Michelin Chef's £14 Viral Chips Put to the Taste Test by Food Critics
A new premium loaded fries restaurant has taken London by storm, selling portions of chips for a staggering £14 each. The establishment, which has rapidly gained viral attention, prompted one food enthusiast to visit and determine whether the menu truly lives up to the considerable hype surrounding it.
The High-End Chip Concept
Frites Atelier represents a high-end, Dutch-inspired loaded fries concept restaurant, masterminded by three-Michelin-starred chef Sergio Herman. The inaugural UK location launched in Soho last December, quickly establishing a reputation for its exceptional spuds and meticulous double-frying techniques. Post-launch, the restaurant went viral almost immediately, with food critics and diners alike eager to ascertain if the chips could possibly justify their eye-watering price tag.
The Critics' Verdict
Two prominent food critics, Big G and Paulie from the Bite Twice Food Reviews channel, sampled the restaurant shortly after its opening. Known for their candid and unfiltered feedback on London dining spots, they documented their experience in an Instagram video. Initially skeptical, Big G confessed he "didn't expect" to enjoy the £14 chips as much as he ultimately did.
In the video, Big G declared, "I woke up this morning, and I thought, 'Do you know what this country needs? A Dutch-style chippy'. All of my prayers have been answered. It feels like you've just come out of Harrods." He revealed he had splashed out £14 on the special edition cheese fries, stating the dish needed to impress or he would be furious about the expenditure.
A Surprising Culinary Delight
After taking his first mouthful, Big G was absolutely stunned. He exclaimed, "This is everything I want in chips. I came here expecting to tear this the a***hole of all a***holes. And it's f***ing divine. Crunchy on the outside, soft and subtle on the inside, not over-oiled. It's just a divine potato."
Despite his admiration, Big G remained troubled by the cost, describing it as "crazy" to charge £14 for chips, regardless of toppings. However, he conceded the sheer delight it brought made it worthwhile, adding, "I'd almost go as far as to say that's some of the best chips I've ever eaten in my life." He awarded the chips a score of 8.4 out of 10, recommending them as a "treat" for anyone with the budget for expensive yet incredibly moreish chips.
Paulie then sampled the chips and rapidly concurred with Big G's assessment. He awarded a marginally superior rating of 8.7 out of 10, and both critics concluded the chips were "well worthy of the hype."
The Menu Offerings
The cheesy chips sampled by Big G and Paulie appear to be the cheddar, bacon, and jalapeños variety fries, which are unique to the London establishment. The menu also features several other enticing options:
- Parmesan and basil loaded fries
- A signature beef stew topping
- Traditional plain chips served with your preferred sauce
The eatery additionally offers a "snack" selection that includes:
- A Korean chicken burger
- A cheddar cheese burger
- "Chicken chunks," their take on chicken nuggets
- An array of golden croquettes available in prawn, cheese, or beef varieties
Location and Opening Hours
Frites Atelier is situated at 34 Old Compton Street in Soho, London. The restaurant welcomes guests daily from 11:30 am through to midnight, providing ample opportunity for both lunchtime visits and late-night indulgences.
