Limani by the sea

The new bistro in Caesarea is popular and picturesque.

By TAMARA ZIEVE
Limani Bistro (photo credit: PR)
Limani Bistro
(photo credit: PR)
Located in an ancient fortress in the Caesarea harbor, the historical town built by Herod the Great, is the new Limani Bistro. Established eight months ago by three Tel Avivians who wanted to bring a bit of the big city to the North, the restaurant offers a range of high-quality food, served against the backdrop of the picturesque port. The restaurant offers breakfast, lunch and dinner, with a selection of fish, seafood, meat, salads, pasta, sandwiches and a few vegan options.
I decided to check out the bistro’s dinner menu. Despite its being a little nippy outside, my companion and I opted to sit outside – under the warmth of a heater – to enjoy the view of the moonlit sea dotted with a couple of lone fishermen. The atmosphere of the restaurant was friendly and laid back with a Mediterranean feel, hosting a variety of clientele including many families. The relaxing mix of music in the background enhanced this vibe.
Being by the sea inspired us to begin our meal with butter shrimps, served in a sauce comprised of lemon, white wine, garlic and herbs (NIS 52), along with Greek cigars (NIS 38), recommended by our friendly waiter. They were filled with feta, tomatoes and pistachios on a base of mint yogurt. The dishes were light and delicious, whetting our appetite for the main event.
Continuing the maritime theme, I opted for a Denis fillet, accompanied by Majadra, fried sweet potato and green beans (NIS 105). The dish was fresh and tasty, paired perfectly with a glass of Barkan Sauvignon Blanc (NIS 26).
My dining companion decided to try out the meat, ordering an entrecote steak, which came with a side of mashed potatoes, carrots and saloniki salad, with a Heineken to go with it (half pint, NIS 32). He was delighted with his steak, enthusing that the unique sauce made it one of the best he had ever tasted.
To round off the meal with something sweet, we selected a chocolate fondant (NIS 39) and a dessert called Little Switzerland (NIS 36). The chocolate fondant was classic and satisfactory, accompanied by vanilla ice cream. Little Switzerland was presented beautifully but though tasty, it lacked the wow factor in flavor. It consisted of mascarpone cream on a crunchy base with thin layers of chocolate and a red fruit sauce poured over it. After an espresso (NIS 12) and a cup of mint tea (NIS 12), we were set to hit the road back to Tel Aviv, with full stomachs and high spirits from a lovely dining experience.
The writer was a guest of the restaurant.
Limani Bistro, Not kosher, Caesarea harbor , Tel: (04) 636-0887