CALIFORNIA COOL

Fleetwood Calistoga is the Heart of Calistoga Motor Lodge and Spa

BY FRAN MILLER | PHOTOS COURTESY OF CALISTOGA MOTOR LODGE AND SPA

Few resorts in the Valley capture the spirit of summertime as well as Calistoga Motor Lodge and Spa. With its Palm Spring-esque vibe that pays homage to the old-school road trips of the ’50s and ’60s, this playful, nostalgia-filled resort is all about fun. From bocce ball and cornhole to its two mineral-water pools and laid back on-site spa, to complimentary bikes, Calistoga Motor Lodge is a welcoming place, the heart of which is its restaurant, Fleetwood Calistoga, a communal gathering spot for both guests and locals.

My team and I have worked together for a long time and have great rapport and trust in each other.

Named for one of the oldest names in the RV industry and in keeping with the Motor Lodge theme, Fleetwood Calistoga opened a year ago, and in that time, its open concept kitchen has become a Calistoga favorite. Executive Chef Edgar Zecua oversees the wood-fired ovens that deliver Italian-influenced American dishes made with locally sourced, wine country ingredients, like perfectly blistered pizzas featuring pesto, mozzarella, Italian sausage, peppers, arugula, and pickled red onions. His Fleetwood Burger with Gruyere, Little Gem lettuce, tomato, pickle, and onion is typically a sell-out item, and vegetarians love his charred Heart of Romaine salad. Formerly of Roadhouse 29, as well as Auberge du Soleil, Martini House, and Tra Vigne, Zecua has been in the industry for 22 years, since age 18. His Fleetwood crew consists mostly of those with whom he has previously worked. “I feel lucky to have the support of such a great team,” said Zecua. “My team and I have worked together for a long time and have great rapport and trust in each other.”

Also a draw is the beverage program. Fleetwood is a great spot to sample some of the Valley’s most popular wine labels. The wines-by-the-glass list features fun pours such as a Schramsberg Brut Rosé and a Duckhorn North Coast Sauvignon Blanc. Creatively crafted cocktails (such as a Buffalo Trace Old Fashioned with clove/fennel simple syrup and bitters) and on-tap beers further complement Zecua’s dishes.

Fleetwood general manager Dave Woolsey describes the restaurant as California casual with a Mediterranean influence. “It’s a welcoming place,” said Woolsey, citing the vibrant blue and terra cotta tile, pendant lighting, and front and center wood oven. “We have a good mix of repeat locals and hotel guests. It’s a great restaurant for families, friends, and large groups – there’s something for everyone. The food is fantastic and consistent, and the service is friendly and focused on customer satisfaction. We go out of our way to make each experience special to the individual.”

Fleetwood’s event schedule provides further incentive to visit, including live music, industry nights, and social hours. “We are a social and inclusive place,” said Woolsey. “At Fleetwood, everyone is invited to break bread, raise a glass, listen to favorite local musicians, and celebrate Calistoga. We want Fleetwood to feel like your second home.”

1880 Lincoln Ave, Calistoga // 707-709-4410 // www.fleetwoodcalistoga.com