Yountville

Richard Reddington’s Redd Wood is sort of the classic embodiment of what some call the "new Napa." The fresh-feeling, casual Yountville spot was decorated by Erin Martin (she has a shop in St. Helena and is one of the area's best decorators) and is famous for its spot-on pizzas.

The city gave Garcia's a permit to set up in the parking lot of Pancha's, which is one of our favorite little local bars, and you'll find them there most evenings. Tacos like the well-loved fish and el pastor will only set you back between one and two dollars, which is a major blessing when your wallet is starting to feel the strain of too many big, wine-heavy dinners.

Odette is the newest property from the PlumpJack group (they're also behind the PlumpJack and CADE vineyards), and like its sister properties, the estate is Gold-LEED certified—a major accomplishment that's very difficult for a winery to achieve. Their first vintage, a 2012 Cabernet Sauvignon, just became available in February of 2015, and we’re hearing great things so far.

Good coffee is kind of a requirement when you're spending your evenings pounding wine. Fortunately, the baristas at Coffee Caboose really know their way around a French press.

Good coffee is kind of a requirement when you're spending your evenings pounding wine. Fortunately, the baristas at Coffee Caboose really know their way around a French press.

If you're hoping to experience some of Thomas Keller's Napa magic but don't have time or the budget for a full meal in Yountville, take a quick stop at Bouchon Bakery, where the Keller team makes the baked goods (starring unbelievable baguettes) for all of his restaurants. It's a great option for a light breakfast if you’re wandering around Yountville, and no one should leave without a big box of their famous macarons. The line can get a little lengthy on the weekends, but it’s so worth it.

If you're hoping to experience some of Thomas Keller's Napa magic but don't have time or the budget for a full meal in Yountville, take a quick stop at Bouchon Bakery, where the Keller team makes the baked goods (starring unbelievable baguettes) for all of his restaurants. It's a great option for a light breakfast if you’re wandering around Yountville, and no one should leave without a big box of their famous macarons. The line can get a little lengthy on the weekends, but it’s so worth it.

Only in Yountville would you find a gas station with a better wine selection than most restaurants. This is definitely the spot to fill up your rental.

Only in Yountville would you find a gas station with a better wine selection than most restaurants. This is definitely the spot to fill up your rental.

French Chef Philippe Jeanty first came to the US back in the '70s to work in the first Moët & Chandon restaurant in Napa, and he's been in the valley ever since. His eponymous bistro in downtown St. Helena is French country in the best, most quaint way—sit on the idyllic outdoor patio.