Delicious Destination

Originally built in 1843 as a barn, the restaurant acquired the name Malmaison in 1992 from Simone, of the husband and wife chef team of Simone and Gilbert Andujar. To Simone, the grounds were reminiscent of a fine French estate in the South of France. Now, The Gardens at Malmaison continues the tradition of fine dining in a historic, countryside setting.

For Melinda McCarthy, Renée Allen and Mary Ann Pierce, joining friends for a casual get-together at The Gardens at Malmaison for a Friday night “Girls Night Out” was the perfect way to kick off the weekend. Against the picturesque backdrop of historic St. Albans, the evening began with Malmaison’s signature cocktails and appetizers. The delicious spread was followed by a scrumptious dinner and ended with a Signature St. Albans almond cookie basket filled with French vanilla ice cream, seasonal berries and topped with divine chocolate and caramel sauce.

Datra Herzog, owner of The Gardens at Malmaison, says, “Whether you’re dining indoors in the bar, in our Provence room, or having a casual girls’ night dining in the gardens, Malmaison is the perfect place for an intimate dinner for two, or the special or once-in-a-lifetime occasion. Every experience is enhanced by the beauty and ambience of the established, breathtaking, nearly century-old landscapes that surround the venue.”

Originally built in 1843 as a barn, the restaurant acquired the name Malmaison in 1992 from Simone, of the husband and wife chef team of Simone and Gilbert Andujar. To Simone, the grounds were reminiscent of a fine French estate in the South of France. Now, The Gardens at Malmaison continues the tradition of fine dining in a historic, countryside setting.

Lingering after dinner at the unique dining destination is a must, and the Friday night guests could not have been more pleased. “I love the historic feel of the setting,” says Renée. “My wedding was here for 110 guests, and the gardens provided all of the color and ambience.”

And according to Datra, the sentiment is a mutual one. “We are thrilled to host beautiful weddings and find that we often become part of the families of our hosts and hostesses. Guests that have had private parties at The Gardens at Malmaison often plan their future anniversary celebrations, baby showers and other special occasions with us year after year,” she says.