CIA at Greystone
A historic Napa Valley gem where culinary artistry meets stunning architecture, offering exceptional dining and student-made treats.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, more relaxed vibe
CIA at Greystone
Best Time
Fewer crowds, more relaxed vibe
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A historic Napa Valley gem where culinary artistry meets stunning architecture, offering exceptional dining and student-made treats.
"The cookies and desserts that the students make and sell in the gift shop are soooooooo GOOD!"
🎯 Arrive on Time for Dining
Tables at Gatehouse are seated precisely 15 minutes apart. Arrive early to explore the campus before your reservation.
🍪 Sweet Treats Galore
Don't miss the student-made cookies and desserts at the marketplace; they are incredibly delicious!
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Gatehouse Restaurant
Carriage House
Savor a multi-course meal crafted by CIA student chefs, showcasing impressive culinary execution and flavor.
CIA Marketplace & Bakery
Gift Shop
Indulge in incredibly delicious cookies, desserts, and unique items made by talented students.
Historic Greystone Campus
St. Helena, Napa Valley
Explore the beautiful, historic architecture and grounds of this renowned culinary institute in wine country.
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Planning Your Visit
Dine with Future Stars
Explore Historic Greystone
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🎯 Arrive on Time for Dining
Tables at Gatehouse are seated precisely 15 minutes apart. Arrive early to explore the campus before your reservation.
🍪 Sweet Treats Galore
Don't miss the student-made cookies and desserts at the marketplace; they are incredibly delicious!
🍷 Skip Wine Pairings
Most students are too young to taste, and wine pairings may not match the food's caliber. Select a bottle instead.
⏰ Check Bakery Hours
The bakery has limited operating hours, so confirm their schedule before your visit.
Tips
from all over the internet
🎯 Arrive on Time for Dining
Tables at Gatehouse are seated precisely 15 minutes apart. Arrive early to explore the campus before your reservation.
🍪 Sweet Treats Galore
Don't miss the student-made cookies and desserts at the marketplace; they are incredibly delicious!
🍷 Skip Wine Pairings
Most students are too young to taste, and wine pairings may not match the food's caliber. Select a bottle instead.
⏰ Check Bakery Hours
The bakery has limited operating hours, so confirm their schedule before your visit.
🏛️ Explore Campus Exhibits
Discover interesting exhibits and the history of the building, much like a museum display.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors rave about the delicious student-made desserts and the impressive culinary execution at the Gatehouse Restaurant. The historic Greystone campus is also a significant draw, offering beautiful architecture and grounds. Some find the dining experience a bit formal, and note that wine pairings might not be ideal for all.
"The cookies and desserts that the students make and sell in the gift shop are soooooooo GOOD!
I posted those as the first photo.
The history of the building is in wikipedia, and eventually this building was sold to The Culinary Institute of America 10 % of its value, because it needed 50 million in seismic retrofits.
The Ghirardelli bakery Cafe will open in September and the restaurant is set up in the carriage house, where the students cook and serve the customers."
Angella Raisian
"We had an incredible 5-course dinner at Gatehouse Restaurant at the Culinary Institute of America in Napa. We started with the Duck Scarpetta—pâté with cherry mostarda, kumquat, chives, and grilled bread. For our pasta course, Brent had the Ravioli Fonduta with fontina and ragu bianco, and I had the Garganelli Carbonara with guanciale, pecorino, and egg yolk. For the main course, Brent chose the Red Snapper Arrosto with rustic potatoes and garlic aioli, and I had the Lamb Meatball with tomato passata, broccoli rabe, and caciocavallo. We finished with the Chocolate Budino—rich, creamy, and topped with candied walnuts and malted chantilly. Every dish was prepared and served by CIA student-chefs nearing the end of their program. The quality and execution were impressive across the board.
The real standouts, though, were the focaccia bread and the porcini consommé—both absolutely packed with flavor and perfectly executed.
If you visit, be on time—they seat tables exactly 15 minutes apart and run like clockwork. We arrived early and had time to explore the beautiful Greystone campus, including the shops and small museum. My advice is to skip the wine pairings—most students are too young to taste, and the wine selections didn’t quite match the caliber of the food. Next time we will select a nice bottle to share."
Sandi Lewis
"Late Dec2024 Along the Main St of highway 128 is their large and renowned culinary school campus in Napa Valley. This private campus includes public areas such as their restaurant, bakery, marketplace store and some exhibits.
The marketplace is extensive with some unique items. The counter service is friendly and receptive.
The bakery has limited time operations so best visit accordingly.
They have an interesting hallway exhibit which is much like a display in a museum.
Definitely worth another visit to try the resto and the bakery."
Oliver Pe
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The CIA at Greystone is located in St. Helena, Napa Valley. From San Francisco, you can drive via US-101 N and CA-37 E, then take CA-29 N. The drive typically takes about 1.5 to 2 hours, depending on traffic. Public transportation options are limited, so a car is recommended.
Yes, parking is generally available at the CIA at Greystone campus. However, during peak times or special events, it can become busy. It's advisable to arrive a bit early if you're driving.
You can visit the public areas like the marketplace and exhibits without a reservation. However, for dining at the Gatehouse Restaurant, reservations are highly recommended and often required.
While a car offers the most flexibility, consider ride-sharing services or local taxis if you plan to visit wineries and don't want to drive. Some visitors also opt for organized wine tours that may include a stop at the CIA.
