery to the next tasting the delicacies that are the result of lovingly pressing and fermenting grapes. Several wineries offer cheese and anti-pasta offerings to pair with wine should you decide to set up an impromptu picnic, inspired by a gorgeous sunny day.

Besides Oakville Grocery (see: Oakville Grocery in Napa: An essential stop for any wine-trekking adventure) and V. Sattui Winery, the other mecca for picnic fare is Dean & Deluca just off of Saint Helena Highway.

Upon entering is the bakery on the left. It seems like every inch of display space is stacked high with freshly baked breads and desserts. The aroma of roasted coffee beans welcomes you. After smelling Cabernets, Merlots, and Chardonnays, the change of pace is welcome.

Dean-and-Dulca-Napa-California-21 — Don’t those red velvet cupcakes look divine? Bite-size cakes below are for those that can’t decide…a little taste of everything please!

Dean-and-Dulca-Napa-California-19 — Clint decides on ordering a Raspberry Rugelah with a piping hot cafe latte.

Dean-and-Dulca-Napa-California-4 — Looking to put together a bread and cheese spread for a picnic? Much of the cheese is sourced from local Napa artisans. The selection is sure to please any cheese connoisseur.

Dean-and-Dulca-Napa-California-11 — The olive bar.

Dean-and-Dulca-Napa-California-26 — Clint pays no attention to me behind the camera as his attention is completely absorbed by the baked dessert he has just purchased.

Dean-and-Dulca-Napa-California-12 — For those inspired by all the spices and gourmet ingredients lining the shelves at Dean & Deluca, they also offer kitchenware for those that want to prepare their feast instead of purchasing it ready-made.

Dean-and-Dulca-Napa-California-13 — In case you can’t make it to a particular winery or want to select a few to pair with a particular cheese you just purchased?

Dean-and-Dulca-Napa-California-14 — I couldn’t help but fondle some of these ceramic pieces. Just heavenly to the touch. Something so inviting about ceramic.

Dean-and-Dulca-Napa-California-28 — Outside of Dean & Deluca, sitting on a seat wall enjoying our cafe latte and baked goods. A little rest before the hard work of visiting wineries and tasting more wines.

A visit to Dean & Deluca is just as much a feast for the eyes as it is for the taste buds. Check this place out if you are in the mood for a picnic spread.

Make sure to bring a cooler though on your trip so you can store the cheese and meats until you find a picnic spot and so you can take some home with you. It is hard with so much selection to purchase only what you can consume in one meal.