Fish Story, offering sustainable, seasonal, ocean-fresh seafood, is Lark CreekRestaurant Group’s first entry into the Napa Valley dining scene…and what an entrance they have made!

We were first greeted by Santino, the oh-so-gracious host with a big smile, and he immediately showed us to our lovely table on the back patio, right on the Napa River.  In an instant, the General Manager, Jeremiah Peck, stopped by to make sure we were happy with our table, and to offer his services should we need anything at all.  As we settled in, our server, Heath, arrived to take our cocktail order, and he returned “lickety split” with two perfect drinks.   Heath left us to enjoy our cocktails, then returned shortly to explain the menu, the specials, and their general philosophy of “local, sustainable, seasonal” seafood.  It was quite impressive.

We started with fried calamari (and to this Southern girl’s delight, fried okra as well), which was served with fresh lemon wedges and a lovely spiced yogurt sauce.  Next course, please – Pickled Artichoke Salad, with arugula, pecorino, manuka honey-hazelnut vinaigrette…yum!  The New England Clam Chowder was near perfection, with an abundance of clams in a not too thick broth.  Heath now showed up with a complimentary appetizer from Chef Clint Davies, who just wanted us to try it… – Hawaiian Ahi Tuna Tartare, with Asian pear, chili, yuzu pepper, ginger, shallot, shiso…amazing….served with chile dusted pita chips.  We hadn’t even started the main course, and we were getting wonderfully full.

OK…main course, and this is so impressive.  All the seafood on the menu is already paired with sides, sauces, etc.  BUT, if you would prefer, they will take whatever fish you want, simply grill it, and then give you a choice of 3 different sauces and two sides!  We both chose the halibut, with lemon butter sauce with fresh grilled asparagus, mashed potatoes, creamed spinach, and roasted cauliflower with bacon jam, yes, bacon jam!         Dessert was a light fresh strawberry sorbet, with chocolate hazelnut biscotti, and, of course, an espresso, brewed to absolute perfection.

Several times during the meal, the GM stopped back by to check on us, and when we were finished eating, he stopped just for a chat.  What can I say?  Unbelievable food, service, ambience, view…the entire package one wants for a special night out.

Napa Valley Wine Country Tours proudly recommends this restaurant for lunch before heading out wine tasting, or dinner when you return.  And if you choose just to walk around downtown to our many tasting rooms, stop by Fish Story for a meal.  You will be delighted!