Eight of the best French restaurants in California, according to Michelin

BOUCHON

6534 Washington St., Yountville, 94599

Rating: One Michelin star

What the Michelin inspectors said…

It may be smack dab in charming Yountville, but Thomas Keller’s take on the lively bistro sets a scene straight out of Paris with its red velvet booths, marble tables, gleaming brass, and a red-and-white tiled floor. Add a buzzy scene dominated by bon vivants and a next-door bakery that ensures that bread is king (grab a hunk of that pain d’épi and slather it in butter) and the effect is spot-on.

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The kitchen keeps the mood going with a litany of well-executed classics such as the crispy roasted chicken over corn with bacon lardons and oyster mushrooms. Seasonal additions, like the rustic tomato tart, are always worth a second look. While it won’t dazzle with its originality, the lemon tart is a nice finish to a satisfying meal.

We want to try…

Boudin blanc – white sausage with potato purée, dried French plums & beurre noisette ($29.75).

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