Southwold: Le Roc brings some Gallic flair to quintessentially English resort

It is often described as the quintessential English seaside resort.

But Frenchman Gerard Amiel is bringing a distinctly Gallic flavour to Southwold with the help of his business partner Jane Unite. The pair have opened French and English café Le Roc in the former Trinity’s Tearoom in High Street.

The café will continue to sell traditional English food but Mr Amiel also plans to introduce a number of continental options to the menu. Alongside the dish of the day will be a plat du jour French option.

And during the half-term holidays in February, Le Roc will be selling crepes.

Le Roc opened this month but Mr Amiel and Mrs Unite plan to redecorate the premises before holding a launch party.

Mr Amiel said: “The idea is to bring the French café atmosphere but keep the very strong traditional English tearoom.

“We have got a lot of traditional customers who want the food and quality we have got at the moment but I want to introduce the influence of France because of my origins.”

Mr Amiel, who lives in Essex with his wife and their two children, said: “On top of liking Southwold, I read about the Battle of Sole Bay. It was the only time the French and English fought hand in hand.”