I have spent many hours watching your channel and today my heart was swelled with joy. In my late 20’s, shortly after Don and Sally sold the French Laundry, I started working for Sally’s son in Boonville California. I had a long beautiful friendship with both Sally and Don, attending their wonderful, cooking classes and harvest parties as our properties were directly across the road from each other. I love that you told Sally’s story as well for there would be no French laundry without her. Literally brought me to tears.
Comparing FL and Per Se is apples and oranges…I think you appreciate and love PerSe more IF you’ve eaten at PerSe first…either way Kelley’s genius is on display at both in different ways
I love this reply. As an obsessed foodie, I thought I knew quite a bit about the French Laundry but sadly did not know the history. I was happy to learn about it.
My favorite part of this episode, beyond just the incredible display and review of the food and wine, without a doubt, was the focus you put on highlighting *individual* members of the staff that made it such a special experience for you! Kudos!
Totally agree Devil…I love watching this channel and seeing things that I will never get to experience. I am jealous of him or anyone that is fortunate enough to have food and services like the restaurants this channel shows! But I wonder if this food is as good as what we’d get at Horno or Margarita (53 and 33 area at Camp Pendleton)…😅 That chow hall food was gourmet back then. But now I think my taste buds have changed! 🤣🤣. In the end, I’ll take almost anything over having another day of the same MRE’s. 😅
Isn't this gentleman the greatest storyteller??? He gives credit, where credit is due.. He teaches us, where teaching is necessary and he gives us an experience to feel it together.
Hope that server gets to hear the compliment you give him. Knowing someone who travels and experiencing the best of the best gave you such praise. Well deserved.
@@anishiyer4936Aww yes! Sweet sweet resolution 🤤 it tastes so good ahhh I fuckin love that shit. I live for this shit. Feel good story of the fuckin (week)* right there- the guy was great at his job, he got the recognition he deserved for it, then he SAW IT AND YOU TOLD US THAT HE SAW IT 🎊 🎉 💥 🤯 🍾 🥂 I’m gonna have a wet dream about this moment and the feeling it’s bringing me later tonight. 😎 *The Olympics are going on right now, so feel-good stories are in high supply- otherwise it would be maybe #1 of the month. But it’s a tough competition week for feel-good stories: The Olympics are like the Olympics of feel-good stories if ya know what I mean.
@@anishiyer4936i didn't want to share him with the world: I just saw him last week after requesting him again. Tell him Bruce wholeheartedly agrees when you see him :)
So glad you were able to experience the California 3-Stars, but it’s too bad you couldn’t have visited a few years earlier when we were the crown of US Michelin with 8 3-star restaurants at once, and 9 in total over a few years time. Saison is still around & maintains 2 stars, while Coi, Manresa, and most tragically The Restaurant at Meadowood have all closed. Meadowood, especially, is heartbreaking as it was lost during the Glass Fire of 2020. My wife and I got engaged there, and it was an incredible evening. Hoping that Chef Kostow will reopen eventually…
I really enjoyed your California series. French Laundry was my first foray into the world of Michelin 3-stars back in 2007 (under chef Corey Lee at the time) and it was a very special memory. Thank you for giving this place the attention it deserves.
What a great review, Alexander. The French Laundry is the pinnacle of consistent excellence in American cuisine. I respect that your compliments go beyond the food. Your praise for the people who work there is a sign of awareness we don't see much in restaurant videos.
X employeee here in the comments. Just a small heads up your menu isn’t what every guest enjoys , the 4 cold snacks before hand coming from the canapé section means you were probably listed down as a Red VIP . So your menu is longer and has a lot more intricate bites and touches along the way . Still one of the best restaurants I’ve cooked at !
California is larger than most countries. There are 40 million residents and they have the world’s fifth largest economy only behind the USA, China, Germany and Japan. Of course they are going to have some outstanding restaurants. Love your videos. Thanks for sharing with us.
A huge contributor to California's amazing restaurants is our proximity to where the produce is grown. Other regions do have seasonal local produce but California has access to local, fresh from the farm produce basically all year. The freshness just allows for a completly different style of cooking which is why many chefs from other regions have a more difficult time establishing themselves here.
california is the agricultural crown jewel of the planet you can do multiple harvests of the same crops some species that only bloom once a year will do so 2x here
Bravo Alexander. Another great video. I moved from France to SF 24 years ago and owned my restaurant here for 12 years. I loved how you show your experience. Thank you for your channel and the great work you do. Next time you come, I’ll take for a drink.
Love the history/attention to the place and setting, the reverence you show these parts of the world and the people behind the place by including this in your video. Makes for a really wholesome and culturing viewing experience.
I had the best meal of my life there fifteen years ago and I still relive it regularly in my dreams. I was so happy to see your experience was as good as mine. 🎉
Sounds a bit like false modesty. I mean, sure he is a good cook but who ever brought up "changing the world" here when discussing preparing expensive food?
