A Pinch-Me Moment

The other morning, I took a walk through town—and had to stop for a second. I looked around and let it all sink in...I’m officially a full-time resident of Yountville in Napa Valley, California. With a population of just 3,280 (well, 3,282 now!), this tiny town may just hold the record for most Michelin stars/recommendations per capita. It’s surreal, in the best way.

First of all, as I walk out of my house and because is harvest season, the first thing that hits me is the smell of fermenting grapes...ah, that's not "normal" for a long-time city/suburban dweller like me. My walk is any foodie’s dream route. I stroll past one of our longtime favorites from the Thomas Keller empire, Ad Hoc, then down past the iconic French Laundry and their beautiful culinary gardens, and eventually end up at another beloved spot, Ciccio. Across the street, there’s a necessary pit stop for the best scones you’ll ever taste at Honor Market, though locals know it as Kelly’s Gas Station favored for their hot dogs and Strauss soft serve ice creams (when you know you know!)

Even when there’s a line of tourists, I am willing to join them so I can get a cappuccino and freshly baked epi baguette from Bouchon Bakery. Across the bakery is Clementine’s, a new spot by Chef Rebecca Weitzman (formerly of Flora Farms in San José del Cabo, where she earned Michelin recommendations 2 years in a row). It’s always exciting to see new culinary talent joining the Yountville scene, especially someone from Flora Farms, where we visit frequently!

I also paused by the Bardessono Hotel, where I checked out the grapes and celebrated a bit for Jon & GMo and their successful upcoming harvest. We've met so many people who are making their own small batch wines, it's mind boggling. Just as I made my way around the corner to the post office, a hot air balloon launch from the Estate Yountville parking lot across the street. I sat down to sip the rest of my cappuccino and enjoyed another balloon launch and breathed deeply. Pure magic.

Moments like these still make me stop, smile, and think—Wow, I actually live here...pinch me!