We have stayed at Hotel Britannia several times but never eaten in its restaurant, Appetiit. That had to change – and what an experience it turned out to be. The location in the centre of Esbjerg makes it easy to combine with a stroll through town or a trip over to Fanø.
Atmosphere, interior and welcome
Appetiit is elegantly furnished with a relaxed bistro feel – soft lighting, cosy corners and a wine bar that sets the mood from the moment you walk in. But what truly lifted the evening was the service. We were looked after by a fair-haired waitress, and I don’t think we have ever experienced service that good. She was welcoming, professional, smiling and on top of everything. It felt as though we were the most important guests of the night.
The food
We began with the starters: I had foie gras with chutney, radicchio and warm brioche – my guilty pleasure, and delicious through and through. Jes had a vol-au-vent with shellfish fricassée, beautifully plated and full of flavour.
For my main I had lemon sole meunière, and it was, without question, some of the best fish I have ever eaten – delicate flesh, brown butter and capers that finished it off perfectly. Jes had braised Hopballe Mølle chicken with Riesling sauce, mushrooms, pancetta and onions – just as well cooked and every bit as flavourful.
The children’s menu impressed too. The girls had chicken with chips and a small dessert, and it wasn’t just “standard kids’ food” but nicely cooked and attractively served.
With the meal we drank a Chablis Grand Régnard – a slightly rounder bottle we had never tried before. The wine was fresh and elegant and matched both the fish and the chicken perfectly.
Price and value
All in all, the evening came to around DKK 2,740 for two adults and the children – including starters, mains, wine and dessert. Considering the standard of the food, the presentation and, not least, the service, that feels more than fair. Our verdict: 5 out of 5 stars.
