Out and About in Grand Case

By Kerry Biddle on 17th June, 2023

Many decades ago, Grand Case used to be a small village where fishermen set off in their boats to fish the rich waters along the coast and in the Anguilla Channel. Now it has become the epitome of fine dining, French fine dining in particular. However, it has still maintained its quaintness and charm.

WHAT TO SEE

From February to mid-April, Grand Case comes alive in the evening as the Mardis de Grand Case is celebrated in traditional style. Browse around the market stalls and enjoy the street parade from end to end and back again. Mary Star of the Sea Catholic Church was built around 1919 and was rebuilt on the same spot after it burned down in the 1970s. It is similar in style to the original church. A narrow beach curves around the bay. The sea is usually calm and is the most alluring shade of turquoise. Just offshore, Creole Rock can be spotted guarding her marine treasures. It’s a wonderful place to snorkel and see colorful tropical reef fish gliding by. It’s best to go out by boat. The island you see in the distance is Anguilla, a UK Overseas Territory, and was named that because of its long shape. Anguille means ‘eel’ in French.

EATING OUT

If lobster is your weakness, then you will adore the lobster thermidor at Bistrot Caraibes, along with other timeless French favorites, like stuffed chicken breast, roasted duck breast, grilled rack of lamb, veal scallopini, and a tasty selection of fresh fish and seafood.

Set in a charming centuries-old Creole house, L’Auberge Gourmande serves generous portions of savory fresh fish, succulent lamb, filet mignon, duck, and pork tenderloin, and perhaps finish off with the chef’s signature dessert, Chocolate Délice. In the heart of Grand Case, La Villa is a unique dining experience. Choose between a three-course fixed menu or the à la carte menu which includes foie gras, escargot, French onion soup, rack of lamb, lobster, fresh fish, and other delights.

Ocean 82 is a French gourmet restaurant that specialises in delectably fresh fish and seafood dishes. You can choose your lobster from the tank. They also have a choice of meat dishes, like lamb shanks, beef and veal stews in a glorious red wine sauce, and beef tenderloin. You can even try frog’s legs, if you are feeling adventurous.

For a day or a night out, Grand Case is definitely worth the trip. Of course, there are other restaurants along the boulevard, but we have just mentioned a few. Don’t forget the sunblock if you intend to spend the day on the beach, and there is a small supermarket where you can stock up on water.

Enjoy your visit