L'experience Restaurant

L'experience Restaurant

Welcome to L'Expérience, opened in 1981: the island's longest established restaurant

Michael and Belinda, owners of L'Experience since December 2009, are delighted to welcome you to what has long been one of the island's most loved restaurants. A firm favourite of romantic couples, business people, families and celebrities alike, this little taste of France is tucked away at the northern end of Douglas promenade, at the bottom of Summerhill. There's always easy parking at this end of the promenade, just a few minutes away from the hustle and bustle of town. Intimate, welcoming and atmospheric, L'Expérience is candlelit by night and full of interesting French memorabilia, with an accordion player adding extra French atmosphere on Saturdays. There's also the possibility of table magic by former owner, Tony, for those seeking something a little different!

Michael, assisted by the restaurant's original chef-patron, Tony Quirk, creates menus very much inspired by all regions of France, which make full use of all the excellent produce the island has to offer. Renowned for delicious French onion soup, freshly caught local fish, excellent sauces and home-made desserts, the restaurant‘s use of carefully aged Manx beef has earned it the compliment of being said to serve the best steaks on the island! All desserts are made on the premises and there's a good selection of coffees.

While our à la carte menu prices compare very favourably with those of other local restaurants of a similar quality, we are delighted to be able to offer great value dishes on our specials board, changed regularly and prepared to the same exacting standards as ever.

Wines and drinks

Our wine list boasts an excellent selection of French wines, all carefully selected for us by The Wine Cellar. We also have a good selection of continental beers as well as a wide range of liqueurs. You might choose a glass of Kir to set the scene for your meal, or perhaps a warming Calvados to accompany your tarte aux pommes……

Special occasions

Celebrate your birthday or anniversary at L'Expérience and receive a complimentary photograph as a souvenir of your special occasion. With a seating capacity of 65, the restaurant is a welcoming, cosy venue available for private hire for informal wedding receptions, family occasions, social clubs etc.