The jacket requirement at French Laundry is part of the reason we’ve never returned: it’s completely ridiculous and wholly out of touch with California and the Napa Valley.

The other reason is that it’s just not as good as so many other options now in the Bay Area at the 3* level. Its 3* are a testament to Michelin’s catering to top tier chefs even when the the product isn’t as impressive. Jean George in NYC was a perfect example...until Michelin FINALLY demoted it to 2*. Atelier Crenn has been superior to FL for years but only this last year earned its 3rd star? I don’t think so.

Meadowood is vastly better...though we weren’t as wowed for our dinner in May—felt a bit more 2* but for the one spectacular dish. But we love Meadowood anyway. It’s got it all: super service, a spectacularly beautiful dining room, casually elegant ambience appropriate to Napa Valley, incredible bar and wine program, and (usually) spectacularly delicious and inventive food.