8 Best Shopping in Napa and Sonoma, California

A collaboration between a local artist and jewelry maker and a Danish-born curator, this gallery presents changing exhibits of jewelry, sculpture, and objets d'art.

In addition to magazines and best-selling books, this store, part of a local indie chain, stocks a wide selection of discounted and remaindered titles, including many cookbooks.

For breakfasts, sandwiches, bread, cheeses, and picnic supplies, stop by the general store, established in 1881 and still a popular spot for locals to hang out on the porch or in the bar. Beer and wine are also for sale, along with artisanal sodas, ciders, and juices.

The long-running Saturday market, held from early spring to late fall, provides one-stop shopping for locally produced cheeses, breads, herbs, meats, and oils, in addition to the usual (ultratasty) fruits and vegetables. The flavors and smells arouse the senses, and the participants' passion warms the heart.

The Healdsburg branch of this Napa-based store is filled with wine, condiments, and deli items, and sells sandwiches and picnic fixings. A terrace with ample seating makes a good place for an impromptu meal, but you should lunch early or late to avoid the crowds. The Oakville Wine Merchant next door has 40 wines on tap, including many from Sonoma County.

At 9,000 square feet this is one of California’s largest art galleries, with contemporary paintings, sculptures, and photographs. It’s also the GrapeSeed tasting room (wines by Matt Smith from Italian varietals are the highlight); patrons sip amid the fine art. The gallery claims its moss wall art in the back is North America’s largest.

The owners of the award-winning SingleThread Farms Restaurant opened a fancy stand at the 24-acre farm that supplies much of the produce for their same-named dining spot. In addition to mindfully tended fruits, vegetables, and herbs grown, the store sells sauces, flowers, kitchen supplies, and wine. Weekend workshops cover farming and other topics. This place is so ag au courant it's worth checking out even if you're not interested in buying anything.