Poisson d'Avril

We have had a holiday home nearby for the last 15 years and have visited this restaurant under its previous ownership and name ( Cabane du Pecheur ) but not since it had become " Poisson D'Avril ".The decor is nautical, attractive and welcoming, and the pictures of the Plage des Chalets taken in the inter-war years very interesting. It is true to say that Gruissan and the Plage des Chalets have development considerably since our first visit in 2000, and definitely for the better!Unlike other fish restaurants in the area that rely on their name for custom, here you get good honest cooking to an excellent standard, with careful attention to preparation and flavour, and you can even choose a variation in the sauce accompanyment.We chose the Menu of the Day, at €26, beginning with a "Mise-en -Boucher" of locally made Tapenade and croutons, then a home-made Fish Soup, and Grantineé of Mussels - both of which had been made with VERY local ingredients!In the south of France, Fish Soup is of course a speciality originating from Marseiiles, in the form of Bouillabaise, and of course there are variations. It is a fact that making an authentic soup is a laborious and skilled affair, and not something that could in any way come out of a tin!This soup came with croutons, a garlic bulb to run over the crouton before spreading with Rouille (spicy garlic sauce) and finally topping with cheese! How long you float your crouton is upto you!! delicious! Very entertaining!We had the same main, the Trio of fish, which came with a rice and vegetable accompanyment in a sorrel sauce, which perfectly complemented the fish that had been very carefully seasoned and cooked.A Pichet of Rose from Fabrezan near Lezignan was recommended as a suitable accompanyment and certainly did not disappoint!Having spent a considerable time eating these courses and talking to the owner, we only had a remaining appetite for a coffee!Lunch in France is never over quickly and we had a most enjoyable couple of hours discussing all aspects of the cooking and French life in general with the Owner - this was equally as enjoyable as the food, and our final first experience of a digestive Cognac with a sugar cube is certainly something we had not experienced before!We visited very much at the end of the season, and understand that the restaurant is very busy at the weekend! Closed Monday and Sunday evening.

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Great food, very friendly service. Three €25 menus and one excellent steak, plus wine and coffee came to €106. They took immense care with a dairy allergy. Highly recommended.

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Arrived with another couple for lunch (without a reservation) and were warmly treated and served excellent seafood. Would definitely go back.

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Popped in as we were driving past and the other trip advisor reviews did not disappoint. Would reconnect to anyone.

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Great seafood in relaxed surroundings, really good service especially with kids. We had a great evening there!

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