On the door leading into the kitchen of California’s The Restaurant at Meadowood are the words, “He that would eat the Fruit must climb the Tree,” an adage that could not be more appropriate for this story. From humble beginnings in the Midwest to international culinary acclaim and Michelin stardom, Christopher Kostow is a chef whose talent is amplifi_ed by his vision. Part artist, part philosopher, he has been pursuing a regionally specific cuisine within the walls of The Restaurant at Meadowood that not only draws from local resources, but also ties his efforts to the history and spirit of Napa Valley.

To say that Chef Kostow’s work has been well received would be a dramatic understatement. Shortly after taking the helm at The Restaurant in 2008, Kostow steered a course for historic success, one that would earn him a coveted rating of 3 Michelin Stars in 2011, a standard he has maintained every year since. Only the second American-born chef and third youngest to receive 3 Michelin Stars, Kostow also garnered the James Beard Award for Best Chef: West in 2013. Although Kostow admits his success has bolstered confi_dence in the work he and his team are doing, he is not one to rest on his laurels.