The French Laundry
About a month ago, I had the opportunity to go to The French Laundry for the first time. I had only heard about the famed restaurant a couple years ago. I guess it was inevitable that I learn about Thomas Keller and his work while living in San Francisco's foodie culture.
I remember thinking, "How intriguing. But it's just a restaurant, right? Why are people so obsessed?"
Well, I will humbly admit...I get it now.
My husband and I made the reservation months in advance with my brother, Chris, and his fiance, Mary. We made the hour-long drive together from San Francisco to Yountville listening to the "Hamilton" soundtrack and enthusiastically singing/rapping along. Once we arrived outside The French Laundry, I was surprised to find it...quaint and unassuming. It almost looked like a little cottage in the woods.
Once we entered the grounds, however, I immediately noticed and appreciated the clean, peaceful presentation of the restaurant and garden.
The meal itself was everything that I had anticipated and more. Each dish was beautifully prepared and presented. And I walked away with such an admiration and respect for every set of hands that participated in creating such unique and beautiful works of art.
It’s incredible to think about all the artists who played a part in making this meal. At the end of the day, one could argue that it’s just food. It’s so basic to what we as humans need to survive and thrive. But that’s part of why I was so moved by it all…these artists decided to take something as basic as food and applied imagination, creativity, innovation, and quite frankly, grit, to see what new and inventive ways they could enhance a meal. I love that there are people out there who are so dedicated to their craft and so passionate about something that then others can enjoy on so many levels.
