The French Laundry in Napa - What it's like to Dine at the Famous Restaurant

[@Sr19769p]

To be fair, $370 is pretty reasonable for a magical, once-in-a-lifetime culinary experience of that standard. Happy Anniversary, guys!

[@dcarr-kr7hk]

👎

[@stellaproductions1493]

TBH I thought that meal would run you $500.

[@ditto1051]

When I lived n Napa, I knew friends who paid 1,200.00/PP for a tasting menu, beverages not included.

[@stardustgirl2904]

My only concern is out of all the bites you get maybe two are your favorite

[@zes7215]

wrgg

[@craigc3259]

My wife and I went for our 25th anniversary and I can only say it boarders on a religious experience. Honestly we knew I was going to be great but it was so much more. The service is just spot on and they go that extra mile without you asking. You can’t complain about the cost as it is worth every penny.

[@sarahko2014]

Happy 10th Anniversary!! That's worth celebrating, and it was fun to see your extravagant date at such a gourmet restaurant! May your marriage be blessed with many more happy years together~

[@charleshamilton9274]

What a memorable meal. And hats off to the staff for providing a VIP experience!

[@zes7215]

wrg,idts

[@brianshaw373]

Thanks for sharing your anniversary dinner with us. Wishing you many more!

[@nanettemiller4853]

It’s magical to eat at the French Laundry! It’s the experience, the ambiance, the hospitality and the food all together that makes it a memorable event in your life! My husband and I went there on our 10th and 30th wedding anniversaries! Cheers to more anniversaries!🥂🍾

[@dcarr-kr7hk]

👎

[@cmanhold]

I really appreciate the video and the extra details you added. I’ve heard about the restaurant but now this will be on my bucket list. Thank you for sharing. Keep the videos coming. Happy anniversary!

[@shamekiawalker6358]

What an incredible experience you both were fortunate to have had! Happy anniversary, and all the best!🎉

[@californiathroughmylens]

Thank you so much!! Glad you enjoyed it

[@topquarkbln]

👍

[@rripley62]

Well done video and review, you two...and happy 10th anniversary! This brought back wonderful memories. My husband and I visited the French Laundry a few years ago and everything you said was spot on! It was such an incredible experience, nearly to the point of being "religious" as you mentioned. lol It is pricey, but IMHO so worth it. Congrats!

[@1957DLT]

A bucket list item getting the tick is a big deal. Congrats and thanks for sharing it with us.

[@neverhomepnw]

Ive been following you guys since the beginning and Im always impressed by your content no matter what it is its always great!

[@warren4261]

Happy Anniversary and God Bless !

[@kayokolindenberger3754]

What a fun experience and video. Happy anniversary!

[@terryb3388]

this made me happy to see you both humbly and joyfully appreciating a quality experience ... thanks

[@ponduforus]

Amy, you looked incredible in that dress! Happy Anniversary!! 💗

[@californiathroughmylens]

Kind of you to say, I will let her know!

[@Dharmabum2000]

What an amazing experience and I for one appreciate the fact that you both are aware of how fortunate you are to get to dine at such a fine restaurant. This place is on my bucket list.

[@정남금-m9f]

What a memorable meal. And hats off to the staff for providing a VIP experience!

[@alexserrano5367]

Fun fact this place is so good during COVID Gavin Newsom closed down other restaurants denied people on lockdown and went with his family and influential people to have himself a fine meal .

[@frauwolftherehorse]

I remember that News(om) story.

[@craigcampbell1843]

Fun fact. The lockdowns in California were done on a county by county basis. Counties with the lowest numbers reopened faster than others. Counties with the highest numbers (typically the ones with the most people whining and refusing to follow the guidelines) ironically had to stay shut down the longest for public safety. This is why the French Laundry was allowed to be open while some other restaurants in the state were still closed. Because it is in a county full of people who took the guidelines seriously and got their numbers down quickly instead of just whining and pretending to be martyrs for being asked to do simple things that literally everyone in the world was being asked to do at that time like wearing masks in public. The only mistake the governor made was visiting the county and the restaurant with members of other households, which he apologized for later. If you’re criticizing the governor that must mean you were taking the guidelines seriously and refusing to socialize with members of other households. Thanks for caring about other people and not just yourself. I live in Fresno county. Half of this county just whined and refused to follow the guidelines. We could have reopened much sooner than we did but we wound up being one of the last counties in the state that got to reopen because of their ignorance and selfishness and recklessness. Not because of the governor.

