My first trip to Napa & my first choice restaurants are booked (French Laundry, Bouchon, Tra Vigne for November!). Any suggestions on others?

One of the oldest, but still my favorite is Mustards. Much more casual, but always wonderful food and service. We have never been able to prebook Tra Vigne, but have managed to get in at last minute, but of course I always hate to hold off having a reservation somewhere else on the chance of getting it. What about the new Pinot -- forget the name, Pinot Blanc maybe?? Had a very nice lunch there. Never been, but people rave about the French food at Domaine Chandon.

Terra is St. Helena is superb! It is owned by a husband/wife team and I believe they were once with Spago. We had one of my all time favorite meals there. Another suggestion: a couple of weeks ago we went to Bouchon without a reservation and were able to get in with just a moments wait--go early--it is a wonderful, casual French bistro.
I've not been there but have heard good things about Bistro Jeaunty in Yountville.

My sister and I go to Greystone at the CIA every time we are in Napa. We also enjoy Rutherford Grill for a casual night out.

Our B&B owners also raved about a new restaurant called Toque - the same type of tasting menu as French Laundry but with more readily available reservations.

Another idea - go for an elaborate lunch at one of your first choice restaurants and dine Napa Valley style for dinner - go to the Oakville grocery, buy wine, bread, cheese and salami, and have a picnic dinner.

Have fun!

Mary,Another vote for the Rutherford Grill. We've also had some good meals at the Napa Grill in Yountville.

I've had a few friends who ate at Brix and reallly liked it, but I can't personally comment.

And if you do stop by the Oakville Grocery, get some cookies to go with the picinic lunch.
Bon appetite.
Kal

We were also in Napa a few weeks ago and were able to be seated at Bouchon, without reservations, for a late dinner. A second for the Napa Grill in Yountville. Also, the deli at Sattui vineyard was great. We got lunch there and ate it at their picnic tables under the olive trees. Another great picnic spot is LaFamiglia (Mondavi), but they do require reservations. It might also be worth a try to see if your hotel concierge or B&B host can get a reservation for you.