Bouchon Bistro

What it's like

Bouchon is the relaxed counterpart to Thomas Keller's fine-dining flagship down the street. It is a Parisian-style bistro on Washington Street, with a lively room and the kind of French comfort cooking that suits a long lunch or an easy dinner. There are also Bouchon locations in Las Vegas and Coral Gables, but this is the one in the valley.

Who it's best for

Couples, small groups and families with older kids who want a proper sit-down meal without committing to a tasting menu. It also works for travelers who could not get into The French Laundry and still want a Keller meal. The longer weekend hours make it one of the easier Yountville tables to fit around a winery schedule.

What to order & how to book

Menus, wine and cocktail lists are posted on the restaurant's site, so look before you go and decide whether you want a full dinner or something lighter. Prices are on the posted menu.

For bookings, the restaurant lists an online reservation page, an email address (yountvillereservations@tkrg.com) and a phone line, 707.944.8037. Weekend evenings and holiday periods fill quickly, so reserve ahead. The restaurant also handles private dining and events.

Current hours as listed: Monday to Thursday 4:00pm to 10:00pm, Friday and Saturday 11:00am to 11:00pm, and Sunday 11:00am to 10:00pm. Confirm before a special occasion in case of seasonal changes.

How it fits into a day

Because it opens at 11:00am on Friday through Sunday, it slots neatly between a morning tasting and an afternoon stroll. Yountville is compact, so you can park once and walk to galleries, tasting rooms and shops. If you are driving in from valley wineries, arrange a designated driver or rideshare, especially if you plan to enjoy the wine list.