French Laundry
Yountville, CA 94599 (707) 944-2380
- Hours:
Mon-Thu 5:30 p.m.-9:30 p.m.
Fri-Sun 11:00 a.m.-1:00 p.m.
Fri-Sun 5:30 p.m.-9:30 p.m. - Price Range: $$$$
- Accepts Credit Cards: Yes
- Parking: Street
- Attire: Formal (Jacket Required)
- Good for Groups: No
- Good for Kids: No
- Takes Reservations: Yes
- Delivers: No
- Take-out: No
- Waiter Service: Yes
- Wheelchair Accessible: Yes
- Outdoor Seating: No
- Good for: Dinner
- Alcohol: Beer & Wine Only
339 Reviews for French Laundry
I have been fortunate enough to eat her twice. People ask me if a meal can really be worth the price charged. Simply put, yes. If you have an open mind toward food and can appreciate goodness when it lands on your taste buds, you will enjoy every moment at French Laundry.
To paraphrase Anthony Bourdain, it's so over the top indulgent it's like wearing mink underwear while driving a Rolls Royce.
The Romans of old would be impressed.
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Six hundred big ones.
Six hundred big ones.
Six hundred BIG ones.
Loved it. But won't be doing it anytime soon.
Six hundred big ones.
I'm not going to lie - I am a Thomas Keller groupie. And I mean clutch-the-FL-cookbook-while-sitting-behind-a-bush -outside-his-private-residence-waiting-to-catch-a- glimpse-of-TK groupie. However, this five-star review is not based on that; rather, I did go in with exceedingly high expectations, a critical palate, and unflinching standards. That foreward being said (ok, admitted), let's continue onto the review.
I am one of those lucky SOBs that actually got a call back from the restaurant after deciding to place my name on the waiting list, thus procuring a lunchtime reservation on a Saturday. Having no breakfast prior, we were certainly packing an appetite. I could give a play-by-play of the nine course meal, but then again I'm not trying to pen my first novel here on Yelp. SO, highlights:
Tartare of Japanese Kindai Tuna:
Now, when I first caught glimpse of the word "Kindai", I lost sight of all else. There is only one shipment of Kindai fish that comes into the U.S. per week, consisting of usually only three fish, two of which come to the Bay Area. That being said, I was notably curious to taste it. As sick and skeptical I am of tuna tartare (when the F did they become such a common cop out at restaurants? F!), the Kindai adds such depth of flavor to this dish. I do admit the rest of the flavors were good but they were quite common to those of a tartare dish, so not exactly stunning. It's certainly the rare fish that made this course undeniably unforgettable.
(for more info about Kindai Tuna: http://www.sfgate.com/...)
Confit of Marcho Farms Veal Heart:
I love offal. Tripe, heart, liver, tongue, sweetbreads. Oh yeaaa. Gag and squirm as you please, but offal is so under-appreciated in this country that it is a waste. Our waiter described the meat to taste much like pastrami, and it absolutely did! Along with cipollini onions, rye bread puree (I know!), and caraway jus, this is the ultimate Rueben sandwich reinterpreted. I'm thinking next time I visit Miller's Deli, I'll ask for sous-vide veal heart and if they could kindly puree the rye for me.
Lamb Rib-Eye
If lamb ever becomes an endangered animal, you can feel free to blame me. Lamb is by far my choice of red meat. Of course, the FL cooked it perfectly, accompanied it with thoughtful ingredients, yadda yadda yadda. The highlight here is that we got A SODA PAIRING TO OUR LAMB. Yes you read right. SODA PAIRING. Not wine pairing. My dining accompaniment and I don't have the palate to appreciate wine pairings, and I just simply don't have the alcohol tolerance. Instead, our kick-ass waiter suggested a black cherry soda pairing to go with our lamb. He even brought it out in wine goblets! And of course, somewhat surprisingly, he was right. Yes, we are children. As the grown ups around us coolly sipped on their Bourdeauxs and Pinot Noirs, we dined a sophisticated meal at the kiddy table. With our sodas.
Ok, so yea it's expensive, yea it's nearly impossible to get a reso, yea some of the waiters may be snooty, BUT what did you expect?! It's been named Best Restaurant of the World and Best Restaurant in the Americas, as well as donning three Michelin stars. Did you really think you wouldn't be near broke by the end of the meal? We were both so stuffed and delirious that we were having the food giggles (yes, we are children. see above.). If you get a reso, go - it's a rare and wonderful experience. And don't forget to ask if you can get a different flavored soda paired with every course.
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The easiest way to describe the French Laundry is over-the-top, much like a fancy restaurant in a comedy movie.
