Lunch at LaLou, an Effortlessly Cool Natural Wine-Focused Restaurant in Prospect Heights, Brooklyn

Aug 4

While in NYC I met up with friends to catch up over lunch in Brooklyn. There's something invaluable about arriving at a restaurant with the assurance that a friend's refined palate will ensure an excellent dining experience. I walked into LaLou and knew I had arrived at a gem in Prospect Heights. This charming wine bar and restaurant offers a carefully curated selection of natural, biodynamic, and small-production wines from around the world, paired with market-driven fare from Executive Chef Ian Anderson.

The wine list at LaLou is the work of co-owners Joe Campanale and Dave Foss, both of whom are passionate about natural wine. The list features over 500 bottles, with a focus on lesser-known producers and regions. There are also plenty of wines by the glass, so you can easily explore the list without the commitment to a bottle.

Chef Anderson's menu changes seasonally, but you can expect to find dishes that are both creative and delicious. Some lunch standouts include a perfectly flakey Voul-Au-Vent with soft scrambled eggs, a refreshing Endive Salad with orange and hazelnuts, and a mouth-watering Grass-Fed Burger Au Poivre.

In addition to its delightful food and wine, LaLou also has a great vibe. The space is warm and inviting, with a cozy dining room and a cozy outdoor patio. The service is friendly and attentive, and the staff is always happy to help you choose the perfect wine to pair with your meal.