VIP WINE DINNER

Chef Angelo Auriana was born in Bergamo, Italy, and graduated with honors from the renowned San Pellegrino Hotel School at just 17. He honed his craft in his hometown under the guidance of Pierangelo Cornaro before traveling across Italy, immersing himself in regional cuisine and tradition.

 

In 1985, a visit to Florida led him to California, where he helped open Piero Selvaggio’s Primi un Ristorante and later spent 18 years as executive chef at Valentino Ristorante. There, he developed his signature style, cucina dei sapori—a focus on exceptional ingredients and bold, authentic flavors. His passion for wine also grew there, refining his ability to craft multi-course dining experiences paired with wines from around the world.

 

In 2003, Auriana opened Masque Ristorante in El Dorado Hills, earning Esquire Magazine’s Best New Restaurant of the Year in 2004. A decade later, he partnered with Matteo Ferdinandi to launch Factory Place Hospitality Group, opening The Factory Kitchen (2013) and BRERA Ristorante (2016) in Los Angeles, followed by Matteo’s Ristorante Italiano and BRERA Osteria at The Venetian in Las Vegas.

 

Beyond the kitchen, Auriana is dedicated to charitable causes and enjoys sharing his passion through cooking classes, tasting menus, and wine pairings. He holds an honorary diploma from the mayor of Bergamo for bringing his hometown’s culinary traditions to the U.S.

 

Despite his many achievements, Auriana remains humble—most proud of his role as a father to his son, Nicholas, and his lifelong mission to bring people together through food.