LOCALisms that we love
Our guide to some of the best Napa has to offer
In 2010, when we decided to start a wine brand, we wanted a name that represented what initially prompted us to jump ship on our careers and life in San Diego, and make our way to Napa. The name LOCALISM emerged during one of several brainstorming sessions, and it stuck! It felt like the perfect catch-all word for everything we thought living, working, and breathing the wine life would be. To us, LOCALISM is much larger than wine. It encompasses art, music, food, the land, family, and community. Wine is what brings it all together; wine is life.
LOCALISM sometimes feels like the kid who will never leave home, but that’s ok because it’s fun to hang out with, and it pays rent in wine 😉
Now to share a few of our favorite LOCALisms in Napa:
Waking up in wine country is magical. Hot-air balloons float high above the valley, the vineyards are pristine, and most likely, the effects of the previous day’s/night’s festivities are still lingering. Our favorite place to grab a coffee is from Monday Bakery, nestled quaintly on Second St. in downtown Napa. Their oat milk latte (with an extra shot of espresso) pairs perfectly with a freshly baked gluten-free oat bar. The staff is friendly, the pastries are so delish, and the ambiance is super laid back. The only downside is – they’re closed Wednesdays. 1412 2nd St, Napa, CA 94559 707.699.2960
Cheese & charcuterie are a must when indulging in days full of wine tastings. Our favorite place to grab a snack board is from the Oxbow Cheese & Wine Merchant. Their creations include local cheeses, beautiful charcuterie selections, dried fruit, local honey, a variety of nuts, compotes, and fresh bread. Take the board to your next tasting, or sit outside at Oxbow Market while you nosh. 610 1st St, Napa, CA 94559 707.257.5200
If you have some lag time before your dinner reso, pop into this unique downtown Napa tasting room housed in a sandstone building dating back to 1875. Their staff is super knowledgeable and fun to chat with while you taste. They offer a few menu options featuring highly sought-after, limited-production wines from some stellar brands. They pour LOCALISM here! 1245 Main Street, Napa 707.255.7150
Not far from Vintner’s Collective and situated alongside shops, hair salons, ice cream parlors, and wine-tasting rooms, is our favorite restaurant in downtown Napa. If you’re lucky enough to snag a reservation, great, but if not, stop by anyways and get your happy hour on. From 4-6 PM Tuesday-Saturday, they offer drinks on special and a “bites” menu (one word: PAKORAS). Grab a seat at the bar or a bistro table out front and sip along like a local. 1140 Main St, Napa 707.252.3293
Tucked away in an unassuming shopping center, this Italian deli is the real deal. Order their Italian sub, grab a couple of pasta salads, chips, Italian cookies, and an Orangina soda to wash it all down. The deli is always busy, so plan enough time for them to make your sandwich while you wait or order ahead for pick-up! 1550 Trancas St, Napa, CA 94558 707.253.8686
Some of our other go-to LOCALisms:
When we have time to lunch al fresco: @Angele
When we need an escape: Tapas, Paella + Albariño @Zuzu
When we’re craving a milkshake: Mint Chip @Gott’s Roadside
When we head out for a hike: @Westwood Hills
When we don’t want wine: cocktails + people watching @Arbaretum
When we are feeling artsy: @diROsa Center for Contemporary Art