Queen of Salsa, Celia Cruz, plays softly from the speaker above our table. The afternoon sun, filtered through a canvas screen, casts a muted glow. Grapevines climb the side of the building and cascade through the open wood beams of the arbor. A gentle breeze rustles the dangling leaves. Directly past the white stucco patio wall, the tops of the trees lining Washington Street melt into the thick green foliage of the Mayacamas in the distance. A Caribbean vacation might not be

Napa Valley is long on natural beauty and stunning views, but short on opportunities to enjoy a meal outdoors. Every year when the first warm days start to peek through the chill of winter, my partner and I are compelled to don brightly colored summer clothes and head to a patio for dinner before the sun sets. But there’s always a roadblock – where exactly can we enjoy an affordable meal outside? Grove at CIA Copia is the answer to our warm weather conundrum. What had formerl

We decided to visit two local delis and serve up some food for thought. Our first afternoon excursion began as a mystery to us. We chose a place none of us have been. One thing was certain, we found some good food! The first day, we headed up the trail, Silverado Trail that is—two miles north of Trancas Street—to Soda Canyon Store. It’s the the only deli you’ll find on the trail until you hit Calistoga. The barista cheerfully greeted everyone that came in the door. The aroma

The line starts early as people are waiting long before the doors open. Only a few people come in at a time so everyone gets individualized attention and what they need. After checking in, people are met by their own personal guides. The guides take them through every section, cereals and grains, produce, fridge and freezer, sauces and condiments, baked goods, breads, and more are all lined up and organized waiting. Carts and bags are filled and taken out to waiting cars or r