There’s something extremely sociable about dining al fresco.
In Guernsey we have an abundance of restaurants, cafés and bistros where you can appreciate the best of Guernsey’s produce whilst taking in the beauty of some amazing gardens, scenic ocean views or simply just watching the world go by. Here’s a few places we thought you might like to try.
Octopus
Situated at the southern end of Guernsey's picturesque capital St Peter Port, Octopus is a characterful bar and restaurant offering a vast range of fantastic fare, from steaks to seafood. The breakfast and lunch options are also plentiful, and the menu truly caters to all tastes. The crown jewel of this popular eatery however is the view out across Havelet Bay, offering a panorama of blue waters, Castle Cornet and the neighbouring islands of Herm and Sark. There are few better ways to begin a day in Guernsey than a sun-soaked breakfast on their terrace.
The Terrace Garden Café (The Terrace)
Located in Cornet Street overlooking the St Peter Port Seafront with its colourful marinas and busy harbour, The Terrace provides a selection of European and Thai food at a reasonable price, served throughout the day. Why not try their famous noodle soup – a must have favourite amongst regulars. For the socialites among you, the Terrace is the perfect place to start your evening out with a cold beer or a shared jug of Pimms. With its friendly staff and lengthy opening hours, the Terrace has something for everyone. Whether you’re starting the day with a hearty breakfast, enjoying a light bite outdoors at lunchtime or looking for dinner under the stars, the Terrace can provide it all.
The Slaughterhouse
The Slaughterhouse offers quality indoor and outdoor drinks and dining. The main courtyard houses several large tables and is particularly popular for cocktails, while the roof terrace offers a more peaceful and serene experience with views across St Peter Port and the neighbouring islands. The restaurant itself is an intriguing historic venue, set in Guernsey's old slaughterhouse with many of the original fittings still present. Fear not though; it has been tastefully refurbished and won't put you off your food!
Fermain Beach Café
Hidden within the Fermain Valley that can only be accessed via foot, bicycle or sea, you will find Fermain Beach Café. Don't be fooled by the café label though; whilst this venue operates in a more casual manner at lunchtime, it also boasts a sublime bistro-type menu in the evenings. The café is only open during the summer months, but is definitely worth a visit. If you like walking, you could always work up an appetite by taking an hour or so to walk through the coastal paths from St Peter Port, through Bluebell Woods and on to the idyllic Fermain Bay.
Whilst there you can enjoy the magnificent views of this secluded cove, as you choose from an array of main course options and delicious desserts.
The Beach House
As its name suggests, The Beach House is located atop the popular beach at Pembroke, located on the northwest coast and flanked by a scenic golf course on the inland side. The Beach House is open all year around but has extended opening hours during the summer months, when it is open seven days a week from 9am until 8pm.
Providing a selection of seafood salads, light lunches and main dishes as well as a selection of home-made cakes and even a Mr Whippy ice-cream machine, there is sure to be something for everyone. This family friendly establishment also boasts a Beach Shop where you can purchase beach toys, sun cream, takeaway snacks & sandwiches and ice-lollies. So whether you are enjoying a day out on the beach, a walk along the common or just looking for a sunny spot to eat, The Beach House is a must.
Le Gouffre Restaurant
Why not head to the south coast valley of Le Gouffre where you can browse around the quaint gift shop offering souvenirs, gifts, clothes and home interior items before whiling away the afternoon on the sunny patio nestled of Le Gouffre Restaurant amongst the stunning valley that is Le Gouffre. You can enjoy gourmet style food made from only the best Guernsey produce before taking a walk along the winding cliff path around the coast to La Corbiere.
Crabby Jack’s Restaurant
If you’re here on a family holiday and looking for an al-fresco venue where the kids can let off steam whilst you relax, then Crabby Jacks is the place to be. With its purpose-built play area set on a cushioned floor in a secure garden, and its sunny terrace and balcony area overlooking the beautiful bay, you can be sure that the whole family will have an enjoyable experience at Crabby Jacks As the saying goes, “If the kids are happy, then Mum and Dad are happy too!”
You will find Crabby Jacks on the west coast in the beautiful surroundings of Vazon Bay, a beach popular with surfers and beach-goers alike. With its unpretentious and spacious surroundings, Crabby Jacks is the perfect venue for a family day out by the beach. You and your children will be extremely well catered for by the friendly staff from the moment they walk through the door to the moment they leave.
Stocks in Sark
You don’t have to stay on Guernsey to secure a lovely afternoon of al-fresco dining in the sun. Why not hop on the little ferry for an 8-mile journey to the quaint island of Sark where you can take in the tranquility of an island that can only be explored by foot, pedal power or a horse and carriage. Only a 10 minute walk from the harbour you will find Stocks Hotel, a family run country house hotel that was opened all the way back in 1895.
With their poolside bistro and sun terrace open annually from 1st May to 15th September, you can relax by the pool and enjoy one of the many specials on offer made from locally sourced ingredients. Whilst in Sark, you cannot help but feel a million miles from anywhere.
Has this article whet your appetite for some al-fresco dining? Begin planning your trip today!
