I have written in the past of the fun and friendship that Gerard shares with Raymond Blanc. He is a very charming, charismatic man and has such a passion for hospitality and a real fun side that is infectious.

On Tuesday, along with great friends Xavier Rousset (co owner of  award winning restaurants, Texture and 2850, in London) and Dimitri Mesnard, International wine ambassador for Jackson Family Wine Estates, and their lovely partners, Celine and Mara, we shared a lunch at Le Manoir.

Lunch was delicious, we all had the tasting menu, with plenty of extra dishes sent out by the kitchen team to tempt us further. The wines were excellent and the company was fantastic. We were completely spoilt by the super team at Le Manoir and then Raymond joined us for dessert…. Or should I say desserts as he wanted us to try a newly created one which was just amazing, especially when we all did as he suggested and added black pepper to the chocolate- WOW! What an explosion of flavours. The dining room was buzzing with atmosphere and people were so excited to see Raymond and he of course charmed them all with his grace, kindness and warmth of friendliness.

Both Xavier and Dimitri have worked at Le Manoir, as well as having been important members of our Hotel du Vin team and each has very fond memories of their time at Le Manoir, so it was truly great to go back and visit, see RB and have an afternoon of fun and laughter- he and Gerard didn’t break into song on this occasion, (last time they got together they treated the whole of Texture to a rendition (slightly off key I have to say) of La Marseillaise!

Huge thanks to all the Manoir team for treating us like royalty- you are all brilliant and Le Manoir remains an extra special place to visit and share special moments with great friends.

Thank you too to Xavier, Dimitri, Celine and Mara for inviting us to share such a great day with them all.

Till next week

Nx