Brothers Maxime, Yannis and Malik Alary are delighted to announce the opening of their second restaurant, Blanchette East on Brick Lane. Lovingly named after the brothers’ mother, the new restaurant celebrates everything that guests have come to love about the Soho original but with a few distinct variations. The modern French menu incorporates more Southern French and North African influences with spices from the regions, while the décor is inspired by the Parisian Belle Époque era combined with the distinctive urban feel of East London.
Tam Storrar, who is now taking on the role of executive chef across both restaurants, has put together a menu true to Blanchette’s style, made up of French sharing plates with a twist. The menu begins with a variety of smaller snacks, charcuterie and cheeses including the much loved Crispy frog’s legs with Bois Boudran sauce; and Merguez Sausage Rolls with Harissa Mayonnaise. The menu is then split into fish, meat and vegetable dishes including: Rare Peppered Tuna with Chili, Avocado and Lime; Lamb Tagine with Apricot, Almonds and Lebna, exploring the more North African flavours that Blanchette East will be championing; and Saffron Couscous with Tabbouleh and Pomegranate Yoghurt. From the dessert menu the signature Strawberry Vacherin with Black Pepper Ice Cream remains, with new dishes such as Chilled Peach and Saffron Soup, Coconut Macaroon and Raspberry Sorbet being introduced. The concise wine list features French, Spanish and Italian wines, while the cocktail menu focuses on classic drinks executed with Blanchette’s unique style.
Merging the Parisian Belle Époque era with East London edge, the interior design has been overseen by award-winning design agency, Blacksheep. Decorated throughout with antiques sourced from Parisian vintage markets by the Alary brothers, the 70-cover restaurant is divided into three main parts. A dining counter made from beautiful white marble welcomes diners into the restaurant, while the bright dining room beyond features rustic wooden and marble tables and distressed walls and ceilings, offset by an array of fresh plants. In addition, the private dining room named ‘The Cote d’Azur’ features a large mural replica of a Picasso sketch painted by artist Aldo Gigli.
As with Soho, music will play an important role at Blanchette East, and playlists have been carefully curated by Blanchette’s very own Malik Alary, who is also founder of sound design company La Musique du Faubourg. Malik’s eclectic signature style blends elements of nu-disco, funk soul classics and new wave – a neat parallel to the diversity of East London.
Bringing a slice of Soho to Brick Lane, Blanchette is a welcome addition to East London’s ever thriving food, arts and music scene.
For more information click here