Review

The Gallic charm of Le Cabanon, chef and owner Martine Pailloux’s tribute to fresh French seafood is housed in an elegantly appointed villa, with stylish artwork and classic table settings, resembling an elegant Parisian neighbourhood restaurant. Front of house is managed by Andy Hoi, who recommends dishes based on the thrice-weekly deliveries from Europe, and wine suggestions from a concise French list. The menu showcases seafood predominantly from France, with notable exceptions including succulent Madagascar prawns and premium Hamachi from Japan. A simple well-executed welcome bite of tuna tartare and uni tara, with petite toasts, sets the scene. Followed by ravioli langoustines; French langoustines in cute uniform parcels in a rich sauce, with a hint of chilli, followed with a selection of French forest mushrooms, topped with a poached egg and accompanied by generous slivers of Iberico Bellota ham, a masterful dish of rich and earthy flavours and textures. Main courses of whole wild-caught Brittany Dover sole, the white flesh gleaming with lemon butter and sliced duck breast, grilled and served with a glossy, viscous, red wine sauce. Sides of velvet mashed potato and Kenyan green beans are perfect complements. Choose from chef’s signature baba au rhum, flambeed at tableside and a remarkable cheese selection to complete the meal.