The service here is incredibly attentive, although stiff as all hell as noted by other Yelpers. For example, I had taken maybe two sips out of my water before one of the servers came and gave me a refill. This guy had that thick French accent that makes everything sound gourmet and worth $50 for a single bite.
I was there with my cousin, her husband, and my girlfriend, and every time they brought out a new course, a pair of servers were sure to first serve the ladies at the same time, and then serve the gentlemen at the same time, with plates landing on the table within half a second of each other.
As for the food, some of it was amazing - best lobster I've ever had, perfectly cooked beef, incredible desserts. The rest of it was good but not consistently impressive. I think that some of it (like the foie gras) is probably better than I'm able to recognize given that I'm not as much of a gourmand as I wish, but some courses like halibut, scallop carpaccio, and others were underwhelming.
Anyways, if you can afford it and can get a reservation, do it as this place is certainly a unique experience. You'll eat a few courses that will blow you away, and the service is good as long as you don't let their stiffness get to you. But if you can't afford it or don't feel like jumping through golden hoops to dine here, I guarantee that you aren't missing out on the best meal of your life. I enjoyed my experience at French Laundry, but I doubt that I'll be back.
Soooo....this isn't actually a REAL review...yet. See, I have a reservation for June 13th. I live in Texas and happen to be going to SF for my birthday and got REEEEEELY lucky to get a reservation here. I am incredibly excited and started crying when I found out we got in. I'm kind of a sap, I know. I'm going with two of my best friends and a guy who should have hung the moon. So...this really should be a "To be continued..." review. I'll be sure to let you know what I thought. Oh, and for those of you who can't get a reservation, find someone who has Am. Express concierge service. They ROCK! Maybe also leave your dates and times open. If you give them a specific date and time (after they laugh at you and call you a suckah) that is the only day/time they'll try for.
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What can I say? It is like great theater. The foie gras was out of this world as was the beef which was a cross between angus and kobe was melt in your mouth perfection. I was not ill or over stuffed as I had been at Campton Place and I had no regrets about eating every single bite on my plate.
I recommend that when you go, bring a wonderful bottle of your own red wine ($50 corkage, cheaper than ANY bottle of wine on the list) and buy a bottle of white. This way you can have a wonderful bottle of wine at a much more civilized price. FYI - They DO NOT do wine parings by the glass as the menu changes daily.
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Danko was stanko, Minna was pretty darn good and Campton Place (under old foamy chef was) also pretty great but French Laundry was really as good as it gets.
Yelp needs to consider adding a special $$$$$ rating feature pretty much just for French Laundry.
So I recommend one take a day or two off work, get in your comfy chair and start dialing for a reservation until it happens for you, then save all your money for 2 months and then head North to Yountville to feel special for a few hours eating what may be the best of the best.
I heard Fat Duck in the UK is very good too and some crazy place in Spain - but the drive over there is a killer. Thankfully we only need to head over the Golden Gate to be cooked for by our betters.
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Time for a Michelin downgrade....
If I have a religion it is the celebration of excellent food and wine with friends... last night I celebrated half of all that at the French Laundry. The companionship was phenomenal, the wine was pretty good and the food was great. But the meal was not what I expected at all! Honestly, my expectations were VERY high because of all I've heard about the restaurant. Their standards should be even higher considering the astronomical bill and the Michelin 3-star hoopla.
Comparing our experience last night at the French Laundry to recent dinners at Cyrus in Healdsburg or Gary Danko, Michael Minna and Coi in SF I'm very disappointed.
Even still there were a few outstanding elements of the meal.
1) We were greeted at the table by an excellent bottle of RM champagne compliments of the French Laundry
2) Squid has never tasted so fine as their preparation - crispy and delicious on the outside, tender yet firm on the inside and reminded me of the sea.
3) My dinner-mates beef was so succulent I dreamed of it
4) The lamb with morels was savory and satisfying though it was just a few bites.
Frankly, almost every other course of the meal was utterly forgettable. This is not a case of sour-grapes for the expense ($240/each without wine) - I've happily spent more elsewhere. Sadly,this is an instance rubber not meeting the hype & reviews road.
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Where do I begin, this is 1 of my 5 top Michelin spots in the US. Being a Michelin slut, I started out with Thomas Keller here almost 8 years ago, then Alain Ducasse (closed now, but he just opened another one last month, my next destination!), then Jean Georges, then Le Bernadine (I need to Yelp on this one), then Thomas Keller second 3 Michelin stars Per Se NY, then my last 3 Michelin stars was Joel Robuchon earlier this month in Vegas ;-)
So I've been blessed to dine here a few times at west coast & east coast, I love them both. He's not only genius of what he does, but his passion, love, creativity & thrive make both of this restaurants on top of the world!!!
So for those that don't know me, telling you that I'm a fan of Chef Keller is way understated ;-)
So let's the journey begins:
- 3 different kind of salts just like Per Se!
