Fodor's Expert Review Grand Old House

Built in 1908 as the Petra Plantation House and transformed into the island's first upscale establishment decades ago, this grande dame evokes bygone grandeur sans pretension. Outside, hundreds of sparkling lights adorning the gazebos compete with the starry sky. Live nightly music and rumors of a charming blond ghost trailing white chiffon complete the picture. The interior rooms, awash in crystal, recall its plantation-house origins. Expertly executed classics include panfried foie gras with black currant and green apple purees, salted mango chutney, and microgreens; roasted lobster in creamy Chardonnay sauce; and chicken cordon bleu. The subtle yet complex flavor interactions, stellar service, and encyclopedic if stratospherically priced wine list ensure legendary status. Nightly happy hours with discounted tapas at the restaurant's On the Rocks bar are a substantial bargain.