[@user-gq2vn1xj2r]

You forgot the part about where he was discouraging families from gathering during the holidays two hours before partying with his lobbyist friends here . Even he admitted it was a stupid move. No need to fall all over yourself defending him.

[@craigcampbell1843]

@@user-gq2vn1xj2r if you’re responding to me, I wasn’t falling over myself defending him. I didn’t say what he did was ok. He did make mistakes and I’m sure you followed all the guidelines to a T. I was only pointing out that he didn’t just arbitrarily close some restaurants and open others like the original comment implied. It was based on numbers by county. He was not to blame for some restaurants being open and some being closed. The people in those counties who wouldn’t follow the guidelines for public safety were to blame for that. You know. The same people who say personal responsibility is so important and then just blame other people for everything when they don’t get their way. The same people who act like they were being treated unfairly when all the rest of the world was being asked to do the same things. The people who just whined about the guidelines and refused to follow them were to blame for those restaurants remaining closed. Not the governor. He just made the guidelines. It was up to all of us to choose whether we followed them or not. You can blame him all you want but he didn’t decide when certain counties should reopen and when they shouldn’t. The people in those counties decided and the ones who refused to follow the guidelines were the last to reopen. That’s just a fact. Not because Newsom didn’t like them but because their numbers of cases were still too high. Because they were being a bunch of babies instead of just following the restrictions like the rest of the state and caring about others instead of just themselves. If they had been willing to act like adults about it instead of throwing temper tantrums their counties would have been open too.

[@johnbrown7911]

​@@craigcampbell1843so the least populated counties opened first? Following "guidelines" did nothing hence why Newsome had a private business dinner here. Homelessness, suicide, violet crime all increased during his time in office but yeah he cares so much. Moron

[@steveschwartz6138]

Very cool. Happy Anniversary!

[@clarkmyers6080]

Amazing video! One of the best dining experiences I’ve ever had as well!! Perfection is the word

[@terryholland2526]

First off, Happy Anniversary!!!! I'm so glad you guys had a great experience there. The food looked so good too. I loved going to Napa when my husband and my friends went there for a vacay. Second, thank you for sharing other options b/c IDK if I could spend that much for a dinner experience that is for sure. Maybe next time when we are in Napa we can go to the other place you mentioned. Thank you for sharing your experience with us.

[@lexlovesthebeach]

Happy Anniversary! Thanks so much for sharing your special day with us. What an incredible experience. Definitely a once in a lifetime for most people but it looked excellent and magical, like you said! If you can afford it, would love to experience more great restaurants with you!

[@christophersmith5849]

OMG guys happy anniversary and a great video. Sent it to my wife and an idea for when we are next on the west coast

[@andyleo8418]

Presentation looked incredible. Well worth the cost. I'll make it there some day.

[@michaelmontalto]

Congratulations on the experience and thank you for sharing it.

[@tonycathyhickman2512]

Loved this! Such a spectacular experience. Please keep sharing these.

[@MrfiX725]

The French Laundry is definitely on my bucket list.

[@cookingwithwatches]

Great review, glad you enjoyed it. I am planning to take my mom there for her birthday. She is a retired chef with over 40 years of experience. It’s a very difficult to find the restaurant she would enjoy. I hope French Laundry won’t disappoint her.

[@BillGreenAZ]

Thanks so much for posting this video! It looks wonderful. This is on my Bucket List so it's nice to get a better idea of what to expect.

[@californiathroughmylens]

You are so welcome! Glad you enjoyed it and I hope you make it there someday!

[@meliss36]

❤ Wow, this place looks absolutely gorgeous! Thank you for sharing, happy you both got to go and experience this magical place. Happy Anniversary ❤

[@lorie31579]

Congratulations! Every foodies dream for sure! Thank you for sharing your amazing experience 😊

[@kellycarroll6829]

a lovely experience! blessings! 🌟

[@dalehoward3704]

Looks Wonderful ❤❤❤❤❤ Happy Anniversary Beautiful Couple 💗

[@robertwalegir8677]

Excellent restaurant is truly an experience. Everybody should enjoy.

[@BreakThroughTessTimmons]

What a wonderful experience! If u keep eating at these, yes I'd love to see. Happy Anniversary! I'm putting this on my bucketlist!🎉

[@californiathroughmylens]

Thank you! Will do!

