A New ‘Toast Bar’ Opens in Hollerich: Oné – Perfect for Upscale Street Food with an Asian Twist.
Ask Chong Chen why he named his new restaurant Oné, and you’ll need to sit down for a creative journey through his mind. While “Oné” doesn’t have a specific meaning, it started with the word “One” – for the rest of the story, you’ll have to ask him yourself.
The trained graphic designer entered the restaurant business in 2013 at Mont-Saint-Lambert, his mother’s Asian restaurant in Limpertsberg. “This profession gives you quick and more satisfying feedback on your work. There’s more interaction.” He later launched Hakii, a fusion sushi spot in Belair.
“The Concept Was Perfect!”
On October 15th, he opened Oné Toast Bar, a trendy little restaurant in the heart of Hollerich. “A few years ago, I was in the Netherlands for a breakdance competition. When I left the venue, I saw a shop across the street that only sold sandwiches. It stuck with me – I thought the concept was brilliant! Plus, you need fewer kitchen staff, which makes things simpler.” That’s exactly what he’s now bringing to Luxembourg.
A Pop Culture Haven
With roots in Shanghai, a youth shaped by Japanese manga-anime-gaming culture and street culture, plus travels across Asia… Chens new place couldn’t help but be all about Asian pop-culure. The walls feature drawings from Shanghai, rice paper kakemonos, an old Chinese communist propaganda poster, a cherry blossom corner, a collection of art books, manga figurines, and a giant screen etc.
At the entrance, an ultra-cozy red flowered corner topped with black wooden lattice work, from which greenery and lamps descend, welcomes guests with two comfortable benches. “We prepare everything to order, so this allows people to wait for their order in a welcoming space. You can also have a themed evening watching a movie or enjoy a meal with friends,” explains the restaurateur.
Lobster Roll and Wagyu Sandwich
On the menu: sandwiches, but not just any sandwiches. “My bread comes from Pains&Traditions. When you’re serving sandwiches, you must have good bread and good brioche,” explains the young restaurateur. One of his signature items: the Lobster Roll. Smooth brioche, balanced seasoning, and guaranteed freshness. “And also the Wagyu & Egg,” adds Chong Chen.
His Oné’s Banh Mi, with chicken, promises to satisfy Vietnamese sandwich enthusiasts. “For now, the menu is in its testing phase. These will stay, but others will evolve or change completely.” This gave him the opportunity to let us taste one of his upcoming creations, with beef and Sichuan pepper. A delicious treat highly recommended for those who love bold flavors. “I’ll also offer a vegan option, made with grilled tofu and king oyster mushrooms.” So there will be something for everyone.
An Evolving Menu
Regarding clientele, the young restaurateur plans to evolve his menu during November “to offer sandwiches between 8 and 10 euros for takeaway, but not made-to-order – they’ll be pre-made and refrigerated.” This is to diversify his clientele and attract local students. On the current menu, sandwiches range from 14.50€ to 22.50€.
Oné — Toast Bar
2, rue Emile-Lavandier
Hollerich, Luxembourg
Open Monday to Friday 11:30 AM to 2:30 PM
and starting the week of November 4th, Wednesday to Friday 5 PM to 10 PM.
