With "savage" in its name, is it any wonder I love WILD asparagus? Well now that Keller is doing a burger place and citing In-N-Out as his bar...
You may remember my post about French Laundry a bit ago. The second part of the story is about my disappointment and how that turned to a fantastic discovery. Another Napa Valley restaurant that I think is superiour to FL and my discovery of Wild Asparagus. Who knew at this ripe, old age I could still find something I'd never had before?
Yesterday's trip to the favorite grocers, Savenor's on Beacon Hill, yielded asperges sauvages, among other treats. I'll write more soon. The water's on the boil....(for more on that meal: check my post on asperges sauvages.
Back to FL - I would have to say, but for his gorgeous food and his open love for In-N-Out burgers, I'd have to hate him. I cannot stand pretentiousness.
My dinner at French Laundry was fine as far as the food and wine. Thoughtful courses, well executed. This does not a meal make. And when the hype is so over-done by the restaurant itself, and you seat me in a sweltering room so uncomfortable it required several diners making trips to splash cold water on our necks and faces...oh yea, that's what I want to spend $500 bucks for...service was pretty disappointing, too. No one cared that our table of six had 5 newcomers, no one cared that we had significant interest in and knowledge of food and wine, and no one cared too much about being attentive.
Contrast to La Toque. This restaurant, attached to the beautiful and charming Rancho Caymus, excelled on every point. Far exceeded FL in many regards. Not only was the food divine, every person we met was thrilled at our delight with each course. From the server to the sommelier to the chef and other staff, we had not hovering intrusive service, but that authentic pride in the experience they were giving us.
The wine flight was perfectly paired to each course, and even held a few surprises for the two of us who know something about wine.
We left that meal with the enchanted feeling that one has on such nights, so close to heaven you could die in your sleep with no regrets. Sated, satisfied, excited and just so lucky to be in that moment. I will never forget it. Especially since we framed the menu!
For the back story, including synchronized bi-coastal phone assaults, see: French Laundry and Wild Asparagus, Keller doesn't sweat, we do
