Bistro Paris is An Ode to the Flambéd Things in Life - A Review

As the Paris Olympics approach, I find myself mentally transported to France, even though I have no connection to sports or the tournament itself. While athletes are there to compete, it’s hard not to imagine someone lounging at a charming Parisian café, book in hand, gazing over the Seine. I admit, I’m envious.

So, it felt almost serendipitous when, during a stroll amidst Maadi's greenery, I spotted a sign that read “Bistro Paris.” It seemed like a sign, so I took the elevator up to the restaurant. Thankfully, since dinner has taken over as the preferred dining time, I didn’t need a reservation and was able to dive right in.

Soon after I sat down, an enthusiastic waiter approached to take my order. Realising I was indecisive and needed time, he quickly directed me to the drinks menu. Within moments, a cosmopolitan was in front of me, allowing us to discuss food.

As I settled in, I admired my surroundings. From my seat on the balcony, I was still surrounded by Maadi’s greenery, with sunlight filtering through the tree branches, creating a serene atmosphere. The dark, sultry interior of Bistro Paris was a refreshing change from the usual light decor, and to my delight, I spotted a miniature Eiffel Tower on the terrace—just like Paris!

I had barely sampled the bread basket and herb butter when my first course arrived: a trio of appetisers. I must disclose that I have a penchant for appetisers. Despite the allure of a main course, I’m drawn to finger foods and dips, though sometimes I indulge in dishes that resemble appetisers according to my own whimsical criteria.

The appetisers were delightful. The highlight was a flambé presentation for my pomegranate-molasses-drenched sausages. These sausages, with their Levantine hints, were flavorful, enhanced by the vegetables’ juices and the chef’s evident pride. Next, I enjoyed a quinoa salad on a bed of labneh and mint, drizzled with pomegranate molasses and studded with cherry tomatoes, making it a refreshing and satisfying dish.

The third appetiser was a heartier fried shrimp dish with homemade sweet chilli sauce. Elegantly prepared, these shrimp were perfect for eating with a fork, though I found them even more enjoyable dipped in the herb garlic butter provided by Bistro Paris—my garlic enthusiasm perhaps influencing my preference.

As I neared fullness from the appetisers, I prepared for the main course. Soon, a generous cordon bleu appeared, paired with creamy mashed potatoes (even better with herb butter) and sautéed green beans. Though I usually reserve cordon bleu for heavy-carb cravings, the French restaurant’s new oblong presentation tempted me.

The cordon bleu was a feast, with sumptuously seasoned chicken, beef bacon, smoked turkey, and melted cheddar cheese. The flavourful panko added a warm touch to the dish. As my cosmopolitan neared its end, a waiter suggested I try a tropical island cocktail. Arriving in a large glass, it was a refreshing blend of blue curaçao, coconut cream, passion fruit, and pineapple. Meanwhile, the second flambé of the evening was being prepared.

This time, the skillet was for garlic butter prawns. The chef’s excitement was palpable even before cooking began. Fascinated by the chef's passion, I anticipated a great dish. The prawns, swimming in a creamy, buttery garlic sauce, did not disappoint. Served with steamed rice garnished with lemon peel, the dish was excellent, especially when paired with the tropical island cocktail.

Full to the brim, I leaned back, enjoyed a cigarette, and prepared myself for dessert. At a French restaurant, dessert is always a highlight. I indulged in a crème brûlée, perfectly creamy with just a hint of tang. The top layer was caramelised before me with a torch, and the satisfying *crack* of the caramelised sugar marked the perfect end to my meal.