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Lagoon by Jean Georges is a culinary masterpiece located inside the beautiful St. Regis Hotel Bora Bora. Conceptualized by renowned French Chef Jean Georges Vongerichten, this restaurant essentially floats above the famous turquoise lagoon that Bora Bora has been immortalized for the world over. The dining destination is open not just to hotel guests, but to others who are staying on the island and who are seeking a true fine dining experience that marries French and Polynesian flavors to create some of the most memorable dishes on the island. I was a guest recently for dinner and found the restaurant to be incredibly beautiful, relaxed and on-point with their delivery of service and inventive food.
I arrived to the restaurant from another hotel property and was collected by the St. Regis private boat. After a smooth ten-minute ride gliding across the lagoon, I pulled-up to a magical, candlelit open-air room with unobstructed sea views and diners sipping cocktails in the distance. I began the meal with a drink on the terrace overlooking the water and was able to enjoy the night sky, stars and light breeze as my table was prepared. As soon as it was ready, I was welcomed by the manager and led over the stunning glass bottom floor to my table. The glass bottom is interesting because you can see the sea life in real time as you dine.
My meal was set to be five courses and I opted for a chef’s selection. The server was pleasant, from France, and made sure to ask for any food allergies prior to the beginning of dinner. Like an elegant dance, I was brought an amuse bouche paired with a glass of vintage champagne and followed by a delicious starter. Obviously, because of the location, the menu leads very seafood heavy. And no one is complaining. The starter, which was composed of sweet prawns with a delicate sauce was absolutely mouthwatering. Not only was it beautiful, but each bite burst with flavor.
The room was busy, but elegant. Cocktails and wine were flowing. I peered around between each course and watched with contentment as my fellow diners savored each bite. Being that Bora Bora is a bucket list destination that people oftentimes wait a long time before being able to travel there, experiencing a restaurant like Lagoon makes it that much more special. My following courses were delivered effortlessly and included fresh tuna, the local ‘Uravena fish, mahi-mahi and bonito. The fish here is some of the best in the world and the team at Lagoon are experts at preparing it in the most elegant yet unpretentious way.
My meal at Lagoon by Jean Georges did include beef, which was a nice addition to the lightness of the seafood. Each course was paired with mainly French wine and ranged from extraordinary whites to light reds that made sense for dishes that included land meat. I was in true heaven and the surrounding ambiance cannot be matched on Bora Bora.
Every traveler to Bora Bora must visit Lagoon by Jean Georges. Whether you’re staying at The St. Regis or not it’s an experience that you really cannot get anywhere else in French Polynesia. The restaurant is truly a three-dimensional moment in time that addresses all your senses in smell, sight, taste, hearing and even touch with the special fabrics and materials used at your table. There’s simply nothing like it.
