Ensconced among 712 acres of picturesque Carneros vineyards, the Auberge Stanly Ranch is one of the latest additions to the hotel chain’s distinguished global portfolio. Embodying understated elegance, the sprawling resort and its farm-forward restaurant, Bear, have emerged as beacons for the new Napa Valley, introducing a modern essence to the iconic yet sleepy California wine region.

Bear has a gorgeous open-air kitchen that comes alive for breakfast, lunch, and dinner, with a menu focused on elemental California cuisine served in a convivial family-style setting. Seasonal dishes, many prepared with produce from a bountiful on-site garden, are the foundation of this exceptional restaurant along with its extensive wine list that highlights hyper-local vineyards. Low-key mornings on the terrace give way to a buzzy lunch, while a perfectly moody dinner is offered daily from 5:00 PM to 10:00 PM. Brunch is also available on Saturdays and Sundays, and is the only meal I have yet to experience here.

Bear at Stanly Ranch debuted in April 2022, and while in Napa for onboarding in July 2022, I enjoyed my first meal there. The restaurant swiftly earned the status of my preferred in the region, and I have dined there on five separate occasions while in wine country for work.

Journal Entry From My First Meal at Bear

July 2022 - I cannot recollect the last time I was eager to rush back to my hotel room to sit and feverishly jot down my feelings about a dinner I had just experienced. It’s day 2 in Napa and I have already endured 3 bad meals - it was time to take control before I was subjected to another culinary blundering. As I write this, I’m on the waiting list at French Laundry and am eating at Ad Hoc tomorrow night. Still, I needed a drastic new direction for dinner this evening and my research led me to Bear at Stanly Ranch, located at one of the new American Auberge properties in the cool climate Carneros region of Napa Valley.

In true Auberge fashion, the property effortlessly embraces its breathtaking surroundings, establishing itself as the focal point of an exquisite landscape. Exuding a rustic chic charm, it offers a level of refined tranquility that discerning travelers crave. A standout feature is the expansive garden, a haven for the fresh fruits and vegetables that grace the tables of the hotel's esteemed restaurant, Bear.

In the heart of Napa Valley, Bear sets the gold standard for honoring California's bountiful produce, going beyond mere lip service. Within this culinary sanctuary, dishes unfold like vibrant canvases, reflecting the freshness and seasonal essence of the farm-to-table ingredients that inspire them. The chance to intimately connect with the soil that nurtures these ingredients was truly extraordinary. The land teemed with an abundance of aromatic herbs, an array of tomatoes, and an assortment of melons and gourds, evoking a sensory journey through the essence of California's terroir. The vibrant serrano and habanero peppers painted a mesmerizing tapestry of spicy chiles, so captivating that I couldn't resist capturing the scene to share with my Dad over text. He has an impressive crop of vegetables at home!

When I arrived at the restaurant, a party of one, I instantly took in its beauty. Tall ceilings, a glass-adorned bar, and warm tones created a space of cozy understated luxury. The hostess suggested a lovely seat indoors but I was in need of natural light and requested to dine al fresco. I soon realized that they were trying to keep their patio quiet as Travis Scott, blunt in hand, was enjoying a business dinner with friends and colleagues. He too made the right decision for dinner.

As a solo diner, the dining experience is somewhat limited by the inability to sample an extensive array of dishes without friends or family present. On my first visit, I could only manage to order four plates, yet each one left an indelible mark. My culinary journey commenced with a Palomino cocktail, an intoxicating Mezcal and Tequila elixir that hinted at the extraordinary feast ahead. The lineup included a tantalizing array of dishes: from the vibrant Farm Vegetables and Bison Tartare to the Grilled Peaches with Buratta, culminating in the surprising delight of Sourdough Ice Cream for dessert.

Bear at Stanly Ranch emerges as a standout among Napa Valley's culinary scene, captivating discerning palates with its exceptional offerings. The Bison Tartare, in particular, stands as a masterpiece, transcending the realm of ordinary dishes. Its diverse textures and nuanced flavors deliver a symphony of delight with every bite, evoking a sense of culinary euphoria. So profound was its impact that I found myself passionately recounting its virtues to my husband for a full 15 minutes over FaceTime, a testament to the impression it left on me. It was a poetic ode to tartare.

As I’ve matured and have further cultivated a discerning palate, I have come to regard the quality of produce as the ultimate litmus test for a restaurant. How does this vegetable taste and how has the chef accented it? In a region abundant with bistros, my quest in Napa Valley is to savor the essence of California's fertile land. At Bear, I found myself transported back to the delightful vegetable creations I savored at the now-closed PYT in Downtown L.A. and Bell in Los Alamos. The radiant flavors and nourishment of farm-fresh produce not only foster a profound connection to the earth but also offer a glimpse into the chef's artistry. To partake in the chef's vision of a peach, leek, or butter lettuce leaf is an experience that feels truly extraordinary.

Food & Drink at Bear Stanly Ranch - What to Order

My must-order includes Sourdough with nasturtium and cultured butter, Farm Vegetables with cashew-miso dip, Kampachi, Gem Lettuces, Deep Fried Mushrooms, and always, Bison Tartare.

The food and drink at Bear at Stanly Ranch in Napa Valley are exceptional, offering a culinary journey that celebrates the region's finest ingredients and flavors. The menu features a delightful array of dishes that showcase the bounty of the local area, expertly prepared with creativity and precision. From farm-fresh produce to expertly crafted cocktails and a thoughtfully curated wine list, every aspect of the dining experience is designed to delight the senses and elevate the palate. Whether savoring a signature dish or indulging in a carefully selected wine pairing, guests can expect nothing short of culinary excellence at Bear at Stanly Ranch.

The Scene

Step into the refined world of Bear at Stanly Ranch in Napa Valley, where rustic elegance creates a memorable dining experience. Nestled amidst picturesque vineyards and countryside, this culinary gem offers more than just a meal—it offers an escape. The warm and inviting ambiance sets the stage for a relaxed yet refined atmosphere, ensuring every visit is a memorable journey through the heart of wine country.

The Service

Exceptional! The service at Bear at Stanly Ranch in Napa Valley is known for being attentive, knowledgeable, and friendly. The staff is dedicated to providing a high level of hospitality and ensuring that guests have a seamless and enjoyable dining experience. Whether it's offering recommendations, accommodating special requests, or simply providing a warm welcome, the service at Bear at Stanly Ranch is designed to exceed expectations and leave a lasting impression. Reservations are easy to make via Resy.