Ki-Ot is an al fresco eatery operating as a unique, self-sufficient model at the lower area of the arm of the pier. The site was one of six identified in August 2018 as part of plans to enhance the seafront. In October 2019 the States announced its preferred bids for the site, which included Atan’s idea for Thai dining as an extension of its take-away business on the Bridge.
The seasonal cafe opened this week – three years after its plans were agreed – but it was no easy feat. Paul and Tan Blondin of Atan, working with Turnstone Architecture, have had to overcome the logistical challenges of opening a restaurant with no mains electricity, water or wastewater.
‘We have to bring everything in ourselves,’ said Mrs Blondin.
‘We’ve got the water tank and our plumbing system here now, but for power we rely on a generator – stored in the room next to the tank – which we’ve agreed can run between 8am and 7pm.’
It took extensive cleaning and maintenance to transform the leaky old fishermen’s boat stores into dry, safe and secure storage for the cafe. A large water tank has been installed, which has to be filled and emptied manually, with the generator supplying the power.
Plans for the cafe itself had to change, too. As the site belongs to the harbour, the cafe had to be portable in case the space was claimed back at the end of its lease.
So the couple decided to build it inside a shipping container – which had delays in arriving due to storm disruptions.
‘It’s been a real nightmare,’ said Mrs Blondin.
‘To be honest, these challenges that we’ve had to overcome have given us very mixed feelings about our venture. It’s been exciting and we’ve been motivated, but sometimes when the weather is not on your side, and things are moving very slowly – you feel very down and low.
‘We’re pleased to be here finally. It’s very unique and special, and already we’ve received lots of support. If the flags are flying, we are open.’
The new Thai spot flew its flags on Monday this week for the local Thai community, in celebration of Thai New Year. Currently it plans to open during the day.
‘I would say we’re relieved but we’re not there yet,’ said Mr Blondin.
‘It’s taken much longer than we thought but we’re almost, finally there. We’ve had to be completely self-sufficient, so if everyone else on the seafront goes down with a power-cut – we’ll still be going.’
Environment & Infrastructure Committee member Andy Cameron has helped to keep the project moving forward.
‘It kept losing momentum due to staff changes and shifting priorities within Ports, so it would stall and then need picking up again,’ he said.
‘Credit to Paul and Tan for finding practical workarounds to get up and running.
‘It’s a great addition to Guernsey’s hospitality offering and makes use of a challenging site that might otherwise sit underutilised.’
However, Deputy Cameron highlighted that issues would soon arise if this unique concept expanded to multiple vendors – particularly in regards to diesel generators.
He has asked officers at E&I to explore a long-term solution, if the area is to develop further.