Four Seasons Napa Valley's Auro Names New Executive Chef

On June 12, 2026, Four Seasons Resort and Residences Napa Valley announced Evan Neumann as the new executive chef for its Michelin-starred restaurant, Auro. Neumann assumed the role in April, stepping into an establishment lauded for its sophisticated dining.

Neumann's career trajectory includes stints in some of Europe's most revered kitchens. He trained under culinary legends like Joël Robuchon, Alain Ducasse, Anne-Sophie Pic, and Christophe Bellanca. His previous tenure with Four Seasons includes two years as a sous chef at La Dame de Pic in the French Alps, before joining Bellanca's New York restaurant in 2022. The Press Democrat reports that Neumann's culinary journey began precociously at age 14 in Provence, France, eventually leading him to formal training at the École Hôtelière d’Avignon.

According to the resort, Neumann articulated his vision for Auro, citing 'everything coming together in one place, the terroir of Napa Valley, Four Seasons standards of service excellence, and the opportunity to build something with a distinctive culinary identity and longevity, rooted in both French technique and the richness of California’s seasonal products.' His focus will extend to spotlighting Napa Valley's inherent flavors, utilizing seasonal ingredients, and nurturing his culinary team.

Our take: Neumann's appointment signals a clear direction for Auro — a sophisticated fusion of classical French discipline and California's unparalleled produce. This move leverages his deep European experience while rooting the menu firmly in Napa's celebrated agricultural bounty. It's an intriguing proposition, and we'll be watching to see how this translates onto the plate.