@@ageoflove1980 a new flavor sensation, techniques and the way people think about what food can do, is an amazing and sometime, game changing mindset... some people even tried to do at least a bit of what they taste on some of these michelin star chefs.. since the food is either that good or intriguing them at most.. also expensive food, did you see how much it cost for their cost operations etc? remember noma why did they close? and some other 3 michelin star that ends up closing because its too expensive?
The famed French Laundry. A destination I have always dreamed of but never imagine I'll have the honor of visiting. I'm so pleased to have had this inside look at this legendary culinary locale. I can tell that the service is second to none, with a well tended to staff that's honored to be there. And, of course, the artistry of the dishes was absolutely mind blowing. The wines look about as impressive as the food. Restaurants like this don't exist by accident. It's hard work, talent, dedication to the craft and single minded focus of making a truly one-of-a-kind place thrive in a cut-throat industry. I'm grateful for the review, Alexander. I'm a new subscriber, enthusiastically.
Junmai is not a sake producing company. Junmai refers to the style of brewing sake - without the need to add additional alcohol. In sake production it is common to add alcohol to get to the anticipated alcohol content , while in junmai sake, the whole alcohol content of the sake arises from the brewing process!
Came here to say junmai wasn't a place but a method of sake production! Even with that misunderstanding, he still sold me on wanting to try this particular one 🍶😋
Your videos never disappoint. The expert reviews and commentary combined with the deep research and ultra high production values definitely put this in my top 5 foodtube channels.
" I didn't want to change the world , I just wanted to cook" that line just hits home! It is sentimentally moving!!!! Thank you once again for this review. As always , your content is capturing and so interesting.
I absolutely loved this episode. Highlighting the work of the staff, especially Brighton, (hope I spelled his name right) was very touching. Such an amazing compliment and beautifully said. The guy is clearly a rockstar in his field. So many great comments to read as well. Not gonna lie I had tears in my eyes by the end of this one.
My first visit to the French Laundry remains my favorite dining experience in America. Loved your review and it reminds me that I need to bring my wife (who's never been) there for an occasion soon. (My second favorite dining experience in America was at the old Cyrus in Healdsburg. Fantastic! I highly recommend that you visit the new Cyrus in Geyserville if you return to Northern California. Chef Douglas Keane is doing amazing things with a great concept and while the place "only" has 1 star now [awarded mere months after opening], we really expect that to go up in the nearish future.) Thanks for the great series of reviews of places in my hometown area.
Thanks to some 'insider trading' from my in-laws at the time, we were able to book the small banquet room for 6 at French Laundry for my ex's birthday back in the mid-aughts. To this day, the most memorable dining experience of my life. Since we were separate from the rest of the very cozy restaurant and were there with some culinary and wine industry friends, we literally had our own wine program (we brought a couple special bottles that were very thoughtfully worked in) and the menu was customized specifically for us, with the usual classics from the prix-fixe included, of course. Literally a new bread from Bouchon and very localized butter for each course, which was insane. Every single element of this afternoon and evening was like something out of a dream. Nearly 6 hours of pure heaven, and a lot of fun too! This was during the reign of Corey Lee, who would go on to open Per Se a couple years later, which I was also very privileged to try, and in October, just after they'd received their allotment of Alba white truffles. That was the only time I've ever had that incredible and rare ingredient and it was truly mind-blowing.
My wife and I went there for her birthday 2 years ago and Brighton who you mentioned at the end picked us up to go to the restaurant as part of their service. I would agree with everything you said about him.
Such heart and soul in this video. You bring your joy of food to this channel and also transmit what makes the special people at this and other restaurants so unique.
your videos are incredible and besides the amazing shots, storytelling, etc - I LOVE the fact that you give such as big shoutout to the impressive service individuals! absolute class and incredible and potentially career changing feedback for them
Whats incredible is that this content isn't new, it's just told in a different way. Very similar to dining experiences. Anthony Bourdain did an episode on The French Laundry and it was phenomenal... 4 grown men had trouble completing all the courses. This review is refreshing and excellent, and a great tribute to one of the best food critics.
They were served 4 different tasting menus and every course the restaurant had to offer that were not available to non chef customers, including all dessert courses.
Being born and raised in Los Angeles but also living in Marin County(between San Francisco,Sonoma, and Napa) for 16 years from 30 yrs old until 46 yrs old and being a very good home cook and baker, from a family of cooks and bakers, I've eaten some of the best food and drank some of the best wines in the world from Michelin rated restaurants to family dinners that compare to the best restaurants, having lunch at the incredible wineries every month or so, having memberships to wineries like Domaine Carneros, Viansa, Nicholson Ranch and of course going to so many other wineries for tastings, lunches, etc... we Californians are so lucky to have the farms and the wineries that allow us to have the world's best food and drink from fresh seafood from the Pacific Ocean to freshwater rivers for fish that run wild, premium creameries for fresh cheeses to the most incredible fresh fruits and produce as well as all varieties of top grade meats. My family members have been to The French Laundry but I still have not been. I've eaten at a handful of Michelin one, and two star restaurants in San Francisco and Los Angeles and am fortunate for that. I've enjoyed your videos and glad you had great experiences in California despite all the craziness going on these days. It still is the jewel of the States.
