The Green House Restaurant offers more than just food in the picturesque Au Cap, Seychelles. It’s a blend of a vibrant atmosphere, delightful flavours, live entertainment, and a commitment to sustainability, making it a favourite spot for locals and tourists.
In the lush landscapes of the Seychelles, an innovative culinary destination emerges — Green House. This extraordinary establishment, the brainchild of the eco-focused visionary Frank Hoareau, epitomizes the fusion of nature, sustainability, and gourmet cuisine.
Green House is far from a conventional dining space. At its heart, Hoareau’s concept draws from horticultural principles and an emphasis on sustainability. Modelled after traditional greenhouses that nurture plants throughout the year, the restaurant prioritizes experience just as much as the cuisine. Here, décor is not just decorative but functional, contributing to the circle of life.
Visitors are greeted by various greens, from sun-adored foliage to those that flourish in muted light. The semi-transparent structure welcomes the warmth of the tropical sun, facilitating a verdant growth inside. Guests thus enjoy meals amidst a dynamic, living backdrop — a feast for both the eyes and the palate.
Yet, Green House’s essence extends beyond mere visuals. It’s an evolving canvas, pushing the possibilities of what a restaurant represents. Green House paints a vibrant picture of nature’s bounty by celebrating culinary finesse and botanical wonders.
The commitment to a greener world is evident throughout. Recycled netting, previously used for curing concrete, graces the ceiling, adding a touch of rustic elegance. The bar, the restaurant’s showstopper, boasts timber salvaged from an old vessel. Every nuance underscores a dedication to environmental stewardship.
With Green House, Hoareau has crafted more than just a dining space. It’s a unique, evolving sanctuary that defies conventions and stands as a paragon of sustainable hospitality. Without a doubt, it’s a must-visit for those yearning for a distinctive, eco-aware dining adventure.
Green House: Crafting a Sustainable Experience
Creating a unique restaurant isn’t a walk in the park, even more so when aiming for an eco-friendly ambience. But for Hoareau, the brain behind Green House, it was a perfect blend of imagination, dedication, and a strong focus on sustainability. “My design philosophy was clear: recycle as much as possible,” Hoareau proudly states. His hands-on touch led to a standout design that captured attention.
Embracing the Past to Build the Future
Inside Green House, nearly everything, from the bar’s counter to the door frames, tells a tale of rebirth. These are not just objects; they’re repurposed materials given a new lease of life in line with Hoareau’s sustainable vision. “Many of these doors were extras from my carpentry projects,” he says, showing off his innovative use of various materials. One of his intriguing design touches includes plans to have a part of the bar resemble an illusory room. “In the future, I might add a window where you can peer inside and see everyday items, like a bed or clothes, just to enhance that room-like feel. It’s all about creatively reusing materials,” he explains.
Inspired by Home
For Hoareau, the charm of Seychelles wasn’t just in its beauty but in the potential it provided for his innovative restaurant. He didn’t aim for just another eatery; he wanted a space that celebrated both creativity and repurposing. “My goal was to integrate recycling and the resources we have in our surroundings, giving birth to something previously unseen in Seychelles,” he reflects.
Every item, from the meticulously crafted furniture in his workshop to the poles wrapped in recycled ropes, contributes to the restaurant’s distinct vibe. “The transformation of even the chairs and tables is a testament to our vision. I painted over them, giving old wood a renewed and chic look,” shares Hoareau, demonstrating Green House’s allure as a magical transformation of the familiar into the spectacular.
Entertainment and Hours of Operation
Entertainment is a cornerstone of Green House’s allure. The establishment is not only known for its regular entertainment on Wednesdays, Fridays, and Saturdays but is also considering periodic cultural evenings. The possibility of introducing Sega or Moutya dance performances, lasting about an hour, is in the cards.
As for operating hours, Green House is currently open for lunch and dinner. Despite the challenges of determining optimal hours, the dedication to offering a top-tier dining experience for both tourists and locals remains unwavering.
Distinctive Decor and Looking Ahead
Green House is characterized by its bright and lively colours, defining its vibrant decor. The establishment’s vivid hues and unique furniture setups create a signature ambience that could be replicated in potential new locations. “I love colours. Just look at our chairs and bar — so vibrant! If you step into another place with a similar feel in a year or two, you’ll know it’s Green House. I see potential for this vibe elsewhere,” Hoareau expressed, hinting at future expansions.
Passion for Cooking
Hoareau’s love for cooking also sees him actively involved in the kitchen, where he takes an interest in maintaining the quality of their dishes. He addresses complaints, analyses what went wrong, and instructs the staff to correct it, focusing on their fish dishes.
“I’m a cook. I like cooking. So occasionally, I will interfere in the kitchen and say, I don’t like this food. And I would bring them together and say how I want it done. I will cook it in front of them. I am involved in the kitchen to ensure the food is served well and consistently,” Hoareau admitted.
Conclusion
Green House Restaurant has emerged as a distinctive spot for locals and tourists alike. With its unique, vibrant aesthetic, innovative menu, and a blend of live music entertainment, the restaurant has managed to carve out its niche amidst challenges.
As the restaurant looks to its future, its success will undoubtedly be driven by this commitment to quality and a unique, identifiable dining experience.
