Dock and Dine on the Cote d’Azur at Hotel Du Cap-Eden-Roc

THE GLORIOUS GRANDE DAME OF THE RIVIERA

In a plum spot on the Côte d’Azur located halfway between the two glamorous towns of St. Tropez and Monaco, the centerpiece chateau sits proudly on the tip of Cap d’Antibes in 22 acres of pine forest. With stunning ocean views and fountain-strewn gardens, the Belle Époque landmark is renowned for its star-packed deck. The alumni are illustrious: Scott Fitzgerald was an early visitor; later fans included the Kennedys, Windsors, and countless screen stars, many of whom continue to flock to sprinkle their stardust at this paparazzi-free zone. It has also attracted the waterborne for several decades, arriving by tender to the private teak jetty to experience the hotel’s superb gastronomic scene.

Embracing the coastline, the hotel’s two restaurants boast spectacular views from their wraparound terraces that overlook the bay and the nearby Îles de Lérins. For a truly memorable evening ashore, the gastronomic mecca, Eden-Roc Restaurant, will not disappoint. Executive Chef Arnaud Poëtte heads up the culinary team to include Head Chef Olivier Gaïatto and Pastry Chef Lilian Bonnefoi. The menu includes classic Provençal cuisine such as roast chicken, leg of lamb and bouillabaisse, and signature dishes such as wild sea bass with basil and fennel mousse. Begin the evening celebrating with a Champagne aperitif at the Eden-Roc Champagne Lounge, or Bar Bellini for the house specialty — a sunset Bellini cocktail.

At lunchtime, everyone descends on the elegant terrace of the Eden-Roc Grill for a classic French Riviera lunch. Chef Christophe Marc has created a light lunch menu with dishes ranging from marinated crab salad to sandwiches and hamburgers. Tender to the hotel jetty, or if it’s choppy, head to Port d’Antibes, 10 minutes along the coast and they will send a car.

Hôtel du Cap-Eden-Roc is open from late April through late October. The Eden-Roc Restaurant is open for lunch and dinner, from 12:30 pm to 2:30 pm and 7:30 pm to 10:00 pm. The dress code is formal and for dinner, men are requested to wear a long-sleeved shirt, long trousers, and closed shoes. The Eden-Roc Grill is open throughout the season from May through September between 11:30 am and 10:30 pm. For dinner, there is a formal dress code, but lunch is more relaxed and beachwear is fine.