Our meal at Meadowood was comically bad. My wife is allergic to fin fish -- fish with a backbone. I explained this when making the reservation, and was told the kitchen would be happy to accommodate. When we arrived for dinner, the staff had no knowledge of this information, so we went over it again. Our server explained during the fish course, my wife would receive a "share plate." That confused us, so we asked what the "share plate" was. "Well, since you can't eat fish, during the fish course you'll get a share plate." "Yes, but what's on this 'share plate'?" we pressed. Clearly uncomfortable, our server clarified, "Oh, it's just an empty plate. Because she can't eat what's being served." It seemed ridiculous that at a three-star restaurant, after being told they'd be happy to accommodate this allergy, we learn that the way they accommodate the allergy is just to serve an empty plate. What's even more ridiculous, however, is that on the subsequent chicken course, they served my wife and then spooned a sauce all over the chicken, and then explained it was an anchovy-based sauce. They almost poisoned my wife and we avoided a trip to the hospital only because we keenly paid attention to what they were saying as they served us. Quickly, the chicken was removed, and out came the share plate. I have to wonder, why is it called a "share plate"? If they're not going to serve my wife any food, and she's allergic to what's served to the other guests, what sort of sharing do they anticipate?! The service was untrained in other ways less likely to cause a visit to the hospital. For example, at a three-star restaurant, I don't expect to have to help the staff clear the table after each course. It was interesting, though, when I was explicitly asked to pass down plates to other guests or pick up used utensils, so that the staff doesn't have to walk the full length of the table. I wrote a letter to the restaurant director about this experience. Never heard back.
An elegant and incredible dining experience. The creativity, presentation, hospitality, and overall atmosphere was an absolute delight and left a memorable impression. I can’t wait to return!
My wife and I came to Meadowood for our anniversary. Our first night we ate at "The Restaurant". We enjoyed a multi-course meal with wine pairing that was outstanding! The small bites were imaginative and all from the restaurants own farm. I don't eat eggplant, but I did this particular night and it was fantastic. I didn't want to be inconsiderate to our dining partners. Wow! perfectly cooked and full of flavor. Clearly Chef Christopher Kostow is a talented chef. Eating at restaurants offering gastronomic fare can get tiring. Chef Kostow's farm to table fare is a wonderful change. Especially since the food is sooooo wonderfully prepared. The Koji souffle' was a perfect desert to close out the dining experience. Should you find yourself in the St. Helena area and want to have an outstanding meal at a world class location, dine at The Restaurant at Meadowood. Thank you chef Kostow. Service was first rate! The wait staff was attentive at the right moments without being invasive. Polite and professional in every manner. Each course was delivered with perfect timing and at a pace not to rush the evening. Due to Covid-19, our table was located to an outside venue in a private area with wall to wall lawn and an outdoor fireplace. The tables were more than adequately spaced allowing a feeling of safe environment and private conversation. Honestly, my wife and I enjoyed the outdoor dining more so than indoor. The service was “outstanding” and went well beyond expectations.