Napa Valley, CA
One of the country’s most famous foodie destinations, Napa Valley is filled with Michelin-starred restaurants, popular bistros and farm-to-table eateries. Mother-daughter duos looking to enjoy a mix of award-winning wines and culinary expertise will have no shortage of options in this vibrant valley, but given Napa’s commercialized and touristy nature, knowing where to go is essential. Saint Helena Clif Family Winery is a family-run operation that offers a wine tasting paired with three seasonal, chef-driven bites—don’t forget to visit the backyard food truck for an order of crispy polenta bites (they’re out of this world). For lunch, head to Farmstead at Long Meadow Ranch and share a few dishes like beef tartare, wood-grilled artichokes and a side of white cheddar grits. After feeding, head to your private tour and enjoy terraceswhere you will receive an exclusive tour of the vineyards and grounds from the owner or one of his family members. Although The Terraces does not offer a formal food and wine pairing, you will enjoy a 25-year-old balsamic vinegar in a special stone barrel room on the property – a real treat for any foodie.
Yountville is considered the valley’s most culinary-centric area, famous for chef Thomas Keller’s restaurants such as Cork AND The French Laundry. However, if I have to choose between Cork AND Bistro JeantyI’ll go with the latter – you can always switch Bouchon Bakery for a warm cheese roll and latte in the morning. Bistro Jeanty is quirky and cosy, with little antiques, trinkets and Parisian memorabilia scattered throughout. All the food is fantastic, from escargot to beef borginion, but the buttered egg noodles are a standout (albeit unexpected). If you want to take some adorable family photos to commemorate your daughters trip, Clementine provides the perfect backdrop. Sit in the lush patio with pastel pinks, vintage accents and whimsical olive trees while sipping one of the many Aperol-based cocktails or a Pomegranate Paloma.
Where to stay:
Although you will find several different Auberge properties in Napa Valley, Rutherford’s Auberge du Soleil it is the culinary crème de la crème of the collection. The on-site restaurant, simply called the Restaurant, offers Michelin-starred dining with stunning views of the valley and vineyard. In the morning, refuel before sampling the wine with a complimentary breakfast of freshly squeezed orange juice, a rotating selection of homemade pastries and a traditional (but perfectly executed) Eggs Benny. Those who want to stay closer to the gourmet action in Yountville should choose a stay at the Michelin-keys Bardessono Hotel and Spa.
