About Us

Hello, I'm Saba and this is me testing the beds (not using guest linen, of course) - one of my first tasks when I `founded’ LE CHAT CHOCOLAT in 2005 and then ran the place for a couple of Seasons.

Once I knew the staff’d got the hang of it, I decided (at the age of 20) to retire, but I continue to keep an eye on things, in my new role as `Honorary Patron in Spirit’.

My staff - Mel & Nikki Anthony - did the sensible thing and tracked down two of my descendants (lineage is everything, n’est-ce pas?), Freia, a retiring Queen (very majestic!) and her baby son, D’Or Nid - a real chip off the old block - reminds me of myself when I was young.
(If you want to see their credentials, check out:
www.dulcamara-burmese.co.uk
- you can’t beat good breeding, you know!)

Nikki has been a professional actress, singer, writer, etc. [check out her web site at: www.nikdaviesanthony.me.uk]. If you like snooker, you can take home a signed copy of her novel "BAIZE" - an exposé of the PRO-AM snooker circuit of the ‘80s.

On the business side, Mel has been a practising solicitor (don't hold it against him, it was a long time ago) and Nikki has been a book-keeper & counsellor. They've also worked together as recruitment consultants, and share many interests including self-development, philosophy and psychic studies (so more courses!).

Mel and Nikki were Francophiles for many years and have finally realised their dream to move to France. At LE CHAT CHOCOLAT, they give their guests a very warm welcome and a memorable visit. Come and make new friends, have a few adventures, and even `pick their brains’ about moving to France. And DON’T forget to make a big fuss of the cats!

She’s made a pop record, sung with a Function Band and has a mini-recording studio / portable vocalist gear. Fancy a cabaret with your meal? Karaoke? Or, for the would-be performer, come to our `Fame Academy’-type course.

They’ve settled into the family business and, respecting their noble heritage, will keep up my high standards and make sure you are content and comfortable throughout your stay.

So, back to the Anthonys......

They've been together for over 20 years, have worked in hospitality for 12 years, and both have Catering Hygiene Certificates. Mel, the Head Chef, is a member of the Institute of Hospitality (formerly the Hotel & Catering International Management Association). As well as French and International cuisine, Mel specialises in Asiatic cookery, primarily Chinese, Thai and Indian (plus a few dishes from Malaysia, Vietnam, Korea and Singapore. You’ll be very well fed and you could also attend one of his cookery courses.

Mel and Nikki are creative types. Mel played lead guitar in his own group in the late ‘50s / Swinging ‘60s and writes songs. He’s also written short stories (mostly Science Fiction), a crime-story novel, a cookery book, plus a 6-part TV series with Nikki.