It's hard to lower expectations going into a 3-star Michelin-rated restaurants, but my overall experience at French Laundry was a bit of a let-down. There were a few gems within the 10 courses, especially the oysters & pearls and foie gras. However, the servers seemed to be a bit more unattentive rather than conventional European-style enjoy-your-food-and-company slow paced. Not worth... more

My wife and I have always wanted to try the French Laundry and were able to secure a reservation two months in advance. While we were looking forward to dinner we started to wonder if the reality could meet the hype....the short answer is yes. Dinner was perfectly paced with small plates (nine courses in all) arriving over the course... more

I go to many restaurants all over the world. This one is highly overrated. Out of 8 or 9 dishes perhaps 1 or 2 were interesting. The place is full of attitude with a snooty and arrogant sommelier being particularly annoying. I will take my money elsewhere in future. more

Is there anywhere else? Especially after being flown up their in a corporate jet from Oakland with a limo waiting for you ready to whisk you away to the most amazing 3-4 hour dinner I've ever had. more

Dined at the French Laundry for my birthday and expectations were very high. Suffice to say that the service was impeccable yet not overbearing, the wines paired beautifully, the food was perfect (Foie Gras the most wonderful I have ever had) and the atmosphere warm and inviting. The only slight criticism is that my wife had the vegetarian menu which... more

It was so good I was speechless! more

My husband and I came here the night of our anniversary and had a wonderful time. After reading reviews regarding snootiness, we were prepared for a nice experience but perhaps not amazing. From the moment we walked in (late, after getting lost), we were treated like royalty. We sat with another couple during the short wait for our tables, in... more

Our hotel (Calistoga Ranch) was kind enough to make reservations for us--8 pm for 5 people. Everyone in the dining party is fortunate enough to have dined at top restaurants worldwide and all of us agreed that the dining experience was our best ever. I feel slightly insane saying that a $2,000 dinner for 5 people (wine and gratuity included)... more

THE Best and maybe most expensive in Nor Cal. Gourmet heaven. summer evenings outside are perfect. more