Tucked within the opulent confines of the Four Seasons Resort and Residences Napa Valley, Auro has swiftly ascended to become a culinary beacon in the heart of wine country. This contemporary American restaurant, recently awarded a Michelin star for the second year in a row, is helmed by the culinary prowess of Chef Rogelio Garcia. Chef Garcia and his team offer an unforgettable dining experience that celebrates the region’s bounty while pushing the boundaries of culinary innovation- one plate at a time.
With a resume boasting credentials at renowned Michelin-star restaurants such as The French Laundry, Cyrus, and Spruce, Chef Garcia brings a wealth of experience and creativity to his role. His culinary philosophy centers on showcasing the purest flavors of the region while incorporating global influences to create both familiar and exhilarating dishes.
Auro’s menu is a meticulously curated exploration of California’s diverse culinary landscape. The tasting menu, a signature offering, presents a symphony of flavors, textures, and colors, emphasizing hyper-seasonal ingredients, making every bite a revelation, including the choreography behind each course presentation. The whimsical variation of plates, bowls, and pedestals adds to the stunning visual beauty of each dish, offering a complete sensory experience.
Before the official course program begins, a generous amuse-bouche of six teaser samplings offers an initial glimpse of what lies ahead. Once the pre-fixe program officially begins, one is well on their way to a memorable evening. One standout dish is the 10-Day Dry-Aged Shima Aji, a tantalizing combination of citrus-tamarind agua chile intricately sliced and presented as a delicate rose evoking the tastebuds with a delicate balance of freshness and acidity. T
he wagyu on oyster crackers filled with crème fraiche and topped with a pinch of Golden Ostera Caviar is a decadent indulgence, showcasing the unparalleled quality of the chef’s sourcing. For dessert, the Cinnamon Buñuelos with caramelized milk chocolate crémeux, banana, and horchata offer a sumptuous finale to an extraordinary meal.
Auro boasts an award-winning wine list curated by Lead Sommelier Derek Stevenson to complement the exceptional cuisine. The 250-bottle list offers a carefully curated journey, with particular emphasis on Napa Valley. Stevenson and his team of sommeliers are on hand to provide expert guidance, ensuring that each wine perfectly complements the dishes on the menu.
Auro is more than just a restaurant; it is a destination. It is a place where guests can immerse themselves in the essence of Napa Valley, from the breathtaking scenery to the extraordinary culinary creations. With its Michelin-star status and a place on Esquire’s coveted list of the Best New Restaurants in America, Auro has quickly established itself as a culinary powerhouse. As the restaurant continues to evolve and innovate, it is clear that its stars will only shine brighter.