Joël Robuchon at the Mansion

This is listed under "Very Expensive" only because there is no category for "unbelievably, heart stoppingly, stratospherically expensive." But it's here because legendary chef Joël Robuchon -- the first (and youngest) chef to win three consecutive Michelin stars -- who closed his restaurants in France (where he was proclaimed "chef of the century") at the height of his fame, has proven that all the hype is justified. Food critics exclaim over the perfect combination of gastronomic feats and culinary artistry. This is not food as fuel, food to bolt down greedily (even though you may want to), but to slowly savor. Pay attention as you chew, and notice how many layers of interest are revealed. Great care was taken in choosing and combining ingredients, to create not fuss but both surprise and a sense of rightness. Exquisite, superb -- name your superlative, and it's been levied toward this remarkable restaurant.

Chef Robuchon is not personally in the kitchen that often, but he has entrusted this kitchen to some of his top employees, and if they stay (no implied criticism, merely a reality of the restaurant world), so should the quality. The menu changes very frequently, with many key ingredients flown in daily from France. And the service reminds one that Michelin ratings take service into account, too. None of this comes cheap. Could it possibly be worth it? When restaurant critics claim they would spend their own money to dine here, quite very possibly, yes.

Note: This information was accurate when it was published, but can change without notice. Please be sure to confirm all rates and details directly with the companies in question before planning your trip.

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