posted 03-21-2006 04:27 PM
for romance, treat yourself to a cocktail at the bar at Auberge de soleio - check it out on the internet - the view from the bar is terrific, and it is romantic - but be ready for drinks ranging from $ 9 - $ 14 each.
Follow that up with dinner at Tra Vigne in St. Helena - their wine prices aren't too bad, and their meals are excellent - entree's priced from about $ 10-15.00 - but salads, etc all extra.A "local secret" with a top chef is Foothill Cafe - its food rivals any others in the valley - is small, cozy, meals I think in your stated range, they even had an "early bird" menu that is somewhat cheaper than the regular menu -
you could also go for a drink at the famed CIA - dinner there can get pricey, but it also has outdoor seating in the summer and nice view.
for excellent mexican food - with a twist, go to Las Palmas - it is casual - lunch or dinner. in Napa
Others to try: Zare - little above your preferred prices, is on Hwy 29 enroute to Yountville (north of Napa city)
Tuscany - downtown Napa
Wappo Bar and Bistro - Calistoga
Brix - hwy 29 just north of Yountville.
Napa has many great eating establishments, but they can be very, very pricy (and remember price does not necessarily equal great food)