Now that I think about it, I recall getting an amazing lunch at Campton Place in SF more than 10 years ago. It was RW in SF, and the chef at the time was a new guy - Daniel Humm, who has made quite a name for himself at Eleven Madison Park.
The meal was amazing and definitely not from a catering tub. The place was also only about half full, which seemed odd for the quality and price. I can see why he moved on to NYC - I don't think SF was ready for that level of dining at the time.