A new kind of neighbourhood bistrot is arriving in Notting Hill next month. Chez Lui is the debut restaurant from La Bistrot Collection, the latest concept from the acclaimed Bagatelle Group, offering a fresh and elegant take on Parisian dining in West London.
Intimate, refined, and filled with French spirit, Chez Lui is designed to feel like stepping into the home of your most stylish Parisian friend, where every detail feels effortlessly chic and inviting. From seasonal menus and warm hospitality to plush interiors and thoughtful design, every detail invites guests to slow down and savour the moment.
Set across two characterful levels, a 60 square foot bistrot on the ground floor and a 70 square foot lounge downstairs, the space evokes the charm of a tucked-away gem in Le Marais. Crafted in collaboration with acclaimed designer Sam Baron – celebrated for his work with iconic brands like Dior Maison and Diptyque – the interiors artfully reimagine the Parisian bistro, where heritage meets modern refinement.
A masterful mix of textures unfolds throughout the space: deep aubergine velvet banquettes sit against timeworn brickwork, and brass antique mirrors are complemented by rich woods.
The walls are lined with a collection of artful curios, and tables are set with flickering candlelight and crisp white linens. The bistrot is a balance of old-world charm and contemporary allure, a well-travelled home adorned with curated, understated elegance.
Leading the kitchen is Rocco Seminara, Bagatelle Group’s Corporate Chef and Neptune Prize winner, a culinary virtuoso whose expertise was honed under legends like Alain Ducasse in France’s most prestigious kitchens.
By his side is Manon Santini, Bagatelle Group’s Pastry Corporate Chef and fellow Neptune Prize recipient, whose desserts blend precision with whimsy, a testament to her celebrated artistry.
Completing this powerhouse trio is Development Chef Pablo Segovia, a dynamic force whose globe-spanning expertise and fearless creativity shape the restaurant’s boldest innovations. With an artist’s eye and a traveller’s palate, Pablo transforms each dish into an unforgettable experience.
The menu is a masterful tribute to seasonal cooking, reimagining timeless favourites with contemporary flair. Begin with a bold twist on beef tartare, enlivened with a zesty chimichurri glaze, or savour the crunch of golden-fried purple artichokes, elegantly paired with celery pesto and a delicate trout roe vinaigrette.
At the heart of the mains lies an elevated rendition of the classic roast chicken, transformed from humble to extraordinary through meticulous preparation. Brined for 72 hours in aromatic spices, slow-cooked with herb-infused butter, and finished with a crisp, golden roast, each bite delivers unrivalled succulence and depth of flavour.
No meal is complete without a decadent finale: indulge in a timeless caramelised apple Tarte Tatin crowned with mascarpone cream, the velvety richness of a dark chocolate mousse, or the daring tropical notes of Rum Baba, layered with pineapple compote and house-made vanilla cream.
Chez Lui’s wine list celebrates its French roots, featuring a thoughtfully curated selection that spans from crisp Chablis and vibrant Sancerre to well-balanced Côtes du Rhône, ensuring a perfect pairing for every preference.
Cocktails also play a starring role, with inventive riffs on the classic Negroni (available in three variations) and a visually captivating Paloma.
Embracing Parisian tradition, the bistro will welcome guests for le goûter, the quintessential afternoon pause. Patrons can enjoy a leisurely coffee or opt for a (Londoner-favourite) matcha, offering a refined interlude between meals.
“The opening of Chez Lui in Notting Hill represents a significant milestone for our team,” says Aymeric Clemente, Co-Founder and President of Bagatelle Group. “As the debut restaurant to La Bistrot Collection, this venture is a testament to our commitment to authentic French cuisine and timeless hospitality. Notting Hill’s dynamic character and appreciation for culinary excellence make it the ideal home for Chez Lui. We have meticulously crafted every aspect of this bistro, and we are excited to now share it with the community.”
Whether stopping in for a glass of Sancerre and a plate of gougères or settling in for an unhurried dinner, Chez Lui is designed for easy enjoyment and lasting memories. A soulful addition to London’s culinary landscape, where genuine hospitality meets effortless elegance.
