Thomas Keller's restaurant empire expanded when he opened his third and most elaborate Bouchon in Los Angeles last year (the other one is in Las Vegas), but the quality at the original in Yountville never sags. He's created the best French brasserie in the Bay Area. Adam Tihany's design features intricately tiled floors, a tin ceiling, Art Deco-inspired light fixtures and a zinc bar. The food also celebrates the classics, with grand fruits de mer platters, bouillabaisse and blood sausage. Bouchon Bakery next door is a must-visit stop for bread, pastries, breakfast or picnic fare.
Specialties: Raw seafood bar; French onion soup; leg of lamb; quiche; roast chicken; steak frites; mussels and frites; profiteroles; Floating Island.
Lunch 11:30 a.m.-2:30 p.m., dinner 5:30 p.m.-12:45 a.m. daily; brn 11 a.m.-2 p.m. Sun.
From four-star spots to cozy neighborhood joints, these are Michael Bauer's picks for the best in Bay Area dining.