Picture this: it’s early in the morning, and it’s cold enough that when you poke your head outside, you can see your breath cloud the air in front of you. But you have nowhere to be — so you take your time getting ready, and by the time you step out the door, the sun is shining, and a gentle breeze teases your hair. It’s cold enough that you’re glad for your sweater, but warm enough that you can tilt your head back and soak in the sunshine. Trees line the streets, a sun-dappled mosaic of reds, oranges and golds. Sounds like heaven, right? Close! It’s Downtown Napa in the fall. And the best thing for this kind of day? A cup of coffee to warm you inside and out — and a sweet treat or two, because you deserve it.
All the Warm and Fuzzies: Cozy Coffee Shops in Napa
The single best part of the fall season? Seasonal treats, if you’re asking us. Check out these cozy coffee shops all around Napa — perfect for curling up and spending an afternoon people-watching, or to simply grab a boost ahead of exploring the rest of what Downtown Napa has to offer.
Napa Valley Coffee Roasting Company
Nothing says fall like the cinnamony-sweet flavors of a snickerdoodle cookie — and Napa Valley Coffee Roasting Company has put that in a latte. This longtime Downtown Napa favorite shop has a long list of coffee offerings to cover every preference. Whether your thing is classic espresso drinks “done right” or you prefer your drink to taste more like a candy bar in a cup ( no judgement either way!) this coffee shop has you covered. One of the first local coffee-roasting companies in Napa Valley, the shop carries a wide variety of single-origin coffees from Indonesia, Africa and the Americas, as well as made-to-order espresso drinks. Before you head out, make sure to grab one of of the company’s freshly baked goodies, including delicious cookies from local favorites Annie the Baker and Butter Cream Bakery.
Canary Coffee at Napa Bookmine
The best pairing for a great cup of coffee? An even better book. Napa Bookmine has long been a favorite spot for Napa locals to pick up a new read, and now, they’re proud to host Canary Coffee, which offers a variety of delectable coffees and locally sourced goodies. Their fall menu is sure to warm you to the core, whether you go for a hazelnut mocha or a classic pumpkin spice latte. Make sure to chat with the barista for a bit while you’re there and ask for a book recommendation or two!
Barnhouse Napa Brews is an English coffee pub where you’ll find a variety of flavors of coffee, local beer, wine, kombucha, tea, cider and more, in addition to proper English fare such as sausage rolls and cheese and onion pies. Barnhouse is also the only Downtown Napa pub you’ll find coffee, mead and Michelada flights all in one spot. Drop in and check out their seasonal drinks while spending time with friends and family. Don’t forget to check out the “shack” in the back, where they offer darts, shuffleboard and old-school arcade games.
A mainstay at the north end of the popular Oxbow Public Market, Ritual Coffee Roasters serves up an assortment of specialty coffees sourced from small farmers, helping the producers to reinvest money back into their farms. Stop by to grab one of their classic, can’t-go-wrong beverages, or take a look at some of their seasonal offerings. If you aren’t in the mood for coffee, their selection of teas and tea lattes is also exceptional. (Tip: For the coffee lover in your life, a bag of Ritual beans would be a great holiday gift!)
Founded by musician, sommelier and coffee lover Derek Bromley, Ohm Coffee is what can only be described as, “a vibe.” They roast their own coffee, and each espresso drink is crafted to showcase the complex flavors found in each batch. For fall, they’re offering what they call a “C&T” — which is a cinnamon-flavored cold brew and tonic. If you’re a fan of espresso, trust us on this one. Espresso and tonic water is an unexpectedly delightful combination.
The inimitable Stanly Ranch just became one of Napa’s best places to grab a coffee. Gavel at Stanly Ranch offers handcrafted espresso drinks made with Sightglass Coffee, a coffee company based in San Francisco. Once you grab your coffee, you’re free to wander the rest of Stanly Ranch’s property even if you aren’t a guest of the resort. Explore their sweeping vineyards or find a place to sit and admire the property’s beautiful architecture.
Satisfy That Sweet Tooth: Bakeries in Napa
A great cup of coffee needs a sweet treat to go along with it. In the fall, there’s truly nothing better than the taste of a delectable baked treat as you stroll and explore Downtown Napa.
If you’re at Oxbow Public Market, the call of Anette’s Chocolates is a hard one to ignore. Pick up a box — or 10 — of the harvest cranberry, apple and pistachio brittle to really get in the season. Made also with pumpkin seeds, a dash of brandy and some holiday spices, this delicacy is perfect for the fall and makes a great Happy Autumn gift for friends and family. An additional location is at 1321 1st St. in Downtown Napa.
True to their name, Sweetie Pies makes delicious and sweet pies, cakes, cookies, pastries and a whole lot more. If a slice of apple pie or carrot cake hits your autumn sweet spot, head right over to their Downtown Napa location at the historic Napa Mill. Breakfast items are available as well, and some menu offerings can be made in gluten-free versions.
Model Bakery
Voted Oprah’s favorite spot for English Muffins — and if there’s anyone you can trust to have good taste, it’s Oprah — Model Bakery is a longtime Napa favorite and a must-stop for anyone visiting. Their baked sweets selection is truly magnificent, from their famous Morning Buns to their sinfully good pumpkin bread. Or, if you’re after something a little more filling, you can’t go wrong with a sandwich and a cup of soup — perfect for a warm midday meal in between shopping, sipping and exploring.
You’re Meant to Fall in Love with Napa
No matter what time of year you visit, you can’t help but fall in love with Napa. Whether you’re looking for a fall escape, a wine tasting odyssey, a culinary adventure or all of the above, Napa’s got you covered — at any price point. Book your stay today and discover why, exactly, you’re meant to be here.
