La Villa Allamanda

We only came to eat at Villa Alamanda tonight and hadn’t booked a room. They serve restaurant meals every day and evening, including Sundays, for dining in or takeout. For dinner, just book before 4 pm. Of all the places open in the evening in Saint-Francois that we tried during our long stay, villa Alamanda was the best, even better than hotel Tekoma. The manager serves generous local food made with fresh ingredients, and everything from the starter through dessert was excellent. The welcome was so warm, we felt at home. We wish we’d found it earlier in our stay. Follow the sign to the property, which is white with blue roofs, and feel free to go in.

At La Villa Allamanda (a.k.a. Casa Viana), Viana was such a warm, welcoming, and accommodating host. I wanted to try hunting octopus in the traditional Rodrigues way, so she arranged it with her family members, who are fisherwomen. She even helped fry it afterward. It was a wonderful experience, and the place is beautiful. She also makes breakfast and excellent Rodriguan dinners for guests. The fridge has beer and bottled water at a very reasonable price, and she offers laundry service too. Highly recommend.

The view from this place is amazing, and the host is very welcoming. She also makes a superb breakfast.

Even if you’re not staying at the hotel, keep it in mind for dinner. There’s a set menu, generous and tasty, with fresh produce from their garden. It’s best to reserve.