Waiters rush by chef Thomas Keller, third from left, as he puts the finishing touches on dishes for the dinner crowd at the French Laundry in Yountville, Calif. (Perry C. Riddle / Los Angeles Times)
A bicycle rider goes past the French Laundry in Yountville, Calif., in 2006, shortly after it was announced Thomas Keller’s restaurant earned three Michelin stars. (Robert Durell / Los Angeles Times)
Manhattan’s Per Se pastry chef Sebastien Rouxel holds a remote control while looking at the video screen of the pastry chef Claire Clake making chocolates at the French Laundry. (Jennifer S. Altman / For The Times)
Chef Thomas Keller hands out his signature cornets of marinated Atlantic salmon during the 30th annual Auction Napa Valley in St. Helena, Calif., in 2010. (Eric Risberg / Associated Press)
In the midst of the dinner rush, the French Laundry chef, Thomas Keller, pauses for a breath and a quick look around the kitchen. (Perry C. Riddle / Los Angeles Times)