- Amuse bouche
1. Either cauliflower 'panna cotta' with oyster glazed and Russian Sevruga Caviar;
2. Heirloom beets with naval California & French Laundry garden romaine lettuce (my choice) or Foie Gras 'confit' of field rhubard! Can't get any more organic than this dish!!!
3. Grilled 'pave' of Spanish bluefin tuna with sweet pepper 'tapenade', braised globe artichokes, pearl onion and arugula pudding;
4. Main lobster pancake with sweet pea shoot salad and carrot ginger sauce - delicious dish ;-)
5. Four story hills farm 'cuisse de poularde pressee' with a 'ragout' of delta green asparagus, Serrano ham and jidori hen egg emulsion - a cook to perfection dish!!!
6. Snake river farms 'calotte de beef grilled' 48 hours braised dry aged brisket, glazed parsnip, caramelized Brussels sprouts and sauce dijonaise - this brisket is so tender, juicy & flavorful!
7. Forest mushroom salad with country bread 'melba' and Pedro Ximinez reduction (Sherry rare wine) - a very interesting dish.
8. White verjus granite ice with nicole olive 'nougatine';
9. 'Feuillentine au caramel' butterscotch 'boite', caramel 'mousse' and milk chocolate-praline;
10 & tons of chocolates & a dessert gifts from the chef!
9 course tasting just like Per Se & a phenomenon wine list from old world to new world!
All I can say is out of the five 3 Michelin stars in the US, this place still has the softest spot in my heart, because it's from California & it's closer to home ;-)
Note: Any guy that can take you to a 3 Michelin stars, he got taste in food & in women & he's definitely worth it in my book.... hahahha ;-)
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Having eaten at French Laundry and Gary Danko in the same day (talk about indulgence, it was an anniversary weekend) I feel that I am able to acurately compare the two and can't understand the hype for French Laundry.
First off the lunch cost over $300. Don't get me wrong my SO and I knew the bill would run up quickly. But the food was no better (taste, presentation, etc) than at Gary Danko. I think the food at Gary Danko was better tasting, better presented and much more appealing when looking at the menu.
Plus the service at French Laundry was as snobbish as they come. I'm sorry but that last I heard Keller was the owner not some model wannabe gatekeeping the front door. I had a great server at Gary Danko-friendly, knowledgeable, all all around great service without the pretentiousness.
I would have given them one star, but they get the additional star simply because the Napa Valley is a beautiful area.
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$1400 for four
41/2 hours of a dream come true
WORTH IT! WORTH IT! WORTH IT!
I don't mind paying for a dream once in awhile.....
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Well, let me just start off by saying that I joined yelp just to review this restaurant (hopefully the habit will stick). I hate to use the cliche "religious experience" but I'm lacking a better term.
Anthony Bourdain said it best about the laundry, "It's a humbling experience to be confronted with every bite by one's own limitations."
Of course, the first hurdle is a reservation. Just hang tight. Make it a ritual to call every morning for a minutes. Chances are you'll get a reservation two months ahead of the very date you call.
The food: ineffable. If you're a foodie or even slightly enjoy any sort of culinary satisfaction, this place will be your mosque, temple, synagogue, or church. In all my years, I've never had anything more graceful, titillating, or elegant grace my taste buds. And I doubt that'll change until I go back.
Yes, you'll drop a significant chunk of change here, but, as the other yelpers can attest to, it's well worth it. This is the type of satisfaction you can write a check for; that's pretty rare in this world.
Good luck. Oh, and one tip: If you're reading online reviews to decide whether or not to go to French Laundry, turn off your computer, pick up your phone and make a reservation. You've gone far enough, just do it already!
They get 2 stars when it comes to value. The food was a gastronome's dream. Everything is excellent. You get about nine tastings. Along with the nine tastings, you should order about 3 bottles of wine, just to make sure your bill is in the four digits range. It's all good. It better be good when we were paying about $230 per person. Dinner was about 3.5 hours long. Each diner has one person carrying out their plate of food, which is miniscule compared to the plate. And the plate is spun around 360 degrees so you can appreciate how tiny and intricate it is. After two bites, the plate goes, and so does all the silverware because by the time the next plate comes, the leftover food on the silverware will have molded. Great place, if you don't mind trying to get a RSVP or the incredible price.
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OK, this may get me deported and my citizenship stripped away, but I am not a huge fan of French Laundry. My expectations were quite high due to price points and wait time for a reservation (my friend got the rezzies months in advance).
I found the food to be pretty and flavorful but, sadly, uninspired. I have had every dish that French Laundry presented at other restaurants prevously, and they weren't over-the-top superior either. From a restaurant of this calibre, I would appreciate and hope for avant-garde creativity, such as that I have experienced at places like Masa's or the Herb Farm in Woodinville WA.
