Chez Roux will be located in the hotel's Palm Court and will be inspired by the chef's childhood memories, of growing up in rural Kent in the 1960s, being raised at the Fairlawne estate where his father Albert Roux worked as a private chef for the Cazalet family, and the first menus from Le Gavroche in 1967.
The menu will showcase historical British classics and traditional French cooking methods, 'presented in contemporary, refined dishes'. To begin, guests will be able to sample Roux’s take on Welsh Rarebit, while main courses will include lamb chops reform, inspired by Alexis Soyer’s classic 1830s recipe, comprising herb-crusted lamb, faggot and reform sauce; and grilled lobster with garlic butter, fries and béarnaise, one of Roux's all-time favourite dishes, and something he remembers enjoying at Le Gavroche as a child.
The drinks list will feature a selection of premium wines and champagnes, as well as a collection of cocktails reflective of the era, including the Queen’s Dubonnet and the Madeira Cobbler.
“I have such fond memories of growing up at Fairlawne, where my father spent seven years cooking for the Cazalet family. From relaxed lunches to extravagant dinner parties, it’s safe to say everyone ate very well," says Roux.
"Dad had to learn the great British classics but used all his French technique and skills to cook for the family and esteemed guests. When my parents had to cook dinner parties, the wife of the head butler, Mrs Bradbrook, would babysit, introducing me to the wonders of great British desserts such as crumble and custard, and steamed puddings."
"The menu at Chez Roux is inspired by these early memories. Many of the recipes that were popular during the 60s have been consigned to history, yet there is so much to love about the dishes I remember from this time – British classics combined with traditional French techniques. So, with a touch of nostalgia and much excitement, I can’t wait for guests to try the menus at Chez Roux at The Langham.”
Roux previously operated Roux at The Landau at the hotel, which has since closed to make way for Jean-François Piège's French Riviera-inspired Paris restaurant Mimosa.
The new restaurant follows the closure of Le Gavroche, which closed in January after 56 years.
Chez Roux will open on 22 May and will serve dinner only.
