Yountville Classic Hurley’s Is Closing as Thomas Keller Swoops In

Hurley’s, a staple of local dining in Napa County, will close on April 15 when chef/owner Bob Hurley retires and transfers ownership of his Yountville restaurant space to celebrity chef Thomas Keller. “Chef Bob Hurley and his wife, Cynthia, came to an arrangement with the Thomas Keller Group late last week, and with that, a new chapter waits just around the corner,” a Hurley’s representative writes on Facebook. The restaurant has operated at 6518 Washington Street since it opened in 2002.

Hurley’s departure leaves room for a new business from Keller, who already runs several of the town’s popular tourist-attracting businesses: The three Michelin star French Laundry, Ad Hoc, Bouchon, and Bouchon Bakery. Last month, Keller put out the call for a chef de cuisine who “specializes in Mexican” cooking for a “new restaurant concept,” leading naturally to speculation that a Thomas Keller Mexican restaurant might be in store. Eater has reached out to for details and will add updates accordingly.

As for chef Hurley, when he retires from his longtime restaurant later this month, he plans to travel and perhaps learn a new hobby or two. “It has been a great ride and a great adventure,” Hurley says.