Gentleman Farmer Bungalow

Downtown Napa holds an unexpected secret tucked inside a 1926 Craftsman cottage on First Street. Here, the traditional barrier between vintner and guest is dissolved. At the Gentleman Farmer Bungalow, vintners Jeff Durham and Joey Wolosz aren't just your hosts—they are your chefs, your storytellers, and your guides through a "studio for gustatory well-being".

The concept crystallized during a 2017 trip to Bordeaux. When Jeff and Joey called to reserve a winery tasting, they were asked a simple, life-changing question: "Would you have had lunch?" That spirit of impromptu, family-style hospitality became the blueprint for the Bungalow. It is designed to feel like you are visiting them at home because, in many ways, you are.

A Space of Endless Discovery

The home itself is a maximalist treasure trove where repeat visits feel inevitable; the space is so thoughtfully layered that you could return a dozen times and still discover something new. A cuckoo clock from Joey’s family chimes at unexpected intervals (12:38, then 1:43), while Jeff’s father’s vintage fire helmet occupies a place of honor across from the station where he once served. Even the bathroom towels offer a cheeky parting thought: "Hurry back! We’re talking about you".

The Interactive Table

The heart of the experience is the open kitchen—an inviting centerpiece where watching the hosts work becomes a core part of the performance. As Jeff and Joey carefully choreograph each course and plate on family heirloom china, the meal transforms into an interactive journey through their personal and family histories, cultural heritages, and travels.

The experience flows seamlessly from a chilled Rosé paired with house-made spiced nuts and goat-cheese-filled dates to more robust courses like Spanish tortilla and malfatti in pomodoro. The wines hold their own beautifully against the food, particularly a Sonoma Coast Pinot Noir that shows the kind of restraint and elegance that pairs with actual cooking rather than overwhelming it. With a production of less than 1000 cases, the wines feel as personal as the stories shared across the counter.

The Art of the Welcome

The finale is a two-act dessert—a nod to Joey’s culinary school background and notorious sweet tooth—served under the watchful eye of Julia Child, the patron saint of cooks who understand that great food requires both skill and unabashed enthusiasm. Having spent decades in the hospitality industry, Jeff and Joey have mastered the rare art of making guests feel genuinely welcomed rather than merely accommodated. By the time the final course is cleared, you don't just feel like you've had a tasting—you feel like you've been brought into the fold of a very special home.

Walk-ins warmly welcomed when the door is open. Reservations required for meals.

Gentleman Farmer Bungalow | 1564 First Street, Downtown Napa | gentlemanfarmerwines.com