Zaï Zaï, Mediterranean flavours and seasonal vegetables
As soon as you enter, it’s the two brightly-colored walls that catch your eye, reminding you of the Jardin Majorelle in Marrakech. Then it’s on to the various posters, oriental rugs and plants that refine the decor and immediately set the mood. Here, the key words are conviviality, simplicity and sharing, and these are fully reflected in the handwritten menu on slate.
Comforting titles
Most of the dishes have a Mediterranean influence, but there are also more classic dishes, such as a pan-fried mushroom or a velouté of the day’s vegetables. In fact, it’s the latter comforting option that I choose to warm my body and mind, accompanied by hummus in a new recipe that I can’t wait to try. The soup may be simple, but it’s no less delicious thanks to the seasonal vegetables it’s made with, which bring out all their flavors. As for the hummus, very different from the silky, sesame-intense Lebanese versions, it has more chewiness and is embellished with a variety of fresh herbs and spices that make us want to plunge our spoon back in without delay. The homemade turmeric bread is the perfect accompaniment to this starter.
The icing on the cake
As for the dishes, there’s something for everyone: the chef’s risotto with broccolini and gorgonzola, vegetable couscous and, for carnivores, the tajine of the moment and the méchoui, both with lamb. Always on the lookout for a bit of heat, I instinctively turn to the famous couscous. I’m not mistaken: the scent of oriental spices emanates from the steaming dish, making my mouth water. You can tell it’s been simmering for a long time, as the vegetables melt in your mouth and are infused with the flavors of the broth. The icing on the cake is the onion and raisin compote placed on top of the dish, adding a touch of sweetness and cinnamon aroma that blends divinely with the rest of the dish.
After these richly flavored dishes, I skipped dessert, but that doesn’t mean the Mediterranean heat didn’t fill my heart with happiness.
