Presented annually by Wine Spectator, the Award of Excellence recognizes restaurants whose wine programs feature thoughtfully curated selections that complement the menu and appeal to a broad range of wine lovers. The Midlothian location, which first received the Award of Excellence in 2023, has now earned the recognition for the third time. In 2026, the honor was extended to the Newtown Square location as well, underscoring the strength and consistency of NAPA Kitchen and Wine’s wine program across markets.

We are incredibly honored that both of our locations have been recognized by Wine Spectator. This award reflects the dedication of our sommeliers, managers, and culinary teams who work hard to create an approachable yet exceptional wine experience for every guest. Wine is at the heart of what we do, and we’re proud to share that passion with our communities.

Dennis Barbaro, CEO & Founder

Known for a vibrant atmosphere and West Coast-inspired cuisine, NAPA Kitchen and Wine offers wine from renowned and emerging producers around the world, with a special emphasis on California and Napa Valley selections. Guests can explore wines by the glass, bottle, or through self-serve wine stations and curated tasting experiences.

In addition to award-winning wine lists, monthly wine dinners, educational Wine Academy classes, and expert guidance from on-site sommeliers are offered at NAPA Kitchen and Wine. Guests looking to deepen their wine journey can also join our NKW Wine Club, which provides exclusive access to limited-release bottles, curated monthly selections, member-only events, and special dining perks.

The post NAPA Kitchen and Wine Earns Wine Spectator Award of Excellence for Both Locations in 2026 appeared first on NAPA Kitchen and Wine.

Renowned for our fresh, West Coast-inspired cuisine and vibrant ambiance, we continue to raise the bar for wine and dining experiences in the Midlothian area. With a dynamic wine program that evolves with the seasons, we emphasize education, pairing, and guest engagement, making for a must-visit restaurant destination for wine enthusiasts and culinary explorers alike.

We are incredibly honored to receive this recognition again from Wine Spectator. It’s a testament to the passion our team brings to creating an exceptional wine list and delivering unforgettable experiences. At NAPA, wine is more than just something you drink—it’s a journey, a story, and a connection.

Dennis Barbaro, CEO & Founder

Our award-winning wine list features more than 200 selections from both iconic and emerging regions, with a special focus on Napa Valley and California producers. Guests can enjoy wines by the bottle, glass, or through guided tasting experiences designed to educate and inspire.

For those looking to take their wine experience to the next level, the NKW Wine Club offers members exclusive access to limited-release bottles, curated selections from around the world, the first look at private tasting events, and special perks at the restaurant. It’s the perfect way for wine lovers to deepen their appreciation and enjoy hand-picked discoveries, all year round.

The post NAPA Kitchen and Wine Wins Prestigious Wine Spectator Award for a Second Time appeared first on NAPA Kitchen and Wine.

Set against a stunning backdrop of lush florals and elegant garden-inspired decor, guests are welcomed into a one-of-a-kind escape where every detail is curated for celebration. From the finest in caviar and freshly shucked oysters to refreshing bubbles and signature cocktails featuring CHANDON and Belvedere Vodka, the NKW Garden Party is perfect for those craving a stylish and flavorful escape.

We really wanted to create a sort of escape from everyday life for those that are looking for the ultimate staycation. From the relaxing atmosphere we’ve created, and the elevated and refreshing offerings, we believe we’ve achieved just that. To see our guests just as excited about this as we are has been a joy.

Lauren Barbaro, Chief Creative Officer

Long considered a delicacy reserved for only the most special of occasions, caviar is making a modern-day comeback. This luxurious treat has become increasingly popular among younger diners, appearing on menus everywhere from upscale eateries to trendsetting cocktail bars. Now, guests at NAPA Kitchen and Wine can experience caviar in a setting that’s as chic as it is welcoming.

Whether sipping something sparkling beneath floral canopies or sampling gourmet bites in a relaxed yet refined setting, NKW Garden Party is your ticket to celebrating the season with style. Reservations are highly encouraged.

The post Midlothian’s New, Not So Secret Garden appeared first on NAPA Kitchen and Wine.

Wine enthusiasts can join the NKW Wine Club for a monthly fee, gaining immediate access to a variety of exciting benefits while they sip, savor, and discover new flavors every month. Members will also enjoy exclusive access to limited-edition wines as well as priority access to special events. The club will feature a rotating selection of wine tastings among other enticing rewards.

