Our weekend getaway to London for a family celebration called for an extended stay to explore and discover yet another fascinating, stylish enclave.
Louie London – a Michelin Guide establishment located in the heart of the city, in a historic 19th century townhouse - invites you on an enthralling adventure that transcends borders, enhanced by an inviting ambiance and a harmonious blend of bold flavors.
From the moment you set foot inside Louie, you are greeted and warmly welcomed by the host, James and Director, Karim. You want to be seated but yet you are somewhat reluctant to move as your eyes are treated to a feast of stunning sights from every corner of the expansive brasserie.
This is especially true if you’re seated at a table that offers a full, unobstructed view of the entire room (as we were), allowing you to soak in the lively atmosphere and exquisite décor that define this remarkable setting.
The impressive Oyster Bar, in the corner, overseen by Lucas, boasts a whimsical selection of shellfish each rooted in luxury ingredients that evoke a true - joie de vivre.
Almost immediately we were offered voluptuous, delicate yet complex Gillardeau with a glass of Krug Grande Cuvée that offers seductive notes and aromas of fruit & nuts. It paired beautifully with the Gillardeau oysters.
Lucas and Michael, our server, know their products well and their fervor inspires me!
As the bustling atmosphere enveloped us, the DJ in the opposite corner kicked off his set, the infectious beats filling the air just as we were handed our menus by Alessio, the exuberant Restaurant Manager, to peruse.
The thoughtfully crafted French menu is infused with a New Orleans flair, unveiling a delightful fusion of classic techniques and bold, spirited flavors that reflect the rich heritage of both regions. It was reminiscent of our visit to Chez Philippe in Memphis.
This quintessential contemporary brasserie, exuding classic charm and offering exceptional service, is the perfect setting for a pre-theatre meal.
Meet the Maestro
Renowned Chef Geanina Rugina, hailing from Romania and now based in London, was trained in rich traditions of New Orleans cuisine. With a passion for innovation, she has blended the spicy soulful, essence of Creole cooking with the lively influences of Caribbean and Spanish cuisines. Each plate that leaves the kitchen tells a story, entwining robust ingredients and bold flavors that dance on the palate.
Every curation is a testament to her Michelin star potential, unveiling not only skill but an artistic flair that augments each meal into a monumental experience.
The menu changes seasonally, reflecting the best of local produce while keeping the spirit of her travels alive in every bite.
It was a marvelous departure from the norm to have Chef Rugina join us at our cozy table, actively engaging in conversation, taking photographs, and guiding us through a tasting of her signature dishes.
Typically, I venture into the kitchen to meet the chefs, interact with their teams, and observe the artistry of plating. This occasion, however, offered an idyllic setting.
Highlights & Signature Dishes
Oyster Po’ Boy éclair’. Choux Dough, Fried Oysters, Crystal Mayo
The Po’boy, once a humble submarine sandwich, has been thoughtfully reimagined by Chef Rugina, elevating this time-honored dish to new heights.
The clever use of choux pastry in the éclair, a long finger-shaped French delight with a golden, crisp exterior-creates a phenomenal edible vessel to cradle the fried oysters paired with crystal mayo.
Kohlrabi Fondant; Miso Glaze, Fennel Veloute, Pistachios
Chef prepares the modest kohlrabi confit-style with a miso glaze, further enhancing its natural flavors with a blend of spices. She plates this ‘unpretentious star’ atop a bed of tender spinach.
The pièce de resistance is a silky fennel velouté sauce garnished with pistachios for crunch and color, a drizzle of fine chili oil for an added kick, garniture of micro flowers for the final visual.
A masterpiece that stands on its own!
Divine Pairings
Alessio and Frini, our exceptionally knowledgeable sommeliers, engaged us with their engrossing stories, generously offering wine tastings that perfectly complemented our meal.
Frini, presented us with a luscious Californian Chardonnay as well as a Puligny Montrachet with tasting notes of honeyed fruit, light vanilla nuances, superb balances, delectable with delicate yet rich shellfish. I opted the latter, as I particularly enjoyed the complexity of the Montrachet.
While pursuing her PhD in physics, Frini felt compelled to immerse herself further in her passion for wine, leading her to train as a sommelier. She possesses a natural aptitude for physics but chose to embrace the challenges and rewards of the sommelier journey, achieving an intermediate level of expertise.
Their verve for wine added an extra layer of sophistication, enriching our overall dining pleasure hence turning the evening into an indelible affair.
After our meal, Karim Lecloarec, the Operations Director warmly escorted us on an exciting tour of the building.
Spanning four floors - from the bustling ground and first floor restaurants to the Alligator Bar and the chic top-floor Cabana, - each space embodies its own unique spirit at every turn! The entire space accommodates a buy out for special events.
Louie Restaurant, a must-visit destination, exhibits a skilled and dedicated team, polished hospitality, and artisanal quality cuisine, alongside the Alligator Bar, a standout venue featuring a dynamic lineup of musical genres.
Thank You Team Louie for your very kind hospitality!
Will definitely check it out on my next trip to London!