[@jlook3389]

Thank you for sharing your adventure and being down to earth.

[@verarosenberg214]

The French Laundry is on my bucket list! I love the hiking videos as well but this one was great!

[@parfenyj]

Happy anniversary! This review was simply wonderful! I've heard about the place several times and definitely want to dine there one day...

[@dorothyreid3607]

My husband and I also had the pleasure of dining at the French Laundry back in the 90's , several times, what can I say, the food and presentation is beyond fabulous. I don't know if you ever review places on the east coast but if you do you must try the Inn at Little Washington it gives the French Laundry a run for the money I would have to say the food and presentation there is superb. It's in a tiny town in Virginia called Little Washington it's truly worth the trip. They also have beautiful guest rooms so there is no rush to return to reality. Happy Anniversary.

[@gm3sf]

I’d love to see more videos like this showcasing restaurants. We travel and are usually staying off the grid, but a big part of our traveling is stopping and eating along the way. Could be a bbq, could be a nice restaurant. We just want to experience the standout places in the area.

[@furuba28]

Happy anniversary!! Thanks so much for sharing! 🎉🥂

[@rephaelrechitzky9763]

Happy Anniversary beautiful couple. What a beautiful place. Thank you for sharing.

[@californiathroughmylens]

Our pleasure!

[@3Duncan3]

Happy 10th Anniversary 🎉 Thank you for sharing your experience with us. Amy, your dress was beautiful!

[@californiathroughmylens]

Thanks for the comment, I will let her know

[@annaminman]

Very cool!! Congratulations on your anniversary and having an amazing experience! And thank you for such a thoughtful detailed video for the rest of us to enjoy!! ❤

[@Twobarpsi]

Looked like an amazing time! Congratulations!

[@GreenWitch1]

I would love to have that experience one day! Congratulations you two 🥰

[@stephenpaek9175]

Happy anniversary 🎉 keep up the good work on our beautiful golden state and beyond

[@nancycamaquin6648]

I have driven past this restaurant so many times but knew it was expensive. Thank you for showing us what it is like on the inside. Happy Anniversary! Our Anniversary is also in October so now my husband is notified to save his money for our 40th in seven years. LOL!!! Also enjoyed the tips at the end as well. ❤

[@californiathroughmylens]

haha it is worth planning that far in advance for :)

[@annlewallen964]

I enjoyed your video about the French Laundry. My husband has been the landscape designer at Carneros for the last six years. We have eaten and many restaurants in Napa; Yountsville and Sonoma. We love Mustards;Bouchon, Too many to name. And the French Laundry is an experience we have enjoyed a few times.

[@marquamfurniture]

What a beautiful presentation. First rate reporting on a once-in-a-lifetime experience.

[@williamputnam281]

You guys nailed this video, very enjoyable and I think the format is something you can expand upon. I just hope you took some time between shooting to enjoy yourselves!

[@richardpcrowe]

Happy anniversary and many more to come! I ate at the French Laundry quite a few years ago and was totally unimpressed. I'd never return!

[@jimklemens5018]

Why were you unimpressed?

[@richardpcrowe]

One reason is that there was only one entree item available - on that day it was lamb and I don't like lamb one bit. Why didn't I find out what the item of the day was? Because I was invited to the restaurant and had no input as to what was being served than night, Perhaps this single item menus might have been modified (I ate there in the eary 1990's). But, I have no reason to try this crapshoot again@@jimklemens5018

[@SweetSpot909]

wow looks so amazing. The food looks just like it looks in a cookbook. The glasses are so clean.

[@jeanettewaverly2590]

That looked like fun! I’d love to see more restaurant experiences from you two.

[@Hppy_Cmpr]

I’m so happy for you and the great experience you had dining at a fancy pants restaurant. I remember my first time staying at Post Ranch Inn in Big Sur where European royalty and celebrities stay. The level of hospitality I experienced was incredible. When I returned they remembered who I was and arranged a falconry experience for my birthda then attended the Big Sur Food and Wine Festival at the resort. The best birthday ever.

[@jimklemens5018]

Have you been to any Michelin 3 star restaurants?

[@lizzie4144]

Loved it! I’d like more videos of cities and restaurants. Need a break from hiking. The French Laundry looked phenomenal. They provided an amazing dining experience. Someday. 🤞🏼🤞🏼

[@davidmuttillo2806]

This was cool. Do more videos like this one.

