Bistrot Le Coucou Brings a Taste of Paris to Manila
A recent addition to the city’s dining scene, Bistrot Le Coucou, has quickly gained recognition for its elegant ambiance and tasty French fare. The latest restaurant venture from The Nikkei Group, the team behind restaurants such as Nikkei, Terraza Martinez, and Sakagura, Bistrot Le Coucou was inspired by owner Carlo Lorenzana’s travels to France. Lorenzana shares that he wanted to bring a taste of Paris to Manila, but with a sophisticated, New York design sensibility.
The space, designed by architect Noel Bernardo, is refined but uncomplicated. The interiors feature warm lighting and polished wood accents that result in an inviting space where guests can linger. The full-arched windows bathe the dining room in sunlight that lends favorably to the daytime ambiance. For those who prefer al fresco dining, comfortable outdoor tables are also a pleasant option. Adjacent to the main room is the restaurant’s impressive wine cellarWine CellarA temperature- and humidity-controlled space for storing wine, from a small cabinet to a dedicated underground room or custom-built vault. Proper cellaring allows wines to age gracefully, and a well-designedGo to Wine Cellar Glossary and a private dining room that can accommodate up to 16 guests.
Bistrot Le Coucou’s wine program, curated by sommelierSommelierA trained wine professional who carefully curates wine lists, advises guests, and manages cellars in fine restaurants. A skilled sommelier pairs wines with dishes and guides diners through selections, andGo to Sommelier Glossary Jorge Joseph, features a dynamic selection of wines from around the world. The selection is fresh, exciting, and accessible, just like the food. While Bistrot Le Coucou takes its wine seriously, guests should not overlook its offering of crafted cocktails–the sangria rouge in particular is a standout.
The menu at Bistrot Le Coucou is rooted in tradition yet also takes a few welcome liberties in its interpretation. Initially crafted in collaboration with chef consultant Miko Calo, it is now under the helm of its very own Luis Martinez, who brings his own signature subtle and creative twists to the menu.
Its list of hors d’oeuvres is as extensive as it is indulgent and includes fresh oysters flown in from France, Oscietra caviar, and a delectable, silky chicken liver pâté. The pommes frites, or potato mille-feuille bites topped with parmesan cheese and herring caviar pearls, are also a must-try, and will easily become one of the restaurant’s signature dishes.
Another crowd favorite that is not to be missed, is the Beillevaire cheese that is torched, melted, and served with dried figs, caramelized shallots, and roasted cashews.
For a full meal, Bistrot Le Coucou’s classic French entrées and main plates are equally enjoyable.
As any visit to a French restaurant warrants a taste of its French onion soup, the one here does not disappoint. Served beneath a golden puff pastry crust, this hearty soup is comfort in a bowl. Other well-executed French Bistro classics are the escargot, traditionally prepared with garlic, melted butter, and parsley, and the beef tartare that is served with herb tempura chips for a delicate crunch.
Bistrot Le Coucou’s version of ratatouille is a dish where the chef reimagines the familiar and reconstructs this well-loved vegetable dish into something special. Layers of eggplant and zucchini are bathed in a smoky roasted red pepper sauce, leaving a lasting impression on the palate.
The duck confit is also highly recommended. The duck leg is slow-cooked sous-vide for thirty hours before it is prepared into confit. When served, it is crisped to perfection and accompanied by a tangy orange glaze. For steak lovers, the steak au poivre is a wonderful option. The butter-basted beef tenderloin is finished with a rich and velvety black pepper sauce and served with fries.
For dessert, the beignets, deep-fried dough tossed in powdered sugar, are served with warm salted caramel sauce, and are an excellent option, but our favorite are the light and airy profiteroles filled with vanilla pastry cream, generously drizzled with chocolate ganache, and topped with a scoop of vanilla ice cream.
Unlike traditional fine-dining French restaurants, Bistrot Le Coucou strikes a balance between refinement and comfort, making it an ideal choice for both casual gatherings and special occasions.
Bistrot Le Coucou is open 7 days a week for both lunch and dinner. It’s located at the 2nd Floor View Deck of One Bonifacio High Street Mall, 28th Street, Bonifacio Global City.