Unfortunately many of the places in this country with some of the best food are in places most people do not want to live. LA, San Fran, Seattle, Chicago, NYC etc
@@axe2grind244 California is overcrowded, the most populous state in the union. Literally the opposite of what you state. Or is everyone trapped there?😂
I've lived in the Bay Area all of my life, and it wasn't until I skipped town that I realized just how lucky and spoiled I've been to have access to such delicious food! Even outside of fine dining, there is a plethora of excellent farm-to-table restaurants right around the corner. I couldn't be more grateful when I visit home now.
It would seem then, that the only thing Alexandre the Guest can't do, is miss. Another very watchable, entertaining and instructive video; definitely one of my favourite channels on here.
In another life I'll come back a foodie, in the meantime, I'll get my pleasure watching you review these fantastic places. To be honest I could make do with the wines:)
I celebrated my birthday at TFL many moons ago. It is the best of the best. I will never forget the food, service and the whole experience. Food, wine and great company. Cheers and thank you for the excellent content.
The French Laundry has such a special place in my heart! It was my first Michelin 3 star restaurant and my first foray into fine dining. I still remember the oysters and pearls being the star dish of the meal. But what really stood out to me was the warm hospitality and attentive service. I have been to many other top tier restaurants since then, but The French Laundry front-of-house team still sets the standard of excellent service for me. Their team made me realize that high end dining can be approachable for everyone.
I feel spoilt just watching your content. As a creative myself, I am tickled pink by your excellent production value, effortless writing style and delivery. What a joy this episode was. Truly inspirational and aspirational. Keep 'em coming...❤
It is SUCH a joy to watch your clips! Each one is a piece of Art... in so many ways! I adore how you appreciate the people, the story and the small things. Wonderful! Thank you!!!
I’m glad you had a chance to enjoy the French Laundry and Opus. I’m lucky enough live fairly close to the Napa Valley. You’re a class act. I always look forward to your videos
Such a great pleasure to watch your videos . They perfecltly match the styles of the beautiful restaurants we get to see through your experienced eye . Thank you !
I love watching Alexander’s videos and appreciate that he gave my home state of California a try. I also love that I watch his videos right before I watch Are You Garbage? That’s a collaboration that would be amazing.
I'm feel so lucky to have found your channel. Every video improves from the last, so much that I am shocked every time I accidentally look at the subscriber count😅
While we have not eaten at the French Laundry we have dinned at several 3 star restaurants in Europe. Our favorite being La Cinq at the Four Seasons Hotel in Paris. It was a dinning experience we will always remember.
Great stuff as always, from both you and TFL. Might respectfully suggest that, considering the description of the experience as "perfect" that it is a little unfair to the restaurant to have the word "NIGHTMARE" in all caps on the video title - even if it was (booking, of course). I was expecting a much colder review because of that. Edit: This appears to have been changed; sign of a true gentleman there.
What I wanted to ask you, Alexander, is what camera do you use for filming the dishes? I like fine dining myself and always wondered if people use profesional cameras for their shots, or maybe just my phone camera work sucks? Thanks for your videos. I think you should review Helene Daroze in London next, I have always been curious to go and try it, but I have only heard mixed reviews about its food.
Wow Alexander! Glad to see you made it to The French Laundry. I had the pleasure of serving you and your son at Bouchon in Las Vegas not too long ago. Yountville is amazing and full of good food and wine.
If ever you go back to California go to Somni is Los Angeles when it opens back up, best restaurant I’ve been to in the USA (have been to EMP, Alinéa, FL, etc)
Kedves Sándor! Első kommentelő. Első generációs Amerikai Magyar vagyok, aki az USAi Nyugatitenger partján élek. Majdnem hanyatt estem, amikor ráakadtam a csodálatos étteremkritikus csatornádra !!! Véleményem szerint te vagy a legjobb az egész RUclips-on. Hol tanultál ilyen jól Angolul beszélni? A sikereidet leíró Magyar nyelvű videóid is elsőrangúak. Kár, hogy nem lettek szinkronizálva az Angol nyelvre, mivel annyira tanulságosak, hogy szerintem világszerte sok ember sok betekintést nyert volna. Sok sok sikert kívánok neked Sándor. Hajrá a Magyarok a vilag körül....
