St. Helena Restaurants
It may be obvious since we do quite a few posts about Napa, I actually have a home in St. Helena. Napa is a mecca for food and wine; however my best-loved town for both is St. Helena. Having gone for many years, I have favorite places I like to eat, both reasonably priced and a bit more expensive. I thought you might be interested in the perspective from someone who actually has been each of the establishments that I am going to discuss. Hopefully it will give some insight into the charming town of St. Helena.
Casual Breakfast or Lunch
For almost ninety years The Model Bakery has been a Napa Valley mainstay, serving discerning residents and visitors alike. Offering the best breads, pastries and coffee, it all began at the St. Helena flagship location. The English Muffins are the signature item (voted an Oprah favorite thing in 2021!) Great breakfast sandwiches and pastries.
“Gillwoods Cafe was created in 1991 by Ed Gill and Gary Woods. Gillwoods Cafe is committed to serving good, honest food.” It is a St. Helena landmark that is frequented by locals and tourists alike. I love this restaurant for it’s nostalgic vibe, amazing American ‘down home” menu and that they serve mimosas (and other libations)with breakfast!
The Station opened just a couple of years ago so the concept was new to me since I hadn’t visited much during COVID. Located just behind the Napa Valley Petroleum station, it serves a more sophisticated breakfast and lunch. I particularly like the breakfast sandwiches and the avocado toast. Antithetical to Gillwoods, the fare is less traditional and a bit more experimental. It is a clean, inviting space and has a lovely outdoor patio. It’s worth a try.
Napa Valley Coffee Roasting Company first opened its doors in St Helena in 1985 and was one of the first local roasting companies in Napa. If you are looking for a great cup of coffee or an amazing latte, Napa Valley Roasters is my go-to place. It does not have a large selection of food-mostly pastries-it has a very local vibe and is reasonably priced. It is located on Oak Avenue, just off Main Street so you may need to search a bit.
Founded by brothers Joel and Duncan Gott in St. Helena in 1999 and recognized as a James Beard America's Classic, Gott’s Roadside is known for its modern approach to creating California-inspired dishes. It serves consistently great food, sourced locally. I visit every time I am in St. Helena. I love the Chicken Kale Caesar Salad and they are known for their burgers (you can sub veggie or turkey) There is a lovely local wine and beer selection too. It serves lunch as well as dinner (11:00 to 9:30) It is a classic; you really must visit. But it gets crazy crowded so watch out!
Upscale (and Pricey) Brunch or Lunch
Technically Auberge du Soliel is in Rutherford, not St. Helena, but it is just off Silverado Highway only minutes away so I wanted to include it. The restaurant is within the Auberge Resort, nestled high above the valley. Although it is open for breakfast, lunch and dinner, I recommend brunch or lunch. Auberge du Soliel offers a fine dining experience from one of the best vantage points in the valley. With 13 consecutive Michelin Stars, Executive Chef Robert Curry’s Mediterranean-inspired cuisine reflects the natural diversity and rich seasonal produce available in the Napa Valley. But it is certainly a financial commitment so be aware!
Casual Dinner
If you want to eat where the locals go, I would suggest Cook. Jude Wilmoth founded the restaurant back in 2004 and it is still a favorite today. It has amazing pasta, a beautifully curated wine list and a small town vibe. It is only open for lunch and dinner, Monday through Friday; the space is limited so if you want to go, make reservations early.
Another notable Italian inspired restaurant is Pizzeria Tra Vigne. If you have been going to Napa for years, you will likely remember the restaurant Tra Vigne which closed in 2019. Pizzeria Tra Vigne is much more casual than the restaurant counterpart. Voted St. Helena's 2020 Business of the Year and Napa Valley's Best Pizza and Best Family Friendly, it is a great spot to hang out. There is a beautiful outdoor patio, a bocce ball court and a very casual vibe.
Possibly the most well known restaurant in St. Helena, Farmstead is charming and reflects the casual vibe of Napa Valley. The outside bar is great if you just want a cocktail and apps; however, the restaurant is worth a visit. I would characterize the food as chic Americana. As an example, I have the cheddar biscuits and deviled eggs on every visit. Definitely a great spot for dinner, it is also fun for brunch or lunch.
“The Charter Oak is centered on a celebratory, family-style dining experience, with simple, approachable, and seasonal food – grilled meats, beautiful vegetables from our farm, local wines and unparalleled cocktails. “
The Charter Oak is located in the old Tra Vigne space and although updated, the patio and interior still maintain the rustic charm. The braincild of Christopher Koslow (of Meadowood fame) the menu is straightforward and not “fussy”, the cocktails are yummy and the environment beautiful.
Centrally located on Main Street, Market is my go -to for an easy, comfortable meal. It isn’t quite as well known as some of the other St. Helena restaurants so it is a bit easier to get a reservation if you decide last minute you want to dine local. The service is friendly, I love the bar (and sometimes just eat there) and the food is clean, and nicely prepared.
Goose and Gander is a fun local spot. Located in an historic 1920s bungalow right in the center of town, it is charming spot. Truth be told, I typically go there for cocktails as it has a great bar scene. There is also a lovely patio if you feel like dining.
Upscale (and Pricey) Dinner
Unlike the majority of the restaurants I have covered, Press is a bit of a drive from St. Helena though still located within the city limits. The interior space is lovely and the patio is charming if the weather permits. This is definitely fine dining and although it is still somewhat casual, this is a place you can actually dress up if you are in the mood. Probably best known for the steaks, there is also a nice selection of seafood and vegetable sides. Awarded the Wine Spectator Grand Award in 2020, there are 2500 bottles on the wine list; Press has the largest selection of Napa Valley wines in the world. If you feel like splurging, Press is the place for you.
I hope that I have given a bit of insight into the restaurants in St. Helena. I have visited each of them a minimum of three times (and many more visits to some) so I have tried to curate as best as I can. If you have never visited St. Helena, you should certainly put it on your travel list. It is a charming town!