La Fregate
Guernsey
There’s something reassuringly permanent about this elegantly extended 18th-manor house sitting snugly amid secluded terraced gardens overlooking the harbour and the narrow streets of St Peter Port. Glimpses of ancient Castle Cornet add to the allure, whether you’re outside or gazing from the myriad windows of the luxuriously appointed dining room. Done out in shades of maritime blue and white, it provides a soothing backdrop for well-judged, generous dishes based on produce from the island. Not surprisingly, locally landed seafood is the top shout, from a classic pairing of seared scallops, pea purée and black pudding (given added sparkle with a sprinkling of smoked pancetta dust) to pan-fried sea bass accompanied by crushed new potatoes, Chancre crabmeat, samphire and shellfish beurre blanc. There’s also a ‘saltwater plate’ offering a mixed bag or top-drawer seafood. Luxury is the watchword when it comes to meat dishes, from steak tartare to prime fillet of beef with gaufrette potatoes, a choice of sauces and an optional slice of seared foie gras. Desserts are mostly old faithfuls given an artful modern twist or two – tonka bean crème brûlée or a cheesecake involving green apple and Guernsey-brewed Rocquette cider, for example. Staff are well tutored in the old ways, while the substantial wine list touts some serious bargains among its loftier vintages.
Dining Information:
Accommodation, Separate bar, Parking, Credit card required
Beauregard Lane, Les Cotils, St Peter Port, , Guernsey GY1 1UT
01481 724624
