The First Floor

The First Floor restaurant is tucked away at an unassuming address: 4 Bisserweg, in Luxembourg’s historic Grund district. To find it, you have to go through the door of Scott’s pub on the ground floor, then head upstairs. This contrast between the pub’s lively, British atmosphere and the restaurant’s more intimate ambiance is part of its charm. The establishment has built a solid reputation among gourmets and those seeking unique culinary experiences in Luxembourg’s capital.

The location is truly remarkable: perched above the Alzette River, the restaurant with its terrace offers a breathtaking view of the Grund district, its historic houses, and its cliffs. The dining room, bathed in soft candlelight, exudes intimacy with its wooden features, small windows, and walls adorned with photos of past patrons. For summer evenings, the terrace is a major draw, especially appreciated during the long Luxembourg nights.

In the kitchen, The First Floor operates according to a principle that sets it apart: a seasonal menu that changes regularly, sometimes monthly, sometimes every two months, depending on customer feedback. This constant rotation prevents any routine and pushes the chef to continually innovate. Local and seasonal produce takes center stage, with a special focus on regional producers whom the restaurant supports. The bread and butter, frequently mentioned in customer reviews, are made on-site, a detail that is important in the pursuit of authenticity.

The deliberately short menu emphasizes creativity rather than abundance. Among the dishes that have made a lasting impression are pigeon or beef Wellington, Iberian pork, cod with hazelnut hollandaise sauce, mushroom tartlet, lamb reimagined as gyoza, and a completely reinvented banana split for dessert. Black hummus, crispy-skinned roast chicken, and lavender ice cream demonstrate a willingness to explore sometimes daring flavor combinations. The bistronomic cuisine offered here rivals that of some Michelin-starred restaurants, as confirmed by several regulars from the restaurant industry.

One of the defining characteristics of First Floor is undoubtedly its menu of handcrafted cocktails . The bartender, Nacho, a true icon of the establishment, is regularly praised for his creativity and attentiveness. He often creates bespoke cocktails based on a customer’s preferences. The menu features original creations not found in typical bars, with evocative names and carefully balanced sweet, sour, and bitter notes. For spirits enthusiasts, it has become one of the best cocktail bars in Luxembourg .

The wine selection is another frequently mentioned highlight. The wine list features Portuguese wines with excellent recommendations, but also includes biodynamic, natural, and organic wines. This focus on artisanal winemakers and environmentally friendly practices aligns with the establishment’s zero-waste philosophy. Food and wine pairings are carefully considered, and the staff are always happy to take the time to explain the available options.

Regarding vegetarian options, the restaurant consistently offers a dedicated menu item, a significant advantage for restaurants catering to specific dietary needs . Feedback on the vegetarian menu is very positive, with some customers noting that the vegetarian dishes are just as flavorful and complex as the meat or fish versions.

The service was generally very positive. The team was described as warm, professional, and attentive without being intrusive. Several staff members were regularly mentioned by name, a sign of their particular focus on the customer experience. The chef himself sometimes took the time to explain the dishes to customers, adding a personal touch. The servers knew the menu inside and out and offered insightful recommendations.

However, it would be dishonest to present only the positive aspects. Certain points deserve to be brought to the attention of future visitors. The first concerns the portion sizes served in the restaurant : several customers find them small, especially considering the average price of a main course, which is around 30 euros. Those with larger appetites might therefore be disappointed and plan to expand their dining experience. This characteristic reflects a certain philosophy of fine dining, but it’s worth knowing in advance to avoid any disappointment.

Slow service is another recurring complaint. While the staff is generally attentive, the time between courses can be long, especially when the restaurant is full. Some customers mention waiting over an hour between courses. Those in a hurry or with a tight schedule in the evening should take this into account when making a reservation.

Ambient noise is another recurring theme in reviews. Since the space is located above a pub, the noise level can increase later in the evening, especially when large groups are present. For a romantic dinner , it’s best to choose a table during the early hours of service or request one away from the most noisy area. The music, sometimes considered too loud by some, can also make intimate conversations difficult.

The menu’s rapid turnover can also be a drawback for regulars who might want to find a particular dish. On the other hand, this constraint forces creativity and ensures that each visit brings its own set of discoveries. It’s therefore impossible to know in advance what will be offered, which can make booking difficult for people with specific dietary restrictions.

In terms of pricing, the restaurant is positioned in the mid-to-high range, with an average bill generally between 70 and 100 euros per person for a full meal with drinks, and even more for the tasting menu paired with wines. This price point is comparable to that of a fine-dining restaurant , and the quality often justifies the investment, according to most reviews. However, some customers feel that the value for money could be improved, particularly regarding portion sizes.

The restaurant accepts reservations, which are highly recommended given the limited seating and popularity of the establishment. Opening hours, concentrated on Wednesday, Thursday, Friday, and Saturday evenings from 6:00 PM onwards, require advance planning. The restaurant also serves lunch on weekends in certain cases; please check directly with the establishment for details.

In conclusion, The First Floor stands out in Luxembourg’s restaurant scene. Its original concept, perched above a pub, its creative and seasonal cuisine, signature cocktails, and intimate atmosphere make it a truly unique spot. The small portions, occasionally slow service, and ambient noise are the main drawbacks, but they don’t seem to dampen the overall enthusiasm of visitors. For those seeking a unique culinary experience in an atypical setting, with meticulous attention to the quality of the ingredients and drinks, this gem in the Grund district is definitely worth a visit. Simply step through the door of Scott’s pub and climb the stairs to discover a world that bears little resemblance to the typical image of a bar.