Fantasztikusak a videóid!!! Pozitív kritikát szeretnék megfogalmazni amikor azt mondom most, hogy annyira intenzív és informatív vagy (az utóbbi epizodokban), hogy az már néha kicsit fárasztó és nehéz befogadni a rengeteg újdonságot. Nagyon örülnék neki, ha néhány rövidebb beszélgetés is lenne a videóban az éttermi dolgozókkal, sommelier-vel, mit miért hogyan párosítanak, chef/ sous chef-el, honnan hogyan szerzik be a különlegesebb alapanyagokat. Milyen nehézségeik vannak azok beszerzésével. Kicsit több "personality", remélem érted mire gondolok 😉 hajrá 🤘 🤘
I thoroughly enjoyed your California series. I only wished you had come further south to LA/SD. I would honestly say restaurant Addison would easily compare to TFL. I went to Addison recently and even saw Chef TK there. I know you would have enjoyed it yourself!
The French Laundry is an amazing example of how set and setting can affect the dining experience. I've eaten at TFL and Per Se, and honestly found the food to be fairly similar (I think TFL has a slight edge). But while my experience at Per Se was somewhat underwhelming, dinner at The French Laundry was one of the best dining experiences of my life. The history, the sense of place, the sheer monumentality of the restaurant, combined with absolutely perfect service-it was divine. Even when a couple of the courses fell a little flat (this is relative of course, a 7/10 Thomas Keller dish is still pretty damn good) it didnt matter, it somehow didn't deteact at all from the overall experience. It was a meal I'll remember for the rest of my life. Glad to see TFL is still going strong after all these years.
Love how you pick out excellence in servers and put them in the spotlight. It's such a tricky profession and finding gems are rare, but also frequent.
I have spent many hours watching your channel and today my heart was swelled with joy. In my late 20’s, shortly after Don and Sally sold the French Laundry, I started working for Sally’s son in Boonville California. I had a long beautiful friendship with both Sally and Don, attending their wonderful, cooking classes and harvest parties as our properties were directly across the road from each other. I love that you told Sally’s story as well for there would be no French laundry without her. Literally brought me to tears.
I didn’t know about Sally and Don before this.
The Gowan farm stand is my favorite farm stand in the Anderson valley :)
Comparing FL and Per Se is apples and oranges…I think you appreciate and love PerSe more IF you’ve eaten at PerSe first…either way Kelley’s genius is on display at both in different ways
I love this reply. As an obsessed foodie, I thought I knew quite a bit about the French Laundry but sadly did not know the history. I was happy to learn about it.
@@sanj1982 , You should check out her cookbook, which is also an autobiography called Six California Kitchens.
My favorite part of this episode, beyond just the incredible display and review of the food and wine, without a doubt, was the focus you put on highlighting *individual* members of the staff that made it such a special experience for you! Kudos!
Could not agree more!
This channel deserves 3 Michelin stars. Really appreciate the story telling and the recognition of staff you did in this episode.
Totally agree Devil…I love watching this channel and seeing things that I will never get to experience. I am jealous of him or anyone that is fortunate enough to have food and services like the restaurants this channel shows!
But I wonder if this food is as good as what we’d get at Horno or Margarita (53 and 33 area at Camp Pendleton)…😅
That chow hall food was gourmet back then. But now I think my taste buds have changed! 🤣🤣.
In the end, I’ll take almost anything over having another day of the same MRE’s. 😅
Just wait. He is not chasing sensations (as in drama) so channel growth is slower than wanted, but just you wait, this will blow up.
This
if exaggeration was a person, smh.
nobody cares. it's all about money..
Isn't this gentleman the greatest storyteller???
He gives credit, where credit is due..
He teaches us, where teaching is necessary and he gives us an experience to feel it together.
PLUS the videography is gorgeous. Kudos to whomever is filming /editing.
Donno why he's thanking us for "hosting " It's really him that's doing that! LoL
Holy cow Sally speaking made me cry. That was the most genuine, “I just want to cook”…
Hope that server gets to hear the compliment you give him. Knowing someone who travels and experiencing the best of the best gave you such praise. Well deserved.
I live with him. Yes he did
@@anishiyer4936Aww yes! Sweet sweet resolution 🤤 it tastes so good ahhh
I fuckin love that shit. I live for this shit. Feel good story of the fuckin (week)* right there- the guy was great at his job, he got the recognition he deserved for it, then he SAW IT AND YOU TOLD US THAT HE SAW IT 🎊 🎉 💥 🤯 🍾 🥂
I’m gonna have a wet dream about this moment and the feeling it’s bringing me later tonight. 😎
*The Olympics are going on right now, so feel-good stories are in high supply- otherwise it would be maybe #1 of the month. But it’s a tough competition week for feel-good stories: The Olympics are like the Olympics of feel-good stories if ya know what I mean.
@@anishiyer4936i didn't want to share him with the world: I just saw him last week after requesting him again. Tell him Bruce wholeheartedly agrees when you see him :)
It's nice when you shout out exceptional waiters, sommeliers etc. Also love you sitting down and solo drinking $1500 of wine
Luckily he got a $800 reduction hahah
@@shyeluk that was for the food
@@shyelukit says “received”. It was probably the amount charged for the deposit.
