HUGO, NOW Open for Business!

by Heather McGuire

There is a new restaurant now open in Oakley, and it is a real force of nature!  Named for the 1989 hurricane that left Charleston virtually a “clean slate” for a new kind of cuisine, Hugo brings to Cincinnati that low-country food, indicative of Charleston, with a Metropolitan presentation.  This “sophisticated southern” fare is what Executive Chef, Sean Daly is known for.  He sharpened his natural talent for cooking in culinary school at Johnson & Whales (in Charleston), perfected it at Tink’s, and now delivers his gift for combining food, wine, and ambiance in beautiful presentation at Hugo. 

Hugo is up and running in the space previously occupied by Jean-Robert de Cavel’s Pho Paris, which has moved to a new location next door to his Greenup Café in Covington.  The Lounge at Hugo offers a “Small Plates” menu with choices ranging from Daly’s now famous fried green tomatoes and foie gras mac n’ cheese to southern staples, such as grits and corn fritters. 

The main menu, offered in the Lounge and main dining room, is full of interesting combinations.  The menu is divided into first, second, and main courses.  It is portioned perfectly, so that even if you enjoy all three courses and dessert, you leave comfortably full, not over-stuffed.  The menu is innovative, combining the chef’s passion for exquisite food with a cutting- edge style..      

In addition to the Lounge and main dining room, Hugo also offers the Magnolia Room, a private dining room for groups of six to 14.  Hugo is also known for its distinctive wine menu, offering a wide range that reflect Daly’s extensive knowledge.  In the back of the restaurant sits Hugo’s own Wine Room, which offers exquisite wines and an intimate table for two… which is quickly becoming known as the “Anniversary Table”. 

Hugo is proud to announce that it will be participating in Oakley “After Hours”, formerly known as “Final Fridays”, and will be offering half-priced small plates in the Lounge from 6:00-9:00.  “After Hours” occurs the last Friday of every month, April through September, and begins at 6:00 p.m.  Participating businesses stay open until 9:00 with live music and a very fun atmosphere.  Patrons can enjoy walking to the different shops in Oakley, such as Nest and Casa Delorenzo, and end up grabbing a drink and a bite at Hugo, or another participating restaurant.    

Hugo is open Tuesday-Saturday at 5:30.  You can make a reservation in the main dining room by calling 321-HUGO (4846) or sit down in the Lounge or at the bar, enjoy a sampling of “small plates” and a drink, any time you’d like.  Check out the menu at their website www.hugo-restaurant.com.