The best thing about Wine Country’s location in the heart of California? The weather is, as a general rule, stunning. Whether it’s summer, fall, winter or spring, you’re sure to find time in the day when it just feels better to relax outdoors. Luckily, Napa has a wide variety of beautiful patios that are the perfect place to enjoy some of our famous world-class cuisine. Check out our picks for some of the best patio dining spots in Napa.
Angèle
This charming riverfront bistro brings a taste of the French countryside to Napa, offering their take on a variety of classic French dishes such as escargot, boeuf Bourguignon and more. Located right beside the Napa River, Angèle’s intimate, scenic patio is the perfect place to enjoy a few glasses of wine paired with dishes showcasing the best of what California’s harvest has to offer. Insider tip: don’t skip over their cocktail menu! They offer some truly exquisite beverages, ranging from classics such as the French 75, to more creative options such as their “Cigarettes and Coffee.”
The Grove at Copia
If you’re at all familiar with the culinary world, you’re sure to have at least heard of the Culinary Institute of America, one of the biggest names in culinary education out there. At their Copia campus, right in the heart of Downtown Napa, you’ll find The Grove, CIA’s signature restaurant that features Mediterranean-focused flavors served up with a little wine country flair. You can enjoy their ever-rotating dinner menu Wednesday-Saturday, and they also offer weekend brunch. Perhaps one of the best parts of The Grove’s dining experience is the atmosphere created by their patio, which sits adjacent to Copia’s own culinary gardens, from where much of the menu’s ingredients are sourced. Unwind under the cool shade of olive trees as you enjoy your meal — and if you’re feeling like you want a fun activity to pair with dinner, you can enjoy bocce ball courts right there on the patio.
The Waterfront Seafood Grill
Located on the historic Napa riverwalk, the Waterfront Seafood Grill offers a classic steakhouse experience, all alongside stunning views of the Napa river. Their patio is a great place to escape the sun on a balmy afternoon, or to warm up with a drink once the weather turns chillier. The ambiance isn’t all that makes this place worth visiting — their extensive menu features a wide range of delectably fresh, succulent seafood, and draws inspiration from many cultures, with dishes such as ceviche, ahi poke, Branzino and more all available.
Downtown Joe’s Brewery
The laid-back, locals’ oasis vibe at Downtown Joe’s is the perfect way to wrap up an afternoon or evening in Napa. Part micro-brewery, part full bar, part casual restaurant, visitors of every palate will find something to enjoy here. Grab one of their six classic brews or peruse their menu of seasonal options — and don’t forget to take a look at their food offerings, too. Enjoy a mouthwatering burger, classic barbecue fare and more, all prepared with local ingredients. Keep an eye on their weekly specials menu, too, as they often have exciting events or promotions on menu items to watch out for.
Wilfred’s Lounge
Be transported to a tropical oasis at Wilfred’s, Napa’s first and only Tiki bar. This vibrant, island-themed spot sits right on the banks of the Napa River and offers two different ways to unwind and enjoy the good weather. Hang out on their ground-level patio, which provides an excellent view of all the comings and goings of Downtown Napa, or head upstairs and take in the sight of the whole riverfront from their rooftop patio. They offer an extensive wine and beer list, as well as small bites, but the real standout at Wilfred’s is their cocktail menu, which is classically Tiki-inspired with a focus on rum-based cocktails.
Sky & Vine Rooftop Bar
Speaking of rooftops — Sky & Vine Rooftop Bar offers one of the best views in the valley. Whether you’re looking for brunch, lunch, dinner or just cocktails and appetizers, Sky & Vine has a menu to match that craving. Fans of whiskey will be especially pleased about their signature Whiskey Bar, where they offer whiskey-based cocktails on tap and an impressive selection of fine whiskeys. The best part? No matter where you sit, you’ll have an unbeatable view of the mountains surrounding Napa Valley. Insider tip: plan to show up around sunset, so you can watch the sun sink below the mountains and paint the whole sky a brilliant array of colors.
C Casa
Who doesn’t love street tacos? At C Casa, you’ll find authentic global flavors prepared with a Napa flourish. Inspired by the cuisine of Baja, California, C Casa offers a range of expertly prepared comfort dishes that are sure to leave you full and satisfied. You’ll find this gem in the Oxbow Public Market, and their patio is perfectly situated to either enjoy the sunshine or warm up with tableside firepits during the chillier nights. Plus, the patio provides a great view of the Napa River, as well as the popular walking trail alongside it, where you are guaranteed to see a cute dog or two.
Napa Yard
To say that Napa Yard has a great patio is a bit of a misnomer — this beer garden is actually entirely outdoors, offering tons of space to spread out and enjoy the weather as you sip artisanally crafted brews. Alongside their always-delicious rotating menu, it’s more likely than not that you’ll find an exciting event or experience happening on your visit. They often host live music, tasting events, culinary experiences (such as paella parties) and more, and even if none of those are on the schedule for the evening, you can spend your time playing fun, classic yard games while you enjoy your food and drinks.
Bear at Stanly Ranch
Located at the beautiful, sprawling Stanly Ranch, Bear is a culinary experience like no other. They are open daily for breakfast, lunch and dinner, each menu featuring flavors inspired entirely by the natural world around us. Locally sourced ingredients truly shine alongside Bear’s extensive, carefully curated wine list, and their seasonal cocktails are so visually stunning, you’ll almost feel bad for drinking them. In addition to their official patio, which offers picture-perfect views of the gorgeous surrounding property, you have the freedom to roam the resort grounds, which offer several hidden spots to truly relax and take in the beauty of Napa.
You’re Meant to Be Here
For unmatched outdoor dining experiences and beyond, Napa’s got you covered. Plan your stay to the Wine Tasting Room Capital of the World today and discover an oasis of fresh flavors, a wine scene rich with tradition and a hospitality-focused atmosphere that will leave you with a whole new definition of “relaxing.” No matter where you’re coming from, you’re meant to be here. Book your stay today.