Legendary Restaurateur Serge Raoul, Co-Founder of Raoul’s in SoHo, Dies at 86
Serge Raoul, the co-founder of the iconic French bistro Raoul’s in SoHo, passed away on March 8 at his home in Nyack, N.Y. at the age of 86. Raoul, along with his brother Guy, established Raoul’s in 1975, creating a beloved gathering place for artists, rock stars, writers, and other luminaries.
The bistro, located in Lower Manhattan, quickly became a hotspot in the then up-and-coming SoHo neighborhood. Raoul’s unique charm and classic French cuisine attracted a diverse clientele, from neighborhood artists to celebrities like Andy Warhol and Robert Hughes.
Despite its humble beginnings as a spaghetti and meatballs joint, Raoul’s soon became a cultural hub, known for its eclectic decor, including a fish tank filled with generations of goldfish. The restaurant’s walls were adorned with art from local patrons, and its menu featured classic bistro fare like steak au poivre and pâté maison.
Raoul’s was not just a place to eat, but a place to see and be seen. The bistro’s maître d’hôtel, Rob Jones, became a local legend with his theatrical performances, including a drag act as Dusty Springfield. Jones’s performances added an extra layer of excitement to the already vibrant atmosphere at Raoul’s.
Over the years, Raoul’s continued to thrive, attracting a loyal following and earning rave reviews from critics. The bistro’s success was a testament to Serge Raoul’s vision and Guy Raoul’s culinary expertise.
Serge Raoul’s legacy lives on through Raoul’s, which is still operating under his son’s management. The bistro will celebrate its 50th anniversary next year, a testament to the enduring appeal of this iconic New York City establishment.
In memory of Serge Raoul, patrons and fans of Raoul’s continue to flock to the bistro, keeping its spirit alive and honoring the man who helped create a legendary dining experience in the heart of SoHo.
