Bella Bakery was started in 2013 by husband and wife Paul and Jen Crudo, both Calistoga natives who wanted to bring a real neighborhood bakery to their community. Walking in, you’ll smell fresh pastries and espresso—the kind of aroma that makes you immediately glad you stopped. They use European baking traditions and organic coffee, and you can taste the difference in how their croissants actually have texture and their espresso doesn’t taste burned.

Paul and Jen focus on quality over cutting corners, which shows especially in their custom work. They take special orders seriously, whether that’s a wedding cake for your big day or something simpler you just can’t find elsewhere. If you’re planning an event in Napa, they also do catering and will work with you to create something that fits what you actually need rather than pushing a preset menu.

The cafe has sidewalk tables where your dog can hang out while you eat. It’s a nice spot to settle in during a Calistoga visit—you get that local cafe feeling without any pretense. The pastries rotate, and it’s worth asking what came out of the oven that morning since the best stuff sells quickly. On a warm day, having your dog nearby at an outside table while you work through an espresso and something fresh-baked is exactly the kind of low-key break Calistoga does well.

They’re serious about their craft but not serious about themselves, which is refreshing. Paul and Jen are usually there, and they clearly care that what you’re eating is actually good. Stop by before heading up to some of the nearby wineries or trails in the area.