SO French is SO Good!
~ Classic French Cuisine with Caribbean Charm ~
So we went out on Monday, February 13, looking for an early Valentine’s dinner and hoping for something very special! And we found it – SO French!
SO French is the kind of place you might drive right past, as you scoot up the hill to Pelican Key in Simpson Bay. That could be a big mistake, because you aren’t likely to find a better French restaurant on the island – and that includes the French side!
We arrived about 7:30pm without reservations, which could have turned out badly as the people arriving after us were turned away with the words, “I’m sorry we’re full.” We were given a small table by the window overlooking Simpson Bay’s lovely waters, lapping gently against the crescent shaped beach. The manager, Tony, told us we weren’t his customers but his guests. He said he doesn’t think of this as work, but like welcoming friends into his home. Well, this charming fellow was authentically joyful, and spread that attitude to every table in the place.
We began the dining experience with wine, as is our want. Soon we received an unexpected amuse-bouche of delectable flavours, a melange of veggies and spices, just enough to prime the taste buds. Then came our shared appetizer, which was very plentiful indeed – a green salad with frog legs adorning the top and a carved lemon as a crown. These frog legs were well seasoned and crispy, exquisite in flavour and texture, a cross between whitefish and chicken. The salad below was fresh and light. We gobbled it all up!
The main courses arrived with rich sauces and wonderful side orders of provincial vegetables that included asparagus, ratatouille and sweet potato. The plates presented lamb shank for my companion and a roasted Angus beef filet mignon with foie gras sauce for yours truly. We were in nirvana at the first bite.
The enjoyment of these meals was not rushed in the least, as great dining should be savoured and prolonged into the night. In time, we had cleaned our plates and felt like indulgence ruled the world, so we decided to split a dessert, asking our waiter what he’d recommend. Without a moment’s hesitation, he said, “This one,” as he pointed to something that translated to “a melting chocolate cake, crispy and warm in its custard sauce.” This was nirvana’s flip side – a dark descent into decadence that you simply have to try.
A double espresso ended the night. We exited with a hug from Tony, feeling nothing but happiness as we floated down the stairs to our car.
If you want to go upscale, it doesn’t have to be Valentine’s – any night can be special! Book your table at SO French and make some memories.
Info:
SO French
Citrine Road
Just off Billy Folly Road
Simpson Bay, Pelican Key area
St. Maarten
Reservations recommended
Open 5:30 to 11:30pm
Closed on Tuesdays
Phone: 1 (721) 544-1143
Email: This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.
Ratings:
Staff friendliness: *****
Service speed: ***
Restaurant cleanliness: *****
Food quality: *****
Value for money: ***
Ambience: ****
