The Inn on First has a prime location within walking distance to the shops, restaurants, wine tasting rooms, and riverside activities in downtown Napa, a picturesque setting with lush landscaping, and is the perfect spot for a romantic getaway with luxurious rooms featuring whirlpool tubs, gas fireplaces and no TVs. They were also the first Northern California B&B to be certified “green” by the State of California, and serve some of the most delicious breakfasts in town. The Inn on First has it all.

This inviting bed and breakfast is a lovely property owned by Jamie Cherry and Jim Gunther consisting of the main historic mansion and a separate building with first-floor Garden Suites and second-floor Honeymoon Suites. Checking in, you are greeted by your hosts in a bright and airy foyer and shown the main rooms, including the dining room and living room with a baby grand piano that guests are welcome to play.

You'll find thoughtful details such as a split of Mumm sparkling wine and truffles made by innkeeper Jim in your room, complimentary picnic baskets and wi-fi, and a decanter of California port in the mansion sitting room.

You'll find other relaxing spots on the property that invite you to relax and linger such as a quiet fountain-side retreat and a firepit for cozy Napa evenings.

I stayed in the Heritage Estate suite, a beautiful room located in the Garden Suites decorated in cool grays and complete with a heart-shaped two-person whirlpool, spacious bathroom, gas fireplace, and an enclosed private deck.

After a restful night in my comfortable king bed, I woke to a sunny morning and al fresco breakfast on the main patio. Chef/owner Jim Gunther is a graduate of the California Culinary Academy and delights guests daily with his homemade specialties. You'll find classic favorites and creative dishes such as breakfast lasagna, tempura sushi roll omelettes, and roasted pear tacos with strawberries and whipped cream. In fact, he has a breakfast repertoire of over 150 dishes, which you can make yourself with his cookbook, A Napa Valley Breakfast Book. It also makes a perfect Napa gift or souvenir.

I started in the dining room at the buffet which offered a platter of flaky warm cinnamon twists, homemade granola, yogurt and fresh fruit, before making myself a breakfast parfait and heading to the patio.

Here, Jim served one of his signatures, fantastic breakfast risotto tots. I loved these crispy nuggets containing creamy herb-flecked risotto that were topped with a poached egg and accompanied by thick slices of toast and jam (homemade of course!). In a weekend of wonderful food at Napa's many excellent restaurants (read about those here), this was a highlight, and I can't think of a more perfect way to begin your Napa exploration.

Delicious breakfasts, wonderful hosts, and an ideal location. The Inn on First is a true downtown Napa gem. It is located at 1938 1st St in Napa, CA 94559. For reservations, call (707) 253-1331

I was hosted by the Downtown Napa Association on a media press trip. and my stay was complimentary.

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DOWNTOWN NAPA: The Inn on First Bed and Breakfast