From Napa Roots to National Recognition: Chef Rogelio Garcia of Auro at Four Seasons Napa Valley Named James Beard Award Finalist

Four Seasons Resort and Residences Napa Valley is honoured to announce that Chef Rogelio Garcia, the visionary leader behind the Resort's Michelin-starred restaurant Auro, has been named a finalist for the esteemed James Beard Foundation Award for Best Chef: California.

The James Beard Awards, widely regarded as the "Oscars of the food world," recognize exceptional talent and achievement in the culinary arts, hospitality, media, and the food industry. Chef Rogelio's nomination is a testament to his commitment to culinary excellence and his dedication to showcasing the bounty of Napa Valley.

“We are incredibly proud to see Chef Rogelio Garcia recognized as a finalist for this prestigious award," says Robby Delaney, General Manager of Four Seasons Resort and Residences Napa Valley. "His passion for creating innovative dishes that highlight the finest local ingredients has established both Auro and Four Seasons Napa Valley as must-visit destinations for anyone seeking an unforgettable culinary experience in the heart of Wine Country."

Born in Mexico City and raised in the world-renowned Napa Valley, Chef Garcia's passion for cooking is deeply rooted in his family's Mexican heritage and the influence of celebrated Napa Valley chefs such as Thomas Keller of The French Laundry. His remarkable culinary journey has taken him from humble beginnings in local kitchens to acclaimed restaurants, including stints at Napa institutions The French Laundry and Cyrus.

At Auro, Chef Rogelio's unparalleled finesse and creativity shine through in every artfully crafted dish. From the delicate crudo of dry-aged amberjack with vibrant citrus aguachile to the indulgent A5 wagyu with luxurious golden osetra caviar, each plate tells a captivating story of Napa Valley's bountiful terroir.

“I am deeply honoured and humbled to be named a finalist for the James Beard Award," says Chef Rogelio Garcia. "This recognition is a testament to the tireless dedication and passion of the entire team at Auro and Four Seasons Napa Valley. We strive for excellence in every aspect of our craft, and our commitment to authenticity and showcasing the very best of Napa Valley is evident in every dish we create."

In celebration of this momentous achievement, Auro has expanded its operations and is now open Wednesday through Saturday from 5:00 to 9:00 pm, allowing more guests to experience Chef Rogelio's award-worthy cuisine.

The winners of the 2024 James Beard Awards will be announced at a ceremony in Chicago on June 10, 2024.

For more information about Auro or to make a reservation, visit Four Seasons Napa Valley website or call +1 707 709 2100, or book online.

About Auro at Four Seasons Resort and Residences Napa Valley

Auro, Calistoga's only Michelin-starred restaurant, is a gem in the culinary landscape of Napa Valley, showcasing Chef Rogelio Garcia's innovative approach to Northern California cuisine. Set within a world-class vineyard of Four Seasons Resort and Residences Napa Valley and nestled amid the captivating hillsides and mineral hot springs of Calistoga, Auro stands as a testament to gastronomic excellence.

Awarded a coveted Michelin star in the 2023 Michelin Guide California and named one of Esquire's Best 50 New Restaurants in America, Auro has quickly established itself as wine country's newest fine dining destination since its opening in fall 2022. The restaurant's ambiance features an intimate dining room with floor-to-ceiling windows, allowing guests to watch the culinary team in action, and a semi-private alfresco terrace with sweeping vineyard views.

In this contemporary setting, Chef Garcia unveils a hyper-seasonal five-course tasting menu that evolves regularly, featuring specialties such as dry-aged shima aji and Kagoshima A5 wagyu. His signature touch, “oro” – a nod to gold - is brilliantly incorporated, elevating every dish. The artful cuisine is accentuated by a robust wine program led by Sommelier Derek Stevenson, which earned Auro the Wine Spectator 2023 Best of Award of Excellence.