La Toque

What it's like

La Toque is the sort of dinner you plan a day around. The kitchen is built on a six-course chef's tasting, served in a dining room that leans polished rather than stuffy. The restaurant's own line is fine dining without the pretense, and that is a fair read: the service is attentive, but you are encouraged to laugh and enjoy yourself rather than whisper.

It sits at 1314 McKinstry Street in Napa and is open for dinner Wednesday through Sunday, with the doors opening at 5:30 p.m.

Who it's best for

Anniversaries, milestone birthdays, and anyone who wants a long, unhurried meal and does not mind committing to a format. Because the main event is a tasting menu, it suits people who like being guided through a meal more than choosing their own adventure. The vegetable tasting is a genuine option for vegetarians rather than an afterthought. Dietary requests are accommodated when you give at least 72 hours of notice, so mention allergies when you book.

Dress up a little. You do not need a jacket or tie, but shorts, flip-flops, ballcaps, hoodies and swimwear are not allowed.

What to order & how to book

Choose between the Chef's Tasting (six courses), the Chef's Vegetable Tasting (six courses), or order a la carte. The restaurant also runs special experiences from time to time, such as truffle tastings and regional menus, so look at the current menus page for prices and what is on offer.

Reservations go through the restaurant's booking page and require a deposit that is applied to your final bill. Cancel inside 72 hours and the deposit is not refunded; a no-show voids the booking. There is a 15-minute grace period for late arrivals, and groups of nine or more go through a separate group dining process. Plan on about two hours and 45 minutes for a party of one to four, and about three and a half hours for five or more.

Valet parking is complimentary, and street parking is also available, which takes some of the stress out of arriving.

How it fits into a day

Give this dinner the evening and keep the day light. A late tasting at a Napa winery, a stroll through downtown or along the river, then straight to McKinstry Street works well. Since a meal this long usually involves wine, arrange a rideshare or a designated driver rather than counting on the drive back. If you want a casual lunch beforehand, downtown Napa has plenty of options near Oxbow Public Market.