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Indonesia Tatler, August 2006
Food for The Soul
Article by Mariah Zarah R. Gregorio
The French. They have a beautiful language, a rich culture and history, plus fine cuisine that most, if not all prominent members of society, are familiar with. The French exude the impression of class and sophistication, which has successfully been disseminated into the world by flavours and textures of their cuisine.
Emilie Restaurant , located in Senopati, is in close proximity to the central business district, the main road of Sudirman, as well as the residential area of Kebayoran Baru. Situated in a two-storey standalone building, Emilie has an understated interior designed by Jaya Ibrahim and Solohome. This simplicity and implied luxury is synonymous throughout the premise, allowing for a comfortable dining experience.
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Specialising in authentic French cooking, Emilie blends the distinct flavours of Provence with dishes from the South of France. Lead by Executive Chef Gérald Genson, who was born in Nice, Emilie offers well-presented and carefully prepared dishes using only the very best and freshest ingredients available.
It has a lunch and dinner menu, which offers a variety of specialties. The lunch menu focuses on providing busy executives and businesspeople from the buildings in the vicinity quality meals that are served promptly. Affordability is also one value provided by Emilie. Choose from the selection of soups and appetizers which Herb Butter and Le Foie Gras- Pan Seared Duck Foie Gras with Caramelized Apple & Grapes, two staples in any French menu. For main course, variants such as chicken, beef, or seafood are available.
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Close the meal with tempting pastries and ice cream. Come dinnertime, Emilie takes on the role of elegant restaurant. With subdued lighting, the venue is transformed into a romantic abode, perfect for celebrating special occasions or gatherings. With favourites such as Beef Burgundy, Duck Confit and other dishes, any evening is sure to be a pleasant and unforgettable one.
Keeping abreast with the produce of the season, Emilie and chef Genson offers weekly specials. Information is posted on their website, emilierestaurant.com, and can also be obtained via e-mail, info@emilierestaurant.com In addition, the restaurant's management also hosts events for their discerning clientele. Recently, Master Chef of French Cuisine, Justin Quek, was invited to delight the palates of the VIP guest list.
Hailing from Singapore , Justin started his career at the Mandarin Oriental Hotel Singapore. His desire for more skills and experiences lead him to Europe, where he trained in some of the world's most excellent establishments - Hotel de Crillon, Jean Bardet, Hotel du Centenaire, and L'Oasis in France . In 1993, along with three partners, Justin founded the Les Amis Group in his native Singapore . He was awarded the title of ‘S. Pellegrino Chef of the year' in 2004 at the World Gourmet Summit Awards of Excellence.
For the occasion, Justin prepared a special five-course menu starting with Amuse Bouche, followed by Herbal Beef Consommé with Foie Gras Tortellini. The consommé was light, which suited the delicate taste and texture of the foie gras. This was complemented with Künstler, Riesling Kabinett 2004. Timbale of Cepes Mushrooms and Roasted Cherry Tomato was served next. For main course, Grilled Smoked Prime Rib of Beef, Young Vegetables, and Bordeaux Sauce, served as the piece de resistance. A glass of Louis Latour, Domaine De Valmoissine Pinot Noir 2003 added flav\our to the already delicious dish. The luncheon ended with Champagne Jelly and Strawberries, served with homemade ice cream.
After the hearty meal, guests were treated to a journey into the intricacies of preparing sumptuous French fare. Chef Justin, with his makeshift kitchen in the restaurant's dining area, showed those in attendance the simple techniques in preparing two dishes - Escargots with Herbs Crust and Champagne jelly with Strawberries and Vanilla ice cream. The recipes, perfected by Chef Justin himself, were passed out and served as quaint souvenirs for the truly unforgettable afternoon of flavours at Emilie.
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