As for the service, it was a bit too structured and lifeless for me. We got some diapproving looks when we laughed, and the servers were so stiff they seemed like they would shatter. Though I want and expect attentive, fastidious service, I prefer personality and warmth over formality.
Ultimately, in my opinion, this is a place to bring people who are impressed by beautiful, expensive things; basically, it's arm-candy for self-proclaimed gastronomes.
[However, for the sake of balance and disclosure, my dear friend and fellow Yelper, Derek Y., who made the reservation (thanks D!), loves this place and has rated it five stars.]
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I've dined at the Laundry 4 or 5 times in the past and it was fantastic. Only problem is, it is impossible to get a reservation. I started demon dialing at exactly 10 AM and continued for better than a hour before I got anything but a busy signal. Was told that the only table for 2 was taken at 10 AM, the very instant I called.
The Laundry must devise a better reservation system, we all have better things to do than participate in this game of chance. Restaurant Gary Danko will get the business for the day I wanted to go to the Laundry
To my sis and future brother-in-law, I thank you from the bottom of my heart and stomach for making reservations here this year and inviting us to dinner. It was literally beyond any of my expectations. I can't believe it's taken me two months to finally write about this experience. Which it absolutely was - an experience. The food was incredible. I had my dislikes, but the foie gras was excellent (good recommendation Jack on asking for it seared). Glad this was your third time because it seemed like we got the royal treatment. All of those little extras that came with the meal were a plus. The service was so excellent that I would have given 30%. The staff were like ghosts - here one minute with your next course and gone again, but always within earshot of any questions you may have. We had several about such off the wall things as what did the inscription on one of the plates mean (they didn't know it then, but we got the answer in less than five minutes). I loved how every dish was described to us in such detail. Oh yes, their interpretation of "Coffee and Doughnuts" was sinfully divine. I loved that contraption for the tea that prevents the tea leaves from going into your cup. I can't believe you even got us a quick visit to their kitchen to see the sous chefs at work. It was great to meet the chef himself. Love that tidbit about how the TV monitor on the wall is a direct link to their counterpart restaurant in New York. We have the clothespin and napkins here and I have a copy of the menu on my desk at work. I will never forget this experience and look forward to someday going there again.
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We can all forgive the occasional mediocre dish, even at an establishment of the caliber of the French Laundry, but I do expect the staff to be polite, and they are not. The maitre'd especially made us feel subhuman. It appears Keller has decided to rest on his laurels; perhaps he figures people will continue flocking to the French Laundry because he is who he is and because people perceive it as the pinnacle of elegant dining. The experience was utterly ruined by the rude staff; I will not return and do not recommend.
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i'm tempted to take out one star off all my previous food reviews after having had Thomas Keller's food at French Laundry
I guess what I want to say is that the French Laundry exemplifies what a restaurant should be - one with exceptional service and the highest quality of produce and caliber of preparation. French Laundry is the benchmark where all restaurants should start off from.
I think we've been making too many excuses for mediocre service and outstanding food; excellent service with crappy food; or horrible service and gross food - you neither give up food nor service at French Laundry
I truly respect Thomas Keller for keeping true to the spirit of gastronomy. If only other chefs and restaurateurs could do so as well. (I'm not saying that no other chefs can do what Tom does - I've had other great culinary experiences from other places too). If only everybody, no matter their background or wallet size, can experience what good food and service is.
I am not suggesting French Laundry for everyone because frankly not everyone can afford this couple of hundred dollar meal. However, I think that everybody should aspire (and demand!) to taste food and experience service as good as this, no more excuses ... Hopefully, one day - ALL restaurants could be as dedicated as a restaurant like French Laundry (or, perhaps, Per Se)
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What more can I add to what many Yelpers have already said about FL? It's simply heaven on earth. We've been here twice already and both times the dining experience have been more than exceptional.
Ok, enough of the compliments and let's get into some of the nitty gritty.
My husband and I had different reactions to our second time here. He thought this meal surpassed his first time around back in 2000. He could barely remember the dishes that we had the 1st time around. On the other hand, I felt that I was constantly being "wow-ed" when we did our 2000 virgin tour here. Every dish that was presented surprised me and left me in awe. This time around, the element of surprise and awe was still there, but not as much. For example, I remember several dishes from our first visit that set the standard for me in terms of creativity. Many of them were the signature dishes, including the Salmon Tartare (which we had this time), "White Truffle Oil-Infused Custard with Black Truffle Ragout" presented in the famous half egg-shell, MACARONI AND CHEESE ("Butter-Poached Maine Lobster with Cremy Lobster Broth and Maxcarpone-Enriched Orzo"), and COFFEE AND DONUT (Cappuccino Semifreddo with Cinnamon-Sugar Donuts).
