How can I successfully make reservations to the French Laundry Restaurant in Napa, CA?

Question

http://www.frenchlaundry.com/frenchlaundry.htm

The French Laundry has an online service OpenTable.com that makes reservations to the French Laundry and several other restaurants, but it is impossible to book via this service to the French Laundry.

Calling the restaurant reservation line is also impossible as they make reservations exactly 2 months to the date and they are booked within 10 minutes. Trying to get through on the reservation line is next to impossible as it is busy the minute the lines open at 10AM PST.

Do you know ANYONE or any trick that could help me make reservations?

Date or Time is not important. I just need reservations for 2.

PLEASE HELP.

Answer 1

Ask if they have a waiting list.  Call everyday and ask if there have been any cancellations.  Also, I hear that Super Bowl Sunday is the best day to get a reservation there.  Good luck!!!

Answer 2

Last year, I was able to book a table for two at 8:00pm on the Friday after Thanksgiving by calling them a few days earlier.  Since most people go visit family during the holiday, they actually had some availabilities that weekend.  In fact, when I check OpenTable.com after making my reservation, I found that that they even had some openings on the Monday and Tuesday after Thanksgiving as well.

Answer 3

show up in person to make the reservation

Answer 4

Try booking through the concierge at one of the better hotels up there, for example Auberge du Soleil.  Locals in the hospitality industry usually have connections.  Of course, that means you will have to stay at the hotel, but hey, life's rough.  ;-)