French flair at the Cotswold

Christchurch’s secousse sismique (earthquakes) have led to the unlikely situation where Francophiles will celebrate Bastille Day, July 14, in one of the city’s most English-like hotels – Heartland Hotel Cotswold on Papanui Road.

In a show of Anglo-Franco solidarity the Heartland Hotel Cotswold, named after the heart of the English countryside, welcomed the three restaurateur brothers behind the successful Saint Germain Restaurant into their fold.

Worcester Street’s popular St Germain Restaurant was shut by February’s devastating quake and the building is slated for demolition.

Saint Germain’s Frederic Berhault says it’s been the longest five months of his life. “My brothers, Vincent and Benjamin and I just want to get back to doing what we love.”

He says the three searched high and low for a new location during which they came across Patrick Moitte, the general manager of Heartland Hotel Cotswold who introduced the brothers to the property.

Since then they have renovated the hotel’s Westminster Room and although it is a larger space than the previous restaurant, it can be divided into three distinct areas to ensure a cosy ambiance. The addition of a bar with lounge seating will be welcomed by guests wishing to enjoy a pre or post- dinner aperitif.

“It’s exciting. We weren’t able to bring anything with us, so we’re starting from scratch, in a sense,” says Frederic. “Our chefs, menu and wine list remain the same though. We want our regular, loyal customers to feel completely at home once more.”

The restaurant opens officially on Bastille Day, July 14, and is almost a sell-out. The brothers contacted their patrons through email and were overwhelmed with the positive response. “We will be organising a little something special for our guests, of course, but we really want to keep the occasion intimate, welcoming and authentic.”

St Germain is open for fine French dining Tuesday to Sunday, 6pm til late. Bookings can be made on 355 3096 or info@saint-germain.co.nz.