It's a rare occasion when you find yourself begging for a reservation at a hotel eatery inside a hotel you wouldn't want to stay-in, but such was the experience when trying to wrangle an August reservation at this 1-star Michelin restaurant at this charmingly austere 3-star hotel. Visitors arrive to a stacked-stone gate of impressive stature just outside the main village. Inside, a dark and mysterious dining space wouldn't win any awards on its décor of terracotta-color tile floors, stacked-stone columns and rafter ceiling. But its food is another, far magical, story. Tables are set with silver plated candelabras and chargers on crimson tablecloths with comfy club chairs that pad guests through intensive 3-hour dinners. An outdoor terrace is the place to be, when open, overlooking a tranquil bar under canopy of palm trees and waterfront lounge for after dinner drinks.
The Food
A heralded ala carte and 7-course tasting menu from chef Philippe Nogier begins with a beef carpaccio dusted in homegrown mache, arrangement of duck foie gras with walnut truffle drizzle and homemade paper-thin ravioli with saffron shrimp foam. Fish course includes local specialties pan-fried or baked accompanied with pancetta-laden sauces with shaving of seasonal truffles. Meat course is a mix of lamb and beef served with a play of spices ranging from lavender to mint and marjoram.
Last Word
Two-star Michelin eatery at well-known Porto Vecchio hotel offers waterfront terrace for summer dining and more-upscale indoor dining room clad in stone.
