Philip Tessier

Chef Philip Tessier's culinary philosophy is deeply rooted in "refined simplicity," a concept that elegantly marries a foundational layer of classic French technique with a clear aversion to fleeting culinary trends. His approach prioritizes continuous growth and an expansive perspective, refusing to be confined by preconceived notions of style. This ethos extends to his vision for Press, which he has meticulously transformed from a traditional steakhouse into a beacon of modern, refined American cuisine that stands proudly alongside Napa Valley's elite establishments. A cornerstone of Tessier's vision is the immersive guest experience, transcending mere sustenance to create lasting memories shared over exceptional food and wine. He champions an accessible luxury, aiming to redefine fine dining from an elitist endeavor into an approachable celebration of craft and hospitality. His dedication to sourcing is exemplary, moving towards a self-sustaining model with the development of their own farm at Jacobsen Orchards, supplemented by partnerships with local purveyors like Tenbrink Vineyards for meats and seafood. This commitment ensures the freshest, highest-quality ingredients form the soul of his seasonal menus. Beyond the plate, Tessier's philosophy is powerfully expressed through his commitment to mentorship and team development. Drawing from his own journey under culinary legends and his success in the Bocuse d'Or, he fosters an environment where young talents are nurtured, empowered, and equipped with comprehensive skills, including financial literacy (P&L understanding). He believes in a holistic definition of sustainability—encompassing not only ethical sourcing but also the long-term viability and positive impact of the restaurant group, locally and on the broader culinary landscape. His ambitious future projects, like Under-Study, further underscore this vision, creating multifaceted platforms for culinary exploration, education, and innovation, ensuring that Press's legacy is one of enduring excellence and profound influence. Chef Philip Tessier's signature approach is a masterclass in "refined simplicity," where profound technical mastery underpins dishes designed to be both sophisticated and approachable. He leverages a deep respect for traditional French cuisine, infusing layers of classical technique into every creation, yet constantly challenges himself to evolve beyond convention. His methodology, honed through his demanding Bocuse d'Or training, emphasizes an unparalleled focus on flavor and taste, ensuring that visual artistry never overshadows the gastronomic experience. He possesses a rare talent for taking familiar ingredients or concepts and transforming them through creativity and meticulous execution, delivering unexpected and memorable flavor profiles. This is evident in dishes that evoke a sense of nostalgia while presenting them with contemporary flair. His plating is thoughtfully elegant, reflecting the intrinsic quality of the ingredients and the precision of their preparation. Legendary dishes include the **ricotta gnudi wrapped in squash blossom** served with Parmesan consommé, celebrated for its nostalgic, creamy tomato soup-like flavor. The **halibut wrapped in squash** showcases his ability to elevate even initially challenging ingredients. Most emblematic of his philosophy is the **truffle-glazed chicken**, a dish designed to epitomize the elevation of quality ingredients through technique, resulting in an unexpected presentation and profound flavor. Looking ahead, his plans for Under-Study reveal a playful yet sophisticated side, featuring highly craveable items like a **lobster corn dog with caviar**, and complex small plates such as **black truffle, mole, octopus, crispy pig's ears, and charcoal oven-roasted turnips with Benton's bacon**, all executed with a high level of sophisticated technique.

Career

• Sous Chef at Le Bernardin, NY, NY
• Sous Chef at per se, NY, NY
• Chef De Cuisine at Bouchon French Bistro, Yountville, CA
• Executive Sous Chef at The French Laundry, Yountville, CA