La Cote is Fontainebleau’s two story beach and poolside restaurant. A far more casual experience than the resorts other dining venues, La Cote serves up delicious drinks. If you’re out of ideas for a Sunday-Funday or seeking an atypical brunch, the restaurant offers a very relaxed vibe and a stunning ocean view. You could spend hours people watching and sipping on Martinis from the second level. On the other hand, the food here is very hit-and-miss and you are better off ordering simpler meals (a burger), than more complicated entrees (Capellin Fra Diavolo). On any given day the food could be bland, poorly seasoned or too salty. For a restaurant that dubs itself Mediterranean, the food, when prepared well, tastes very American.

The servers are pleasant but not very attentive. The area can be somewhat noisy, not painstakingly so, but I can appreciate how it may be a deterrent for other diners. La Cote is also as expensive as the hotels other restaurant counterparts. However, it doesn’t match up to the level of service or taste the others do. Also, though the restaurant does serve dinner, I would not recommend dining here for anything other than lunch. The last time I visited, I had the fried calamari, pan seared scallops and the roasted mushroom gratin. I would not recommend any of these dishes. Having said all this, La Cote is worth visiting. Perhaps not for the food but for a great vibe. For the best deal, check out their Happy Hour. You and your friends can enjoy a shared pitcher ($60) of mojitos and their two- for-one snacks ($18).

Recommended Course (Lunch):

Appetizer: I would skip it but if you feel so compelled, have the Conch Ceviche $17

Main Course (Seafood): Octopus Confit Salad $18

Main Course (Poultry): Chicken Paillard Sandwich $18

Main Course (Meat): La Cote Burger $18

Dessert: Again, I would skip it, but if you feel compelled, have the Apple Tart Tatin $10

To Drink: Very Berry Caipiroska $16

All images © 2014 Donnatilda Tabana.