The Best Casual Restaurants in Napa

Food is a pillar of the Napa Valley, with thousands of great restaurants in Napa how do you choose where to eat?  The choices are incredible.  You can fight for a reservation at French Laundry, stop at any of the dive Chinese restaurants, eat off the taco truck, or hit In-N-Out.  The options that you have can be very overwhelming.

This article takes a look at three of the best casual restaurants in Napa.  These are all places that are great for the whole family, or for a day out with your friends.  No reservations needed, no fancy attire, just great food, wine and beer!  

I certainly can't choose for you, but I'll help you decide.

Pizzeria Azzurro is a Downtown Napa staple that is loved by locals and tourists alike.  They specialize in thin-crust pizza, pasta and salads.  Many of the staple items on the menu remain the same all year, but many things change with the season and the specials change frequently.  Azzurro has an extensive wine and beer menu, and a knowledgeable staff that can help you successfully pair your wine and food.

Don't plan on sharing pizza.  One pie is a big meal for one person, but not enough to share evenly.  Start with a salad, or olives if you plan on sharing.

They are open for lunch and dinner throughout the week, and open at five for dinner service on the weekends.  Avoid the crowds by going for dinner Monday through Thursday, or right when they open on the weekend.  They don't take reservations, so plan to wait if you come during peak times.  No delivery, but you can call your order in to pick it up.

Azzurro Pizzeria - Visit their website for phone number and current menu.

Villa Corona is located in the Bel Aire Plaza, which is also home to Whole Foods and Trader Joe's.  It turns out that Villa Corona is a chain of restaurants throughout the North Bay (including a location in St. Helena).  Having never eaten at any other restaurants in the chain, I'm only writing about their location in Napa.

Villa Corona has great Mexican food at fair prices.  The burritos are huge, the combo plates are excellent, and they have Coke made with sugar.  How awesome is that?!  Ordering takes place at the front counter, they give you a number and bring your food to you when it's ready.  

The thing that sets this place apart from the other Mexican restaurants in Napa is the decor.  The walls are covered in Day of the Dead and Frida Kahlo style art that's available for purchase.  It's a perfect compliment to the large stone tile floor.

Prices are very reasonable, expect about ten bucks a person.  They also have a kids menu.  To avoid the crowd, come in the evening.  Villa Corona get jammed at lunchtime!

Visit their website for more details - Villa Corona

Taylor's has a 60 year history in the Napa Valley.  It started in St. Helena in the 1949, and has grown to three locations since.  The other is in the Ferry Building in San Francisco.

The premise at Taylor's is simple.  Make simple food really well.  The menu varies from fries and corn dogs to ahi burgers and housemade soups.

To avoid the crowd, stay away on Tuesday nights (locals night) and the weekend.  The service is fast, so don't let a long line scare you away.

Visit their website - Taylor's Automatic Refresher