Dining at the upscale French Laundry isn’t just for the ultra-wealthy or politicians like California Governor Gavin Newsom, but it certainly helps if you’re not tight on budget. This renowned restaurant in Yountville, California, part of the beautiful Napa Valley, has held a three-star Michelin rating since 2007. The allure is so strong that reservations are often snapped up months in advance.
In mid-November, Governor Newsom was seen there with officials from the California Medical Association. Reports indicated they enjoyed their meal indoors without masks, which seemed contrary to the health guidelines Newsom endorsed publicly. This incident sparked discussions about political privilege and double standards.
But setting political controversies aside, let’s talk about what it costs to dine at The French Laundry. The price per person starts at $350. Diners can choose between a Chef’s Tasting menu, which includes meat and seafood, and a Tasting of Vegetables. And while some might balk at the idea of paying so much for vegetables, those familiar with gourmet dining understand the value behind each curated dish.
Wine pairing, which can enhance the dining experience, adds to the cost significantly. Glasses start around $35 for white and $45 for red, with full bottles running into the hundreds. If you bring your own bottle, be prepared to pay a $150 corkage fee. All told, budgeting about $500 per person, including tips, is advisable for a complete experience. This means a date night here could easily cost you about $1,000.
For those wanting an even more extravagant outing, there are options like an $850 per-person meal in the historic dining room, a $1,200 white truffle and caviar dinner, or an $800 New Year’s Eve dinner. Clearly, enjoying a meal here is a significant financial undertaking, reserved for special occasions or for those with deeper pockets.
So, how rich do you need to be to dine here comfortably? Assuming you might treat a few friends or a date, expect your bill to hit between $1,000 and $2,000. To put this into perspective, a high-quality dry-aged steak dinner with wine elsewhere might cost you up to $250 per person. Thus, dining at The French Laundry could cost you about twice what a luxurious meal elsewhere would.
Financially, if you’re considering such an expense, you’d ideally have a significant discretionary income. For a one-off splurge like a milestone anniversary, perhaps a lower income could justify the expense. However, regular diners at such establishments likely have incomes that place them in the top 1% of earners.
In summary, dining at The French Laundry is about more than just food; it’s an experience, a celebration of culinary art that comes with a price tag reflective of its prestigious status. Whether it’s worth it depends on personal values and financial ability. Just remember, if you’re planning to go, make sure you understand the cost and the experience you’re signing up for—it’s not just another dinner out.
