That is exactly right gleff. The things that have really struck me about places like Le Bernadin and Taillevent have been the complete customer service. Le Bernardin was probably the first restaurant of that class I had been in. We had some desert wine left at the end of dinner and as the maitre de was walking by I asked if we could maybe have some blue cheese to go with it. It wasnt on the menu but I figured they must have it. He nodded so imperceptably I wasnt sure he heard or understood and then continued walking towards the kitchen. Seconds after he entered, someone came out with plates for our table, then very shortly later some really good roquefort and bread. We later asked what time they were closing since we noticed it was late and he told us they had closed the front door an hour ago but the staff were there with all of the guests as long as they wanted to stay.
Likewise at Taillevent on numerous occassions they have offered to change something on the menu or combine things. On one occassion after reciting the deserts and seeing we were having a hard time deciding, the maitre de asked if I liked chocolate. When I replied yes (enthusiastically) he said he would have them prepare a sampler of all of their chocolate based deserts for me. I really expect that kind of service. In fact I demand it at those prices.
Planning on trying to get a reservation at Per Se in early August, I hope it is as good as I have heard from a variety of sources and that the above mentioned French Laundry experience was an anomaly.