[@path.1462]

Loved this video. I was always curious about the restaurant and you answered all my questions. So happy you guys got to do this for your anniversary. Amy, I love your dress!

[@JuliaBEngstrom]

We had an almost identical experience.. Magic is right. Don’t need to do it twice, but was very exciting

[@nitahandorf1547]

My son and I were there t’was the most memorable experience we ever had, though the servings are in smaller sizes but oh my Lord everything were sooooo good. It was so pricey but very very tasty beyond imagination.

[@janschneider361]

A friend of ours, who has a sophisticated palate, told me that, in his opinion, he honestly thought The French Laundry was mostly show, some good flavors, but after a “meal” there, he was always hungry and would stop at McDonalds on the way home. True story.

[@Cortlandt_Cash]

Your friend has either never been there or does not have a sophisticated palate.

[@kayleebeare]

Happy anniversary to you both!! Thanks for taking us along!! Love your dress Aimee

[@californiahiker9616]

Wow, what a fantastic experience! Happy Anniversary to both of you! 🍾🥂 I really enjoy your hiking videos, but I also like other experiences… I enjoy a good meal, a good view! I feel it’s important to celebrate milestones in style, as a couple, be that big anniversaries or big birthdays. It’s ok to splurge big once in a while. 😃 My husband and I went to Lake Louise (Canada) recently for our big birthdays. We stayed in the expensive Chateau, and enjoyed meals in 2 of the hotel restaurants. 5 years previous to that we celebrated in the Eiffel Tower. We’re over 70, can’t take it with us, right? I’m a retired ICU nurse and have been telling people for decades… don’t put things off. Do it now. I’m now living by my own words! We’re still hiking, still taking lots of photos! Yes, do surprise us with some non hiking stuff once in a while, you’re a great reporter! Thanks to your lovely wife for being part of the video! Both of you did a great job relating your experience! I hope you’ll have many more wonderful experiences together ahead of you!

[@WrenchingMafia]

Happy Sunday My friend, Have Anniversary to you and Amy

[@trexinvert]

Congrats Josh n Amy happy anniv. Thanks for bringing us along with ur beautiful video work. I hope all our views n subs can support ur lifestyle n work You give us so much. Spirit of Huell Hauser, lives. Keep on.

[@californiathroughmylens]

Really appreciate that kind comment and so glad you like the videos. Huell Howser was the best!

[@petrus666love]

Your wife was the most beautiful dish , I hope you don’t mind me saying , happy anniversary too you both , loved the review too , very nicely done , regards from England 🏴󠁧󠁢󠁥󠁮󠁧󠁿

[@falldog9]

Great video! The price isn’t as bad as i was expecting, I think you got fair value! Well worth it.

[@NancysNibblesofLife]

Legit bucket list item! Congratulations on double digit wedding anniversary!!! Say “hi” to Pops!

[@carlapires7732]

Thanks for another glimpse into your globetrotting experience. The name of the restaurant does not do it justice: trendy place, classy people & appetizing food!

[@sandrabrown6326]

WOW! I would love to go there someday. It sure sounds wonderful.

[@californiathroughmylens]

It really is!

[@leslievalenciano-lopez8887]

Isn't this the restaurant that hosted Newsom and friends for dinner while we were all sheltered in place?!!! California was on lockdown and he and others dined at The French Laundry!!!

[@mistawonkypants1569]

It is. Never forget. Never let them forget.

[@mistawonkypants1569]

Newsom and The French Laundry also kept their money at Silicon Valley Bank which we taxpayers bailed out.

[@JacobLife95]

I appreciate you supporting California and beyond i love ur vids so much 😅

[@leonchui]

I always wanted to try there. Thanks for doing the homework for me. I need to start saving now . . . .

[@Spoon819]

Let's ask Newsom, who loves to eat there. So much so that while he was commanding us all to sit home, he was out enjoying dinner there with his buds without a mask during the so-called pandemic. What a man he risked his own life and that of his friends to eat there!! How brave!

[@TurdFergusen]

never forget

[@doxieherblitz]

The Gov provided great advertising for French Laundry!

[@ozzy_fromhell]

Let’s never forget his bulls**t

[@ozzy_fromhell]

@Priyanka77574 and just because I can’t do “nothing” that means I’m not supposed to have a opinion and or dislike him?¿? You sound stupid asl 😂

[@jw3252]

Let it go.