Back in the ‘90s I was able to enjoy the French Laundry under both Sally and Thomas. Two of the culinary highlights of my life.
wrr
I couldn't even say for how long I've been waiting for this video! Thank you Alexander, your videos are always a treat.
wr
So glad you were able to experience the California 3-Stars, but it’s too bad you couldn’t have visited a few years earlier when we were the crown of US Michelin with 8 3-star restaurants at once, and 9 in total over a few years time. Saison is still around & maintains 2 stars, while Coi, Manresa, and most tragically The Restaurant at Meadowood have all closed. Meadowood, especially, is heartbreaking as it was lost during the Glass Fire of 2020. My wife and I got engaged there, and it was an incredible evening. Hoping that Chef Kostow will reopen eventually…
I really enjoyed your California series. French Laundry was my first foray into the world of Michelin 3-stars back in 2007 (under chef Corey Lee at the time) and it was a very special memory. Thank you for giving this place the attention it deserves.
wrr
What a great review, Alexander. The French Laundry is the pinnacle of consistent excellence in American cuisine. I respect that your compliments go beyond the food. Your praise for the people who work there is a sign of awareness we don't see much in restaurant videos.
X employeee here in the comments.
Just a small heads up your menu isn’t what every guest enjoys , the 4 cold snacks before hand coming from the canapé section means you were probably listed down as a Red VIP . So your menu is longer and has a lot more intricate bites and touches along the way . Still one of the best restaurants I’ve cooked at !
Disagree, his menu is on par with what I’ve had, I am not a red VIP
I had similar menu to Alex, pretty sure I'm not a "Red VIP"
i was there last Sunday and those were not part of either the vegetarian nor the regular menu.
California is larger than most countries. There are 40 million residents and they have the world’s fifth largest economy only behind the USA, China, Germany and Japan. Of course they are going to have some outstanding restaurants. Love your videos. Thanks for sharing with us.
A huge contributor to California's amazing restaurants is our proximity to where the produce is grown. Other regions do have seasonal local produce but California has access to local, fresh from the farm produce basically all year.
The freshness just allows for a completly different style of cooking which is why many chefs from other regions have a more difficult time establishing themselves here.
Dont forget the incredible bounty from the ocean!
Yea well in Ohio we have cows!!!
And produces in every direction. North, South, East, and... Well the ocean to the West! We're very lucky to have the quality of food we have here!
california is the agricultural crown jewel of the planet
you can do multiple harvests of the same crops
some species that only bloom once a year will do so 2x here
Bravo Alexander. Another great video. I moved from France to SF 24 years ago and owned my restaurant here for 12 years. I loved how you show your experience. Thank you for your channel and the great work you do. Next time you come, I’ll take for a drink.
Love the history/attention to the place and setting, the reverence you show these parts of the world and the people behind the place by including this in your video. Makes for a really wholesome and culturing viewing experience.
I had the best meal of my life there fifteen years ago and I still relive it regularly in my dreams. I was so happy to see your experience was as good as mine. 🎉
" Didn't want to change the world, just wanted to cook " ❤❤
Sounds a bit like false modesty. I mean, sure he is a good cook but who ever brought up "changing the world" here when discussing preparing expensive food?
@@ageoflove1980 a new flavor sensation, techniques and the way people think about what food can do, is an amazing and sometime, game changing mindset... some people even tried to do at least a bit of what they taste on some of these michelin star chefs.. since the food is either that good or intriguing them at most..
also expensive food, did you see how much it cost for their cost operations etc? remember noma why did they close? and some other 3 michelin star that ends up closing because its too expensive?
@@ageoflove1980 Thomas Keller didn't say it; it was Sally.
@@ageoflove1980I immediately thought the same too lol. No one even remotely mentioned her 'changing the world'. Where did that come from? 😂
Made me tear up a bit tbh
The famed French Laundry. A destination I have always dreamed of but never imagine I'll have the honor of visiting. I'm so pleased to have had this inside look at this legendary culinary locale. I can tell that the service is second to none, with a well tended to staff that's honored to be there. And, of course, the artistry of the dishes was absolutely mind blowing. The wines look about as impressive as the food. Restaurants like this don't exist by accident. It's hard work, talent, dedication to the craft and single minded focus of making a truly one-of-a-kind place thrive in a cut-throat industry. I'm grateful for the review, Alexander. I'm a new subscriber, enthusiastically.
CALIFORNIA was a terrific series. I look forward to more regional series - and individual locales, as always. Thank you!
Really appreciate the gesture to highlight the service ⭐️
Thank you for shouting out the people of the restaurants and not just the food
Junmai is not a sake producing company. Junmai refers to the style of brewing sake - without the need to add additional alcohol. In sake production it is common to add alcohol to get to the anticipated alcohol content , while in junmai sake, the whole alcohol content of the sake arises from the brewing process!