This time around, the quality and taste is still there, but I didn't feel the "ommph" in a few of them. For example, the "EPAULE DE LAPIN FARCIE AUX RIS DE VEAU" (rabbit) was savory but the sauce was a tad on the saltier side. "FRAISIER AUX PISTASHES" (strawberry dessert) was light and refreshing, but I've tasted similar, if not tastier desserts in Charlie Palmer's Aureole in Manhattan or even David Kinch's own Manresa in Los Gatos. The steak didn't do it for me either. Perhaps it was the way it was prepared, but I just wasn't that into having grilled steak dish in such a setting. I felt that perhaps a wagyu beef dish would've suited the mood a bit better for me. I have checked out the photos available here and it looks like they do have wagyu once in a while.
As for the lobster dish, I have to say that this is perhaps the only restaurant where I actually will eat and enjoy lobsters. I'm slightly allergic to many shell fish so I have never been a fan of shrimp, prawns, lobsters, or crab. You can imagine the horror in my Asian family's face when I say I don't eat shrimp or lobster. In any case, between the two lobster dishes we've had here, I liked the first time (MACARONI and CHEESE) better. That being said, however, the MAINE LOBSTER TAIL "POCHEE AU BEURRE DOUX" with this meal was also the most pleasant surprise dish for me. The "hazelnuts and chocolate coffee emulsions" in the description peaked my interest, and when I tasted the combination of the hazelnut, coffee-chocolate and the lobster, I can only say that it was pure genius! My palates were dancing with sparks of sweetness of the chocolate and the lobster. I couldn't believe how well these ingredients worked together.
Finally, I also do remember the staff being slightly friendlier on our first visit. Drinks were refilled quickly without our requests and dishes were presented with a genuine smile. This time around, I felt things were slightly stuffier and staff felt more distant. At the end of our meal, we actually had to request twice for our tea/coffee to be refilled. I would expect more for the amount of money being charged for the meal.
That being said, I think it's not fair to say that I didn't have a wonderful culinary experience this time around. This is definitely THE place to go for all foodies and for anyone who is willing to splurge on an unforgettable dining experience.
it is the most expensive meal that i have had so far since i did have to fly out and drive out to this place from new york.
everything was excellent.
the waiter stopped my friend from eating her cold toast and replaced it with a warm new one. (wow.)
i would do it again.
Finally I made the culinary pilgrimage to Napa to eat at French Laundry....
It's not that the food is innovative or thought provoking. The French Laundry is so great because they use the absolute best ingredients you can buy, and cook them in the best way possible to showcase their taste, and serve it to you in the best possible atmosphere. Thomas Keller's whole mantra as a chef is to achieve perfection through repetition, and after all of these years of discipline, that is what French Laundry is....Perfect. What more is there to say about this place that hasn't been said? It's a must for anyone who enjoys food and I feel extremely blessed and lucky that I can afford myself of such things.
Highlights: Seeing Thomas Keller at work in the kitchen, walking around the garden in the beautiful California weather, the company, and obviously the food.
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French Laundry is really a place where you go when you are so filthy rich that you don't know how else you can spend your money. It is definitely luxury you don't need. But, ahhh.... the food is good.
When you eat the food, you not only look at how tasty it is, you have to appreciate how wonderfully it's made. For example, one of 8 or 9 courses was fish (forgive me for not remembering the name of the fish). It was so milky yet it was cooked in such profession that it didn't taste smooshy. It was firm but yet tender. Same as the pork belly dish. It was crispy but not greasy, and it was tender at the same time.
Also, every meat dish has its own sauce and veggie that's specially designed to match, so when this meat might not taste much, it might be heaven when you eat it with its sauce.
The service was great. At a place like this, you would think the service would be uptight and atmosphere was too foo-foo. But it wasn't like that. People are lay back, and they still give you a great service.
I agree with most people on the price. It's crazy to pay $200/ person for lunch or dinner, but I don't regret a bit that I tried French Laundry.
Oh, one thing though, making reservations is pain in the ass. You have to call 3 months ahead of time, and your call probably won't through for a week. Really annoying.
We ate at this restaurant two consecutive nights.
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I feel ashamed and disgusted in my disclosure that is forthcoming.
I have eaten at the French Laundry 5 times. I am not proud of this fact and I am certainly, slightly embarrassed. by it-- should one man be allowed to eat here more than once while others dial and dial hoping against a busy signal while trying to get reservations?
It goes without saying that the food is exquisite and there is no equal here in the states (for the FL, each of those little stars above should be worth 10 stars). But, what I truly love about the FL is the consistency in the food and the extraordinary staff.
