Nestled along the banks of the Napa River, the River Terrace Inn stands as a tranquil oasis in the heart of Napa Valley. It embodies the spirit of its location where the art of winemaking, the beauty of nature, and the pursuit of relaxation converge. I stayed in a spacious suite with modern luxuries like a fireplace and deep soaking bathtub. Each morning was a serene experience on the outdoor balcony taking in the calming sound of water flowing on the river while sipping on a cup of coffee.
The inn’s proximity to the vibrant center of Napa, filled with tasting rooms, fine dining, and chic shops, made exploration effortless. I made use of the riverfront walking path to clock in some steps before visiting the renowned Model Bakery for their exceptional English muffins. Adjacent to Model Bakery, Oxbow Market delighted my foodie senses with its array of shops and restaurants.
After a day of wine tasting and exploration, returning to the tranquil haven of the inn was a true pleasure. One evening, I dined at the hotel’s onsite restaurant, Alba, which aptly captures the essence of Napa’s culinary and wine scene, embracing the region’s agricultural heritage through a culinary lens. Alba’s charming outdoor riverside terrace adorned with olive trees and firepits set the scene for a delightful al fresco dining experience.
For my dinner at Alba, I savored the Ora King Salmon accompanied by farro verde, yuzu cream, and pumpkin seed oil. The salmon’s contrast of a crisp, grilled exterior with its tender and flaky interior was a symphony of textures, enhanced by the citrusy notes of the yuzu cream.
My dining companion, Matthew, indulged in the Parisian Gnocchi featuring truffle, beurre monte, and parmesan cheese. The gnocchi’s delicate exterior led to a pillowy and tender interior, harmoniously complemented by the richness of the truffle-infused beurre monte and the umami depth of parmesan cheese.
In both the River Terrace Inn and Alba Restaurant, modern luxury seamlessly blends with gastronomic delight in a serene setting. Whether savoring local wines, leisurely strolling along the riverbanks, or unwinding by the fire pit, every moment spent at the inn encapsulates the quintessential Napa Valley experience.