They're charming, good-looking, and excellent cooks. No, Aladine and Khaled aren't the next eligible bachelors to watch on reality TV—they're the talented chefs behind the new Tunisian restaurant that's making waves. Code name: Mirage. Ideally located on Rue des Jeûneurs, this laid-back restaurant offers a vibrant Mediterranean culinary journey with a modern twist. Just what we love.
A Mediterranean Flavor Tour
From the moment you step in, the enticing aroma of fresh garlic sets the stage for a dinner deeply rooted in Mediterranean flavors. The decor transports you, with a painted palm tree, rattan light fixtures of various shapes, and beige-colored furniture dressed in rope. While friends celebrate a birthday at a large table, couples might want to reserve the counter facing the kitchen, promising an intimate experience with some surprises in store. But we're not giving everything away.
Aladine and Khaled's bromance started in the kitchen. Aladine previously worked in Assaf Granit's team at Balagan and later became the head chef at Vesper. Khaled honed his skills at Malro, Kaspia, and Dalia. They both tried their hand at private chef services before seizing the opportunity to open Mirage, ideally located just steps from Grands Boulevards. And what a success!
Sunshine Cuisine
The result? A deceptively simple à la carte menu that will make you want to explore the Mediterranean, where every dish is prepared on the spot (which is why the high table facing the chefs is so appealing). Start with devilishly good fried eggplant (14 €), seriola sashimi with Sfax chermoula and blood orange persillade (16 €), signature beef cheek slow-cooked in sangria, with cauliflower mousseline, anchovies, and harissa-infused jus (25 €), or a monochrome octopus, braised before your eyes and served with a reduction of port and hibiscus (26 €).
To end the meal, try the playful Baklathé, a granita with tea and heaps of pistachios (11 €), or the scandalous OMC, featuring a creamy chocolate quenelle on a bed of cacao crumble, topped with a generous dose of caramel with Espelette pepper, olive oil drizzle, and a small dish of fermented milk (12 €). Decadent, indeed!
Open for lunch and dinner Tuesday through Friday, lunch on Monday, and dinner on Saturday.
Also, check out Dalia, the festive sister restaurant to Jolia, and four other globally inspired dining spots in Paris.
