NAPA VALLEY, CA — Napa Valley is once again earning national attention, this time for a dining experience that pairs sweeping vineyard views with one of the country's most celebrated restaurant terraces.
The Michelin Guide has named Auberge du Soleil in Rutherford one of six U.S. restaurants offering what it calls "dreamy al fresco dining," highlighting destinations where outdoor settings are as memorable as the cuisine.
Perched high above the Silverado Trail, Auberge du Soleil has long been synonymous with Napa Valley luxury since opening in 1981.
Michelin praised the restaurant's panoramic views across vineyards and the Mayacamas Mountains, noting that guests can enjoy California cuisine while overlooking one of the country's most famous wine-growing regions.
The restaurant has held one Michelin Star for 15 consecutive years. Executive Chef Robert Curry's tasting menus showcase seasonal California ingredients, while the extensive wine program emphasizes Napa Valley producers alongside international selections.
Advice from the guide: "Start with the gin-cured smoked salmon, served alongside warm potato pancakes, before moving on to heartier plates such as maple-brined grilled pork chops, corn-and-chorizo-stuffed quail or scallops paired with sweet pea and mascarpone ravioli."
Michelin's roundup features just six restaurants nationwide selected for exceptional outdoor dining experiences.
Auberge du Soleil joins destinations in New York, Washington, D.C., Colorado, and New Mexico recognized not only for outstanding food, but also for unforgettable settings.
In addition to Napa Valley, the restaurants on Michelin's "Dreamy Al Fresco Dining" list include:
• Coasterra
San Diego, California
Coasterra overlooks San Diego Bay with sweeping views of the skyline and Coronado Bridge from its expansive waterfront patio. The restaurant serves Baja-inspired Mexican cuisine, including tableside guacamole, paella, and house-made churros.
• The Rosecomb
Chattanooga, Tennessee
Set in a restored 1920s cottage, The Rosecomb pairs a garden patio with Appalachian-inspired Southern cooking. Michelin praised its relaxed atmosphere, craft cocktails, and comfort-food favorites.
• Sierra Mar
Big Sur, California
Perched on the cliffs of Big Sur, Sierra Mar offers breathtaking Pacific Ocean views from its heated patio. The seasonal tasting menu showcases California ingredients alongside cocktails made with herbs and citrus grown on the property.
• The Stonehouse
Santa Barbara, California
The Stonehouse sits on the lush San Ysidro Ranch estate, where diners enjoy Pacific Ocean views from a terrace framed by gardens and olive trees. The menu highlights seasonal Santa Barbara ingredients and produce grown on the ranch.
• Trius Winery & Restaurant
Niagara-on-the-Lake, Ontario, Canada
Trius Winery & Restaurant overlooks vineyards in Ontario's Niagara wine country from a flower-lined patio. The seasonal menu features locally sourced ingredients paired with the winery's acclaimed wines.
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