Business Details
29 Years
experience
Le Petit Nantais: Authentic French Dining Experience
Established in 1997, Le Petit Nantais has been a cornerstone of French culinary tradition in East Molesey. Our commitment to sourcing the freshest local and seasonal ingredients ensures every dish reflects the authenticity of French cuisine. With over 25 years of experience, we blend traditional recipes with modern presentation, offering a menu that showcases the best of French gastronomy. Our family-run ethos, with the Gravier family at its heart, guarantees a warm and personalised dining experience. From handmade Toulouse sausages to confit de canard, each dish is crafted with meticulous attention to detail. We pride ourselves on maintaining relationships with trusted suppliers, including third-generation Cornish fishermen and artisan bakers.Our wine list features carefully selected French champagnes and chateaux wines, complementing the menu perfectly. Whether for intimate meals or bespoke special events, we strive to create memorable experiences through exceptional food and service. Our dedication to quality has earned us a loyal clientele, and we continue to innovate while staying true to our founding principles. As a business, we remain committed to transparency, ethical sourcing, and delivering value that extends beyond the plate.
Services
French Cuisine
Special Events Catering
Wine Pairing
Private Dining
Seafood Specials
Seasonal Menus
Artisan Bread Service
Wedding Receptions
Corporate Events
Ala Carte Dining
Details
- Year established: 1997
Highlights and features
- We offer 25+ years of expertise in traditional French cuisine
- Our menu features fresh, locally sourced ingredients from trusted suppliers
- Family-run business with three generations involved in daily operations
- Bespoke special event planning with tailored menus and decor
- Direct seafood supply from Cornish fishermen for unparalleled freshness
Services
French Cuisine
Our French cuisine showcases traditional dishes like steak tartare, confit de canard, and fresh seafood. We use seasonal ingredients sourced from trusted suppliers, including Cornish fishermen and Thames Ditton bakers. Each dish combines authentic recipes with modern presentation for an unforgettable dining experience.
Special Events
We create bespoke special events from weddings to corporate dinners. Our team tailors menus, decor, and service to your preferences, ensuring memorable celebrations. With experience in christenings and private parties, we guide clients through every detail while maintaining our signature French culinary standards.
Wine Pairing
Our wine list features carefully selected French champagnes and chateaux wines. Sourced from the same supplier since 1997, our collection complements traditional French dishes perfectly. Regular deliveries ensure optimal freshness and authenticity in every glass served with your meal.
Private Dining
We offer exclusive restaurant hire for groups over 14 people. Perfect for weddings or corporate events, this includes tailored menus and dedicated service. Our Hampton Court location provides an authentic French setting while maintaining flexibility for custom arrangements.
Seafood Specials
Daily seafood specials feature fresh catches from Cornish fisherman Buck. Dishes include oysters, crayfish cocktails, and seasonal fish preparations. Direct delivery ensures peak freshness, with chefs preparing traditional French seafood dishes that highlight natural flavors and quality ingredients.
People
Jean-Philippe Gravier
Head Chef
Founder and head chef with 25+ years of experience in traditional French cuisine. Specialises in authentic preparation methods while innovating seasonal menus. Leads kitchen operations with a focus on maintaining culinary authenticity and quality standards.
Kim Gravier
Co-Owner
Co-founder managing front-of-house operations and special event coordination. Ensures customer experience aligns with the restaurant's relaxed yet refined atmosphere. Handles supplier relationships and maintains the business's commitment to ethical sourcing practices.
Victoria Gravier
Junior Chef
Third-generation team member assisting in kitchen operations. Trained in traditional French techniques by her father. Contributes to menu development while maintaining family culinary traditions. Represents the business's ongoing commitment to intergenerational knowledge transfer.
Questions
What type of cuisine does Le Petit Nantais offer?
We specialise in traditional French cuisine using fresh, locally sourced ingredients. Our menu features classic dishes like steak tartare, confit de canard, and daily seafood specials from Cornwall.
Can I book the restaurant for a special event?
Yes, we offer exclusive hire for groups over 14 people. Our team creates bespoke events with tailored menus, decor, and service to match your specific requirements for weddings, birthdays, or corporate functions.
Are reservations required for dining?
We recommend booking through Quandoo, especially for weekends. Table reservations are available for parties up to 14 people, with a 50% deposit charged for no-shows or late cancellations.
What wine options are available?
Our wine list features carefully selected French champagnes and chateaux wines from the same supplier since 1997. We maintain regular deliveries to ensure freshness and authenticity with every bottle.
Do you cater for dietary requirements?
We can accommodate many dietary needs with advance notice. Our menu includes options for vegetarians and those requiring gluten-free meals, while maintaining traditional French culinary standards.
Reviews (6)
B. Arwell
Dec 22, 2021
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Superb quality food and decor. Took over 30 mins to order although quiet and main course over an hour. Service was challenging- did we not know the lid should be off the bottle of red on the table; did we not know which main the veg applied to
Nick Atherton
Dec 19, 2021
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One of my favourite restaurants. Excellent food, wine, service and ambience. JP and his team are great bunch. Highly recommend their seafood.
Debbie Stillman
Nov 28, 2021
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Absolutely beautiful food, fantastic service, nothing is too much trouble. Not at all pushy but always there if you need anything. I recommend the sea bass, the most mouthwatering I have ever had!
F. C.
Nov 15, 2021
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When a owner puts so much passion into it. And you can feel it as much as there. It is always a good place to go to. The carte menu is noce but conservative. Dont hesitate to ask for today special. You will often get things that might never be available ever again. Trust your senses and let it go. The journey is worth it. I would say the place will probably fit the best to couple as it is really cosy and welcoming. If you bring your date here you will leave a long lasting effect. If you go out with your mates - they will like you forever for it.
Douglas Bennett-Hewett
Oct 21, 2021
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Fantastic birthday meal with friends. Beautiful food. Amazing expresso Martini x3 mmm wonderful evening Thankyou guys for a beautiful evening
Ly
Oct 21, 2021
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A very romantic and charming French bistro with great food. Service was impeccable and the owner was a delight. Would recommend all the dishes we had (see photos). The chef also made an appearance to see how we were getting on was a nice surprise. Menu appears to change and they have lots of different specials which is what's most popular with locals.