Thank you for pointing this out. Sincerely, your local sake brewer.
Came here to say junmai wasn't a place but a method of sake production! Even with that misunderstanding, he still sold me on wanting to try this particular one 🍶😋
@uncle_gazpacho Yep, was SMDH at that gaffe. You were a lot more gracious in your comments than the thoughts racing through my head.
Wow this looked so awesome. That fish course with the colors on the fish looked amazing. Thank you for letting us experience these places with you.
Love the format! The history, the food, and the way you highlighted the staff. So good.
Your videos never disappoint. The expert reviews and commentary combined with the deep research and ultra high production values definitely put this in my top 5 foodtube channels.
wr
I laughed so hard at the General Kenobi joke.
Same. If I ever have anybody say that to me that has to be my response from now on.
ok
wrg, outx, can outx etc any nmw s perfx
whats the joke?
@@trevortan1589 Go watch episode 3, Revenge of the Sith
" I didn't want to change the world , I just wanted to cook" that line just hits home! It is sentimentally moving!!!!
Thank you once again for this review. As always , your content is capturing and so interesting.
I absolutely loved this episode. Highlighting the work of the staff, especially Brighton, (hope I spelled his name right) was very touching. Such an amazing compliment and beautifully said. The guy is clearly a rockstar in his field. So many great comments to read as well. Not gonna lie I had tears in my eyes by the end of this one.
Alexander it is honestly a pleasure to see your channel grow.. you truly make great videos. i'm really truly happy for you
I’m rewatching the whole California series. This channel is outstanding.
Service at that level should always be excellent and IS! The call out is surely deserved! Thank you
My first visit to the French Laundry remains my favorite dining experience in America. Loved your review and it reminds me that I need to bring my wife (who's never been) there for an occasion soon. (My second favorite dining experience in America was at the old Cyrus in Healdsburg. Fantastic! I highly recommend that you visit the new Cyrus in Geyserville if you return to Northern California. Chef Douglas Keane is doing amazing things with a great concept and while the place "only" has 1 star now [awarded mere months after opening], we really expect that to go up in the nearish future.) Thanks for the great series of reviews of places in my hometown area.
Now, this is how you do reviews with honesty and respect at the same time. Great job, great channel. Subbed
Thanks to some 'insider trading' from my in-laws at the time, we were able to book the small banquet room for 6 at French Laundry for my ex's birthday back in the mid-aughts. To this day, the most memorable dining experience of my life. Since we were separate from the rest of the very cozy restaurant and were there with some culinary and wine industry friends, we literally had our own wine program (we brought a couple special bottles that were very thoughtfully worked in) and the menu was customized specifically for us, with the usual classics from the prix-fixe included, of course. Literally a new bread from Bouchon and very localized butter for each course, which was insane. Every single element of this afternoon and evening was like something out of a dream. Nearly 6 hours of pure heaven, and a lot of fun too! This was during the reign of Corey Lee, who would go on to open Per Se a couple years later, which I was also very privileged to try, and in October, just after they'd received their allotment of Alba white truffles. That was the only time I've ever had that incredible and rare ingredient and it was truly mind-blowing.
My wife and I went there for her birthday 2 years ago and Brighton who you mentioned at the end picked us up to go to the restaurant as part of their service. I would agree with everything you said about him.
Your recognition of Brighton was beautiful!
Such heart and soul in this video. You bring your joy of food to this channel and also transmit what makes the special people at this and other restaurants so unique.
I could listen to him talk all day he has such a calm and nice voice
The bit at the end about featuring great people was awesome.
You are the best in the game Alex..wonderful production from your team.
your videos are incredible and besides the amazing shots, storytelling, etc - I LOVE the fact that you give such as big shoutout to the impressive service individuals! absolute class and incredible and potentially career changing feedback for them
Whats incredible is that this content isn't new, it's just told in a different way. Very similar to dining experiences. Anthony Bourdain did an episode on The French Laundry and it was phenomenal... 4 grown men had trouble completing all the courses. This review is refreshing and excellent, and a great tribute to one of the best food critics.
They were served 4 different tasting menus and every course the restaurant had to offer that were not available to non chef customers, including all dessert courses.
I am laughing while this video is interrupted by a Taco Bell ad. 😂
Bring the enchirito back😂
loved the cali series, glad to see you got to try the french laundry, keep up the good work man
This was a GREAT episode! Thank you Alexander
The French Laundry is incredible, I was blown away by the service, food and hospitality! Also, their garden across the street is amazing as well!
