Type: Northern Italian // $–$$
Michelin Guide and Zagat–recognized Cook is a gem in St. Helena’s Historic Shopping District. Serving simple but elegant Northern Italian cuisine, featuring daily rotating risotto, house-stretched mozzarella and burrata, and pasta that Zagat says is “done right”—all made with local, seasonal Napa Valley ingredients. The cozy storefront draws locals and tourists alike for an intimate, chef-driven farm-to-table experience where you’ll honestly “eat well with locals.” Reservations are highly recommended; the restaurant is only open Monday–Friday.
Why we like it:
We always go for the daily rotating risotto, the ricotta fazzoletti with intensely flavored Bolognese, or the house-stretched mozzarella and burrata, paired with Italian varietals from local Napa wineries. Perfect for intimate dinners, couples, or a quality lunch during wine country tours.