Le Petit Sfax

The cuisine at Le Petit Sfax represents Tunisian gastronomy in its most authentic form, with recipes that have been preserved and perfected over generations. The kitchen works with the traditional flavor profiles that define North African cooking—warm spices like cumin, coriander, and caraway; the bright heat of harissa; the aromatic complexity of preserved lemons; and the liberal use of olive oil that characterizes Mediterranean cuisine.

Couscous forms the cornerstone of the menu, prepared in the time-honored tradition with fluffy semolina grains that have been properly steamed and fluffed. You'll find it served with various accompaniments: tender lamb that falls off the bone, spicy merguez sausages with their distinctive paprika and garlic notes, or seasonal vegetables cooked in a fragrant broth. Each couscous dish comes with the traditional accompaniments—chickpeas, raisins, and that essential spicy broth served on the side.

The bricks showcase the delicate art of Tunisian pastry work—thin malsouka dough wrapped around fillings like tuna with capers and egg, or spiced meat, then fried until the exterior shatters at the touch of your fork while the interior remains moist and flavorful. Tagines arrive in their traditional earthenware vessels, having simmered slowly to develop layers of flavor, whether featuring lamb with prunes and almonds, chicken with preserved lemons and olives, or fish with tomatoes and peppers.

The mezze selection provides a perfect introduction to Tunisian flavors, with mechouia salad (grilled peppers and tomatoes with tuna and hard-boiled egg), creamy houmous, and other small plates designed for sharing. Merguez sausages are grilled to order, their casings crisp and their interiors juicy with spice. The kitchen doesn't shy away from bold flavors—harissa is available for those who want extra heat, and the seasoning throughout is assertive and confident.

Portions are notably generous, reflecting the North African tradition of hospitality where abundance demonstrates care for your guests. This is food meant to satisfy and nourish, prepared with respect for tradition and a clear understanding of what makes Tunisian cuisine so compelling.