Public transportation directly to the CIA at Greystone is very limited. It's best to plan for private transportation such as a car or ride-sharing service.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Entry to the public areas of the CIA at Greystone campus, such as the marketplace and exhibits, is generally free. However, dining at the Gatehouse Restaurant requires reservations, and specific events may have ticket prices.
The operating hours can vary, especially for the bakery and marketplace. It's best to check the official CIA at Greystone website for the most up-to-date hours before your visit.
The Gatehouse Restaurant offers a multi-course dining experience prepared by student chefs. Prices can vary, but it's generally considered a reasonably priced fine dining experience given the quality. Check their website for current menu and pricing.
While there aren't formal public tours of the entire campus, you can explore the public areas, shops, and exhibits. The experience of dining at the Gatehouse also offers a glimpse into the student's culinary training.
Yes, the CIA Marketplace offers a selection of delicious cookies, desserts, and other items made by the students. These are highly recommended by visitors!
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
The Gatehouse Restaurant serves a multi-course menu featuring dishes prepared and served by CIA student chefs. Expect high-quality, well-executed cuisine with a focus on fresh ingredients.
Yes, the chefs preparing and serving your meal at the Gatehouse Restaurant are students nearing the end of their culinary programs at the CIA. Their performance is a key part of their education.
Dining at the Gatehouse Restaurant is a fine dining experience, so prices reflect that. However, many visitors find it to be reasonable for the quality and experience. The marketplace bakery items are generally more affordable.
Visitors rave about the cookies and desserts from the CIA bakery. Specific recommendations often include their cookies and other sweet treats, which are described as 'soooooooo GOOD!'
While the menu changes, the culinary students are trained to accommodate various dietary needs. It's best to inquire about vegetarian or vegan options when making your reservation or upon arrival.
📸 📸 Photography
The historic architecture of the Greystone building itself is very photogenic. The gardens and the surrounding Napa Valley landscape also offer beautiful backdrops. Look for scenic spots around the campus grounds. 
Generally, yes, you can take photos inside the restaurant, especially of your food. However, it's always polite to be discreet and avoid disrupting other diners or the student staff.
While general photography for personal use is usually permitted, professional photography or videography might require special permission. Always be mindful of students and staff who are focused on their training.
A DSLR or mirrorless camera with a versatile lens would be ideal for capturing both the architectural details and the scenic views. However, a good smartphone camera can also produce excellent results, especially with good lighting.
The 'golden hours' – shortly after sunrise and before sunset – offer beautiful, soft light that enhances the historic architecture and natural surroundings. Midday can be harsh, but the interiors are often well-lit.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Consider visiting during the day to explore the public areas. The exhibits offer a chance to learn about the building's history, which can be interesting for older children. It's a good opportunity to introduce kids to a renowned culinary institution in a beautiful setting, even if a full fine-dining experience isn't on the agenda.
💰 Budget Travelers
While dining at the Gatehouse Restaurant is a premium experience, visiting the marketplace for snacks or picking up some baked goods to enjoy on the go can be a very cost-effective way to experience the culinary excellence of the CIA. Exploring the historic campus grounds is also free, offering scenic views and photo opportunities.
💍 Couples & Romantic Getaways
Beyond dining, the historic architecture and beautiful Napa Valley surroundings create a picturesque backdrop for romantic strolls and photos. Consider visiting during the golden hours for stunning light. The overall ambiance of the campus, combined with the culinary excellence, makes it a memorable destination for couples seeking a refined experience.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Culinary Experience at Gatehouse
It's important to note that the restaurant operates with the precision of a professional kitchen. Reservations are crucial, and tables are seated exactly 15 minutes apart, emphasizing punctuality. While the food is exceptional, some reviewers suggest skipping the wine pairings, as students may be underage, and the selections might not always complement the caliber of the dishes. Opting for a bottle of wine to share is a recommended alternative.
The experience extends beyond the plate; the service is provided by the students, offering them invaluable real-world practice. This creates a dynamic and educational atmosphere for both the students and the diners. It’s a chance to support the next generation of culinary talent while enjoying a memorable meal in a historic setting.
Exploring the Historic Greystone Campus
The CIA Marketplace is a treasure trove for food lovers, offering a variety of unique items and, most notably, incredibly delicious cookies and desserts made by the students. These sweet treats are frequently cited as a highlight, with many visitors recommending them as a must-try. The bakery, while having limited operating hours, is another spot to sample student-made delights.
Beyond the shops, the campus grounds offer scenic beauty, making it a pleasant place for a stroll. The historic nature of the building, which once required significant seismic retrofits before being sold to the CIA, adds a layer of depth to the visit. It’s a place where history, education, and gastronomy converge, offering a rich experience for any visitor.
+1Weddings and Events at Greystone
+3Event planners and couples often praise the exquisite culinary offerings provided by the CIA, ensuring a gourmet dining experience for guests. The venue's capacity to host welcome dinners, ceremonies, and receptions allows for a seamless event flow. The combination of the beautiful grounds, historic charm, and exceptional catering creates a magical atmosphere for any occasion.
+2From intimate gatherings to grand celebrations, CIA Greystone provides a backdrop that is both sophisticated and memorable. The attention to detail in both the venue's presentation and the culinary execution makes it a top choice for those seeking a truly special event experience in wine country.
+3
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