Le Manoir de St Quentin

While staying at the incomparable Chateau de la Barre, our hostess made a reservation for us at Le Manoir de St. Quentin, one of her favorite area restaurants. Lucky us. It was one of the finest dinners we have ever had in France. The restaurant's setting is exquisite, in a jewel box of a 'maison de maitre', with a lovely garden and an impossibly perfect little medieval church sitting at the edge of the lawn. Most amazing of all is the fact that this small restaurant is a one-man show. The owner, Fai, (pronounced 'Fiye') greets guests at the door, seats them, discusses the menu and asks about possible allergies, writes down the order, delivers drinks, prepares the food, serves it - along with more drinks - clears the table, serves dessert, refills glasses again, pours coffee, all the while appearing completely unhurried. The night we were there Fai was serving 16 diners in the restaurant's two diminutive rooms. He never stopped for a moment, but he also never looked the slightest bit flustered. Everything we were served came at the perfect time, as I'm sure it did at the other tables. I could only compare Fai's movements to a superbly choreographed ballet. This is a man who knows exactly what he is doing and is happy doing it.The quality and flavors of the cuisine served to us would have done credit to any of the most celebrated restaurants in Paris. This is an experience not to be missed!

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We enjoyed a wonderful lunch today. The location is excellent for a great day out, Fai presented us with a fantastic taster menu with an array of dishes to tickle our tastebuds. The chilled yellow pepper soup and prawns with avacado were my favourites, so delicious. I selected the fish main course and again it was delicious as was the banana cake and the ice creams for dessert. The others in the group also enjoyed their meals, and they had the rhubarb compote with ginger ice cream, it was devine, we will definitely be back and very soon. We had a very relaxing lunch on a beautiful Sunday. Well worth a visit.

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What an amazing unique restaurant. The owner works on his own to produce menus to die for. We were treated to a 3 dish starter - no choice but we didn't need it. The main courses were delicious and well presented. Perhaps the most incredible fact is that the owner does everything - and yes I mean everything. Cooks, prepares, serves and even does the washing up although he did confess to having a machine. Booking is essential as the restaurant has limited covers. But if you want something different don't hesitate, book and enjoy.

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What a restaurant like this is doing in a sleepy village of 200 in deepest darkest (and it was dark) Loire Valley, France is a conundrum. This should be Michelin starred if at least M recommended. The service was superb. The taster menu of starters was to die for, the main filet with Thai curry sauce was a sensation and the deserts - a roundup of the evening. This is a fusion restaurant so expect the unexpected, but at any price, you will not be disappointed.Gastronomic highlight of our week away!

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As a food blogger, I am in constant search for unique culinary experiences under the radar. Therefore, when a friend recommended Fai's restaurant in the Loire I was intrigued. We found a breathtaking setting, a warm host and food to die for! Fa's cooking style is unique, tasteful and generous. The ambiance is fantastic as well as the personal service. CANNOT WAIT TO COME BACK AGAIN!

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