Ben Bar & Restaurant...
Chef Ben Does it Again!

 
 

By: Louise Fayet

Chef Ben is a man with a following here in Anguilla. Known and loved for his casual French dining, he built a loyal reputation through his former restaurants, Big Spring and Café de Paris.

Today, he has entered a new chapter. In November 2025, Ben relocated to a brand new space along the Shoal Bay road, bringing his signature flavors into a fresh, elevated setting while keeping the same relaxed, welcoming spirit he is known for.

Ben's Restaurant

Set on a large, open terrace, the restaurant feels airy and breezy, effortlessly inviting. The space is a beautiful step up, with a spacious dining area that still captures the charm and intimacy of Ben’s earlier days.

While the setting has evolved, the heart of the experience remains the same.

With Chef Ben

A little fun fact, Ben is from a small town in France called Saint-Martin-en-Haut, just two houses down from my grandparents. I have known him my entire life, which makes dining here feel that much more special.

What's on The Menu?

His menu still reflects what made him so popular in the first place. Simple, flavorful French-inspired dishes, generous portions and prices that remain refreshingly reasonable for Anguilla.

To start, choose from the french onion soup, mixed green salad, Caesar salad, the escargot, the crispy goat cheese roll salad or...

The Mussels & Fries

Perhaps the best on island, Ben always aces this dish!

The key to a good Moules Frites is in its sauce. Ben's? Excellent on all accounts. The shallots, garlic, parsley and white wine were simmered to perfection. So good, we were even drinking the broth. And of course, French fries are the perfect complement to “les moules."

Warm and comforting, you feel like you are in the South of France when eating this delicacy.

Pizzas continue to be a highlight. Thin crust, perfectly crisp and topped with rich tomato sauce and quality ingredients.

Top picks include the margarita, pepperoni, Caribbean with chicken and pineapple, Italian with sausage and my favorite, the Ocean.

Ocean Pizza

Tomato sauce, mozzarella cheese, shrimp, garlic and parsley all on Ben's homemade pizza crust.

Another classic is the...

Beef Bourguignon

Slow-cooked beef in red wine for three hours is paired with vegetables and a carrot puree.

All of the main courses are served with vegetables and a side of your choice. Rice, french fries or potato gratin. Trust me, get the potato gratin.

Classic Potato Gratin

Sliced potatoes baked in cream, this gratin reminds me of those long leisure lunches in Lyon at my grandmothers. The perfect complement to the bourguignon's rich gravy.

His nightly specials are what have set Ben apart for years. The special menu is written up nightly and hung on the restaurant's bar. People go crazy for his exquisite specials at such a reasonable price.

Do not miss his prawns special...

Prawns

Prawns cooked in a rich, flavorful sauce, served with your choice of side.

Sweet End To The Evening

As we sat back in post-meal delight, Ben came to tempt us with one more final dish... "Dessert?" he asked with a smile. How could we resist! There were a number of specials that night. Our pick?

Profiteroles

Do not miss this dessert!

Three homemade choux pastries filled with Ben’s vanilla ice cream, topped with rich chocolate sauce and fresh whipped cream. The only thing not homemade here is the cherry on top - which I am sure if needed, Ben can make that too!

You will not regret this order - just work it off with a swim at Shoal Bay tomorrow.

Whether you remember Ben from his earlier days at Pit Stop or are discovering him for the first time, his new restaurant captures everything that made him a favorite, now in a more refined and comfortable setting.

It is still casual, still full of personality and still one of the best spots on the island for honest, well-executed French cuisine.

Directions, Hours & Contact

Directions: Located on the road that runs from Island Harbour to Shoal Bay.

Hours: Open Monday to Saturday from 5:30pm-9pm.

Tel.: 264-582-7667

Menu: Click here