Fodor's Expert Review Exotica Restaurant

In the tiny French-Canadian enclave of Ojochal, this intimate and romantic restaurant has just 10 tables encased in greenery under a thatch roof. The menu consists of French-inspired fare with exotic flavors culled from France's colonial past. You'll be warmly welcomed by Lucy, the restaurant's chic and charming owner. Start off with a tangy and refreshing avocado, pineapple, lime, and cilantro appetizer, or an intriguing Tahitian fish carpaccio bathed in a creamy banana and coconut marinade. Don't miss out on a hearty serving of fish or shrimp in a banana-curry sauce, or a spicy Vietnamese chicken soup. French favorites include cognac liver pâté and a pricey but excellent duck breast with orange sauce. Presentation is artistic, with garnishes of flowers and sprigs of exotic greenery. The wine list is international and reasonably priced. Desserts are all homemade and luscious. Chocoholics won't want to miss the Devil's Fork flourless chocolate cake, rich and dense, with a hint of chili pepper. For a refreshing finish to a meal, the passion-fruit ice cream with a blackberry coulis will leave your taste buds tingling.