One of the highlights of the NKW Wine Club is the “Bottle of the Month,” a premium selection personally curated by NKW’s expert sommelier. Each month, members will receive a carefully hand-selected bottle sourced from featured vineyards and hidden gems, showcasing a wide array of flavors. From sweet wines that delight the palate to bold reds that excite the senses, these seasonally curated selections are designed to accommodate diverse tastes and preferences. To further enhance the experience, tasting notes and pairing suggestions will accompany each bottle, helping members to fully appreciate the nuances of their selections. In addition to the opportunity of taking home their monthly bottle, members are encouraged to take advantage of enjoying it alongside a delicious meal at NKW’s inviting dining space. This dual option fosters a sense of community, allowing members to share their experiences with fellow wine lovers in a warm, welcoming environment.

Our goal is to create a vibrant community of wine enthusiasts who can explore their passion together through a thoughtfully curated wine selection. We believe that wine is best enjoyed in the company of friends and family, and our wine club will provide the perfect opportunity to foster those connections and create memorable experiences.

Dennis Barbaro, CEO & Founder

Whether you’re a seasoned wine connoisseur looking to expand your cellar or a newcomer eager to learn more about the world of wine, the NKW Wine Club is tailored to enhance the palate of every participant. It’s an ideal way to deepen your appreciation for wine, learn about new varieties, and connect with fellow enthusiasts in an enjoyable and relaxing setting.

The post NAPA Kitchen & Wine Launches Inaugural Wine Club appeared first on NAPA Kitchen and Wine.

Having undergone a magical holiday transformation that will delight guests of all ages, the restaurant’s stunning metamorphosis features thousands of twinkling Christmas lights. The over-the-top lighting creates an enchanting atmosphere perfect for family gatherings and festive celebrations.

We wanted to create something truly special this holiday season. Our Winter Wonderland transformation offers families and friends a fun and magical dining experience that only NAPA Kitchen & Wine can deliver!

Dennis Barbaro, CEO & Founder

The holiday decor features a festive Christmas bow wall, gift-wrapped bars, and suspended ornaments and presents throughout the dining room. A 12-foot Christmas tree anchors the entrance, complemented by frosted windows, a six-foot nutcracker, and polar bear displays that complete the theme.

Adding to the holiday cheer, NAPA Kitchen and Wine is introducing seven special holiday cocktails featuring two non-alcoholic options, appealing to guests of all ages and preferences. The hand-crafted prohibition-inspired menu boasts festive glassware, garnishes, and magical touches including collectible Christmas stocking shot glasses, available for purchase while supplies last.

In the spirit of giving, NAPA Kitchen and Wine is hosting a Christmas Toy Drive through Thursday, December 5, benefiting Powhatan Christmas Mother. Guests are invited to contribute to this worthy cause, providing gifts and food to families in need.

The post NAPA Kitchen & Wine Transforms into a Spectacular Winter Wonderland for the Holiday Season appeared first on NAPA Kitchen and Wine.

DJB Hospitality currently oversees sixteen Sedona Taphouse locations, one NAPA Kitchen and Wine location, and expects to continue to increase its breadth in the coming years. The two concepts bring different strengths to the portfolio: NAPA Kitchen and Wine features a menu influenced by California along with a carefully curated wine, bourbon, and cocktail list. Meanwhile, Sedona Taphouse is well known for creating memorable craft experiences for guests with Southwest-inspired scratch menus, a large offering of craft beers, innovative cocktails, and thoughtful wine lists.

While the proven menus of both concepts have spearheaded the success of DJB Hospitality, the brands have also become known for their philanthropic efforts. As part of its ‘Dine Out for Charity’ initiative, each Sedona Taphouse location supports a local nonprofit organization each month. Since the inception of the program, they have donated more than one million dollars to benefit the local communities that support its success. Along with supporting local charitable organizations, both concepts have partnered with Tunnel to Towers Foundation on a national level. Through sales of the popular T2T Lemon Basil Martini, aid is provided to military heroes and first responders in need.

A cornerstone to our success is our commitment to giving back to the communities we serve.

CEO & Founder, Dennis Barbaro

While philanthropy is the recipe for success of DJB Hospitality, the people behind the scenes are also an integral component. Franchisees set the foundation of excellence for each location and DJB Hospitality prides itself in fostering those relationships.

Our experience with DJB Hospitality as franchisees has been nothing short of extraordinary. A great team of professionals at the franchisor level that are anxious to support our teams in meaningful and tangible ways. The group is responsive, knowledgeable, and all-skilled in in restaurant operations and best practices. DJB Hospitality is continually evolving this great brand and pushing the envelope by staying ahead of culinary and beverage trends in the industry. Additionally, the training, IT support, and systems are simply top-notch.

