Celebrity chef Thomas Keller clashed with Yountville officials over an affordable housing project near his three-Michelin-star French Laundry restaurant. Wearing his signature white chef's coat, Keller accused the town council of poor communication and excessive spending on the proposed Yountville Commons development during Tuesday's council meeting.

Keller, who owns multiple restaurants in the Napa Valley town, expressed frustration that council members hadn't responded to his outreach about the 150-unit workforce housing project. The development would occupy the former Yountville Elementary School, which the town purchased for $11 million in 2024. Estimated construction costs range from $40 million to $60 million.

The local business community joined Keller's concerns, with 39 residents signing a letter requesting a six- to eight-week survey of local workers. The survey would examine housing design preferences, rent levels, and commute patterns before proceeding with the $40-60 million project.