My first time (xmas eve dinner): a couple near our table was ordering and the man in the couple immediately became agitated and started causing a fuss. He basically said that he hated the FL and was only coming here for his wife. The staff tried to appease him and he asked too much of them. He eventually just decided not to order and sat there with his arms crossed and pouted as his wife ate. (3 hours.) For each course, the staff would bring out the wife's food and would set the husband's setting with the same plate without the food. They did not speak the whole time. He paid and they left (I bet he was a bit blue-balled that night) Sir, if you are reading this, you are a bitch.
Second time: We were a group of pretentious and drunk New Yorkers. The staff managed us beautifully and never allowed us to stray too far. We almost took it a bit too far, but we were encouraged to hold it together and we did.
Third Time: Anniversary with my old lady. We were put near a group of loud and obnoxious tourists. I politely said to the waiter that it was our anniversary and we were moved upstairs. Beautiful day.
Fourth Time: Old lady and I took her dad out. Weeping lady at table next to us (too much Chardonnay I presume). Staff managed it well and calmed her down. I even think that she fell out of the chair and puked in the bathroom (my wife told me this.) But, they somehow reeled her in.
Fifth and final time: Bachelor party with obnoxious lawyers, bankers and one crappy wanna-be envious chef. The crappy chef challenged and criticized everything that came out to the point where he made our waitress cry. (This chef is a hack, and I will review his restaurant shortly) How did she win? She gave the crappy chef her corkscrew and said, "thank you for coming". I apologized to her and I tried to tip her more, but she refused and said, "thank you for coming". I am sure that I am blackballed for that night, and worst part was that due to those stoopid bankers and lawyers I spent almost $800 dollars. Ouch.
I love this place. It makes me happy when I walk in and hear the lack of music and smell the beautiful food. I love the staff.
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Yesterday I sat on a bench in beautiful Yountville and I could see Thomas Keller picking fresh herbs and vegetables from the garden for the upcoming dinner service.
It was a sight to behold.
Really. It was a perfect moment.
Every time I go to the French Laundry ... I find something new to behold. I am always blown away at the choices.
It never gets old.
Every experience at the French Laundry is a treat. If you can get in! Thomas Keller includes the "WOW" factor in the dishes he and his team prepare. Really. Literally. Even the water, butter and salt they serve is the best in the world. There is no better selection shared with us common folk anywhere else.
And every dish is only a few bites so that WOW factor can exist and blossom.
And it does. Wow Wow Wow!
Enjoy each bite in each moment (that living in the moment "Secret" stuff comes in handy here ... after you leave the front door at FL, you will not see this level of decadence again) and you can't help to have a smile on your face.
Enjoy each sip that goes with each bite ... and you will have a giggle to go with that smile. Guaranteed.
Yesterday, I was fortunate to enjoy a perfectly orchestrated meal at the French Laundry with my husband and two other couples. It was an event! My friend Shawn was celebrating his birthday and he flew here on his way from work in Baltimore and his vacation in Mexico.
We had a beautiful bottle of Veuve Clicquot champagne (and it was not the orange label) while relaxing in the garden where we were served our first two canapes. The weather was warm and sunny and the flowers were in spring mode and at full bloom. It seems it could not get better than this.
But it does. We are escorted into the dining room and seated at the large round table in the center of the dining room downstairs. As far as I am concerned, this is the best table in the house.
And as we are seated, my guests and I are extremely excited about every bite we are about to take of the well-executed morsels on the well-designed white china. Each bite pops with flavors of pure delight.
We feel like royalty as we get served one course of dreamy delights after another. It almost does not matter what we ate ... since everything created in the kitchen is made with expertise, the freshest ingredients and the most wonderful of ideas. Their execution is unsurpassed. The wow factor is there again and again.
Really.
The only thing missing in my visit yesterday was the brilliant and wonderful Larry who is usually the gatekeeper extraordinaire. He is one of the many reasons the French Laundry cannot be duplicated. Larry is the man who makes the whole thing look effortless.
But it is not effortless. There is so much thought behind the details ... and the details are incredible. The French set the standard high ... and the French Laundry makes it possible for us to have that superb experience in Napa.
The French Laundry is the epitome of perfection. We are so lucky!
Merci
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My husband and I, along with another couple, ate here last weekend. It was AMAZING! It was everything I imagined and then some! The food was beautifully prepared and presented. And of course, absolutely delicious!
