The French Laundry - YOUNTVILLE

There was no wow factor and it wasn't transporting. The amuse bouche were not up to par in terms of presentation and delivery. I felt that they were all monoton... read more There was no wow factor and it wasn't transporting. The amuse bouche were not up to par in terms of presentation and delivery. I felt that they were all monotonous and there was no oomph in the flavour profile before the main course arrived. They were not complimenting introductions to the star/s of the show. Perhaps it's the assumption. It didn't meet my expectations. Above all else, I feel like I was rushed into finishing the entire course. There was no pacing or I could probably have eventually become a little bored or there was no sort of diversion to get me entertained or that the dishes never lingered because they were never entertaining. I thought the kitchen tour was supposedly a little gift which turned out to be boring. The kitchen atmosphere was bleak and there was not a chance to take a photo of whoever was the chef for the day. Taking a photo at the kitchen was good, but the kitchen tour was meant, or how I assumed it to be in previous Michelin-star experiences, to introduce to the man, or men/women (if they account everyone to be equally responsible for the menu). Just myself, standing there expected to make the initiative of what I intended to do. As for my menu, it seems, because I'm dining for 1, to be a reduced version of the supposedly classic chef's tasting menu. There were certain dishes that were only served (or the same but a more elevated version) for the table for 2 and above. I completely understand where they were coming from as obviously, I'm just dining for a table for 1 but that was what I noticed. If they did that as a favour (out of the goodness of their hearts) when they actually wanted a minimum of 2 for reservations, I would rather not take it than have a reduced version of the menu. It was even funny when one of the staff said about me dining for 1 that the chef made adjustments to my menu thinking that it was made extra special as per how the staff worded it. The high pre-reservation price didn't seem to match the menu. The level of difficulty in making a reservation didn't seem to meet expectations. The dining atmosphere was lifeless and cramped. It didn't feel luxurious. Tables were not evenly spaced. Restaurant traffic was poor that I almost tripped and hit another person in two different occasions. I do appreciate however the service from the staff. Although, there were just too many of them in a cramped space. Everyone that day seemed to be celebrating their birthdays as the team kept going with the suprise birthday cakes and the (excessively aggressive) cake sparklers. The little nibbles and takeaway bags with their thick lifestyle magazine and restaurant booklet included were a plus. The highlight though for me was their gender-neutral, beautifully prepared, spacious toilet and the staff was already waiting to open the door for me. It provided me a safe space but it wasn't enough to earn a perfect rating. Overall, the other European one-Michelin star restaurants appear to challenge better. Time to knock off one of their stars? Remember: service, taste, presentation, ambiance and price.

Absolutely lived up to the hype. By far the best meal I've ever had and it isn't particularly close. read more Absolutely lived up to the hype. By far the best meal I've ever had and it isn't particularly close.

If I could give this more than five stars, I would. A once in a lifetime experience that you will never forget. Blown away by every part of this meal but partic... read more If I could give this more than five stars, I would. A once in a lifetime experience that you will never forget. Blown away by every part of this meal but particularly the customer service, which is above and beyond. Thank you for creating such a special memory for my family!

It was truly excellent in all dimensions; usually the three Michelin star restaurants disappoint with being smoked and mirrors more than substance but TFL leave... read more It was truly excellent in all dimensions; usually the three Michelin star restaurants disappoint with being smoked and mirrors more than substance but TFL leaves you hungry for the next visit : Ask for the custard in egg; it’s an addition and it’s sublime.

To say this dinner was an absolute experience is an understatement. I’ve been a fan of Chef Keller since culinary school and I was finally able to check this re... read more To say this dinner was an absolute experience is an understatement. I’ve been a fan of Chef Keller since culinary school and I was finally able to check this restaurant off my bucket list. We were in SF for a friend’s wedding and of course didn’t plan anything ahead. I joined the waiting list the week before arriving and kept checking daily for cancellations and was lucky enough to get a 4:15 spot. There is no need to comment on the food as it was everything I imagined it would be and more. The taste, textures and visuals were next level. Our server, Veronica, was warm, genuine and knowledgeable as were all the back waiters and runners. She invited us for a tour of the kitchen at the conclusion of dinner which was such a treat. We didn’t see the big man but they did send us home with a bag full of goodies which was a nice cherry on top. The evening was truly an experience I’ll never forget. Thank you!