The Boulestin Restaurant to open today
The eagerly awaited Boulestin Restaurant, brainchild of owner Joel Kissin, will open its doors to the public today (2nd September). Kissin, alongside Sir Terence Conran, was given credit for changing the restaurant scene in London and this new restaurant in inspired by X. Marcel Boulestin.
Marcel Boulestin is a hugely popular restauranteur as well as the author of cookbooks and a pioneer in foodie TV presenting. The Guardian’s Matthew Fort described him as the most imaginative and liberating food writer of his time.
A reimagining of the original, Boulestin is located in a glorious 17th century building in St James’s. It comprises a warm and inviting restaurant, with 60 covers, that serves a predominantly French menu. The room leads onto a delightful, almost private courtyard, surrounded by period buildings, for al fresco dining.
At the front can be found the 30-seat Café Marcel, offering lighter, faster all-day dining and a no reservations policy.
Boulestin’s offering is further enhanced by a beautiful downstairs private dining room that seats up to 44 and is ideal for all manner of private and corporate events.
Andrew Woodford, previously of Colbert and The Wolseley, heads up the kitchens. Woodford spent several months prior to launch working with Joel Kissin to create an extensive menu for both the restaurant and the café, including dishes inspired by Marcel Boulestin’s original recipes.
Standouts include starters such as Oeuf en gelée – poached eggs in jellied consommé – and Jambon persillé, alongside mains that includeCassoulet and Roast pigeon with ceps, bacon and cabbage.
The food is complemented by a list of some 160 wines and champagnes of which 60% are French. 18 wines are available by the glass.
Boulestin’s charming interiors are the work of award-winning consultancy DesignLSM, New York-based Frank De Biasi Interiors and Joel Kissin with his partner, Carlos Afonso.
The design takes full advantage of the building’s many period features, including a conservatory that floods the restaurant with natural light.
A key feature of Boulestin is the impressive marble floor, which comprises a black and beige design inspired by Lutyens. Additional features include a marble bar, cognac-coloured leather banquette seating and green leather 1930s chairs by Marc du Plantier. The space is filled with paintings and drawings after those of famous French printmaker Jean-Émile Laboureur.
Boulestin also boasts some antique lighting and mirrors, which were sourced by Kissin himself.
General Manager is Nicolas Schleich, one of the capital’s most experienced industry professionals, who has previously worked at such leading venues as Momo, Noble Rot and Blakes hotel.
For reservations please call 020 7930 2030.
Boulestin, 5 St James’ Street, London, SW1A 1EF
