The Boat House Group is undergoing some exciting changes. We sat down with the managing director James Lane who has who recently returned his focus to The Boat House Group in Jersey after spending the last 14 years overseeing the family operations in North America and the Caribbean. Here he discusses what guests can expect from a visit to one of the groups four restaurants, The Tree House in St Brelade.
Firstly, what brought your focus back to Jersey James?
My father has lived in Jersey for 30 years building the Boat House Group and wanted to take a step back and slow down. Although I have been commuting backwards and forwards running the international operations, I have always loved the island. Having recently gotten married it is the perfect place for my wife to be closer to family in the UK, and for me to now focus fully on The Boat House Group.
What is it about the island that you particularly love?
Jersey has so much to offer, but I particularly admire the diversity and creativity of the people living here. From a foodie perspective, the abundance of fresh produce is really exciting and I’m hoping to be able to showcase this in the menus we are producing and the food we offer across the Group. I hope to do Jersey proud.
Can you tell us about the Tree House?
The Tree House offers guests simple, wholesome dishes for the whole family. We pride ourselves on catering to families on the island by providing a great kids menu as well as both indoor and outdoor play areas. Equally, the conservatory provides the perfect setting for couples and in summer the large sun terrace is the perfect place to enjoy a few glasses of something cold with friends.
What is your favourite dish on The Tree House menu?
To be honest it depends on my mood. I love our pizzas made in the wood-burning oven, my favourite being the Bianca Neve. Having said that the half a rotisserie chicken is to die for, especially with the sweet potato fries. We have also recently started making our own fresh pasta and our head chef Alex recently asked me to try his seafood linguine which was the best I’ve ever tasted.
As managing director of The Boat House Group, what would you say is your greatest strength?
Without a doubt my greatest strength lies in the dedication, hard work and passion of my team. We have such a diverse team from all corners of the world who all bring their own personal touches and experiences to the guest experience. We have recently welcomed Rowen Elmes as operations manager who is currently pulling a great team together in each of our restaurants. Rowen has also worked in various locations around the world I am greatly looking forward to drawing upon his expertise and that of our team, to be able to consistently endeavour to exceed our guests expectations.
The Tree House Restaurant,
La Marquanderie Hill, St Brelade
T: 741177
Lunch and Dinner served daily (closed Monday)
Extensive parking onsite
Functions Welcomed