One of “the top chefs in the world” is how Gordon Ramsay rates Thomas Keller, and gastronomic testimonials don’t come from many higher authorities than that. In 2001 Time magazine named him “America’s best chef”. His flagship restaurant, The French Laundry, situated in Yountville in California’s Napa Valley, has had four-star ratings from the San Francisco Chronicle, Marin Independent Journal and the San Jose Mercury News, among others. It’s been called “the most exciting place to eat in the United States” and the Guide Michelin has awarded it three stars — its ultimate accolade, meaning “worth a special trip”. NZBC caught up with Thomas for a virtual espresso, and managed to resist the urge to order a mug of Milo, a Vegemite sandwich and a slice of beetroot on the side. More...