Exterior of Dutch hotel nhow Amsterdam RAI

The Entourage Group turns its hand to Mexican cuisine

The Entourage Group has outlined plans to launch two new Mexican-inspired F&B concepts in Amsterdam.

Lalo Contemporary Mexican Kitchen & Bar and Coco Lounge & Bar will open on the 24th floor of the nhow Amsterdam RAI hotel, which boasts panoramic views over the Dutch capital, later this year. These represent the latest additions to the high-end hospitality company’s portfolio of brands, which also includes Momo, Izakaya, The Butcher, Shirkhan, Mr Porter, The Duchess, Bepita and Toni Loco.

Offering a contemporary take on Mexican cuisine, Lalo will feature an open kitchen where guests can watch skilled chefs prepare dishes over roaring flames and a wood-burning oven. The menu will showcase a range of meats, seafood, ceviche, tacos and creative desserts, accompanied by signature cocktails made from premium tequilas, mezcals and eclectic infusions.

The space has been overseen by Studio MU Architecture & Design, which sought to bring the essence of Mexico to life using natural materials such as antique wrought iron, textured concrete, rustic wood and bespoke terrazzo, offset by shimmering gold and brass accents. There will also be lush tropical plants and seating derived from leather saddles, with rope backrests woven by Mexican artisans.

Meanwhile, Coco will pair a variety of small dishes with more than 100 varieties of tequila and tropical cocktails inspired by Latin flavours. This all-day lounge will incorporate leather velvet seating, brass details, exotic greenery and an outdoor terrace, providing an appealing spot for guests to watch the sun go down with a cocktail or two.

The Entourage Group was co-founded by Yossi Eliyahoo and Liran Wizman. In 2018, Eliyahooo gave an exclusive interview to Supper, discussing why he has no interest in following short-lived culinary trends and explaining how he sets about creating concepts that “will still be relevant ten years from now”.

CREDITS
Words: Richard Frost