The Baker family are no strangers to great food served in excellent locations, with their beachside bistro Le Braye already firmly established they have now joined forces with their son, Joseph, to open the doors of No 10 Restaurant & Bar on Bond Street, St Helier.
Joseph has recently returned from many well-spent years working around the world in some excellent restaurants, the influences of which can be clearly felt. A combination of great relationships with local suppliers and visits to the local market fuel and inspire the frequently changing, highly seasonal menus. Thanks to the clever design of the menus and a printer tucked handily away under the counter, dishes can be added or taken away as soon as the availability of produce dictates.
Mum, Annie, is an interior designer and her fine eye can be seen in each detail of No 10’s refurbishment, from the antique bone handled knives to the handmade Lloyd Loom chairs and bespoke wallpapers. In the bar downstairs there is an intimate feel, having made the very best use of this space it is a far cry from how you may remember it. Here the copper fronted bar plays host to a very fine selection of cocktails, a well considered wine list and a gin menu that will be hard to beat on the island, each cleverly married with a garnish specifically chosen to complement the botanicals within the spirit.
A visit to No 10 wouldn’t have been complete without sampling one or two of their small plates, dishes that are perfect for quick lunches or for experiencing a variety of what’s on offer. On Joseph’s recommendation I was treated to Iberico ham croquetas, served with delicately pickled vegetables, nestled on nduja (spiced sausage) jam and lemon gel. Whilst the portion is perfectly sized I could easily have eaten three times as many, as they were absolutely delightful, the flavours all perfectly balanced – incredibly moorish. A local tomato gazpacho followed, created thanks to receiving a glut of ripe local tomatoes. This light soup was topped with chicory, smoked anchovy fillets and sourdough crisps, all of which served to delight the tastebuds.
The desserts, well to be honest there aren’t words enough to describe how good they are. Like all good desserts they are an excellent blend of decadence and flavours which sing, finishing your meal with a real note of triumph.
At No 10 Mediterranean influences combine with highly skilled cookery and fresh ingredients, presented beautifully and set in wonderful surroundings. A visit to No 10 is a must and one we’re sure won’t disappoint, whether you choose to dine, enjoy a drink at the bar (where you can also eat), nip in for a quick lunch or settle in for an evening, there will always be delicious food and a friendly, relaxed welcome from the team.