Being born and raised in Los Angeles but also living in Marin County(between San Francisco,Sonoma, and Napa) for 16 years from 30 yrs old until 46 yrs old and being a very good home cook and baker, from a family of cooks and bakers, I've eaten some of the best food and drank some of the best wines in the world from Michelin rated restaurants to family dinners that compare to the best restaurants, having lunch at the incredible wineries every month or so, having memberships to wineries like Domaine Carneros, Viansa, Nicholson Ranch and of course going to so many other wineries for tastings, lunches, etc... we Californians are so lucky to have the farms and the wineries that allow us to have the world's best food and drink from fresh seafood from the Pacific Ocean to freshwater rivers for fish that run wild, premium creameries for fresh cheeses to the most incredible fresh fruits and produce as well as all varieties of top grade meats.
My family members have been to The French Laundry but I still have not been. I've eaten at a handful of Michelin one, and two star restaurants in San Francisco and Los Angeles and am fortunate for that.
I've enjoyed your videos and glad you had great experiences in California despite all the craziness going on these days. It still is the jewel of the States.
Unfortunately many of the places in this country with some of the best food are in places most people do not want to live. LA, San Fran, Seattle, Chicago, NYC etc
@@axe2grind244 Nah, I love living here. One of the best places in the world
@@xsrxd3vlstheory nah its a shitshow and you know it.
@@axe2grind244 California is overcrowded, the most populous state in the union. Literally the opposite of what you state.
Or is everyone trapped there?😂
I've lived in the Bay Area all of my life, and it wasn't until I skipped town that I realized just how lucky and spoiled I've been to have access to such delicious food! Even outside of fine dining, there is a plethora of excellent farm-to-table restaurants right around the corner. I couldn't be more grateful when I visit home now.
It would seem then, that the only thing Alexandre the Guest can't do, is miss. Another very watchable, entertaining and instructive video; definitely one of my favourite channels on here.
wr
In another life I'll come back a foodie, in the meantime, I'll get my pleasure watching you review these fantastic places. To be honest I could make do with the wines:)
I celebrated my birthday at TFL many moons ago. It is the best of the best. I will never forget the food, service and the whole experience. Food, wine and great company. Cheers and thank you for the excellent content.
wr
Damn, those compliments for Brighton gave me the chills. Beautiful video, and now I'm gonna need to try to get in there. Cheeers!
The French Laundry has such a special place in my heart! It was my first Michelin 3 star restaurant and my first foray into fine dining. I still remember the oysters and pearls being the star dish of the meal. But what really stood out to me was the warm hospitality and attentive service. I have been to many other top tier restaurants since then, but The French Laundry front-of-house team still sets the standard of excellent service for me. Their team made me realize that high end dining can be approachable for everyone.
I feel spoilt just watching your content. As a creative myself, I am tickled pink by your excellent production value, effortless writing style and delivery. What a joy this episode was. Truly inspirational and aspirational. Keep 'em coming...❤
Always love your style and bespoke suits!
Alexander please keep making these amazing videos! Always a treat to keep learning from these amazing restaurants and their Sommeliers!
Thank you
What a legendary place, and so happy this American classic is still hitting it out of the park! Good to know some things never change 🙂
It is SUCH a joy to watch your clips! Each one is a piece of Art... in so many ways! I adore how you appreciate the people, the story and the small things. Wonderful! Thank you!!!
I’m glad you had a chance to enjoy the French Laundry and Opus. I’m lucky enough live fairly close to the Napa Valley. You’re a class act. I always look forward to your videos
We were there last year and I totally agree about Brighton! So much grace and charisma. Thank you French Laundry for an amazing experience.
Such a great pleasure to watch your videos . They perfecltly match the styles of the beautiful restaurants we get to see through your experienced eye . Thank you !
I’ve been to the French laundry! It’s absolutely divine and unreal!! Love living in the Bay Area! So many great restaurants ❤❤❤❤❤
I just love this channel so much, thank you for doing what are you doing, I’ve watched each one of your videos and this one was by far my favorite.
I love watching Alexander’s videos and appreciate that he gave my home state of California a try. I also love that I watch his videos right before I watch Are You Garbage? That’s a collaboration that would be amazing.
Do they still do the all you can eat chocolate selection at the end? Love the homage to the crew
Have had several friends that have dined here
Their reviews have been that it didn’t meet expectations
Glad you enjoyed the experience
I'm feel so lucky to have found your channel. Every video improves from the last, so much that I am shocked every time I accidentally look at the subscriber count😅
Such an amazing content, it makes me cry for real
Great review and nice to praise the waiter Brighton 👍👍👍
wrrr
he is insanely good at his job. i request him whenever i go, and saw him last week. he's a rockstar!
Always a pleasure to watch this channel.
Congratulations to Your cousin! He will always remember that wonderful day!
Finally french laundry. I'm happy to see all the classics. Coffee and donuts, cornets, oysters and pearls. Sad you didn't get to meet Keller.
I’m obsessed with this. Yummy. Such beautiful food. I’m confined to my bed and this was a dream of mine. Thank you
Fantastic vid as always, really enjoyed this one.
