A native of Bergamo , Italy , near the culinary capital of Milan , Auriana graduated with honors from the prestigious San Pellegrino Hotel School at age 17 . Auriana made his way to California in 1985 , where he helped with the opening of “ Primi un Ristorante ” shortly after becoming executive chef of “ Valentino Ristorante ” during his tenure of more than 18 years in Valentino ’ s kitchen .
In 2013 , Auriana partnered with Matteo Ferdinandi and Francine Diamond-Ferdinandi to launch Factory Place Hospitality Group , opening the trattoria-style The Factory Kitchen that year followed by the Milan-inspired BRERA Ristorante in 2016 . Both restaurants reflect the veteran chef ’ s pride in Italian cuisine and heartfelt desire to introduce diners to authentic dishes from Northern Italy .
“ I am thrilled to be recognized as the 2025 Chef de Cuisine for the Naples Winter Wine Festival , one of the world ’ s most prestigious charity wine auctions ,” Auriana said . “ It will be a privilege to participate in the Festival for a ninth time over its 25-year history , including some of the very early years . I am always awestruck by the commitment to improving the lives of children in need .”
Utilizing seasonal California produce
and traditional techniques , Auriana opened his first solo restaurant , Masque Ristorante , in 2003 with partner Niki Rivieccio in El Dorado Hills prestigious complex La Borgata . The restaurant was awarded Esquire Magazine ’ s “ Best New Restaurant of the Year ” in 2004 , and became the new standard in the restaurant industry of the area .
Later , after partnering on the successful launch of Factory Place Hospitality Group , Auriana and Ferdinani expanded their awardwinning concepts to Las Vegas , opening Matteo ’ s Ristorante Italiano and BRERA Osteria in the Italian-themed Venetian Resort along the Las Vegas Strip .
Today , Auriana divides his time between Los Angeles and Las Vegas , continually developing menus and sharing his love for cooking through classes , tasting menus , wine collector food and wine pairings . Auriana also holds an honorary diploma from the mayor of Bergamo , Italy for sharing the town ’ s culture and traditions with the United States via his Italian Heritage Cuisine .
“ Angelo ’ s passion for authentic Italian cuisine and fine wines make him the ideal choice as our 2025 Chef de Cuisine ,” said Jeff Gargiulo , 2025 Chef Committee Co-Chair . “ Joining him for our Silver Anniversary is an impressive list of other world-renowned chefs , acclaimed vintners and expert sommeliers , setting the stage for a weekend of unique , one-of-a-kind food and wine experiences .”
The 25th annual NWWF comes following the record-breaking event in January 2024 during which over $ 33 million was raised . Funds are distributed by NCEF via grants to individual nonprofits and multi-partner , multi-year strategic initiatives focusing on the well-being of the whole child , including early learning , healthcare , hunger , mental health , oral health , out-of-school time and vision .
Festival guests will once again join in this charitable mission in 2025 as they bid on incredible , one-of-a-kind experiences during the famed live auction , part of a weekend that will also feature intimate dinners in elegant , private homes and settings showcasing worldclass food and wine .
The weekend will pay homage to the past while looking forward to the future . As a nod to the 25th anniversary , this year ’ s Festival will be led by a team of several NCEF Trustees , all of whom have previously chaired the NWWF , including some who were involved in the very first Festival in 2001 .
Ticket packages for the 2025 Naples Winter Wine Festival start at $ 17,500 per couple for a Double Magnum package and $ 40,000 for two couples to experience a Jeroboam Package . For additional information , please visit : napleswinefestival . com / about-the-festival .
PORTFOLIO MAGAZINE 27