Perched on Rutherford Hill with commanding views across Napa Valley's legendary vineyards, The Restaurant at Auberge du Soleil Napa stands as the region's pioneering fine dining destination, where Mediterranean-inspired cuisine meets California's seasonal bounty in an atmosphere of understated luxury.

Founded in 1981 by French restaurateur Claude Rouas, this iconic establishment holds the distinction of being Napa Valley's first fine dining restaurant, setting the standard for wine country gastronomy. Under Executive Chef Robert Curry's leadership since 2005, the restaurant has maintained its Michelin star recognition for 17 consecutive years, earning accolades including Wine Spectator's Grand Award and Forbes Travel Guide's Four-Star rating. Pastry Chef Paul Lemieux, with the team since 2003, crafts exceptional desserts using house-roasted chocolate from globally sourced cacao beans, adding an artisanal dimension to the culinary experience.

The cuisine celebrates French and Mediterranean traditions through a distinctly Californian lens, showcasing ingredients sourced from local farms and artisanal producers. Chef Curry's tasting menu features signature creations like Nantucket Bay scallops with green garlic sauce, squid ink linguine crowned with Mendocino uni and lobster claw meat, and Wolfe Ranch quail. The culinary journey culminates with Lemieux's inventive desserts, including orange zest honey sponge cake with fromage blanc, cardamom cream, and rhubarb sorbet. The restaurant's commitment to seasonal cooking ensures each visit reveals new interpretations of the region's finest ingredients.

The recently redesigned dining room, crafted by Suzanne Tucker, evokes the sophisticated charm of the South of France while maximizing the spectacular panoramic vineyard views that define the experience. The main dining room flows seamlessly to expansive terraces where guests dine beneath olive trees, creating an al fresco experience that epitomizes Napa fine dining. Wine Director Kris Margerum oversees a world-class cellar of 15,000 bottles, featuring exceptional Napa Valley selections alongside international treasures, with over 40 wines available by the glass at the adjacent fireside bar.

Reservations are essential for this coveted destination, where resort smart casual attire befits the refined yet relaxed atmosphere. The Restaurant at Auberge du Soleil reservations should be secured well in advance, particularly for terrace seating during optimal weather. This is where Napa's culinary legacy began, and where discerning diners continue to discover why it remains among the best restaurants Napa has to offer.