Lisa Koester – Director of Sales

Director of Sales Since 2001

I have worked at the Napa River Inn since 2001. When I moved here from San Francisco, I thought I would enjoy the quiet and low-key lifestyle of Napa Valley I had so dreamed of. In fact, many of my city friends still ask me, “Don’t you ever get bored?”

Ha! With so much to do here in Napa, I am busier now than I ever was in the city. The Napa Valley Opera House, the Uptown Theater, Lincoln Theater,  Robert Mondavi Winery and the White Barn are but a few of the venues hosting regular concerts and events. I could be out 7 nights a week, but I have to save some time for staying home and drinking wine.

People think we are spoiled here with the perfect climate, copious amounts of award-winning wine, exceptional restaurants, gourmet foods and organic produce. . (OK, so we are).  But,  the thing I love most about living in Napa Valley and working at the Napa River Inn is the people. Without the friendly attitude and helpful people here everyday, life really would be a bore. For me, life is not about doing–it’s  about being. And being a part of the family life at the Napa River Inn is what makes so many guests return. We all like to hear compliments about our business, but when those compliments are from people whose lives were somehow changed by an overnight stay, we all sleep soundly…

Here is a two-day itinerary for some of my favorite things to do in Napa Valley-from an insider’s perspective:

Day 1:

Start the day off with coffee and freshly-baked pastries at Bouchon Bakery in Yountville. The macaroons here are as good as any you’ll find in Paris. Maybe even better.

Fueled with caffeine and sugar, head over to the Bale Grist Mill.  There is a wonderful hike around the historic mill and you can go down to the cemetary to see where some former members of the Donner Party are buried. It’s an interesting look into the history of Napa Valley. Be sure to check in first to see what time the next mill demonstration takes place. You can grind your own oats and even take some home. This is a well-kept secret in Napa Valley. But the flour you get there will make some of the best pancakes or polenta you’ve ever had.

After all that hiking and mill grinding, you’ll have worked up an appetite. Head over to Cindy’s Backstreet Kitchen in downtown Saint Helena for the daily special.     If you don’t have a reservation you can sit up at the bar with the rest of the locals and discuss the latest blending techniques. Of course, you may have to imbibe in the latest vintage in order to fully understand the discussion.

After lunch, walk a few doors down to the ultimate, charming and original Art Deco movie theater: The Cameo Cinema. Go with your sweetie and grab one of the few double chairs in the back. Perfect for snuggling and sharing a box of popcorn. Owner Cathy Buck has been known to look the other way should you accidentally slip a bottle of wine into your bag for during the show. Just be sure to throw away your own garbage after the movie. (And don’t tell her I said that.)

If you’re still hungry for dinner,  Go Fish has some of the best sushi around.   Or, head back to the hotel for a nap and grab a late night bite at the Bounty Hunter. The beer can chicken is world famous! From there, you can stroll back to the Napa River Inn and dream of day two on this itinerary.

Day 2:

Ahhh…. greet the universe with a morning yoga class down the street at Ubuntu.  Translation: Practice Humanity Towards Others. Don’t mind the smell of fresh ingredients wafting up from the kitchen as the sous chefs prepare for the day. You can always come back later to enjoy a delicious meal. After yoga, it’s time for breakfast. Here in Napa Valley, that means BUBBLES! Take a short drive over to Domaine Carneros for your breakfast of champions.

The views are unparalleled. After your sparkling wine tasting, hop on over across the road to the DiRosa Preserve. You will be amazed and surprised at the collection of art Renee diRosa has amassed. The new crew are carrying on his vision to provide an amazing collection of ground breaking young artists. This place makes SOHO look conservative.

By now, it’s certainly time for lunch. You could have your choice of restaurants back at the Historic Napa Mill,   or head over to the Oxbow for a fun and casual lunch. I like the ahi tuna “burger” at Gott’s Roadside Diner, or the fish tacos at C Casa.

After lunch, you’ll want to burn off some steam. Head back over to the Riverfront where you can rent bikes for the afternoon. Ahhh… all this outdoor exercise and great food will ensure you a good night’s sleep!

Want to spend two days in Napa, hitting all my favorite spots?  Napa River Inn can help arrange your stay so that you can experience the amazing adventure that I’ve described above – or any version you fancy! Book your room at Napa River Inn and a concierge will be in contact with you to set up your getaway.  Just note you’d like to talk about Lisa’s itinerary!