If you're looking for the best way to beat the winter blues, introducing some après-ski splendour is a sure way to do that. Meet Haugen, the incredible Alpine-inspired dining hotspot that has freshly landed in Stratford.
Located in London's Olympic Park, D&D's latest venture pays homage to Anders Haugen, Norwegian Olympic champion in ski jumping. It also translates from Norwegian to the word 'mound', apt for the imposing three-level Bauhaus structure that can host over 500 guests.
Haugen has it all - it's a café, a restaurant, a bar, a deli, and best of all, a heated rooftop terrace. Designed by Afroditi Krassa (talent employed by Heston Blumenthal, Dishoom, and Itsu), the cosy yet chic interior is draped with white faux-fur throws, twinkling fairy lights, and roaring fireplaces, the warm amber glow lighting up the mountains of fondue and raclette being circulated.
The menu is true-to-theme, and also true to D&D standards (the masterminds behind the likes of Bluebird, Avenue, and Madison). It serves up rustic cuisine and Swiss and German Alpine classics. The cheese-lovers' paradise offers lavish Fondues with Sourdough, classic French Tartiflettes, and of course, the headline Raclette.
The Vienna Schnitzel is a well-made crowd pleaser, and the opportunity to order the Schweinshaxe, the German slow-roast pork knuckle served with Sauerkraut and Potato Dumplings, should not be missed.
The fondue theme following through to dessert, the Chocolate Fondue is fantastic, and comes with Marshmallows, Fruits, Honeycomb, and Shortbread. Apple Strudel is also on offer, as well as the Schwarzwälder (German Black Forest), and the Spiced Plum Crumble.
The cocktail menu is well worth the visit alone. You can find masterpieces such as the fruity Haugen Breeze with vanilla vodka and lavender, the Hunters Mistake with white chocolate infused bourbon and millionaire's shortbread syrup, and the Strudel that features apple schnapps and cinnamon, that also appears in the 'Apres Hour' menu.
And, our favourite part - Haugen offers a Bottomless Fondue Brunch. Along with the live bands, DJs, menu offers, and outstanding surroundings, it provides a unique option for when the budget can't quite get you to Courchevel.
As with all D&D dining, Haugen was always likely to be an impressive contender, with its immaculate theming, spot-on menu, and authentic Verbier vibes that pierce an otherwise dreary Olympic Park and transform it into a sparkling après-ski paradise.
We award this one a Gold. You can find Haugen at 9 Endeavour Square, London E20 1JN.
Liked this post? Follow this blog to get more.