There’s a lot happening in Napa, and by that I mean downtown Napa. With the nicer weather if you’re planning a trip, here are my top 10 things to see and do if you’re headed to Napa.
Recently I spent a few nights at the lovely, restored Napa River Inn in the Hatt Historic room. Formerly part of a roller-rink, it dates back to 1885 it has gorgeous tongue and groove White Rock maple wood flooring, clay brick walls, and original windows. But perhaps best of all was the hotel’s location. Situated next to the river, it’s within walking distance of all the attractions in town, both new and old. The town of Napa which has a population of about 75,000 or so, is the perfect place to stroll – stop, get coffee – stop in to a wine bar – stroll – stop, get lunch at Oxbow… well, you get the idea.
On the trip, I also spoke to Mayor Jill Techel. I learned about the town’s troubled past with floods, and what the city is doing to ensure the streets don’t once again become rivers themselves, like they did in 1986, the most recent flood. For more on that, here’s the video interview, shot in fact in the history Hatt Room at the Napa River Inn… see, once again, history plays a role!
Quick tip if you plan a trip: bring good walking shoes. Sunglasses too! You’ll appreciate the fact that the town is walkable, and there’s nothing better than burning off some of those Cabernet calories on the go.
So here’s my top 10 things to see and do in Napa (in no particular order):
1. Art on F1rst – Take the Artwalk
Those sculptures and one-of-a-kind installations you see around town aren’t there by accident. I love the way these vivid and creative creations are juxtaposed across the landscape. There are about 18 Bay Area artists represented in 2011. A lot of the work is here is edgy and contemporary, kind of like the trendy vibe of the town itself!
2. See a show at the Uptown Theatre Napa
This one will tickle your nostalgia bone. The restored theater was re-opened to the public in 2010 (In Photos: Uptown Theatre Napa – a beautiful restoration) and it should not be missed during your stay. Big names perform here including Cyndi Lauper and Lyle Lovett – I’m still not sure, however, if Justin Bieber or Lady Gaga have made tour stops! PS- Clint, you’ll be happy to know The Psychedelic Furs are coming in May.
3. Oxbow Public Market
Here’s a perfect lunch spot. The Oxbow market is like a gourmet food court. Under one roof you can find all sorts of foods, from fresh fish and salads to grilled tacos and organic juices. It’s a little pricier, but that’s because the emphasis on sourcing from local producers (within 100 miles). If you like burgers, then Gott’s Roadside is a must.
Tip: The sushi here is awesome! But you need to go to Kanaloa Seafood Market and ask for them to prepare it for you (there is no sushi bar in Oxbow). It’s worth the effort, as I had some of the freshest, most spectacular sashimi I’ve experienced in a long time!
4. Back Room Wines
When you think of unique, special wine shops, you’re most likely picturing a place like Back Room Wines. And proprietor Dan Dawson bubbles over with charm and knowledge. Stop by and have Dan pour you something off the beaten path.
5. Gordon Huether Gallery
“Life beats down and crushes the soul and art reminds us that we have one.” – Stella Adler.
Well so be it, this is the place to re-discover your soul. Huether has spent the last 30-years focused on large-scale commissioned artwork. His most recent work which you can see around town, and in his beautiful studio is more intimate. His style is modern, combining industrial materials for a distinctive and unforgettable aesthetic.
6. Wooden Oven Pizza at Oenotri
Is there anything better than wood-oven pizza (well, okay, besides the aforementioned sushi!)? The place to get it in Napa is Italian restaurant Oenotri where the large ovens are in full display. Watch as Sicilian tradition is celebrated with hand-crafted pies. Bring empty stomach.
7. Splurge: La Toque
Chef Ken Frank is one of my favorites. Then again, the Michelin Star his restaurant La Toque (located in the Westin Hotel) has received indicates I’m not alone in appreciating his fine, inspired dishes. There are a lot of great restaurants in town, and while it’s a close call, I think La Toque leads the pack.
8. Carpe Diem Wine Bar
Less than a year old, this modern bar/restaurant is the perfect place to drop by for a quick bite, some appetizers, or just a glass of wine. I’ll leave it to you to discover the meaning of the name of the restaurant. There is a story there, of course. It involves New York, cross-country dreams, and maybe even… a tattoo. Be sure to ask owner Steve about that!
9. Make your stay historic: Churchill Manor and Cedar Gables Inn
The Napa River Inn and Westin Hotel are a couple of good choices around town. But if you want to notch up the luxury B&B factor, and add a dollop of history, then these two places should be high on your list. Both the Churchill Manor (1889) and Cedar Gables Inn (1891) absolutely coddle! Churchill Manor was the first residence in Napa Valley to be listed on the Nation Register of Historic Places – tour the place and you’ll quickly see why: leaded, beveled glass doors; grand parlors; magnficient fireplaces; ornate redwood detailing; Corinthian columns.
10. Morimoto and the “Yellow Chair Social Media Experience”
Iron Chef Morimoto’s $5 million restaurant is cause for celebration in so many different ways. It’s yet another in a long-list of high-end restaurants (Bottega, French Laundy, La Toque) that call Napa and Napa Valley home. From the outside this new hot-spot deceives with its rather understated facade. Inside, however, is a world waiting to be discovered. The rockin’ sushi chefs are a sight to behold, and well positioned as if on stage performing for us starry-eyed sushi lovers. Later, the music thumps, and the place is the place, baby.
Tip: If you go, you must partake in the famous “Yellow Chair Social Media Experience” – be sure to sit one of the sumptuous yellow chairs in the dining area. Snap a photo or two (or heck an iPhone video!) and post it to Facebook and Twitter. Apparently it’s the in thing to do… and if you go to Napa why not go all the way!
Bonus: Wine Train
Okay, here’s one more to add to your list, especially if you’re here on a multi-day stay. This one takes about half a day, but it’s the perfect way to sit back, relax, and take in the beauty of wine country. The Napa Wine train departs from town, and during the three hour run you’ll be served a gourmet lunch, and, of course, wine pairings. All aboard!