A small corner of France in the heart of Bangkok, Le Bouchon restaurant in Patpong is a legend
ASK any long-term expatriate to name their favourite regular dining venue, and Le Bouchon will be high on the list. It’s one of those incredibly friendly and very comfortable restaurants where everybody seems to know each other, the menu is always interesting, the price is right and the unmistakably French atmosphere genial and welcoming. |
And watching over Le Bouchon in his trademark avuncular way is Monsieur Serge, patron of this charming bistro for almost 20 years. Serge, or ‘Papa’ as he’s known by his staff, is as constant as the restaurant itself.
Originally from Lyon in central France, Serge has created a venue that now enjoys legendary status; it’s the preferred choice of local businessman and visitors who want to experience authentic Lyonnaise ‘bouchon’ cuisine in the heart of Bangkok’s famous Patpong district.
Originally from Lyon in central France, Serge has created a venue that now enjoys legendary status; it’s the preferred choice of local businessman and visitors who want to experience authentic Lyonnaise ‘bouchon’ cuisine in the heart of Bangkok’s famous Patpong district.
There’s no doubt many come for Le Bouchon’s great value set lunch. For just B450 net, this typically includes a choice of starters like Ham and cheese omelette or Leek & potato soup, with a main course of Breaded Dory fish with saffron sauce, or Chicken in red wine sauce or Rack of lamb stew.
But the restaurant’s extensive a la carte menu also draws customers. Serge ensures the choice is varied, easy on the palate and always delicious. “Food is like good music,” he says. “It has to be interpreted well and should never be discordant.”
Popular starters include Chicken liver salad (B240), Poached eggs Bouchon-style (B190) and Raviolis of French goose liver in port wine (B430).
The choice of main courses is extensive, but definitely not-to-be missed are the Frog legs Bouchon-style (B540), Homemade duck leg confit (B430), Rack of lamb Provencal-style (B750) and the irresistible Beef fillet in Béarnaise or pepper sauce (B880).
The wine list is well priced from B1,400 and exclusively French. “I’m a bit of a chauvinist when it comes to wine,” admits Serge, a restaurateur who after 20 years knows how to please his customers and keep them coming back.
Le Bouchon, 37/17 Patpong 2 Surawongse Rd. Open daily 12pm-11pm. ☎ 02 234 9109 www.lebouchonpatpong.com
But the restaurant’s extensive a la carte menu also draws customers. Serge ensures the choice is varied, easy on the palate and always delicious. “Food is like good music,” he says. “It has to be interpreted well and should never be discordant.”
Popular starters include Chicken liver salad (B240), Poached eggs Bouchon-style (B190) and Raviolis of French goose liver in port wine (B430).
The choice of main courses is extensive, but definitely not-to-be missed are the Frog legs Bouchon-style (B540), Homemade duck leg confit (B430), Rack of lamb Provencal-style (B750) and the irresistible Beef fillet in Béarnaise or pepper sauce (B880).
The wine list is well priced from B1,400 and exclusively French. “I’m a bit of a chauvinist when it comes to wine,” admits Serge, a restaurateur who after 20 years knows how to please his customers and keep them coming back.
Le Bouchon, 37/17 Patpong 2 Surawongse Rd. Open daily 12pm-11pm. ☎ 02 234 9109 www.lebouchonpatpong.com