The Beaune Yard

Napa is known for both wine and food.  There are any number of “famous” or “destination” restaurants.  Think Auberge, The French Laundry, etc.  However, the reason I think that they are successful at this foodie paradise is consistent execution at a level that is way above normal. 

Celadon is no exception to this rule.  I was fortunate enough to have lunch there last week and in the process got to see a real fine dining experience for lunch. 

The first impression that you get when walking into Celadon is a nice open air but covered patio.  It has a wood fireplace in the center and is protected from the sun by the building across the alley and is very peaceful.  There is an inside dining area but the patio is the place to be in the summer.  The second impression you get is the very attentive help. The entire patio was filled yet we felt as if we were the only table there.  In addition, it was a business lunch and the staff picked up on this issue and only interrupted when brining food or when they were concerned that we were in need of something.  Much better than a standard protocol of checking on a table every X minutes regardless of need.  It is another example of how sophisticated the crew is at Celadon.

Then we move to the wine list.  The wine list is full of half bottles and glasses so that you can benefit from the large variety of wineries in Napa.  There is also a significant volume of bottles from a very broad range of wineries.  It is refreshing to see someone take the time to go for something other than you standard fare.

We ordered lunch and not only was it efficiency (this does not mean quick but rather means it was delivered when it should have been) placed on the table, it was delicious.  I had a mandarin chicken preparation that had something in the vegetables that was spicy yet sweet.  The chicken was prepared so well that you were almost lost in it.  The sauce was a bit too much for the mild taste of the chicken but did not make you lose the meal.

The other people at the table had similar opinions of Celadon and the quality of their meal.

Overall, given the chance to go back, I would and I would without hesitation recommend Celadon for a meal.  The elegance of this meal and the wonderful setting did make for a great meal.  I am just left wondering if this is a destination spot when I go back or just a solid fall back if I am in the area due to the large volume of great restaurants.

Remember that life is too short for bad wine or bad friends.