Visitors to La Tannerie frequently ask for recommendations for places to eat in Chalais. Invariably we suggest that a night at the Chateau is a must, though booking is essential in the summer season. The Pizzeria just round the corner also offers a good choice of dishes.
But probably the most popular restaurant is Fernando’s – a bar in the village of Yviers just a couple of miles from here. The reason he has proved so popular is mostly down to the fact that he cooks some of the best fish and chips you will find this side of the Channel. His steak and duck are also excellent and the salmon has even converted me to fish.
But the problem has always been that Fernando’s is a short car drive away and someone has to forego the wine. However, all that is about to change.
He’s been keeping the negotiations pretty quiet, but as from the middle of June Fernando is moving in to Chalais. It’s not yet all fully signed and sealed, but he is in the process of buying Les Couleurs, the bar on the square just along the road.
This is great news for us and our visitors as Les Couleurs has had a tough few years and three changes of owner, and we could never be sure whether it would be open or not.
But if all goes to plan we should at last see the chairs and tables back out on the square in what really is the best location in the town.