Community Corner
Bites Nearby: Market
Ok, so it's up on the other Main Street. You know, the one in St. Helena. Don't let the Upvalley location deter you from some fine American cuisine, Napa Valley style.
A couple of days ago, I got an invite from a college buddy to go up to Market St. Helena for a catch-up dinner.
"Sure!" I agreed, knowing it was somewhere Upvalley. "It's on Main Street, right?" I questioned, as my friend nodded knowingly.
I grumbled slightly at the thought. Me? A Napa girl, heading to St. Helena? Sometimes it feels as if that 18-mile stretch of Highway 29 is more like a border crossing than a quick trip for a meal.
Despite my grumpiness about the drive -- which is never as long or horrible as I think it will be; it is, instead, rather beautiful -- I arrived in St. Helena in record time and found the restaurant even quicker.
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The glorious thing about St. Helena restaurants, I've realized, is that the majority of them exist on Main Street, and as Main Street is about three blocks long, your search for a location is never difficult.
When I stepped inside Market (at 6:45 on a Thursday, mind you) it was slammed. People were jolly at the bar, and a harmonious hum of chatter filled the intimate dining room. The interior walls are all stone, and candles and dim lighting create the theme.
It made me feel like I had entered a glamorous (and delightfully scented) archaeological dig.
While Sylvia ordered Market's classic (and famous) offering of the “Market” Burger-- a 1/2 lb. Painted Hills Angus Beef, Fiscalini Cheddar & Grilled Sweet Onions creation served with fries ($13) I opted for a small plate option of Blackened Chicken Rolls, topped with Cilantro, Fiscalini Cheddar, Chipotle Glaze and Tomatillo Sauce ($12).
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As showcased with our diverse selections, Market has something for everyone, from Asian-inspired treats (Rice Noodle Chicken Salad: $19), to fresh seafood (Steelhead Trout with Brussel Sprouts, Baby Parsnips, Pomegranate Butter: $23).
As I stuffed my mouth with copious amounts of spicy chicken and giggled the night away with good company, I promised myself to make the trek Upvalley more often.
Market: An American Restaurant is located at 1347 Main Street. St. Helena, CA. (707) 963-3799. Open Monday through Saturday, 11 am - 8:30 pm. For more information, visit: www.marketsthelena.com.
