L'Eau à la Bouche

Description:

• The owners leave no doubt as to where their priorities lie. While the hotel, directly on busy Route 117, is entirely satisfactory, the restaurant is their beloved baby, and has the glowing reviews to prove it. False modesty isn't a factor -- l'eau à la bouche means "mouthwatering" -- and the kitchen uses native ingredients with nouvelle presentations. Full advantage is taken of seasonal products, as with one summer starter of a poached half-lobster with chanterelles and gathered wild vegetables. Desserts are impressive, and the cheese plate -- pungent nubbins delivered with warm baguette slices -- is truly special. There are two meal options, both pricey: the C$150 (£75) discovery menu, and the C$67 (£34) table d'hôte, with extra charges for potatoes (C$9/£4.50) and vegetables (C$12/£6). A spa with massage rooms, a pretty outdoor hot tub, and a small waterfall was added in 2006; nonguests can come for C$40 (£20).

• © Frommer's 2012

Awards:

Frommer's

•  Recommended 2010