There’s nothing like authentic Middle Eastern cuisine. At Bistro Mais, you get all the authentic flavors, but with a modern twist. From their appetizers to their desserts, the good people at Bistro keep things interesting with their very own takes on the much loved classics, you’re sure to come back for more. As for your dining experience’s backdrop? The stunning view of the Arabian Gulf is unrivalled. Combined with Bistro’s imaginative offerings, you’ll surely want to stay for longer.
We started our culinary journey with Bistro’s refreshing B-Salad. With a lettuce base and cherry tomatoes on top, we got added sweetness and crunch from the apple slices and strawberries. The avocado chunks gave the salad a creamy texture, while the sweet lemon dressing gave the salad the perfect amount of tang. Next came the Haloumi Sticks. Breaded and fried to a golden crisp, the tomato based sauce on the side complimented the herb-breaded haloumi brilliantly.
From their specials, we got the Stuffed Kibbeh and Sultaniyeh – yum! The Stuffed Kibbeh were shaped into cups and came filled with a different delicacy each. The bite-sized kibbehs contained either hummus, moutabal, muhammara, hawsi, tzatziki or makdous, giving each one a unique flavor profile. And accompanied with fresh-baked, piping hot bread, the Sultaniyah was incredible! Treated as a dip, the chargrilled eggplant was sweet and smoky, topped with bits of walnut, pomegranate seeds and a molasses dressing.
We suggest you go with an appetite, because their mains are not to be missed! The Shrimp Noodle Sizzler was served on a hot plate with glass noodles and stir-fry vegetables. But the main attractions came in the form of chicken, lamb and kabbab. We ordered the Chicken Spirals, which are marinated and grilled, tender chicken breasts rolled into spirals. Served with a Bistro’s special dipping sauce and a side of fries, this chicken dish was exceptionally prepared.
The Stuffed Lamb Chops were grilled and stuffed with halloumi cheese before being topped with a brilliantly spiced gravy with roast potato slices on the side. As for the kabbab dish it was inventive and exceptional. The Soujuk Kabbab, were created with succulent lamb mince and homemade soujuk spices before being grilled to perfection. With a side of saffron rice and dakkous (tomato) sauce, the kabbab is an instant hit. Thinking we couldn’t eat anymore, dessert was served.
We opted for their crepe creations and loved it! The Chocolate Banana Marshmallow crepe is topped with caramelized bananas and stuffed with bananas and Nutella – delicious! Our second crepe was the lighter Crepe Exotique filled with fresh fruits and sweetened cream. With our meal coming to a pleasant end, we enjoyed the sunset a little longer with our cups of tea.
Bistro Mais is located in the Miral Mall in Mangaf. For more information, please call 2205 4200. Visit their website at www.bistromais.com or follow them on Instagram @BistroMais.