Casual bites

The Beer Bistro

This solid, no-frills pub in the heart of the West Loop serves more than 130 brews, with 13 of them in rotation on tap. The menu is straightforward as well—think quesadillas, Caesar salad, fish-and-chips and gigantic burgers. If you’re tired of cocktails and fancy food and just want to kick back and relax, the Beer Bistro is the answer.

Healdsburg Bar & Grill

If you need a break from culinary acrobatics and just want to tuck into a simple classic; a burger, a Caesar salad or a thin-crust pizza; grab an outdoor table on the patio at Healdsburg Bar & Grill. The dishes are accessible and delicious, and the mood is very relaxed.

Taylor's Automatic Refresher

Yes, one of the great pleasures of the Valley is getting dressed to the nines and indulging in an unforgettable meal at one of its many gorgeous restaurants. But there is also a time and a place for a fabulous patty melt and a chocolate shake, savored in the sunshine at a bright-red picnic table in the grass. This casual diner just happens to have a more serious wine menu than most; this is still Napa, after all.

Chefs' Market

This vibrant farmers market is like a foodie carnival, with chef demonstrations, fabulous food, live music and plenty of local color. It's a nice change of pace from some of the uber-posh Napa Valley experiences. Thursdays 5-9pm, late May-late July.

Gillwoods Cafe

This cafe in the heart of downtown St. Helena keeps things simple, and that's part of its charm. If you're craving a big old-fashioned egg breakfast or a quick lunchtime BLT, Gillwoods is the place.

Zuzu

Sometimes a girl just wants to have fun, and festive and spirited Zuzu is just the place. Grab a table, order a few tantalizing tapas to share, kick back and savor the sexy Latin vibe.