As Raoul’s approaches its golden anniversary, the iconic bistro nestled in SoHo stands as a testament to the evolving tapestry of New York City’s dining landscape. Founded in 1975 by brothers Guy and Serge Raoul, the restaurant has been a gathering place for creatives, celebrities, and food enthusiasts alike. On December 8, Raoul’s will officially turn 50, marking a significant milestone in its illustrious journey.
Despite the nostalgic weight of this occasion, Guy Raoul maintains a refreshingly pragmatic view of time and sentiment. “I have no notion of time,” he reflects, dismissing the emotional heft that often accompanies such anniversaries. Instead, he focuses on the restaurant’s vibrant present and its place within the ever-changing fabric of SoHo.
Raoul’s: From humble beginnings to cultural hotspot
Raoul’s opened its doors during a time when SoHo was a gritty district filled with factories and warehouses, far removed from the upscale boutiques and art galleries of today. Guy, who was the chef, and Serge, the business mind, began their culinary adventure in a former Italian restaurant. They served classic French dishes, like steak au poivre, along with martinis, until the early hours of the morning.
A brush with fame
The restaurant soon found itself at the center of a cultural revolution. One fateful evening, a producer from Saturday Night Live wandered in, and it was like turning on a switch. Suddenly, Raoul’s transformed into a bohemian sanctuary where artists, musicians, and actors mingled. The likes of Julia Roberts, Quentin Tarantino, and Sarah Jessica Parker would frequent the establishment, drawn by its casual yet sophisticated atmosphere.
One particularly memorable moment involved Guy’s wife, who was the maître d’ at the time. She unknowingly seated rock legend Mick Jagger at a prominent table, oblivious to his celebrity status. This anecdote captures the essence of Raoul’s—a space where glamour and familiarity coalesce.
A legacy of culinary innovation
In the years since its inception, Raoul’s has evolved but retained its core identity. While the restaurant scene in New York has shifted towards fine dining, Raoul’s has embraced a more approachable dining experience. Guy describes it as a venue where guests feel comfortable conversing with the staff and where the chef is accessible. This ethos has attracted renowned chefs like Daniel Boulud, who fondly remembers the restaurant’s “soulful French bohème spirit” and the friendships forged within its walls.
Signature dishes that became legends
The bistro’s signature dish, the steak au poivre, gained notoriety after receiving a rave review from esteemed food critic Mimi Sheraton in 1976. She praised its generous portion size, cementing it as a fan favorite. Decades later, it remains a cornerstone of the menu, accounting for a significant portion of nightly orders. Guy’s playful lament about the steak au poivre’s omnipresence showcases his enduring relationship with the dish that has become synonymous with Raoul’s.
In 2012, Raoul’s introduced a new contender to its repertoire: the steak au poivre burger. This culinary innovation quickly garnered acclaim, with Esquire naming it the best burger in America. Today, patrons can be seen eagerly waiting outside for a taste of this legendary burger, a testament to the restaurant’s ability to adapt while honoring its roots.
Enduring charm amidst change
As SoHo continues to evolve into a hub for luxury shopping and high-end living, Raoul’s remains a cherished institution. The bistro’s longevity can be attributed to its unique blend of tradition and modernity, embodying a sense of nostalgia while welcoming new generations of diners. Karim Raoul, Guy’s nephew, reflects on the changing landscape: “There’s nothing left from what it was, but it still feels like a hamlet exists here.”
The restaurant stands as a rare bastion of New York’s rich cultural history, where the spirit of creativity and authenticity still thrives. As the 50th anniversary approaches, Raoul’s continues to attract a diverse clientele, from fashion designers to Michelin-starred chefs, all drawn by its unmistakable charm and rich legacy.
In a city where dining trends come and go, Raoul’s endures as a beloved landmark. As diners celebrate its remarkable journey, they are reminded of the restaurant’s role in shaping the New York culinary scene—one where the essence of good food, great company, and artistic spirit flourishes.
