Parisian Brunch at Bistrot Le Coucou, One Bonifacio High Street Mall
Bistrot Le Coucou is one of the latest additions in One Bonifacio High Street by Ayala Malls, and it's providing a unique alternative to the existing pool of restaurants in the area. Hinted by its name, Bistrot Le Coucou, or what I conveniently refer to as 'Le Coucou', is a Parisian-style wine bistro from the Nikkei Group, which aspires to provide an intimate and comforting French gastronomical experience.
Le Coucou - the first encoutner
I remember discovering Le Coucou when we were buying time for my evening reservation in Zheng Bao Hotpot. It was the weekend of my birthday, and we were aimlessly strolling around the mall. That was until we stumbled upon this restaurant that seemed new. I recall Sunae used to be there, and it's now looking different, fancier even. I looked up to read the sign, and I thought to myself, 'What a funny name for a restaurant'. But that humor and curiosity actually made me check the place out, and grab a few cocktails right before dinner. It was such a choice. Loved the alcohol, and loved how red I was walking my way to Zheng Bao.
These were some of the drinks we ordered: Martini and Le Fleur
The Le Fleur drink was a visual entertainment. I loved the presentation, and I certainly loved how it had a nice kick to it. Also, the al fresco set-up of Le Coucou was such a vibe. It had an air of sophistication while still retaining this intimate welcoming feel, naturally and easily becoming one of the perfect spots to just chill and enjoy the early night of BGC.
Given this hugely positive experience of drinking cocktails in their al fresco area, I said to myself that I'd try their food when I get the chance to, and fast forward a few months later, it manifested itself. I was generously invited to try out their Parisian Brunch, and of course who wouldn't say yes to it?
Le Coucou - the second time around
Seeing the restaurant in broad daylight felt remarkably different as opposed to the first time I saw it in the evening. It almost felt like two different places. Night time gives the place this intimate cozy vibe that I find warm and inviting. Morning is a bit intimidating, more posh and sophisticated. The good thing about this is that you can choose the time (and vibe) that fits with your chosen intention.
Tamarind Juice with their freshly baked house bread
This selection comes in a limited-time only, so it's great for you to try them as early as you can, especially the two dishes that I'd be raving about shortly.
Smoked Salmon Flatbread (left) and French-Style Mac and Cheese (right)
The curated dishes in the Parisian Brunch selection may seem very familiar, perhaps too regular for some, but Le Coucou is able to further elevate them by giving more subtleties and dimensions to their taste.
The Smoked Salmon Flatbread had this sweet-savory push and pull marked by a subtle yet playful tang from the caviar-like herring pearls. The French-style Mac and Cheese was astounding! It had this excellent crispy bits and toasty cheese at the top, with the gruyere being in the right proportion enough to give it that suave sharpness that is very enjoyable on the palate. Hands-down, one of the best mac and cheese I tried to date!
Bistrot Le Coucou's Lobster Roll - a limited offering for its Parisian Brunch selection
The Lobster Roll had an interesting spin to it giving it this unique blend of subtle flavors. The citrus mayonnaise did a great job in elevating the overall taste of the lobster. On the other hand, I'd prefer this to be less bready. While toasty and buttery, the brioche had the tendency to pull the focus from the lobsters. Still, an overall good dish.
The Golden White Chocolate French Toast (left) and freshly brewed tea (right)
Another dish that took me by surprise was the Golden White Chocolate French Toast. It's a physical manifestation of the heavenly skies. The brioche is filled with this delectable whipped cream that gave the bread a melt-in-your-mouth texture. The elements, flavors and textures are all in harmony which made this dish enjoyable from start to finish! A must-try!
With the two visits I had in Le Coucou, one for trying the cocktails and other for the Parisian brunch, I now have a larger confidence about what they can offer. I have a feeling that all of these are just teasers, and I have yet to really experience Le Coucou's finest selections, so I'll definitely be back! Hopefully this also got your curiosity stirred up. Try them out, and let me know your thoughts!
For reservations and inquiries:
Bistrot Le Coucou: +639543562965
Reservations link: https://www.nikkei.com.ph/book-a-table
