Under the direction of Executive Chef Randolph Buck and Chef de Cuisine Joseph Maynard, Criollo Restaurant and Lounge will make its debut in the New Orleans restaurant scene in March 2012 offering a fine dining experience that features a menu of Contemporary Louisiana cuisine and an atmosphere of approachable elegance. Criollo (kree-oh-loh) is the Spanish form of the French word, “Creole.”
The name was chosen for the new restaurant representative of the amalgam of cultures that present themselves in our cooking and provide the unique taste that makes up Louisiana cuisine. Tapping into Chef Maynard’s ethnic cooking style, Criollo Restaurant and Lounge infuses traditional Creole flavors of French, Spanish, Italian, and African with new spices to create dishes in the style it calls Louisiana Fusion. “The dishes on the Criollo Restaurant and Lounge menu present a balance between rich foods and lighter options to cater to a variety of diners,” said Maynard. “We are working closely with local farmers for a farm-to-table approach using all fresh ingredients. Additionally, all food items purchased for the restaurant will be from the Gulf Coast region.”
In addition to fine cuisine, Criollo Restaurant and Lounge will offer a grand assortment of wines and spirits. José Montalvo, General Manager and experienced sommelier, is working hand-inhand with the culinary team to assemble a wine selection that complements the flavors found in each dish. “It is with great pride that we dedicate our new restaurant, Criollo Restaurant and Lounge, to our city’s unique, home-grown cuisine,” said Montalvo. “From the moment people walk in the door to the time they depart, we look forward to providing customers with a fine dining experience through exquisite, innovative cuisine and the restaurant’s elegant, stylish design.” The architectural design of Criollo Restaurant and Lounge presents an atmosphere of approachable elegance as warm golden colors; French limestone floors; and rich, dark wood mix with the soothing palette of deep purples and light grayish blues.
Large circular glass chandeliers and coffered ceiling designs with customized crown molding open up the room. Smaller booths and table seating options offer a trendy, yet comfortable setting for breakfast, lunch and dinner. The open kitchen area creates an air of excitement as patrons can watch the chefs creating culinary masterpieces while the availability of two private dining areas provides a more intimate experience. Located next to the famous Carousel Bar and Lounge, the restaurant resides inside the Hotel Monteleone. For more information and regular updates about Criollo Restaurant and Lounge, please visit http://hotelmonteleone.com/criollo.