Aqua’s Celebrated Chefs Reunite For A Special Healdsburg Event At The Matheson

Healdsburg’s culinary scene is about to take center stage with a one-night-only event on February 1st celebrating the 20th anniversary of Aqua Restaurant’s monumental achievement: earning two Michelin stars. Hosted at The Matheson, this extraordinary evening will reunite the original Aqua leadership team to honor the legacy of one of San Francisco’s most iconic fine dining establishments.

Guests will enjoy a five-course dinner, each dish crafted by a renowned chef who contributed to Aqua’s groundbreaking cuisine, which left an indelible mark on the culinary world before its abrupt closure in 2010. Wines will be curated by chef and owner of The Matheson, Dustin Valette, and proceeds from the event will support the V Foundation for Cancer Research.

The Matheson, a modern gem in Sonoma County, is the perfect venue for this tribute. Designed by architect Cass Calder Smith, it features a craft cocktail bar, sushi bar, wine wall with 88 wines on tap, and a rooftop lounge with Plaza views. Owner Dustin Valette, a Healdsburg native and Aqua alum has imbued the space with a deep sense of legacy as it sits on the site of his great-grandfather’s Snowflake Bakery.

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The evening will begin with chef Laurent Manrique, Aqua’s celebrated visionary, presenting his signature Yellowfin Ahi Tuna Tartare with Moroccan spices. This iconic dish will also become a permanent fixture on The Matheson’s menu, with proceeds benefiting cancer research. Joining him are Peter Armellino, chef and partner at the Michelin-starred Plumed Horse; Jason Pringle, executive chef at Hazel Hill in Montage Healdsburg; and Lisa Lu, the acclaimed pastry chef from Jordan Vineyard & Winery. Each chef will contribute a course inspired by Aqua’s legacy while showcasing their own culinary evolution. You can find the menu here.

Jean Claude Persais, Aqua’s former Vice President, will ensure the hospitality and ambiance are as impeccable as the cuisine. This event goes beyond culinary excellence to support a meaningful cause. For those fortunate enough to attend, this dinner promises to be more than a meal—it’s a journey through time. Each dish will evoke the spirit of Aqua’s groundbreaking menu while reflecting contemporary Wine Country sensibilities.

Tickets for this exclusive event are limited, so early reservations are recommended. Whether you’re drawn by Aqua’s legacy or The Matheson’s forward-thinking approach, this dinner offers a rare opportunity to experience the best of both worlds. Don’t miss this chance to celebrate great food, exceptional wine, and a noble cause in the heart of Healdsburg. For tickets to the event, check it out here.