When you’re in need of a relaxing escape, the Tri-Valley (Pleasanton, Livermore, Danville & Dublin), is the place to disconnect and recharge. Part of Livermore Valley Wine Country, it’s one of the oldest wine regions in California and includes nearly 60 wineries, most of them family-owned and operated, which I absolutely love. This small, quaint little area is home to some of the best food & drink spots I’ve been in my 6 years in California.
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Where to stay in the Tri-Valley
Aloft Hotel
We stayed in Dublin at the Aloft which just opened last month and has such a fun vibe. They had the cutest pool and bar area which we got to spend some time in the evening. This is my favorite hotel in the area and has a pretty young crowd.
Top Food + Drink in the Tri-Valley
Danville Brewing Co
This was the first spot we stopped for pre-dinner drinks. We got the beer flights which is six, five-ounce pours. I’m not a huge beer drinker but absolutely loved all the samples our waiter brought out. He was incredibly helpful and knowledgeable about all of our tastings.
Bridges Restaurant
Do you remember the restaurant scene from Mrs. Doubtfire, this is that restaurant! How cool is that?! This was a place I’d love to revisit over and over again. From the atmosphere to the outdoor dining to the exciting menu, there’s nothing I didn’t love. The menu is creative California cuisine with influences from Europe and Asia.
Auburn Wine Bar & Lounge
Downtown Danville has some of the cutest hidden gems. This is the perfect spot for a happy hour or a post-dinner drink with friends. It feels like a ‘speakeasy’ and has a large variety of curated drinks and small plates.
BottleTaps
Go for the soft pretzel! I had been craving a good pretzel and BottleTaps exceeded my expectations. They have the most beautifully designed charcuterie plates. They also have the most unbelievable cider cocktails. It’s ok, I didn’t know what they were either before coming here either. They start with cider and let you choose your flavor – we tried cucumber mint, cherry, aged balsamic and blackberry. All of them were so delicious but the cucumber was definitely my favorite and so refreshing.
Range Life
The only question I have is why haven’t I heard of this place sooner?! Range Life hands down had one of the best mezcal cocktails I’ve ever had and some of the most delicious seafood dishes. Range Life partners closely with farmers, ranchers, and fisherman to offer some of the best locally and seasonally sourced cuisine. This would be perfect for a date night or a celebration dinner.
Meadowlark Dairy
Founded in the 1900s, Meadowlark was the first certified dairy in California, earning Grade A for cleanliness and quality. You can definitely taste that in their soft serve ice cream. Meadowlark has been a drive-through since it opened in 1969 and is such a fun hangout in the summertime.
Danville Harvest
While this isn’t a place we were able to visit during this trip, it’s one I’m adding to my list for next time. This is the perfect farm to table brunch spot but they also have a Happy Hour everyday from 3pm-6pm.
Wine Tasting in the Tri-Valley
Murrieta’s Well
Off the beaten path, Murrieta’s Well is one of California’s original wine estates and has been growing grapes since the 1800s. It’s the perfect wedding venue and has such a fun crowd. There is also a restaurant onsite and the most beautiful outdoor seating areas.
Concannon Vineyards
This was my second visit to Concannon and it’s such a lovely winery. It has an outdoor tasting area and is a great space to host a party. We had a tasting in their vintage library, which houses over 3,000 bottles of historic Concannon wine.
Wente Vineyards
My absolute favorite winery in the area. They have the most amazing restaurants onsite and host an outdoor concert series during the summer that I cannot wait to check out. I was most impressed with Diane and her beautiful on property garden which supplies 44% of the restaurants’ food intake. All farm to table! How amazing! Wente is definitely a must when you’re in the area.
What I Wore + Packing list for the Tri-Valley
