Adam Rowley
Chef & Owner

What better place to ignite your life’s passion than in your best friend’s kitchen, cooking simply for the joy of it? That’s where Adam Rowley’s culinary story began. At 28, after seven years in construction, Adam made a bold pivot—leaving behind job security to follow his true calling. He enrolled in culinary school and soon landed his first professional role at a modern steakhouse in Folsom, California. But it was at Chef Michael Chiarello’s acclaimed Bottega in Yountville where Adam truly found his stride, spending four formative years mastering the art of Italian fine dining.

Driven by a relentless desire to create food that moves people, Adam has since spent over two decades in the hospitality industry, honing his craft across every level of the kitchen. He brings a rare blend of refined technique, artistic vision, and soulful cooking that reflects both his classical training and personal roots.

In recent years, Adam launched French Corner Napa, a crêpe-focused culinary venture that fuses the charm of French street food with California’s local, seasonal bounty. From farmers markets to private events, his elevated yet approachable crêpes have earned a devoted following.

In 2025, Adam’s talent and creativity were recognized on a larger stage when he earned People’s Choice Runner-Up at the prestigious Hall Cabernet Cookoff in Napa Valley. Competing against top chefs from the region, Adam presented a bold, flavorful dish that not only showcased his ability to balance innovation with approachability, but also connected deeply with the public. “It was an honor to cook alongside so many incredible chefs, but even more rewarding to see the community respond to my food with such excitement and support,” he says. The competition, which blends culinary artistry with philanthropic spirit, further ignited Adam’s passion for cooking with purpose.

Currently, Adam serves as the Executive Chef at Watermark Napa Valley Senior Living, where he leads a dynamic kitchen focused on providing vibrant, nourishing meals to a discerning senior community. Whether he’s plating a delicate crêpe or mentoring his team, Adam’s mission remains the same: to create unforgettable memories through food.

Adam finds daily inspiration in art, nature, and fatherhood. “Waking up to my son each morning fuels my drive to grow—to be better, to create more, and to build a legacy that makes him proud.”