downtown napa + map Roca restaurant and lounge creates a vibe that exceeds Napa elegance andoRRocabella bistis nothing short of a wicked experience. Theou’ve heard of them, and more than likely on a Saturdaynight you’ve outright heard them.loungeY Rolla comments, “As a kiss comes from the lips, espresso should be sipped frombrings home a taste of blatant European chic. Attention to detail shinesthrough every element of the establishment, right down to the perfectceramic espresso cups, about which chef and owner Bledar Llapaj by Jacqueline buchanan ceramic.” Llapaj is from Greece himself, and has traveled around the world with his stunning wife and co-owner, Debra Buhring. To hear the duo speak passionately on matters of food, music, and travel is to be assured that they thoroughly understand the vital importance of a delicious meal in the right atmosphere. This explains why one of the most embraceable elements of Rocabella is its uncanny ability to create the perfect atmosphere for a variety of moods. The patio creates a desert oasis feel, as cabanas draped in curtains and ornamented with antique lanterns offer a decadent sense of privacy, making it ideal to curl up over a glass of wine. Enter inside to the more formal dining room to enjoy a meal by Llapaj, who was inspired by a combination of Spanish, French, and Mediterranean influences. Each dish does right by neither overwhelming nor under-embracing the original flavors incorporated in the dish. Llapaj takes special care in ensuring each ingredient is organic and at its highest quality, even bringing in fresh vegetables from his own garden for an accurate comparison. Any product that falls short is promptly returned. There’s an underlying beauty in the pursuit of perfection that’s easy to find in the dishes served. As far as meat is concerned, you’ll only find filets and free range farm cuts on your plate. A menu which features a combination of seafood, pasta, meat and traditional Greek dishes creates an overall authentic European dining experience. The point is to create a relaxed environment—this is not your typical “quick dinner with friends.” It’s intended to be an experience, so taste your food, take in the surroundings, hear the exotic international music and enjoy the moment. Enjoy your dessert while people-watching from behind the restaurant’s glass walls. While the experience may feel borderline sinful, take a second to feel like a saint as you reflect on the fact that $1 from every bottle of wine you purchase is donated to Blessings in a Backpack, who provide underprivileged children with lunch on the weekends when school can’t provide it. After you’ve felt justified for your indulgent meal and that relaxing bottle of wine (or two) take a quick glance at the clock. Just around 10:30 the very same mastermind behind that brilliant steak in butter sauce you just consumed surrenders his post at the kitchen helm to pick up a pair of headphones and DJ the night away. Order your drinks early on, as the place becomes packed in the blink of an eye. Cocktail dresses, heels and suits fold in one after another; this is not your typical Napa night. The music is current and rhythmic, the service is spot on and the night is young. OPEN MAP When body heat becomes too much, take your drink HERE outside and relax in the plush lounge chairs. Enjoy the night air and a bit of conversation before the music lures you back for another dance. Rocabella is itself a feast for the senses – a night out worth remembering, and one that will leave you returning again and again for all the right reasons. Rocabella Bistro Lounge: 1106 First St., Napa; 707-775-5927
NVLife_NovDec_2012
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