Spago has been a smash since its opening five years ago. It wasn't too long before the Rio enticed another renowned chef, Jean-Louis Palladin, former chef of a namesake restaurant at the Watergate in Washington, D.C., to open Napa. The race to dining glory was on. And he got them. Olives, a casual cafe, is situated between the Giorgio Armani and Hermes Boutiques.
Prices are moderate to moderately expensive.
Vongrichten is a four-star chef who has been defining his own style since he trained as a chef in his native Alsace in France. A trip to Asia in 1980 set his course. Designed by Michael di Santis, this stunning dining room shares a garden patio with the adjacent Picasso restaurant. It is a totally new steakhouse concept. Among the many features are the extensive wine list and a handsome bar where the martinis are made by experts.