September 18, 2014

FOODVENTURE: Mandolin Aegean Bistro (MIAMI)

Miami has such a great food scene.  One would visit to take in Caribbean or Cuban cuisine given the proximity to both regions, but there are other great spots like Mandolin, in the Art District of Miami. Mandolin highlights Mediterranean fare with simple ingredients and bold flavors.  You can taste the attention to detail and the homage they pay to their family recipes.


I didn't take a shot of the courtyard, but it was amazing.  Not only was the food so good, the ambiance was top notch.  Since we both had our fair share of bug bites we opted for inside seating which was really nice; one because there was A/C and two it was like we had a private dinner.  The decor inside was perfect, very cottage chic.




So this always happens when Joyce and I go on a foodventure, we get a starter that is really supposed to feed 4 or more people.  So we have the insurmountable task of trying to finish it.  Good thing this trio of tzatziki, eggplant puree, and humus could be used for all our entrees. 


This is where simplicity is never overrated.  Perfectly grilled octopus with a hit of lemon.  Ridiculous.


Keftes: grilled lamb and beef meatballs.


On the outside, what looks like a simple lamb dish over orzo pilaf, is a perfectly seasoned and cooked rack of lamb.  It is amazing comfort food like if your Greek grandma (pretend you have a Greek grandma) has cooked this for you because she is so happy to see you.


Another thing I really like about Miami is how fast everything comes out.  There is no fuss about it, which is awesome because I am always so hangry.