The Scene:

It is and has been the culinary capital of modern America cuisine, French Laundry is located in a period 1890 French Steam Laundry that was a coveted landmark even before chef Thomas Keller landed the prestigious space as his own flagship kitchen.  The period two-story stone house looks every bit the gastronomic landmark many anticipate when accepting a less-than-prime 9pm dinner reservation or 11am lunch. The intimate dining room was partly designed by Keller himself home to just 15 tables at which guests sit on average 3-4 hours for one of the two elaborate prix fixe tasting menus. Outside, the restaurant is surrounded by an English-style garden planted with vintage roses, perennials and seasonal herbs and vegetables used in the restaurant. Our only grievance? The crowd can be a bit pedestrian at times, a few too many people who come for the famous name and vocalize their apprehension to dishes like foie gras and rabbit too loudly.