The Marina Port Royale is the virtual heart of French St Martin’s capital, Marigot. The docks overflow with expensive yachts and luxury sail boats and are surrounded by a variety of top eateries. One of my absolute favorites is Café de Paris.

The ambiance alone of this informal Parisian bistro is worth a stop for a drink at the bar. French expat’s galore, sipping champagne with their French Poodles and designer sun glasses while inhaling French Galois’s (dogs and smokes are only allowed on the bistros’ outdoor decks)…I imagined Bogey and Bacall wandering in for a drink while plotting to foil the island’s Nazi backed Vichy Government…

The bistros’ owner and effervescent host, Mehmet, has an infectious smile and non-stop energy. He holds court with all the regulars and welcomes newcomers. It is obvious, his popularity among the locals is a big reason this year old bistro has taken off. Originally from Turkey, this natural host spent twenty five years running a bistro in Paris. Although the place is very relaxed and more like a French social club than a restaurant, the food is superb and reasonably priced (in Euros) for St Martin!

I had traditional French escargots, in the shells and smothered in a classic garlic sauce. The sole menuire was as good as at any restaurant I have eaten at in Paris and was served with the most incredible roast potatoes…simple, but perfect! I sampled a seafood risotto with fresh shell fish and herbs that was incredible!

Wonderful food, fascinating patrons for people watching and a warm welcome…all equate to yet another fine “European” dining experience on St Martin. For information about the Café de Paris, visit give Mehmet a call at 0590 87 55 81 or visit here.