Sometimes "creative" is vernacular for "challenging" and sometimes it's a cover up for "over-spiced in the name of attention". L'Estaminet is creative in the sense of unusual foods and preparations that work.

Short form: we had pigeon that was reminiscent of a stronger duck, prepared as both a confit and in kebab/sausage style. In a long list of "creative" foods -- ostrich, kangaroo, alligator, antelope, bear -- it stands out as one of the best preparations in "creative" style anywhere. Filet with chevre was outstanding, the tangy chevre and olive tapenade on toast pulling your taste buds in competitive but friendly directions. Vegetable preparations included fennel with pineapple, and pumpkin spiced with cinnamon -- another melange of fruity, savory, sweet and crunchy -- more adjectives than you can find in Gourmet magazine on a good day, and you still don't come close to fully describing dinner.

Carol runs an excellent front of house, and ensures that all dishes are to the diner's satisfaction - a big plus. While time-wise is was one of our longest meals, value-wise it's one of the best in Grand Case.

We were in Grand Case over the Xmas holidays and this was our choice for our first night at the recommendation of our hotel. We had the early seating at 6:30 which we prefer if we are eating more than two courses. The food was wonderful and very creatively presented. One of the first courses was a parsnip soup over a ravioli, delicious. Both of us had fish and the server was very precise in her explanation about the fish (as it comes from the Brittany area it is sometimes considered a bit stronger than many diners in the tropics prefer.) We really appreciate when a server wants you to order with all the information, not just the obvious (which is tedious) but important characteristics of the food that you may not be aware of. One of us ordered the Brittany coast sea bass and the other a local, milder fish. Both dishes were wonderful, many interesting touches on the plate and not over-sauced. All the courses were excellent and this time we chose not to have a dessert. However we were presented (as were all other diners) a little chocolate treat (beautifully wrapped) to take with us.
The decor is of course charming (street view, wonderful for people watching, not on the water).
Service was perfect, although we did eat early and were one of the first patrons of the evening.

We ate at seven places on restaurant row in Grand Case and this one stood out. It's hard to rank them but this one comes out on top anyway. Excellent reception, friendly relaxed service and outstanding food - can't be beaten. It's tough to just walk in so get a reservation......

While there are many nice places to eat in St Martin, and especially Grand Case, L'Estaminet shines from every angle. From how you are greeted, to the service, to the ambiance, to every bite, you will be impressed. We had the lobster bisque, crispy escargot, duck breast and bowl of fish, and finished the super amazing chocolate desert (which you need to order 15 min in advance). The restaurant itself is small - about 8-10 tables total, so make a reservation. Small wine list, but very good options. This should not be missed.