
Blue Margouillat - L'Eveil des Sens
RESTAURANT SUMMARY

Where French haute cuisine meets tropical paradise, Blue Margouillat - L'Eveil des Sens Saint-Leu transforms fine dining into a sensory awakening overlooking the crystalline waters of the Indian Ocean. Nestled within Réunion's only Relais & Châteaux property, this intimate 35-seat restaurant epitomizes the art of culinary seduction through Chef Marc Chappot's masterful interpretation of island gastronomy.
The story begins with Chef Marc Chappot's journey from Haute Savoie to the volcanic shores of Réunion, where he discovered a culinary playground rich with indigenous spices—turmeric, cotomili, cinnamon, and ginger—that would redefine his French training. Since establishing L'Eveil des Sens within the prestigious Blue Margouillat Seaview Hotel, Chappot has earned recognition as the island's premier gastronomic destination, recently expanding the restaurant's wine cellar and dining spaces with European development funding, cementing its position among the finest restaurants Saint-Leu offers.
Chappot's cuisine celebrates the marriage of French technique with Réunion's exotic terroir, showcasing sustainably sourced treasures from the French Southern Territories. Signature creations include yellowfin tuna tartare elevated with truffle and whipped cream, duck foie gras prepared with aged rum and hibiscus jelly, and the restaurant's celebrated red palmist with pink lobster. The tasting menu, priced around €95, unfolds as a sensory journey through local kaloupilé and curry butter preparations, culminating in inventive desserts like thin soufflé tart with Guarana chocolate and tropical fruit Pavlova with Réunion cream.
The dining experience transcends mere gastronomy within the restaurant's enchanting setting. Guests dine poolside or beneath the traditional Creole varangue, where candlelight dances with ocean breezes and soft jazz creates an atmosphere of refined intimacy. Head Sommelier Vanessa Bonadio curates over 1,050 wine references spanning "Les Classiques" to "Les Exceptions," while the renowned rhum arrangé collection and dedicated cigar cave provide the perfect finale to evening's indulgence. The service philosophy emphasizes personalized attention, with each guest receiving sommelier guidance and tableside presentations that enhance the sensory awakening.
For discerning travelers seeking Saint-Leu fine dining at its pinnacle, Blue Margouillat - L'Eveil des Sens demands advance reservations for its exclusive 35-seat capacity. Book well ahead to secure this extraordinary culinary experience where French mastery meets tropical luxury, creating memories that linger long after the final course.
CHEF
William Kresky
ACCOLADES
