
Gott’s Roadside
RESTAURANT SUMMARY

Where elevated American comfort food meets Napa Valley sophistication, Gott's Roadside Napa transforms the classic roadside stand into a culinary destination that bridges casual dining with premium ingredients. This James Beard Award-winning institution proves that exceptional cuisine doesn't require white tablecloths, delivering gourmet burgers and California-inspired fare in a vibrant, community-focused setting.
Founded by brothers Joel and Duncan Gott in 1999, Gott's Roadside emerged from the transformation of Taylor's Refresher, a humble 1949 roadside stand along Highway 29. The Gott brothers, hailing from Napa's renowned winemaking heritage, envisioned a restaurant that would honor American roadside traditions while embracing the valley's commitment to exceptional ingredients and culinary innovation. Their vision earned recognition from the James Beard Foundation as an "America's Classic" in 2006, cementing Gott's status as a pioneer in the fast-casual fine dining movement. Today, under the culinary guidance of chefs like Jennifer Rebman, the restaurant continues evolving its menu while maintaining its foundational commitment to quality and accessibility.
The cuisine at Gott's Roadside elevates familiar American classics through meticulous sourcing and California sensibilities. The signature California Burger showcases Angus beef crowned with fried egg, artisanal Zoe's bacon, and balsamic onions, while the innovative Ahi Poke Crispy Tacos feature sushi-grade tuna with avocado slaw in crispy shells. The legendary Garlic Fries, tossed in robust garlic-infused olive oil, have achieved iconic status throughout Napa Valley. Seasonal specials highlight local produce, and the menu thoughtfully accommodates modern dietary preferences with options like the Impossible burger. Each dish reflects the restaurant's philosophy of using premium, locally sourced ingredients to create approachable yet sophisticated comfort food that rivals the best fine dining in Napa.
The atmosphere embraces California's indoor-outdoor lifestyle with communal picnic tables, open-air patios, and a festive, unpretentious vibe that welcomes everyone from wine country tourists to local families. The beverage program celebrates regional excellence with carefully curated California wines, local craft beers including Russian River Pliny on tap, and house-made organic milkshakes crafted with Three Twins Ice Cream. Service maintains the warmth of traditional roadside hospitality while delivering the attention to detail expected in Napa's dining scene.
For discerning diners seeking authentic California casual cuisine, Gott's Roadside offers an essential Napa Valley experience that proves luxury lies in exceptional ingredients and genuine hospitality. No reservations required—simply arrive ready to discover why this roadside institution has earned its place among Napa's most beloved dining destinations.
CHEF
Joel Gott
ACCOLADES

(2025) EP Club Recommended Restaurant
