Le Channel — Restaurant in Calais

Title: Extremely Disappointing Experience

Short: Terrible service. Mediocre food. Understandable why they lost their star since 2017. Overall, a truly bad experience.

Long: My recent visit to this restaurant was an absolute disaster from start to finish. The service was incredibly subpar, leaving a lot to be desired. Upon being seated, we were given menus with no explanation whatsoever. As we struggled to understand the menu (as it was not in English), a waiter abruptly approached our table to take our drink order. I had to point out that we hadn't even received the wine list yet. The waiter reluctantly handed us the wine list and hastily walked away, giving us no opportunity to inquire about the menu or ask for recommendations.

We waited patiently for about 20 minutes before another waiter finally took notice of us and came to take our order. During this time, we tried unsuccessfully to grab the attention of several other waiters, but they simply ignored us. It was at this point that we realized we were already lost as valued customers. Our experience went downhill from there.

For our starters, we ordered the sardines, which were good. However, the main dish, the codfish, was disappointingly average. The flavors were lackluster, and it failed to impress. But the most baffling part was the dessert service. A massive cart, loaded with basic desserts, was pushed through the already crowded restaurant. It felt more like a gimmick than a genuine dining experience.

To top it all off, when it came time to pay, the staff failed to provide us with a bill and shamelessly overcharged us. This level of incompetence and lack of attention to detail is inexcusable. It's no wonder this restaurant lost its Michelin star in 2017 and has been on a downward spiral ever since. They have simply given up trying to maintain the standards they once had.

Overall, my dining experience at this restaurant was an utter disappointment, and I have no intention of returning. I will also be providing my feedback directly to the...

Our dinner at Le Channel, located just a few minutes’ walk from our IHG hotel in Calais, proved to be superb experience. Though I later learned the restaurant was once graced with a Michelin award, the current high standards demonstrate that its excellence remains.

The dedication to hospitality was immediately evident, especially given our language barrier to French. The staff extended an exceptional standard of customer service, taking great care of us with friendliness and patience. This genuine approach to service is clearly what fosters deep loyalty; observing the staff interact with several long-time customers, confirmed that this establishment cultivates enduring relationships. That proved what I saw from some of the comments about the restaurant.

We opted for the 3-course meal, which was priced very reasonably for the quality provided, alongside an additional steak. The set menu was a delight, beginning with a flavorful French sausage starter, moving to a perfectly prepared fish main course, and culminating in a truly wonderful dessert. Equally impressive was the standalone steak, which arrived exactly as requested with a perfect medium cook.

Comparing this experience to a slightly cheaper lunch we had earlier in the day, Le Channel was clearly superior. Though it may no longer carry a Michelin star, the overall dining experience remains at a very high level. If my travels ever bring me back to Calais, a return visit to Le Channel is...

We've been dining at Le Channel in Calais for over 10 years now, and it remains an absolute highlight every time we visit. Whether it’s a quick trip across the Channel or a longer stay, we always make a point of eating here — it’s simply unmissable.

The food is consistently impeccable, showcasing the best of French cuisine with a level of care and precision that's hard to find. Every dish is a delight, beautifully presented and full of flavour.

What truly sets Le Channel apart, however, is the exceptional service. A special mention must go to Arnaud, whose charm and helpfulness are second to none. He has an incredible way of making everyone feel genuinely welcome — it's like being greeted by an old friend. His warmth and professionalism elevate the entire dining experience.

From the moment you walk in, you're treated like family, and it’s that personal touch, combined with outstanding food, that keeps us coming back year after year. A true gem in Calais – highly...