Mazali

The cuisine at Mazali represents contemporary French bistronomy at its most approachable and creative. The kitchen works with a philosophy of constant evolution, changing the menu weekly based on seasonal availability and culinary inspiration. This approach ensures that ingredients arrive at their peak and that regular diners always discover something new, while maintaining a consistent level of quality and technique.

The menu showcases the kitchen's ability to balance French tradition with international influences. Dishes like pork terrine and beef hanger steak honor classic bistro preparations, while offerings such as prawn tartare and snacked octopus demonstrate a more contemporary, globally-influenced approach. The kitchen shows particular skill with seafood and meat preparations, achieving the kind of precise cooking that elevates simple ingredients—perfectly seared tuna with a tender interior, octopus with ideal texture and char, beef cooked to exact specifications.

One of Mazali's most thoughtful features is the availability of both full and half portions for many dishes. This flexibility allows diners to customize their experience—whether sampling multiple courses, accommodating different appetites, or simply enjoying a lighter meal. The pricing structure reflects this adaptability, with small plates ranging from 12-16€, larger plates from 23-30€, starters from 10-14€, and desserts from 10-13€.

The dessert program deserves particular attention, with fruit-forward preparations that change with the seasons. Rather than relying on heavy, traditional French desserts, the kitchen often highlights the natural sweetness and flavor of seasonal fruits, creating lighter conclusions to the meal that feel refreshing rather than overwhelming.

The wine list complements the cuisine with thoughtful selections that emphasize drinkability and food compatibility over prestige labels. Offerings like Syrah from Gaillac and Corsican rosé demonstrate an interest in showcasing French regions beyond the usual suspects, while maintaining the kind of approachability that encourages exploration. The beverage program extends to thoughtful touches like affogato—espresso poured over ice cream—providing a perfect bridge between dessert and coffee.

The lunch formula, offering either starter and main or main and dessert from 26€, provides exceptional value for this level of cooking and service. It's the kind of offer that makes Mazali accessible for regular visits while maintaining the quality that makes it worth seeking out for special occasions.