HISTOIRE ANCIENNE — Restaurant in Calais

My recent dining experience at Histoire Ancienne in Calais was nothing short of spectacular, a true testament to the culinary brilliance that this establishment offers. From the moment we entered, we were greeted by a warm and inviting ambiance, setting the stage for an unforgettable evening.

For starters, I had the pleasure of savoring the Foie Gras. It was expertly prepared, melting in the mouth with a richness that was both luxurious and delicately balanced. Meanwhile, my wife opted for the Smoked Cod with Grapefruit. This dish was a revelation, the smoky flavors of the cod beautifully complementing the fresh, citrusy notes of the grapefruit – a harmonious blend of flavors that was both refreshing and deeply satisfying.

Moving on to the mains, I chose the Pork, which was a showcase of the chef's prowess. Cooked to perfection, it was tender, flavorful, and accompanied by a sauce that enhanced the pork without overpowering it. Each bite was a delightful journey through taste and texture. My wife's Scallops were equally impressive. They were seared to perfection, with a golden crust giving way to a succulent, buttery interior. The scallops were the stars of the plate, shining amidst a beautifully curated selection of accompaniments.

To conclude, our dining experience at Histoire Ancienne was exemplary. The service was attentive yet unobtrusive, the atmosphere was elegant, and the food was an exquisite display of culinary craftsmanship. This restaurant is a jewel in Calais, and I eagerly anticipate our next visit to relive the exceptional dining experience that Histoire Ancienne...

They close 40 mins before the advertised hour 22:30, very rude people. We were with a child and they did not even look at us.

"Edit post comment from the restaurant"

Dear Claire, please note that I have not given any stars on the food, just on the service. Imagine this: you are in a foreign country, let's say, Finland, it's 9PM and you are driving to arrive to your hotel in a city you've never been before. You are starving and you have your little child with you that is hungry as well. You arrive at the hotel at 9:30 and you quickly search for a restaurant for food and you find one that closes in 1h, perfect, you rush to that restaurant and you make it at 9:40 there, you're happy as you think you and your child will eat something. There are lots of people in that restaurant that eat. You wait and finally a lady comes and looks at you a bit weird, you smile and say you would like to eat something if possible. She said: kitchen is closed!!! with 40-50 mins before the closing time which is 22:30. You kindly ask: maybe a sandwich for the child? The lady just ignores you and leaves!

How would you feel Claire? Hungry and being ignored like that? Tell me honestly, how would you feel?

It's not a computer bug, it's bad service and much more...

Was so lucky to manage to get a reservation at this fantastic restaurant. On the night all the tables were reserved and they were turning people away. Service was really attentive and helpful. Interesting food options with a good value 'menu'. High quality food and wine. There was a really good choice of wines by the glass which I was thrilled with after 3 weeks in France with only 1-2 choice of white or red. Servings were really ample by the glass, so good value for the quality. I had the burrata to start followed by the coquilles st jacques and then then pear dessert. All were exquisite including the accompanying fresh bread. The staff were patient when we asked for time to decide but always present when selecting our choice or asking for more drinks. A really lovely dining area which felt really comfortable and cosy. Definitely the best restaurant experience in my 3 weeks in France and one of the best in a very long time aside from that. Cannot recommend...