Winter and early spring offer a unique perspective on visiting Napa Valley. Once the grapes are harvested, the pace in the Valley slows tremendously. Fewer tourists crowd the highway. The farmer's markets close for the winter season. The small towns are abandoned except for the locals who live here year round. It's the perfect time to truly relax in this food-and-wine-lover's paradise.
Napa is known for wine, but Californians know that it's also a hotbed of culinary treasures. Local restaurants such as French Laundry and Tra Vigne win awards across the country. For those looking for the more attainable reservation at a reasonable price, there are many choices and new spots popping up each year. Two of my favorite choices are WineSpectator's Restaurant at CIA Greystone and Pinot Blanc.
WineSpectator's Restaurant at the CIA (Culinary Institute of America) Greystone is a must for anyone visiting the valley. In this one location you'll find all the ingredients which make Napa Valley such a special place. The building which houses the restaurant, shop and cooking school was once the Christian Brothers' Winery. Its large two-story facade with gray stonework and iron retrofitting was built in the late 1800's. During the winter, its surrounding gardens, trees and vines in hibernation is reminiscent of the German Mosel Valley.
Cooking classes are offered for professional chefs and the novice home cook. But the professional program for which the CIA is known is still only run out of its New York location. Still, the restaurant and shop has enough to keep almost anyone entertained.
Wine Spectator Magazine helped fund the creation of the restaurant, giving it its name.
The restaurant has a large open kitchen where you can see your meals prepared. The menu offers tidbits from all over the Mediterranean at surprisingly reasonable prices. During spring, summer and fall this place gets quite crowded and reservations are suggested. The web site has all the details, including information on tours of the grounds and classes.
Pinot Blanc is the newest addition to Joachim Spilchal's collection of fabulous restaurants, including the famed Patina in Los Angeles. This large bistro has something to please everyone — a fois gras and pear appetizer competes with a first-quality burger for most popular item on the menu.
The wine list is impressive and not limited to valley selections. There is also a full bar. When the weather warms up, there's a patio in the back just waiting for leisurely lunches. The management at Pinot Blanc are really trying to find a permanent niche in the local restaurant scene. They've seen the fate of
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