Napa Valley’s vibrant town of St. Helena is a haven not just for exceptional wineries, but also for those on a quest for an unforgettable lunch. It’s here where iconic roadside eats meet organic, farm-to-table delicacies, and a smorgasbord of mouthwatering dishes eagerly await your arrival.

Whether you’re an aspiring foodie, a voracious traveler in need of refueling, or someone who loves to preface a wine tasting adventure with a solid meal, you’ll discover a rich palette of lunch spots in this charming town. In no order of preference, here are our top 10 picks for a delicious lunch experience in St. Helena.

Violetto

Set in the elegant ambiance of a historic mansion at the stunning Alila Napa Valley, Violetto is known for its homage to Napa history through cuisine that is inspired by both Italian and French heritage. Always crafted with the freshest ingredients, don’t miss lunch classics like the decadent griddled mortadella sandwich or, for something on the lighter side, the tuna niçoise. Similar to their dinner service, they offer a three-course prix fixe menu for lunch. Whatever direction you go in, a la carte or the full shebang, don’t miss closing your meal out with the Violetto tiramisu.

1915 Main Street, St. Helena, CA 94574, (707) 963-9004

Clif Family Bruschetteria Food Truck

Don’t let the ‘food truck’ part fool you; this gourmet restaurant on wheels churns out some of the most delectable lunch options in St. Helena. From polenta tots to roast chicken to a variety of bruschetta options, the food is always innovative, seasonal, and local at the Clif Family Bruschetteria Truck. In fact, many of the ingredients come from the Clif Family’s own certified organic farm. Order your food to enjoy right there on the patio, or get it to-go and picnic at a nearby Napa winery.

709 Main Street, St. Helena, CA 94574, (707) 301-7188

Gott’s Roadside

Gott’s Roadside is a play on the classic American roadside diners of yesteryear, but with a modern, Wine Country twist. Famous for its gourmet burgers, crisp fries, and thick milkshakes, Gott’s is always a popular spot for a fun, casual lunch in Napa. While the burgers are unmissable, do set sail on a culinary adventure with their crispy ahi poke tacos—a crowd favorite! And to round off the experience? A generous lineup of draft beers, non-alcoholic beverages, and an extensive selection of California wines. After all, this is Napa Valley.

933 Main Street, St. Helena, CA 94574, (707) 963-3486

Brasswood Bar + Kitchen

A treasure on the St. Helena culinary map, Brasswood Bar + Kitchen marries Californian cuisine with the laid-back charm of Wine Country. Savor a seasonally-driven lunch menu featuring vibrant salads, artisanal pizzas, scrumptious sandwiches, and indulgent pastas, either on the idyllic patio or in the handsome interior of the restaurant. If you’re feeling a bit more indulgent, opt for the four-course Lunch Pairing Experience that artfully combines Brasswood’s dishes with their own wines.

3111 St. Helena Highway, St. Helena, CA 94574, (707) 302-5101

Farmstead at Long Meadow Ranch

At Farmstead, the ‘farm-to-table’ philosophy isn’t just a concept—it’s a delicious reality served on a plate. Every dish, brimming with ingredients freshly harvested from their organic farm and vineyard, promises a culinary experience that’s a treat for the taste buds. Relax on their welcoming outdoor patio or inside the casual restaurant with a signature grass-fed beef burger or a farm-fresh salad, paired with a glass of estate wine from Long Meadow Ranch. And for an extra touch of deliciousness, don’t skip the side of cheddar biscuits or mac n’ cheese—they’re a delight!

738 Main Street, St. Helena, CA 94574, (707) 963-4555

The Model Bakery

The beloved Model Bakery is renowned for its world-class English muffins (Oprah endorses them!), but its offerings extend well beyond breakfast. A lunchtime visit to its original St. Helena location promises gourmet sandwiches, refreshing salads, and even a daily pizza selection. When lunch cravings strike, The Model Bakery is a satisfying pit-stop during a day of wine tasting and exploring.

1357 Main Street, St. Helena, CA 94574, (707) 963-8192

Cook St. Helena

Blending the cuisine of Northern Italian cuisine with the locally sourced ingredients of the Napa region, Cook St. Helena is your ticket to Italy right in the heart of Napa. From house-pulled mozzarella to daily-changing risotto, as well as slow-cooked Bolognese that whispers tales of Italian grandmothers, every dish at this welcoming restaurant is a promise of fulfillment—one mouthwatering bite at a time.

1310 Main Street, St. Helena, CA 94574, (707) 963-7088

Market

Based around the idea that comforting food can be fresh and simple, yet incredibly satisfying, Market‘s menu is a love letter to American classics—think fried chicken and baby back ribs—but reimagined with local, organic ingredients. Try their French dip, Champagne battered fish n’ chips, or chopped salad, then wash it down with a blood orange Manhattan for a truly satisfying mid-day meal.

1347 Main Street, St. Helena, CA 94574, (707) 963-3799

The Charter Oak

Set in a beautiful, ivy-covered building with a serene outdoor patio and an industrial-chic indoor dining space, The Charter Oak is a popular dinner spot for its beautiful family-style food., but don’t discount it for a mid-day meal. Featuring locally sourced, simple, and creative California-inspired dishes from acclaimed chef Christopher Kostow, lunch here is truly a delight. Start with raw vegetables from their nearby farm, then opt for the cheeseburger with hand-cut fries, or the roasted black cod, for a perfect lunch in Wine Country.

1050 Charter Oak Avenue, St. Helena, CA 94574, (707) 302-6996

Pizzeria Tra Vigne

For a casual yet mouth-watering lunch in Napa Valley, Pizzeria Tra Vigne is the place to be. Their Neapolitan-style pizzas, crisp salads, and Italian gelato make for a perfectly comforting mid-day meal. And, because the restaurant is kid-friendly (and dog-friendly on the patio!), it’s a no brainer for families who want to eat well in Napa Valley, without any of the pretense.

1050 Charter Oak Avenue, St. Helena, CA 94574, (707) 302-6996