An Icon of Gastronomy in Saint-Barthélemy
Nestled along the road to Saline, just steps from the island’s most unspoiled beach, L’Esprit – Jean-Claude Dufour stands as one of Saint-Barthélemy’s most iconic dining destinations.
Set beneath tropical trees and candlelight, this open-air restaurant embodies the island’s effortless sophistication — where each dinner feels like a sensorial escape.
For over two decades, Chef Jean-Claude Dufour has elevated the art of cuisine with a style that fuses French mastery and Caribbean soul.
His secret lies in simplicity and sincerity — local ingredients, seasonal produce, and a boundless passion for taste. Each plate tells a story, crafted with precision, creativity, and emotion.
Fresh fish caught daily, vegetables from trusted local growers, and fine French imports form the foundation of his gastronomic language.
At L’Esprit, refinement meets authenticity, and every detail — from plating to service — is designed to celebrate the joy of dining.
L’Esprit and the St. Barth Gourmet Festival
Each November, L’Esprit becomes one of the flagship venues of the St. Barth Gourmet Festival, welcoming Michelin-starred guest chefs from around the world.
Together, they create exclusive four-hands dinners, culinary performances that highlight French gastronomy through the vibrant lens of the Caribbean.
Under the soft glow of lanterns and the rustle of tropical leaves, guests experience a unique blend of conviviality, artistry, and excellence.
Here, haute cuisine is not only about technique — it’s about emotion, atmosphere, and the delicate balance between land, sea, and soul.
The Signature Festival Menu by Jean-Claude Dufour
A Living, Fearless, and Inspired Cuisine
For the 2025 St. Barth Gourmet Festival, Chef Jean-Claude Dufour unveils a bold menu that reflects his creative spirit — a harmonious dialogue between land and sea, French finesse and island inspiration.
The journey begins with a Langoustine and Oscietra Caviar Freshness, enhanced with head powder and marine plankton — a refined and delicate tribute to the ocean.
It continues with Marennes Oyster Tartare and Fries, paired with a Butcher’s Cut Beef Fillet and crispy potato puffs, blending elegance and strength.
Next, the Crécy Pearl-Poached Lobster, accented with carrot, grapefruit, and Timut pepper, strikes a balance between sweetness, spice, and brightness.
Then, the Pan con Tomate, featuring lightly seared yellowfin tuna, Iberian ham, and rocket oil, adds a Mediterranean touch bursting with freshness.
To conclude the savory journey, a comforting Cassoulet of Squab, white beans, and thigh sausage simmered in a rich broth — a dish that embodies depth, tradition, and soul.
The experience ends on a light and surprising note: a Gin & Tonic dessert combining citrus, cucumber, juniper berry, and mozzarella — both refreshing and intriguing.
€135 per person (excluding beverages)
A menu that perfectly embodies the spirit of French haute cuisine with a Caribbean twist — elegant, balanced, and unforgettable.
Why L’Esprit Is a Must-Visit
- An iconic open-air restaurant in a lush tropical garden.
- A visionary chef, blending authenticity and artistry.
- A curated wine list featuring fine French and international vintages.
- A flagship restaurant of the St. Barth Gourmet Festival, celebrating the excellence of French gastronomy in the Caribbean.
DISCOVER THE RESTAURANT, CLICK BELOW:
Route de Saline, Saint-Barthélemy
