2012 Top 40 Restaurants in the U.S. " The French Laundry

Thomas Keller's rarified Napa Valley establishment is often thought to be the best restaurant in America, and one of the top dining destinations in the world. An 1880's stone building that has alternately housed a saloon, a brothel and a French steam laundry now nestles coveted tables for an extraordinary nine-course prix-fixe dinner that, for many, becomes an unparalleled gastronomic experience. New Yorkers rightfully appreciate Keller's sister restaurant Per Se, also featured on our Top 40 list.

 Read GAYOT.com's restaurant review of The French Laundry