TRADER VIC’S

          We were curious whether this was part of the renown restaurant chain inspired by the original Trader Vic’s, a San Francisco landmark, which catered to the Rich and Famous, with it’s exotic Polynesian ambiance back in the days when only the very rich could voyage to the South Pacific.

          We heard that Port Vila’s Trader Vic’s had, over its many years, developed a reputation as a late night hot spot with emphasis on the Night Club.  Justin, the new manager since early this year, confirmed that the Night Club is the mainstay of Trader Vic’s, and that their aim is to keep it hopping, but also develop the patio area Bistro and bar.  Already there is a new thatched, timber-beamed patio bar that opened just recently.  Wanting to attract the after-work crowd, they have announced a new Happy Hour.  Everyday of the week from 6-7PM, you can get a draught Tusker,  “champagne”, or basic spirit for an incredible 200vt.  A price a workingman can swallow!  Hoping that Happy Hour will segue into “may as well stay and have a bite”, they have the Bistro menu, a selection of Pizzas, Light Entrees and Snacks, Steaks, and a varied selection of Blackboard Specials at reasonable prices (400vt-1500vt).

          Our ears perked when Justin mentioned that just one week earlier, they introduced PRAWN NIGHT on Wednesdays.  As well as the regular menu, 5 different styles of prawn are offered: Batter Fried, Crumbed, Coconut, Thai, and Spicy BBQ.  10 prawns in choice of style, green salad, and baked potato wedges for a mere 1500vt. Or the grand slam Prawn Platter: 4 prawns of each style, a grand total of 20, for 2500vt.  For a change from the ubiquitous beef, our two companions and we, each dived into a platter.  Moses, former Chef from the old Rossi, and many of his team from there, regaled us with a cornucopia of crustaceans.  Though totally stuffed, we wanted to end on a sweet note, but alas! No desserts were to be had.  Glenda, our quick-thinking server, feeling sorry for us, proposed an alternative, a digestive.  Our friend, a French Briton, was totally impressed that they had Courvoiser and the best Calvados, the one made in Normandie, France.

          Other big plans for Trader Vic’s is to make it a hot Backpacker’s resort, with a marina motif, infinity pool, and ensuite doubles with private balconies over looking the water.  Look out Chantilly’s!  Take advantage of the bar and restaurant NOW, to have it to yourselves before the resort’s opening early next year!

          Oh, incidentally, they aren’t part of the American Trader Vic’s chain…but now, who cares???

 Trader Vic’s open for lunch and dinner, Happy Hour 6-7PM, 7 days/wk. Tel: 26800

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