Midtown's New "It" Destination?

his summer, if it’s an exotic escape you crave, the “it” destination is closer than you think… Seasoned with the spice of a Mediterranean island hopping adventure, Houston’s hottest new dining experience, Majorca Bistro and Tapas, will make its debut in the heart of Midtown in mid-July 2011! From its variety of Sangrias and tropical cocktails to the tempting tapas and main course creations, Houstonians can take a trip from the ordinary everyday…

Founded by Restaurateur Ali Bendella and co-owner/Chef Hicham Nafaa, Majorca Bistro and Tapas, will use fresh local ingredients including meat, fruit, fish and vegetables to create a menu that is true to island tradition while also offering classic dishes, experimental tastes and the newest culinary combinations from the western Mediterranean.

“Inspired by the Balearic island of Majorca in the Spanish Mediterranean, our menu offers guests a culinary journey of taste, tradition, wellness and culture in the unique Mallorcan style,” explains Bendella. “The experience really aims to promote the well-being of both health and palate,” continues Chef Nafaa.

Rich in cultural heritage dating back to the Moors and distinctively different than traditional Spanish cuisine, guests will find the Mallorcan cooking style is fresh, light and tasty and showcases a variety of fresh seafood and crisp, vegetarian-friendly fare. Not-to-mention, discerning customers will be delighted to find that the bites are far more nutritious than they might have expected.

Considered a culinary art form by many, the tapas will take center stage. Delectably displayed behind the glass of the Tapas and Sangria Bar, the collection of delicacies will include irresistible bites such as Gambas ala Jio, Stuffed Eggs with anchovies and eggs, Empanadillas with cheese and olives and Manchego Croquettes. Priced between $5 and $12, these open face hors d'oeuvres serve as a great introduction to the main course or can substitute it altogether. For dinner, the festive assortment of entrees (priced $15-$30) will include such items as Mallorcan Seafood Paella, Paella Valenciana with chicken and rabbit, Paella with vegetables, Seaweed and Tuna Toro, Moorish Lamb Espadas and Orange Glazed Duck Breastwith mint mashed potatoes.

Surrounded with a Spanish-chic ambiance of red and black, and complete with hand-painted murals by local artists, this hip lounge-style dining space has two bars and Happy Hour on weekdays from 4-6pm, with half priced tapas and Sangria specials. Catering to the late night crowd, drinks will be served until 2am and food until 3-4am.

Majorca Bistro and Tapas is located at 207-A Gray Street in Midtown, next to the Front Porch. For more info, visit them on Facebook or by phone 832-582-7176.