Discover a unique Izakaya experience at Luc-San, the latest restaurant by Luke Mangan, located in Potts Point.
Nestled discreetly on Penny’s Lane in the vibrant neighbourhood of Potts Point, Luc-San emerges as a culinary revelation brought to life by the seasoned chef and restaurateur, Luke Mangan. With a remarkable career spanning three decades, Mangan’s latest venture, Luc-San, has already made waves in Sydney’s dining scene, offering a fresh and exciting take on the fusion of French and Japanese cuisines.
You might recognise Luke Mangan from his renowned Luke’s Kitchen, situated inside the newly renovated Kimpton Margot, but Luc-San is an entirely different experience. This relaxed dining spot provides a respite from the hustle and bustle of nearby Kings Cross, inviting patrons to savour a delectable marriage of French and Japanese flavours. In essence, it’s a French Izakaya, where the artistry of both cuisines melds seamlessly into a culinary symphony.
Mangan’s deep-rooted love for French and Japanese cuisines shines brilliantly at Luc-San. Here, you’ll encounter French culinary finesse interwoven with the nuanced flavours of Japan. What sets Luc-San apart is Mangan’s commitment to using the freshest locally sourced ingredients, some even hailing from his very own garden.
The menu at Luc-San is thoughtfully divided into five sections: snacks, skewers from the Robata Grill, vegetables, large plates, and, of course, desserts. Some savoury highlights include the Prawns with seaweed beurre blanc and shiso, a sublime blend of a classic French butter sauce infused with three types of seaweed. Another standout is the classic Steak Tartare with fried sushi rice, accompanied by wasabi leaves picked straight from Mangan’s garden. For those seeking a refreshing option, the Fresh Soba Noodle Salad with peanut, sesame, and dijon Rayu is a delightful choice.
Dessert aficionados will be delighted by offerings like the Soft Meringue with yuzu curd, brandy cumquats, and finger lime, or the Japanese Milk Bread-Brûlée ‘Suzette’, a delicious twist on a classic.
Luc-San isn’t just about food; it’s a place to indulge in craft cocktails and a relaxed bar-style experience. The cocktail menu continues the French-Japanese fusion, alongside a wide array of sake and Japanese whiskey. Notable cocktails include the signature Luc-San Martini, crafted with Summum Vodka, shochu, Massenez Lychee, pineapple, and ginger, as well as the Okinawa Vesper, infused with nori, gin, shochu, lillet blanc, saline, and togarashi.
The ambiance at Luc-San is moody and dimly lit, setting the stage for an intimate dining experience. As you step inside, a striking red terrazzo bar greets you, complemented by warm grey textured walls and a soft neutral palette. The restaurant’s artistic flair is amplified by two murals adorning the walls, each portraying the profile of a woman – one French, the other Japanese – creating a visual connection between the menu and the ambiance.
Luc-San is open Tuesday through Saturday, from 4 pm until late. Find out more here.
