JEDDAH, 21 May — There are certain ingredients usually found in a Mediterranean kitchen: Vinegar, onions, nutmeg, garlic and olive oil recognized as perfect for all salads. Dijon mustard is also used as is basil; parsley is often joined with chopped garlic in escargots (snails) and sage is a flavoring for white meats. All of these are in evidence at Mirador — a Spanish word, which means a balcony or turret affording a fine view. Mirador in fact affords a fine view and sampling of what I would call Mediterranean cuisine — though the management insists on calling it Swiss-French. Whatever it’s called, it’s worth a trip.
It is a relatively new restaurant-not even a year old. Everything looks new, fresh and vibrant and is rather French in atmosphere with all that means. Both its exterior and interior are complementary. The facade is all glass, enabling you to peek inside before you enter. It has a charming and relaxed atmosphere, which is light and artistic. Mirador has a gentlemen’s section, a family section, private rooms which are fine for business meetings and a tea garden. Exquisite food is offered, a delicious variety of French and Danish pastry, croissants and French breads and a fine selection of French and Swiss sweets. They offer a versatile option for those with a discriminating palate. I had genuinely amazing Najil spring rolls, so crispy and delicious. I also had the Salmon beggar’s purse with cardamom, incredibly delectable. Then I had the jumbo fried prawns with honey sauce which were savory and full of flavor. My companion had a luscious mixed vegetable salad, which was fresh and appetizing and a luscious tender pepper steak, which was mouth -watering indeed.
They also have a number of very good pastas such as tortellini and fettuccine with shrimp in lobster sauce. I know they say that looks aren’t everything but they certainly are an added attraction.
The presentation of the food was simply astounding, absolutely beautiful. Each dish was a work of art, a veritable masterpiece. The drinks were equally impressive as well, especially the Mirador.
Dessert was scrumptious and delightful. We had creme brulee, which was completely enjoyable. The apple pie was sweet and cinnamony and full of butter. The chocolaty dessert that was something between a soufflé and a mousse was out of this world. You owe it to yourself to try some.
Mirador is on Amir Mit’eb ibn Abdul Aziz Street (Al-Arba’een) and the phone numbers are 6708881 or 6708882.
