Well, I’ve dinned at many of the restaurants on the list but honestly it is a subjective thing.
I like Manresa but I’d probably eat at Forbes Mill, Sent Sovi or The Plumed Horse if I’m buying. Then again there a few other restaurants in the area I like.
And when it comes to the French Laundry I’d rather eat somewhere else if I’m buying, such as Auberge du Soleil.(Mostly because of the Wisteria Trees, the balcony dinning and there is a larger Hunting Dinning Room Table at the entrance which was designed by Michael Taylor and the friend I usually take with me has the same table by him in her home)
Great Restaurants but like for different reasons and I can think of a few that aren’t on here that I would include but I didn’t make the list.
I don't remember the last time I paid for a restaurant meal. If I'm going to have to pay, I'd rather hit the markets and cook for myself. Saves lots of $$s. There are advantages in having a live-in chef in the house. ;)
At most, trying a restaurant where I'm not owed a comp, I'll hit the bar, and order a drink and a couple of amuse bouche to try the food. That can still run $40+ in some places.
/johnny