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A Taste of Napa: A Day of Wine, Food & Downtown Charm

Updated: Dec 3, 2025


Downtown Napa, with the River in focus along the business area

There’s nothing quite like waking up in Napa Valley knowing a full day of wine, food, and relaxed exploration lies ahead. Whether you’re a seasoned sipper or a first-time visitor, this itinerary blends boutique wineries, local flavors, and the laid-back charm that makes Napa unforgettable. Here’s how to spend the perfect day in and around downtown. Cheers to a taste of Napa!



8:30 AM: Sweet Start at Le Paris Artisan & First Street Stroll


Morning criossants and pastries from Le Paris Artisan in Napa

Every great Napa day begins with a delicious start at Le Paris Artisan. This cozy French bakery fills the air with the smell of fresh pastries, flaky croissants, warm pain au chocolat, and quiche straight from the oven. Pair your treat with a cappuccino or café au lait, and enjoy a slow morning moment before the wine starts flowing.


After your breakfast at Le Paris Artisan, take a stroll down First Street, just a short walk away. This charming stretch is lined with stylish boutiques, art-filled storefronts, and inviting outdoor spaces perfect for wandering.


Estimated Cost: $30 per couple



Stylish, modern urban tasting room in Napa


The tasting room at Eleven Eleven Winery in Napa.

At Eleven Eleven Winery, your morning unfolds in a serene, modern setting where every detail feels intentional. The winery is known for its polished yet welcoming, elegant tasting spaces, attentive hosts, and beautifully crafted wines that showcase the best of Napa Valley.


From vibrant whites to expressive reds, each pour highlights the winery’s commitment to small-lot production quality. It’s a refined but relaxed start to your wine-tasting journey.


Reservation Tip: Book 2-3 weeks in advance to secure your preferred time

Tasting Cost: Eleven Eleven Experience $75 per person

Napa Vine Pass: 10% off your wine bottle purchases



12:30 PM: Lunch + Local Discoveries at Oxbow Public Market


The indoor area of Oxbow Public Market in Napa

After your morning pours, make your way to Oxbow Public Market, one of Napa’s favorite culinary hubs. Grab lunch from any of the vibrant vendors, perhaps a wood-fired pizza, a salad, a deli, an empanada, oysters, or something indulgent from one of the many artisanal food vendors.


Then wander the marketplace with a coffee, iced tea, or a local craft beverage in hand, exploring spices, chocolates, olive oils, and small-batch goods you can bring home as edible souvenirs.


Estimated Cost: Approximately $40 per couple



Tranquil winery with genuine hospitality


The tasting room at Monticello Napa Valley

Next, take a short drive into the rolling hills to Fontanella Family Winery, a boutique gem tucked away in the Mount Veeder AVA. This intimate, family-run winery feels worlds away from the busier downtown Napa tasting rooms.


Expect friendly hosts, relaxed patio vibes, and robust, expressive wines, especially their standout Cabernet Sauvignons and Zinfandels. It’s the kind of place where you stay longer than you planned, chatting and savoring each glass.


Reservation Tip: Book 2-3 weeks in advance to secure your preferred time

Tasting Cost: Journey Tasting $65 per person

Napa Vine Pass: $32.50 off tasting experience + 10% off your bottle purchases. Each guest requires a Vine Pass for the tasting discount



5:00 PM: Happy Hour at Cadet Wine Bar


The inside bar area at Cadet Wine Bar in Napa.

When the afternoon settles into early evening, downtown Napa’s Cadet Wine Bar is calling. Known for its eclectic wine list and lively atmosphere, Cadet is where locals and industry folks unwind.


Order a glass of something funky, classic, or completely new; you really can’t go wrong here. It’s the perfect bridge between your winery tastings and dinner.


Estimated Cost: $20–$30 per couple during their daily Power Hour from 5-6:00 pm, with offerings of half-off wines by the glass and draft beers



6:30 PM: Dinner at Celadon Restaurant


A salad from Celadon Restaurant Napa

End your day with dinner at Celadon Restaurant, a longtime favorite offering “global comfort food” in one of the coziest dining rooms downtown. Their menu blends seasonal ingredients with flavors from around the world, featuring dishes such as Crispy Calamari, Braised Short Ribs, and beautifully prepared seafood. Pair your meal with a glass of Napa wine (you’ve got momentum at this point) and toast to a day well spent.


Estimated Cost: $75-$125 per couple


A Perfect Napa Day is complete with the Napa Vine Pass


Your Vines of Napa Vine Pass is the perfect companion for unlocking savings and enhancing your experience at each winery destination. Wineries offer exclusive tasting or bottle discounts, letting you indulge a little more while exploring Napa’s best tasting rooms. Your adventure doesn't end here, as you have the flexibility to explore the additional wineries through the end of 2026. Cheers.




 
 
 

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