[@AngelBomb5000]

Went there in 2010. Spent over $1500 on lunch for 3 people. Yes, it was amazing, but the day before we were stepping over homeless people in San Francisco. Hard to justify that, no matter how fantastic the food was.

[@elizabethheyenga9277]

and it goes right down the toilet like In N Out. I get fine dining but am quite over it, besides which kitchens are weird stressful places. I'm as happy with super top level street food, about flavor more than fancy presentation to me. Never been a foam fan.

[@violetbf3773]

Josh!! You actually combed your hair 😳 just kidding just kidding 😅 Happy anniversary!! 🎉 Glad you got to celebrate in this fabulous restaurant 🙌🏽

[@prowrestlingisart6742]

This is as close as I ever will get to dining there so thank you for taking us along. Even though the price is extremely high, the service, ambiance, presentation, and quality seem to match

[@californiathroughmylens]

Yea, I agree. It was super expensive but it was one of those times where I felt like the experience was as worth it as it could be

[@judibooty2091]

Wo!! Thank you for sharing!!! It’s definitely in my bucketlist 💯

[@evemarkus]

Congratulations on your anniversary!

[@californiathroughmylens]

Thank you so much 😀

[@ajf5823]

My future son in law works at The French Laundry as a Sommelier. Your meal looked amazing.

[@mikehamilton4826]

Happy belated Anniversary you two!! Thank You for all of your hard work on all of your content! Much love!🙏🏻

[@rasmusrasmusson]

The only thing I remember from dining there, about 10 years ago, was how nice and relaxed the waiters were. I don't mean to say that the food wasn't great, but I think that was expected.

[@mikemclane8821]

Happy Anniversary, Great experiences are memorable and worth sharing with the one you love most.

[@reneejones7807]

Happy anniversary you two! I’ll take my McDonald’s money and start saving it for French Laundry!

[@jonathonbaker-guntang4163]

I had the pleasure of working for Thomas Keller and French Laundry is absolutely worth the price of admission.

[@greatlifemore879]

Chef Bruno at the Anaheim Whitehouse is a friend of ours. Each time you dine there is a new experience.

[@hadlee189]

Wow, their kitchen reminds me of that movie Menu. Congrats on your 10th Anniversary, & God Bless you & your Family.

[@billhansen2786]

The problem with expensive gourmet eating is that at some time tomorrow you are going to hungry again. On the other hand, the experience is something you can remember for a lifetime. Th complementary bottle of wine is a nice touch, but for a $1,000 meal, they can afford to be nice. Besides, it is good PR.

[@ensunnlor7059]

Happy Anniversary.🍾

[@abhasarya7152]

Great review! Im going there in a few weeks :)

[@daviotkelly1267]

Magical indeed. Happy anniversary you guys🍾

[@californiathroughmylens]

Thank you so much!!

[@therustyduck5400]

Very cool, definitely would like to go there with my foody friend, better start saving now. I heard about it only because our Governor was seen there during covid lockdown, so nice to see it through your eyes. Happy Anniversary. Cheers!

[@tomscott4438]

The sparkling wine they sent you home with is produced by Schramsberg, Napa Valley. It is exclusive to The French Laundry and was produced specifically to pair with the Oyster’s and Pearls, but it also goes great with French fries, potato chips, and a grilled cheese sandwich.

[@ren1018]

Great video! French Laundry is American hospitality at its peak!

[@RosaLopez-zw2ff]

Thank you for sharing your experience of The French Laundry in Napa Valley. You both truly deserved to celebrate your 10th Anniversary at one of the best restaurants. Thank you for being real about the costs, so others get a before hand knowledge and start saving as you both did. Happy Anniversary!

[@ruready2rock856]

Very cool video. I'd love to see more like that!

[@chrisignacio1791]

Happy Anniversary 🎉🎉🎉Josh & Amy❤

[@jackchen5290]

Pro tip: if going as a couple, one person gets the regular tasting menu, and the other get the vegetarian. You’ll get to try even more dishes!

[@jamespohl-md2eq]

That’s not a pro tip.

[@Chonchey]

jajajaja fr fr ong @@jamespohl-md2eq

[@IBMIKEYMIKE]

Great info! Luckily my dad works at Bouchon the restaurant and we are blessed to sometimes get great things from the bakery and restaurant when allowed.

[@bridgetkorns8174]

I would never go to this place because I can't imagine the price but it was fun to see what it is like.