Having lived in Mexico City for several years and delving deep into the culinary culture, I was thrilled to have received a copy of Convivir: Modern Mexican Cuisine in California’s Wine Country by chef Rogelio Garcia. Page after page brought memories of dinning among our friends and adopted families in Mexico, where eating together is an integral part of the cultural fabric and made my experience so special.
In the heart of California’s esteemed Napa Valley, nestled at the base of the Mt. St. Helena, where the rolling hills meet flourishing vineyards, a culinary renaissance is taking place.
Leading the charge executive chef Rogelio Garcia, whose journey from the kitchens of Mexico to the Michelin-starred Auro at Four Seasons Resort and Residences Napa Valley is captured beautifully in his debut cookbook, Convivir: Modern Mexican Cuisine in California’s Wine Country. Co-authored with Andréa Lawson Gray, this book is not just a collection of recipes; it is a heartfelt memoir that entwines Garcia’s personal narrative with the rich tapestry of Mexican culture and cuisine.
The word “convivir” translates to “to live together,” resonating deeply with the author’s ethos of community, culture, and shared experiences through food. Garcia’s vision transcends mere cooking; it is a call for unity and respect among diverse cultures, all celebrated around the dinner table.
In his preface, Garcia opens up about his family’s immigrant story—his mother, Irma Robles, crossed the border in 1988, fueled by the desire to provide a better life for her children. This powerful narrative is the backbone of Convivir, in which each recipe reflects not only culinary techniques but also the love and sacrifice that define the immigrant experience.
Garcia’s culinary philosophy is steeped in authenticity and draws from the traditional practices of his upbringing, while integrating the vibrant ingredients of Northern California. Each recipe is an invitation to explore the flavors of Mexico through a contemporary lens, showcasing the beauty of seasonal produce sourced from local farms and purveyors.
From masa to mar, milpa to rancho, Garcia organizes his recipes according to their origins, allowing readers to appreciate the connection between land, labor, and cuisine.
Within the pages of Convivir, over 150 recipes beckon home cooks like myself to recreate the magic of Mexican dining. Garcia’s approach is refreshingly user-friendly (I’m a great eater, but a novice in the kitchen), offering alternatives for busy schedules while preserving the essence of traditional cooking.
He acknowledges the fast-paced nature of modern life, providing tips on preparing ingredients in advance and even utilizing store-bought options where appropriate.
Garcia’s creativity shines through in his unique take on beloved dishes. For instance, his interpretation of classic tamales goes beyond the traditional, incorporating flavors and techniques that elevate the dish while paying homage to its roots.
The book also highlights special menus for Mexican holidays, including Día de los Muertos and Día de la Independencia, allowing families to celebrate their heritage with culinary flair. A sense of occasion imbues each recipe with a sense of occasion, transforming everyday meals into extraordinary experiences.
As the culinary landscape evolves, Convivir stands as a testament to the power of food to foster understanding and connection among diverse communities. Garcia’s commitment to celebrating Mexican culture, especially at a time when diversity is finally being recognized and embraced, is both timely and poignant. He emphasizes that the dinner table serves as a sacred space where stories are shared, traditions are honored, and relationships are forged.
Celebrity chefs have lauded Garcia’s work, recognizing him as a beacon of innovation within the culinary world. Val Cantu, chef and owner of Californios, highlights the passion that Garcia pours into his cooking, stating, “To make true Mexican cuisine, you must start with heart and soul.” This sentiment captures the essence of Convivir, in which each recipe is a reflection of Garcia’s journey—a blend of his mother’s home cooking and his formal French training, sprinkled with the vibrant influences of California.
The launch of Convivir coincides with the success of Auro, the Michelin-starred restaurant that has quickly become a gem in Napa Valley’s culinary scene. Opened in the fall of 2022 in Calistoga, Auro has received accolades for its innovative approach to Northern California cuisine, featuring a hyper-seasonal, seven-course tasting menu that evolves with the seasons.
Garcia’s artistry is evident in dishes that celebrate local ingredients, such as dry-aged shimaaji and Kagoshima A5 wagyu, each elevated by his signature touch, “oro,” a nod to gold that adds a unique flair to every plate.
The ambiance of Auro enhances the dining experience, with floor-to-ceiling windows offering breathtaking views of the vineyards, inviting guests to immerse themselves in the beauty of Napa Valley while savoring Garcia’s exquisite creations.
The robust wine program curated by sommelier Derek Stevenson complements the culinary offerings, further enriching the experience of fine dining in this idyllic setting.
Convivir is a celebration of resilience, heritage, and the joy of sharing food. Garcia’s journey from a dishwasher to a Michelin-starred chef is a testament to the power of dreams and determination, inspiring home cooks and culinary enthusiasts alike to embrace the flavors of Mexico while honoring the bounty of California.
In a time where the world that often feels divided, Convivir serves as a reminder that food has the unique ability to bring us together. Through the pages of this book, Rogelio Garcia invites us to savor each moment, to celebrate our differences, and to find common ground “on a plate.”
The culinary journey he offers is one of not just gastronomy but of community, culture, and connection, making Convivir a must-have for anyone looking to enrich their culinary repertoire while nurturing a deeper appreciation for the stories behind the meals we share.
Convivir: Modern Mexican Cuisine in California’s Wine Country
- By Rogelio Garcia with Andréa Lawson Gray
- Abrams / September 2024
- U.S. $50.00 / CAN $63.00
- Hardcover / 288 pages
- 9 x 10 7/8″ / Full-color photographs throughout
- ISBN: 978-1-949480-33-7