Franchise Owner, David Trout

The post Virginia-Based Restaurant Group Achieves Coveted Inc. 5000 List for the Fifth Year appeared first on NAPA Kitchen and Wine.

The first NAPA Kitchen and Wine franchise will be located in Ellis Preserve, Pennsylvania with 7,500 square feet, a 100-seat patio, and an 80-seat private dining room. This second and franchised location will continue to deliver West Coast-inspired, high-quality, chef-driven cuisine, alongside wines from around the world in a laid-back environment.

NAPA Kitchen and Wine started as a passion project a few years ago and to be expanding to two new locations speaks volumes to the hard work and care delivered by our team every single day. More than our team, it’s our returning guests and the support of the community in Richmond who have allowed us to grow so quickly.

CEO & Founder, Dennis Barbaro

Since opening in early 2022, NAPA Kitchen and Wine has quickly become one of the top destinations in Virginia for an expansive selection of wines from Napa Valley and beyond, resulting in the prestigious recognition of Wine Spectator’s Award of Excellence. In addition to an extraordinary selection of wines in a relaxed environment, NAPA Kitchen and Wine has earned top marks for a remarkable seasonality-driven menu of California-inspired cuisine including fresh seafood, premier steaks, fresh produce, hand-rolled sushi, and more. Guests also enjoy a self-serve wine station, a wine-tasting bar and lounge, a self-serve bourbon station, the area’s only Sunday Jazz Brunch, personalized wine tastings, monthly wine pairing dinners, and a fun, interactive wine academy offering informative monthly sessions covering a gambit of wine-related topics, themes, and regions.

The post Cali Vibes & Exceptional Wines Expanding to a Second Location appeared first on NAPA Kitchen and Wine.

Wine Spectator is the world’s leading authority on wine and began its award program to recognize the world’s best wine lists and restaurants back in 1981. The Award of Excellence recognizes restaurants whose wine lists feature a well-chosen assortment of quality producers along with a thematic match to the menu in both price and style. With this award, we are internationally recognized as a top destination for wine lovers thanks to our diverse wine list of over 90 selections and an approachable range of price points.

“To have earned this award from Wine Spectator is absolute confirmation of all of the hard work that has been put into making NAPA Kitchen and Wine a truly one-of-a-kind restaurant,” said CEO and Founder, Dennis Barbaro. “I could not be prouder of the entire team behind the NAPA concept. Thank you to them and all our returning guests who have made this award possible!”

The post Excellence Uncorked – NAPA Kitchen & Wine Receives Wine Spectator Award of Excellence appeared first on NAPA Kitchen and Wine.

The post Cheers to One Year in Richmond appeared first on NAPA Kitchen and Wine.

“The response to NAPA has been remarkable,” says DJB Hospitality LLC/ Sedona Taphouse/NAPA Kitchen and Wine. Restaurant Founder and CEO, Dennis Barbaro. “A cornerstone to our success is our commitment to giving back to the communities we serve.”

“NAPA Kitchen and Wine will be a place to celebrate great wines and food in a rustic yet sophisticated environment with a laid-back Cali vibe,” said Barbaro. “The menu encompasses all the fresh flavors found on the West Coast including, fresh seafood, hand-cut steaks, farm-fresh produce, and daily chef specials. We also offer Prohibition-era cocktails and martinis,” according to Barbaro.

The 6700 square foot restaurant features natural woods and stone, a self-serve wine lounge, an exhibition kitchen, and an outdoor bar with a wood-burning fireplace.

“Our award-winning Executive Chef Todd Johnson is the former owner of Mezzanine,” said Barbaro. “He is creating a menu that is contemporary yet accessible with bold, innovative, and exciting flavor profiles.”  Chef Todd Johnson’s affection for West Coast cuisine was cemented during his two years as Sous Chef to Wolfgang Puck in the famed Spago Restaurant.

In addition, Chef Johnson brings his experiences and skills that he has honed working in kitchens in Thailand, Vietnam, Laos, Singapore, Malaysia, Indonesia, and India.

Joining Executive Chef Todd Johnson is Virginia-born and raised Sous Chef Greg Smiley. Having previously been at Italian restaurant Al Dente and favored seafood restaurant Pescados, Chef Smiley is an award-winning chef bringing 25 years of culinary creativity and passion. Chef Smiley remarked, “I am excited to be a part of NAPA’s culinary team using local, fresh ingredients and creating contemporary dishes with a West Coast flavor.”

Read more at the Chesterfield Chamber of Commerce website. 

The post NAPA Kitchen and Wine opens on January 24th appeared first on NAPA Kitchen and Wine.