TFL and Single Thread get my vote for top 2 in America.
Here we go on another Euros 2,000 Gourmet Journey. To be fair, you are the best and thank you.
wrgg
While we have not eaten at the French Laundry we have dinned at several 3 star restaurants in Europe. Our favorite being La Cinq at the Four Seasons Hotel in Paris.
It was a dinning experience we will always remember.
Great stuff as always, from both you and TFL. Might respectfully suggest that, considering the description of the experience as "perfect" that it is a little unfair to the restaurant to have the word "NIGHTMARE" in all caps on the video title - even if it was (booking, of course). I was expecting a much colder review because of that.
Edit: This appears to have been changed; sign of a true gentleman there.
What I wanted to ask you, Alexander, is what camera do you use for filming the dishes? I like fine dining myself and always wondered if people use profesional cameras for their shots, or maybe just my phone camera work sucks? Thanks for your videos. I think you should review Helene Daroze in London next, I have always been curious to go and try it, but I have only heard mixed reviews about its food.
Look at 15:02, you can see he just uses his phone.
The most underrated channel on YT 🔥
wr
Wow Alexander! Glad to see you made it to The French Laundry. I had the pleasure of serving you and your son at Bouchon in Las Vegas not too long ago. Yountville is amazing and full of good food and wine.
I hope to eat at the French Laundry some day. Thomas Keller was such an inspiration to me when I was a chef.
If ever you go back to California go to Somni is Los Angeles when it opens back up, best restaurant I’ve been to in the USA (have been to EMP, Alinéa, FL, etc)
Nice touch at the end to recognize the people.
Kedves Sándor! Első kommentelő. Első generációs Amerikai Magyar vagyok, aki az USAi Nyugatitenger partján élek. Majdnem hanyatt estem, amikor ráakadtam a csodálatos étteremkritikus csatornádra !!! Véleményem szerint te vagy a legjobb az egész RUclips-on. Hol tanultál ilyen jól Angolul beszélni? A sikereidet leíró Magyar nyelvű videóid is elsőrangúak. Kár, hogy nem lettek szinkronizálva az Angol nyelvre, mivel annyira tanulságosak, hogy szerintem világszerte sok ember sok betekintést nyert volna. Sok sok sikert kívánok neked Sándor. Hajrá a Magyarok a vilag körül....
Fantasztikusak a videóid!!! Pozitív kritikát szeretnék megfogalmazni amikor azt mondom most, hogy annyira intenzív és informatív vagy (az utóbbi epizodokban), hogy az már néha kicsit fárasztó és nehéz befogadni a rengeteg újdonságot. Nagyon örülnék neki, ha néhány rövidebb beszélgetés is lenne a videóban az éttermi dolgozókkal, sommelier-vel, mit miért hogyan párosítanak, chef/ sous chef-el, honnan hogyan szerzik be a különlegesebb alapanyagokat. Milyen nehézségeik vannak azok beszerzésével. Kicsit több "personality", remélem érted mire gondolok 😉 hajrá 🤘 🤘
I would nevet thought i could see the french laundry from inside. Thankyou for this !!! 🎉
An extravagant dinner demands extravagant peaked lapels haha. I’m sure we would love an episode dedicated to your wardrobe.
What an incredible serie! Really enjoyed it, thank you!
First video I have seen on this channel.
Really great work.
Texas is about to get a michelin guide cant wait to see you
this incredible edit..... KISS YOUR FILMMAKING TEAM FROM ME
I’ve been waiting all week for this!!!
I appreciated the review of exceptional servers. Its usually “the service”, but they are people with passion for excellence as well.
I thoroughly enjoyed your California series. I only wished you had come further south to LA/SD. I would honestly say restaurant Addison would easily compare to TFL. I went to Addison recently and even saw Chef TK there. I know you would have enjoyed it yourself!
Addison is great. For food and service precision I'd say it is indeed comparable. Ambiance goes to TFL though, hands down.
I would love a dining experience like this, but my pockets would never allow! Thank you for this review. I could almost taste every dish and wine.
The French Laundry is an amazing example of how set and setting can affect the dining experience. I've eaten at TFL and Per Se, and honestly found the food to be fairly similar (I think TFL has a slight edge). But while my experience at Per Se was somewhat underwhelming, dinner at The French Laundry was one of the best dining experiences of my life. The history, the sense of place, the sheer monumentality of the restaurant, combined with absolutely perfect service-it was divine. Even when a couple of the courses fell a little flat (this is relative of course, a 7/10 Thomas Keller dish is still pretty damn good) it didnt matter, it somehow didn't deteact at all from the overall experience. It was a meal I'll remember for the rest of my life. Glad to see TFL is still going strong after all these years.
wr
Which dishes did you find to be 7/10?
What an amazing series it's been.. Loved this last one especially...