My experience was actually enhanced by the incredible staff. The host and hostess were all smiles and welcomed us warmly as we walked in. We were lead to our table upstairs. Our main server was Guillaum (? - french guy with glasses). He was really friendly, not at all snobbish or cold. When he saw me nervously reaching for my camera to document the meal, he totally put me at ease. He had encouraging words and helped me capture pictures of the wine and the food. I never felt self-conscious or shy, even as I struggled with my mini-tripod and made everyone wait for me to capture the perfect shot before allowing them to take a bite of their food. Our entire serving team was very professional, accommodating and warm. Right before our meat dishes, we decided to take a quick break. I'm not sure if it's typical for a party to take an "intermezzo", but again, the staff was extremely accommodating. We walked outside to the garden and enjoyed the warm day. When we returned to our table (about 10 minutes later), the meal continued without delay. The entire dining experience was perfect.
According to my friend, the reservation booking process was not as awful as she thought it was going to be. She secured the reservation 2 months in advance.
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I have been to French Laundry twice with polar opposite experiences.
The first time was over a year ago when we went to French Laundry with a client to celebrate the closing of a deal. The nine courses that night were ordinary to me and the conversation even more bland. Imagine 7 suits over 50 years old and me, a 23 year old fresh out of college that thought Cheesecake Factory was a culinary delight.
Fast forward to two weeks ago. Decided to give FL and Thomas Keller another shot. Oh dear Lord - the food was miraculous, mind-blowing, astounding (running out of adjectives here). The oysters were orgasmic, the eggplant extraordinary, tuna tar tare tantalizing, and the salmon with leeks and potatoes topped it all off.
I am not a big oenophile like most people who eat at French Laundry and even I could appreciate the wine pairings and subtleties. The wait staff is amazing and courteous (and does not look down on you when you do not know who to pronounce some of the items on the menu). I also love the little traditions the place has, such as wearing a blue chef's apron until actual cooking occurs as a sign of respect.
Now for the kicker - the reason the food tasted better the second time was because the company was that much better. Having grown older and wiser, I have come to learn that its the company you are with that makes the meal more enjoyable.
P.S. - Thomas Keller's other culinary masterpiece Per Se is well worth the visit if you are in NYC.
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:: Act I, Scene i ::
Ext. A rustic French restaurant in Napa Valley.
Enter two well-dressed men and two impeccably coiffed women. The night was halfway done but the evening was just beginning. It took a week of furious dialing to get a reservation, but it was done, and this was the day of days. Everyone was eager to begin the "dining experience."
Receptionist: Welcome to the French Laundry, your table will be ready momentarily.
All four guests, wide-eyed: Hot dog!
(Okay, so it wasn't exactly like that, but you get the idea)
:: Act II, scene i
Appetizers known as amuse bouches arrive.
Friend #2: What is this? It's cute, though.
Friend #1: I don't know. Looks like an ice cream cone.
Me: It's a sashimi ice cream cone- eat it!
So commenced the gorging of fantastic food. Lots of food. Serious. Lots of food. And bread. And invisibly perfect service throughout.
:: Act II, scene ii
(Out of nowhere, four sets of tiny teacups appear)
Me: Look at that!
(The servers, clad in black, artfully lay down the cutest teacup and saucer combo ever)
Server: This is "Coffee and Doughnuts", which was specially made for you from the kitchen. Enjoy.
Friend #1: This is awesome.
Friend #2: It smells wonderful.
Me: (Scarfing down the heavenly sugar-and-cinnamon donut) Mmmm... I'd been dreaming about this for six months...
:: Act III, scene i
Several hours and an orgy of delicious food and outstanding service later, it was clear that dinner was at an end. We were the last two pairs of guests.
Me: Well, that was superb. Wow.
Friend #1: That was a revelation.
Friend #3: Everything was great (She ordered the vegetarian menu).
Server: Here is the check, if there is anything else you would like, please let us know. Thank you. (To me) Sir, the maitre'd has taken care of your meal.
Me: What? Are you serious?
Server: Yes.
Me: It was $340 with the $100 steak supplement. Wow.
Friend #1: That's badass.
Friend #2: Damn.
After thanking the maitre'd (the razor sharp pro Larry Nadeau) profusely for his generosity, I asked our main server (named Zion, who is possibly the most professional waiter on the face of the planet- if you get him, consider yourself lucky and in good hands) if we could check out the kitchen.
Server: Let me check. (Moments later) Of course, right this way. (Upon arrival at kitchen) By all means, please take your time.
It. Was. Unreal.
:: Act III, scene ii
Int. Thomas Keller's Kitchen. A chrome clock sits on high, observing the now-quiet landscape of saucepans and shiny counters. Below it, a sign reads "Sense of Urgency".
Friend #1: This is too cool.
Me: It's so clean!
Friend #2: Let's take a picture!
Photography done, we reluctantly walked out and could barely waddle to the car; but before sitting down for the ride home, I strolled to the middle of the courtyard in front of the restaurant. It was a clear night, and as I looked up to the dark sky lit up with stars, I felt a little closer to heaven.
