Gary Lapuyade

General Manager, Toro Toro

“There’s nothing like the energy of a great restaurant – the movement, the buzz, and of course the sights, scents, and sounds food and drinks being enjoyed.”

Four Seasons Tenure

Since 2022
First Four Seasons Assignment: Current

Employment History

Messina Hof Winery and Resort, Bryan, Texas; The Tasting Room Uptown Park, Houston; Vic & Anthony's Steakhouse & Brenner's on the Bayou, Houston; Perry's Steakhouse, Houston; Brenner’s Steakhouse, Houston

Education

Bachelor of Science in Political Science and Economics – University of Houston

Birthplace

Houston, Texas, USA

Languages Spoken

English

A native Houstonian, Gary Lapuyade grew up visiting his father and uncles at the French restaurant they opened in San Francisco, following their move from France. As a child, he would dine there, exploring the kitchen, watching the operation come together, and seeing the delight on the diners’ faces as they enjoyed their meals. These experiences cemented a passion for the restaurant business that inspires him to this day as he oversees the busy all-day operations at Toro Toro, the acclaimed pan-Latin steakhouse by Richard Sandoval at Four Seasons Hotel Houston.

“There’s nothing like the energy of a great restaurant – the movement, the buzz, and of course the sights, scents, and sounds food and drinks being enjoyed. It’s something I’ve been around my entire life, and I absolutely love doing my part to make our guests’ experience with us one to remember.”

After earning a Bachelor of Science in Political Science and Economics at the University of Houston, he began his career as a Houston restaurateur at Brenner’s Steakhouse, learning the ins-and-outs of one of the city’s busiest restaurants. From there, he took on managerial roles at Perry’s Steakhouse and then at Vic & Anthony's Steakhouse and Brenner's on the Bayou. As his interest in wine continued to grow, Gary became assistant general manager and wine sales manager of The Tasting Room Uptown Park in 2010 and then regional sales manager of Messina Hof Winery and Resort in Bryan. He joined Four Seasons Hotel Houston in 2022 as General Manager of Toro Toro.

Gary holds both the Italian Wine Scholar Certificate as well a Level 4 WSET Diploma, as he pursues becoming a Certified Master of Wine.

Outside of work, Gary is a proud husband to Marina, and father of five. He spends most of his free time coaching baseball and volunteering at various Scout activities. He and his family hold dual US and Italian citizenship, allowing them to travel frequently to visit family outside of Rome. Gary and his children are avid chess players (competing both online as well as at tournaments in Houston and in Italy).