I had the pleasure of embarking on a culinary adventure in the heart of Nola at Dakar Nola for a much-anticipated date night. When I say anticipated, I mean it. It’s nearly impossible to get a reservation at Dakar. Let me tell you, it was a night to remember! Dakar Nola, with its prix-fixe menu and charming ambiance, provided the perfect setting that exceeded all expectations.
Design and Ambiance: A Taste of Nola’s Quaint Charm
Let’s talk about design; the location is a true Nola style shotgun double like I grew up in. The exterior is Dakar Gray, a color I am very familiar with and often used in our home renovation projects and gray is my favorite color. By removing the middle wall they created an open concept space, creating a warm intimate environment. The decor is all Dakar-influenced, with warm woodgrains on the tables and floors, and the wall of Senegal ancient artisan masks adds an authentic feel to the space.
Now back to the impressive Prix-Fixe Menu: A Feast Fit for a Hungry Duo
I strategically chose Wednesday night, because Dakar Nola offers a tantalizing 3-course prix-fixe meal for just $55 per person. With my partner being a big guy with an appetite to match, I knew we needed a fast-paced dining experience to keep up with his voracious hunger. Little did I know that I would end up regretting not going solo for their indulgent 7-course event!
Prix-Fixe Highlights: A Symphony of Flavors
Returning to the prix-fixe menu, each course was a testament to the culinary prowess of Chef Serigne Mbaye at Dakar Nola. We started with a refreshing seasonal salad—a delightful medley of Compostella greens and herbs, accompanied by juicy tomatoes, candied pecans, and a tangy citrus vinaigrette. It was a vibrant and invigorating start to our culinary journey.
Insert Menu add-ons. I prepaid for the 3-course meal; to our surprise, there were two add-ons at an extra cost. Complete regretting my decision to come on the night of the three-course menu after that incredible salad, we happily added the add-ons.
Unforgettable Add-Ons: When More Is Simply Irresistible
The menu featured two tempting add-on options, and of course, we couldn’t resist the temptation. I mean, why not go all out? Our culinary escapade kicked off with the grilled res smaller collar—a revelation that had me wondering why I had never encountered it before. Paired with pickled vegetables and a luscious tamarind jus, it was a flavor explosion that left us craving more. As if that wasn’t enough, we then savored the melt-in-your-mouth Dibi, a grass-fed hanger steak smothered in onion sauce, complemented by savoy cabbage and fresh herbs. It was pure carnivorous bliss, and those caramelized onions were perfection on a plate!
The Next Act: Flavors That Dance on the Palate
The next act on this flavor-packed stage was the Yassa Red Snapper—a masterpiece of a dish. Adorned with zucchini, spring onions, kale, and a tantalizing mustard sauce, the snapper danced harmoniously on our taste buds. Served with a side of white rice and two sauce wonders whose names escape me, one fiery and orange and the other a verdant green, this dish took our palates on an unforgettable rollercoaster ride.
Sweet Finale: A Dessert Worth Swapping For
To conclude our epicurean adventure, we were presented with Sharena’s dessert—a tantalizing cinnamon butterscotch pudding. Nestled beneath a crispy folio, it was a decadent delight. And let’s not forget the pièce de résistance—a generous drizzle of heavenly caramel. It was a sweet conclusion that had me smitten. However, my partner, Mr. Norwood, surprised me by asking to swap his dessert for yet another salad. The man has an undeniable love affair with greens!
Exemplary Service and Atmosphere: Quaint Charm and Personalized Care
Beyond the exceptional cuisine, the service at Dakar Nola was nothing short of outstanding. Perry, our exceptional server at Dakar Nola, made us feel like dining at a friend’s home. The attentive staff catered to our every need, ensuring that our dining experience was nothing less than perfect. The restaurant’s quaint and cozy interior, with its limited seating for just 30 guests per seating, added an extra touch of intimacy to our evening.
A Mocktail to Remember: Sipping Refreshment sans Alcohol
While I’m not much of a drinker myself, and Mr. Norwood abstains from alcohol entirely, we couldn’t resist trying one of Dakar Nola’s mocktails. Enter the Nanga Def, a mocktail concoction that instantly transported us to a tropical paradise. With its refreshing blend of flavors and invigorating zest, it was like a burst of sunshine in a glass. Sipping on this delightful mocktail elevated our dining experience to new heights.
Worth Every Penny: A Culinary Journey to Remember
Now, let’s talk about the price. Our memorable date night at Dakar Nola came with an all inclusive bill totaling $241. Some might consider it a splurge, however, I must emphasize, it was worth every single penny. The exceptional quality of the food, the impeccable service, and the intimate ambiance all combined to create an experience that will forever be etched in our culinary memories.
Conclusion: Dakar Nola—A Hidden Gem for Food Enthusiasts
Dakar Nola is a hidden gem and culinary adventure in the heart of Nola that deserves to be discovered by all food enthusiasts seeking a remarkable dining experience. From the delectable prix-fixe menu and unforgettable add-ons to the impeccable service and intimate atmosphere, this charming restaurant delivers on all fronts. Whether you’re looking for a romantic date night or simply want to indulge in an extraordinary culinary adventure Nola, Dakar Nola is a destination that will leave you yearning for more. So go ahead, splurge a little, and let Dakar Nola whisk you away on a flavorsome adventure that will delight your taste buds.
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Michelle Norwood Living Photographer Mo Davis