:: Epilogue ::
My fellow guest summed it up best, when we met up a few weeks afterwards.
Friend #1: The French Laundry? It changed my life.
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The oysters and pearls are damned good. I can still taste the tapioca-oyster-caviar combination. Mmmmmmmm. No other course was *that* impressive, not even the slab of foie gras en terrine. (They brought a fresh piece of brioche after my first bite of the first piece, but did not replenish).
Sparkling water was much better than the flat. Waiter was kind enough not to blink when a friend ordered a Diet Coke. Don't wear a tie. You'll be the only one there with one.
Chez TJ in Mountain View is a better value (and probably better food).
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Getting a reservation is like winnng the lottery, and every foodie should go once. It's almost impossible not to give 5 stars - it's perfection.
However, at some point it's hard to justify the cost. $700 for 2 people. People... that's rent. Ok, rent with roommates, but still.
I was a little apprehensive about my first experience dining at French Laundry. With so much media hype surrounding this famed restaurant, my expectations were unrealistically high. The truth is, it is an excellent restaurant, but I would not categorize it as the single best restaurant in the United States.
Admitting, I've had very similar dishes at restaurants within the USA and abroad, whether those dishes were "borrowed" from French Laundry, or the food was not as inventive and cutting edge as I expected it to be, I was not entirely disappointed. Overall, for the value paid, it was a fair price, given the ingredients used in the preparation of the dishes and for the overall experience.
My personal feeling is that for folks who do not have the opportunity to dine out regularly at restaurants which serve similarly prepared foods, the French Laundry will be spectacular, however, for those who have had the opportunity to experience more refined meals, they might find the experience, well - enjoyable, but similar with other fine dining establishments. Granted, one can't beat the setting and I am fortunate to live not far from Yountville to enjoy the wonderful meals prepared at other local restaurants.
Reservations were not nearly as difficult to secure as others have noted, in fact, this meal was only booked 7 days before the actual dining date and I while I was not looking to return any time soon, I found another dinner reservation for next Monday just yesterday. I often feel that people justify the experience based on the expense, it may have been a mediocre experience, or meal, however, when the cost per person is $240.00+, it is probably hard to admit to having a average, or worse, bad meal. I've certainly spent far more (or less) and have had better meals ... Uchi in Austin is my top rated restaurant in Texas and the experience was far more satisfying than French Laundry will ever be, for me.
Simply the best. Every single dish was amazing; the produce fresh and of the best quality, cooked (or uncooked!) to perfection.
An amazing atmosphere; relaxed, subdued, romantic spring to mind...
Simply the best dining experience I've had. Don't ignore the hype; its true.
Its been 6 years, and I still miss it.
One of the best meals I've ever had in my life. Oysters and Pearls were out of this world. I wanted to pocket some of the two million year old salt as a keepsake but as always, my wife knocked the jackass out of me.
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We hit major traffic on the way there(from SF) and were about 25 minutes late. Some of our party was there so he told them our situation and they held the table for us.
One thing though: there was no way for us to contact the restaurant directly. There probably is a direct number but the number we got from googling was the reservation line and, of course, nobody picked up.
So try to figure out the direct number and don't forget to give yourself extra time for the traffic (add 25min to mapquest time)
As soon as I walked in, I fell in love the decor. Southern home feel and the smell of it reminded me of my boarding school in MD, which made me feel like home.
The service was impressive. Actually, BEST EVER. People were friendly, cleanly dressed, and didn't feel pretentious or too rehearsed.
Now the food was amazing. Out of the 9 courses, 5 were to die for, 2 were very good but not memorable, and 2 for which I didn't care(so minus 1 star sorry). The salmon tartar in a crepe cone and the oysters and pearls were amazing. The dessert dish was my favorite. To this day, I still don't remember what it was but I still remember what it looks like and how it felt in my mouth. It was a combo of different textures, temperature, tastes, and colors, and as soon as I took a bite, everything just came together like beutiful fireworks happening in my mouth with explosions here and sparkles there.
The bill was as expected. For the four of us with 2 bottles of wine, it came to about $1350.
It was a spectacular experience but it was too much effort for me. Getting the reservation took me almost a year. The traffic there was crazy. I food portions were just overwhelming. But I am glad I went.
We died and went to Culinary Heaven. This past week we attended a wedding at the French Laundry. We almost passed up the opportunity and I think that would have been insane...knowing what I know now. Thomas Keller is a genius. This is a bucket list item if ever there was one. The food was out of this world from the Cauliflower Custard to the Waghu beef....exquisite. What impressed me almost as much as the food was the service. Sometimes these places have snotty wait staff who can be pretentious and grating. Well the young people at the