In November 2020, amid the COVID-19 pandemic, California Governor Gavin Newsom was observed attending a birthday party for a lobbyist and friend at The French Laundry, where more than three other families were in attendance, despite his administration issuing guidelines limiting such gatherings to only three households. Neighboring diners at the restaurant said Newsom's party was so loud that restaurant staff closed off their outdoor dining space with sliding glass doors. Newsom's office initially defended the celebration and said dining recommendations were separate from state guidelines. Newsom later apologized for attending the celebration. The incident was said to have severely damaged Newsom's image and credibility amidst the public health crisis. A day after hosting Governor Newsom, The French Laundry hosted a similar dinner involving San Francisco Mayor London Breed.