Gavin Newsoms favorite Napa Valley hangout hit with stunning new claims from staff

A world-famous Napa Valley restaurant favored by Gov.Gavin Newsom is facing labor complaints after former employees accused it of wage violations, missed breaks, and off-the-clock work.The French Laundry, a three-Michelin-star restaurant in Yountville, is now facing three labor lawsuits filed in Napa County Superior Court between March and June, according to the San Francisco Chronicle.The complaints say workers were not paid correctly, were denied required meal and rest breaks, received inaccurate wage statements, and had to work off the clock.The newest case was filed on June 1 by Tiffany Hogue, who says she worked at the French Laundry as a kitchen server from January to May 2025.According to the complaint, employees had to attend a “family meal” before service but lost part of their meal periods because using the same time clock caused lines that cut into breaks.The filing claims workers had to change into uniforms during meal breaks, walk back to the restaurant, and clock in before starting shifts.At shift end, employees allegedly clocked out before returning to a locker room to change out of uniforms — time the complaint says should have been compensated.Hogue also says employees often worked more than 10 hours without a second meal break and that once service started, meal and rest breaks were unavailable.“Their only focus is on providing the impeccable service, which is both expected and required, at one of the world’s finest restaurants,” the complaint states.

California's top news, sports and entertainment delivered to your inbox every day.Please provide a valid email.

By clicking above you agree to the Terms of Use and Privacy Policy.Never miss a story The complaint further alleges unlawful tip pooling and unpaid “stages,” including “trial shifts.”A second complaint was filed on May 15 by Jovani Ibarra, who says he worked for French Laundry Partners as a runner and server from ...