Chapter 1
Obtaining Reservations

Those of you who know me know that I'm turning the big 4-0 this coming January. I have requested just one thing and one thing only for this notable event: Dinner for 2 at the French Laundry, near Napa, California. This is no small request, let me be the first to tell you. This is essentially the equivalent of two country bumpkins with filth smeered all over them asking to have dinner with the Queen of England...or at least that's how the restaurant sees it.

To even have them take your call you must phone them exactly 2 months prior to the date you would like to beg them to include you for. You cannot call earlier than that. It must be precisely 2 months to the date you would like to be included with or they will ask you to call back. The soup Nazi from Seinfeld was of a more generous and lenient nature than the reservation desk at this restaurant is.

Exactly 2 months was yesterday. I made my phonecall. They were already booked and had us placed on a waiting list....should one of the big important people cancel out and leave a table open.

Hubby called again this morning to try and get the next day. Once again, all booked up. Again, on a waiting list.

It is pure politics trying to get a table for two at a world-class, 3 star, Michelin rated place, and we are not big-hitters in that sphere of influence. All we have to offer is our paltry $250 per person (before wine, tax, and tip) and nothing else. We glorify the restaurant in no other way. We can't even say that we'll return some time in the future for another meal. Things are not looking good for us at the French Laundry. Will we be allowed to spend our $600 or so for dinner for 2 or will we be told to go elsewhere - say the Red Lobster instead?

There is still hope. I'm pretty sure I can guarantee a table if I sleep with Anthony Bourdain! Tony, call me, Babe!

the french laundry is no different than any three star restaurants, call on time and get the reservation, see picture of Mrs Gagit and Tom Keller on www.gagit.com, its not impossible but you dont have to be a star just persistant.

Thanks gagit -

I actually do have reservations for just a few weeks from now but I thought I'd post my story of how I got them in segments .

Jennie

they are well worth it. see my review at www.gagit.net