I'm currently planning a surprise 50th birthday celebration for my husband in Napa Valley. I've rented a 8 bedroom B&B for a 3 day weekend for our friends across the country to join us. I'd also like to plan a long, leisurely dinner for Friday, October 24.

I was originally thinking a "cave dinner" at a winery but haven't found one that fit the bill. I'm open to a private room at a restaraunt as long as it is a little unique (and not just a private room I could get at a restaraunt at home!).

I have a party of 16 with a wide variety of food preference so if I do something with a set menu, I have to have some options at least on the entree. I want to have wine paired with most/all courses or have at least a few wine alternatives throughout the meal.

Does anyone have any recommendations for a unique, leisurely, Napa dining experience?

Thank you for any suggestions!!

Check winecountry.com for some ideas


Possibly the Culinary Intitute of America (CIA) Greystone a wonderful architechturally inspiring old greystone winery..would consider a private party on their outdoor patio or one of their indoor rooms......they have acooking school and perhaps they would do a private tour as well...

Also I did a similiar thing several years ago..we were friends with a winery and they did avery private alfresco dinner at the winery...I beleive it was Novemeber Thanksgiving weekend and it was still nice enough to do an outdoor midafternoon lunch early dinner..we had twinkle light, candles and heaters..it was magical..

Some wineries will provide what you are looking for - if they have their own chef. Peju Winery in Rutherford often does private dinners in a variety of settings on their property. Call the winery and ask. Another option is Meritage Resort in Napa. They have a wine cave. Call Meritage and ask for Max to discuss your ideas.
A third option would be calling Meadowood Resort (St. Helena). It is a gorgeous property, full of the ambience you seek, and they have a number of private dining options.
Less fancy, but with bucolic ambience and a charming patio dining area, is Wappo Bistro in Calistoga. If the weather turns cool, they have a nice room off the patio. Another restaurant with special charm and a variety of private dining settings (both indoor and out - really lovely) is Bay Leaf on the outskirts of Napa not far from Silverado Resort.
Also, a call to Wine Valley Catering might be helpful. They are an outstanding company, very professional, fabulous food - and they may be able to suggest a venue for your catered meal.

All of the above suggestions are great--here's one more: have you considered hiring a chef to cook at the B&B? Is that possible? No driving, no noise or intrusion from other guests. No rushing to clear the table for other seatings. Very relaxed way to go. We've done this for both business and family gatherings and it's been a great way to enjoy great food and company as you can get up from the table, mingle, wander, etc.

Have you looked at Artesa ?
It's definitely not something you'd find at home, lol
I have been to a few private events
there and it is quite lovely- stunning inside and out.
http://www.artesawinery.com/tour/

For the long, leisurely portion of your request, I thought of
Cindy's Backstreet Kitchen-she has a private space on their 2nd floor, as well as a courtyard that would fit your group.
It's been a fave of mine since she opened.
http://www.cindysbackstreetkitchen.com

R5