Discovering The French Laundry: 13 Fascinating Facts You (Maybe) Didn’t Know
- Renée ReBell
- 2 days ago
- 4 min read
13 Fascinating Facts About The French Laundry in Napa Valley
If you’ve been lucky enough to snag a reservation at the legendary French Laundry in Yountville, California—or you’re just curious about what makes this culinary landmark so iconic—you’re in the right place.
With its exquisite cuisine, impeccable service, and storied history, The French Laundry is more than a meal—it’s a once-in-a-lifetime experience. Before you try your luck getting in, here are 13 intriguing and essential facts to deepen your appreciation of one of the world’s most celebrated restaurants.
1. The Story Behind the Name
Yes, it was literally a French laundry. Originally constructed in 1900 by a Scottish stonemason named Pierre Guillaume, the building was initially intended to serve as a beer pub. However, Yountville's early prohibition laws—enacted not long after he opened—quickly made that plan unworkable. These restrictions were unique to the town and stemmed from its desire to maintain a sober environment for the veterans living within a five-mile radius, as Yountville was home to the nation’s first Veterans Home. With his original vision no longer viable, the space was eventually converted into a French-style steam laundry—and the name stuck.
In 1978, Sally and Don Schmitt started and named the original restaurant, which enjoyed a wait-list from day one. In 1994, Chef Thomas Keller took the reins, turning it into the international sensation it is today.
2. Securing a Reservation
With just 60 seats and dinner service only, scoring a table requires dedication. Reservations open one month in advance at 10:00 AM Pacific, via Tock. Keep in mind, they take the month of January off, since they are open 7 days a week.
Tips:
Follow TFL on Instagram for reservation drops.
Set multiple reminders as alarms on your phone.
Be flexible with your dates (I landed on a Monday!).
3. A Daily-Changing Tasting Menu
Each nine-course menu is unique. Choose between:
Chef’s Menu (meat & seafood)
Tasting of Vegetables (vegetarian)
You can also mix and match courses. Since I was a pescatarian at the time, I was thrilled with this option. Most of the ingredients are sourced from their own organic gardens just across the street.
4. Expect Tiny But Flavor-Packed Servings
Portions are intentionally small—each bite is rich, refined, and deeply satisfying. Early in the meal, you’ll enjoy a baguette with special Vermont butter from two very well-treated cows. It’s that detailed.
5. One Flat Price, No Tipping Necessary
The base price is $425 per person, prepaid. No tipping is required—A service charge is included. Luxury upgrades like truffles or Wagyu are extra, as are wine pairings.
6. Meet the Chefs in the Kitchen
After your meal, guests are often invited into the kitchen. While Chef Keller may or may not be there, the warm and welcoming team always makes the visit special.
7. A Kitchen Inspired by the Louvre
In 2017, a $10 million renovation transformed The French Laundry into one of the most advanced kitchens in the world. Inspired by the Louvre, the design prioritized seamless teamwork and visual harmony. Architect Teddy Tesser brought to life Chef Keller’s vision of a culinary temple—one that fosters positive collaboration, efficiency among the staff, and inspires awe in every guest.
8. A Wine Cellar Worth Exploring
With over 16,000 bottles and a 90+ page wine list, the cellar is one of the most impressive in Napa Valley. Trust the somm—whether you're a connoisseur or not. There is exclusive space in this building for private parties.
9. Michelin Stars and Global Acclaim
The French Laundry holds three Michelin stars and has maintained them consecutively since Michelin first began covering the San Francisco Bay Area. Chef Thomas Keller is the only American chef to earn three stars at two different restaurants—The French Laundry and Per Se in New York City—making him the first in the U.S. to achieve this distinction.
The French Laundry topped The World’s 50 Best Restaurants list in both 2003 and 2004. In 2017, under his leadership as Team USA's president, the American team achieved a groundbreaking gold medal at the Bocuse d'Or in Lyon, France—the first time the U.S. had ever placed on the podium.
10. White Truffle Season Is a Big Deal
Every fall, TFL unveils a limited-time white truffle menu. It’s luxurious, expensive, and unforgettable. Reservations during this period are even harder to come by.
11. Dietary Restrictions? No Problem
TFL accommodates allergies and dietary needs with grace. Their innovation, Cup4Cup, is a gluten-free flour blend used in fine dining and available for purchase. This product, along with Chef Keller’s signature chocolate bars, is also available for purchase at his retail store, Finesse, just up the street.
12. Bourdain’s Stamp of Approval
The late Anthony Bourdain once said The French Laundry was “the best sit-down, multi-course, white-tablecloth meal of my life.” Enough said.
13. A Little Personal History
When I launched Gourmet Food & Wine Tours over a decade ago, one of the highlights was walking guests into The French Laundry yard prior to its renovation—when its kitchen operated out of two shipping containers!
You could wave to the chefs, peek behind the wall, and feel the magic. Rumor has it, that the temporary kitchen was later sold on eBay. The access has been much more restricted since 2020. You can only explore the property if you’re dining.
Chef Keller even shared a behind-the-scenes installation video for placing the containers:
• Watch the video here
Final Thoughts
Dining at The French Laundry is more than just a meal—it’s an immersive journey into craftsmanship, hospitality, and world-class culinary excellence. If you're already planning a trip to Yountville and weren’t able to snag a reservation, don’t worry—we share stories about The French Laundry, Thomas Keller, and other culinary legends on our Yountville Food & Wine Tour. While our tours are intentionally kept small and intimate, they’re definitely easier to book—and a delicious way to experience the heart of Napa Valley’s food scene.
Bon appétit,
Renée ReBell Founder, Gourmet Food & Wine Tours
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