Up to now, much of the content for this month’s theme of kid-friendly activities in the Napa Valley has been focused Upvalley (the term used by locals to connote the northern part of the valley).
And the fact that, so far, I’ve mainly highlighted activities in Saint Helena is natural as that is where we live and spend most of our time.
But we do occasionally wander down valley. And one of our favorite spots is Michael Chiarello’s flagship NapaStyle store and Paninoteca in Yountville.
While the store itself isn’t necessarily kid-friendly (with all the fancy glassware and whatnot), it isn’t un-kid-friendly and it’s totally worth it to take the time to browse and shop. Plus, you might also see Michael himself–sometimes even with his family too.
The Paninoteca is located towards the rear of the store. Just place your order at the register back there and take a seat at one of the several tables inside, or as we prefer, on the pretty patio outside. You’ll enjoy a casual courtyard with dappled shade along with the freshly-prepared, delicious salads and sandwiches. There is also a nice selection of wine and non-alcoholic beverages.
Who: All ages, but I am not sure if they offer highchairs–note: kids need to be closely supervised when inside the store, but there’s a lot of freedom out on the patio
What: Wonderful, eclectic NapaStyle goods in a beautiful retail space; but for families we really like the Paninoteca–especially the patio dining
Where: NapaStyle, V Marketplace, 6525 Washington Street in Yountville
When: Lunch, particularly on a nice day so you can sit outside
Why: To bring home something special for your home, kitchen or garden and to delight in upscale-casual lunchfare in a kid-safe, easy outdoor setting
Piggyback
The olive grove of the Paninoteca patio
Playing on the patio
An aside: I was very impressed when I saw this clever use of a champagne riddling rack at NapaStyle.
Perhaps these racks aren’t common where you live, but you see them all over the place in the Napa Valley. In our home, we have one Tom gave me for a birthday present; we use it simply for decoration.
Here, they purposed one to grow herbs, greens, and even tomatoes. I think this is an awesome idea for anyone with limited space who wishes to grow at least a bit of their own food.
Riddling rack as garden