FOOD BUZZ: Morimoto in Napa Valley

The Iron Chef Masaharu Morimoto brings his renowned East-meets-West fusion cuisine to Downtown Napa’s new Riverfront development.

Iron Chef Wizard Masaharu Morimoto, famous for merging traditionally western ingredients with inventive Asian cooking techniques for millions of Food Network fans, has opened Morimoto Napa, a stylish new restaurant in downtown Napa. Since its recent opening, Morimoto has become one of Napa’s hottest eateries.

Morimoto’s contemporary Japanese cuisine takes center stage at this striking two-story destination eatery. A master at East-meets-West fusion cuisine, Masaharu Morimoto offers diners tantalizing dishes like toro tartar with sour cream, tuna pizza with anchovy aioli, and lamb carpaccio with scallion ginger dressing.  Other highlights include the duck duck goose dish, a blend of duck with fried rice and frozen foie gras.  Morimoto’s Asian inspired carbonara uses sea urchin and udon, along with smoked bacon for an interesting twist on an Italian classic. For diners who desire the full Morimoto experience, choose the omakase, a chef’s choice menu.

The scene rivals the food at this Thomas Shoos designed space. Outside, there are patio seats offering stellar river views, while inside, the scene pops with vivid yellow chairs and sofas, concrete floors, and modern iron chandeliers. There is an open-style kitchen, along with a bar area, sushi bar, and private dining room. Book ahead because Miromoto’s urban flair and creative Japanese cuisine is already a hit in Napa.

Morimoto Napa: 610 Main St. Napa; (707) 252-1600 or visit morimotonapa.com.