On Thursday afternoon, I had the privilege of attending an exclusive preview of the Mill Street Bistro’s new winter menu. Showcasing an absolutely delicious special called the MBS L’Entrecôte Experience, as well as some extra new dishes. This was truly a food highlight of the year for me. I had high expectations, but I am wholeheartedly delighted to say that they were exceeded by Michelin-starred chef, Phil Carmichael.

I was so excited for this, I hardly slept the night before. I couldn’t wait for the clock to strike 11am so I could hop in the car, blast my music, and enjoy the scenic drive to Stellenbosch. 

Upon arrival, I was greeted by an incredibly friendly host that directed me over to the bar. They were serving a few delicious welcome drinks, however I was driving so I opted for the pomegranate spritz mocktail. Normally, I find that restaurant’s nonalcoholic beverages taste a bit like an afterthought, but this was not the case here. I was handed a beautifully presented drink, with a deep, rich ruby red cordial at the bottom, garnished with a perfectly round lime slice. I gave it a good stir and took my first sip. It tasted as good as it looked. It struck the perfect balance between sweet, tangy, and unbelievably fresh. You could really taste it was homemade. Personally, this is one of the best mocktails I have ever had. 

With a drink in my hand, I took the opportunity to have a look around. I really liked the interior of the restaurant, it’s sophisticated, yet welcoming. I also really enjoyed the natural tones of the furniture, it creates such a warm atmosphere. I must mention that the botanical touches throughout add that little pop of colour too. It is really well thought out. This is definitely one of those places that feels like a home away from home. The perfect spot to enjoy a meal on a cold winter’s day.

After taking a little mosey about, I spotted a waiter carrying a tray of food, so of course I made my way over to him. On his tray were crispy golden balls of culinary genius, AKA, jalapeño and gruberg cheese croquettes. They were impressively large, and topped with shavings of Parmesan cheese. As I bit into it, the crisp exterior was met with the creamy and lush centre. Honestly, a bit of an out of body experience. It was phenomenal. The spice and acidity from the chilli cut through the richness of the cheese seamlessly. Apologies, I did not get a picture, I was fully engulfed in the moment. If there weren’t a room full of people, I probably would’ve taken a bowl of them and found a corner to shamelessly stuff my face. 

“If there weren’t a room full of people, I probably would’ve taken a bowl of them and found a corner to shamelessly stuff my face.”

Moving on, it was time for us to take our seats where we were then greeted by the Chef himself. I was having a bit of a fangirl moment as I’ve never eaten a meal cooked by a Michelin star Chef. He spoke us through his ethos, the new menu, as well as the new experience. There is something seriously commendable about the way he does things. From supporting ethical local farmers, to minimising waste through the use of fermentation. I also love his approach to using simple ingredients and really letting the quality of it shine. Overall, I think he is an exceptional person, and very humble and kind too.

 Now, back to the food. For our first course, we were served a mushroom parfait with flatbread. I know I know, I’m going to say it again, but I promise I am not bluffing. This was out of this world. The parfait was creamy, smooth, and packed with umami flavour. The vinegary pickled onions and mushrooms on top added the perfect contrast to the richness. I know, my mouth is watering too writing this. I’m about to take it to another level. Imagine this utter deliciousness smeared onto a warm, garlicky flatbread. You’re welcome.

I know what you’re thinking, how could it get better than this? Well, it did. It was time for the famous L'Entrecôte Experience. If you’re not familiar with this, let me fill you in. It is a take on the Parisian classic that consists of rump steak, generously coated in a silky mushroom cafe au lait sauce, and served alongside shoestring fries and a fresh green salad. Wait, there’s more to this affair. The steak is not served once, but twice. And for the fries? Limitless. I haven’t even gotten to the best part, this experience is only R350 per person. I know, absolutely insane. Okay, okay, enough of the explanation. Let me talk about how it tasted. The steak was perfectly cooked, pink, well seasoned, and cut like butter. It was delicious on its own, but the velvety and decadent mushroom sauce took it to a whole new level. Everything just melted in your mouth. The fries acted as the ideal vessel to scoop up the sauce and the juices from the meat. Even the green salad played a crucial role when you felt like you needed a little break from the richness. After not one, but two rounds of this indulgent meal, I must say I was incredibly satisfied.

But, the show must go on and it was almost time for dessert. Don’t worry, I always have room for something sweet. I looked down at the menu, and began to grin. Malva madeleines with miso butterscotch sauce. I’m a malva girl, and there is no denying that. We ordered coffees, and after just the right amount of mingling and digesting, our final course arrived. Sun kissed shells accompanied by a luscious looking sauce. With no time to waste, I dunked the madeleine into the warm, buttery pool of goodness and took my first bite. It was like biting into a cinnamony pillow. Absolutely no complaints here. The sauce was rich and sweet, and balanced out well with the savoury punch from the miso. This dessert was the perfect size, and flavour profile to finish an afternoon of utter indulgence. 

Overall, I had an absolutely amazing afternoon. Chef Phil Carmichael, you are a culinary genius and I have the utmost respect for you. You really took me on a flavour journey and I am extremely grateful. Thank you to the Mill Street Bistro and Manley for planning, hosting, and executing an absolutely amazing day. I can highly recommend this restaurant, and The MSB L’Entrecôte Experience is definitely one for the books.

Till next time!