The Mediterranean is the mystical deep, blue sea that gives life to the countries that surround her. The magic in the Mediterranean cuisine that Esmirada serves up is precisely in the spices of the North African region, particularly of Morocco, that are combined with the wine and herbs of the Eastern Mediterranean of Egypt, Greece, Israel, Lebanon, Syria, and Turkey, and the Southern European region of Italy, France and Spain. Its intriguing marriage of such myriad flavours is further enhanced by the lingering aromatic smells from the open concept kitchen that prepares you for the feast that is ahead.

• The Mediterranean feel
  If you are one who is looking for a charming place to dine at, then Esmirada at Chijmes will be a great choice. Furnished with rustic tables and hand painted wall murals, the dim lighting on the interior further allures its diners into complete relaxation as they get an unobstructed view of the glass wine cellar while simultaneously taking pleasure in watching their food being prepared right in front of them by the chefs in the open concept kitchen. However, as noted from my own experience, the ambience is much more captivating when you are seated in the alfresco areas. Perhaps it is the air in Chijmes that makes it so enchanting, but the energetic buzz of the people around coupled with the beautiful views of the cathedral certainly influenced my favourable mood.

• The Food
  The dishes that are not to be missed are firstly the home baked Garlic Bread ($6), the fresh Greek salad ($16.50) and of course an assortment of the famous grilled Esmirada skewers (from $21- 41).

  The garlic bread, or rather, garlic baguette, was uniquely served as a whole in a rustic bread stand, which encouraged everyone to just share in savouring its heartwarming tastes. The herbs and garlic graced the baguette nicely without being too overpowering. Team it off with the refreshing Greek salad that will neutralize your taste palates and prepare you for the grilled delights! The salad was a rojak mix of crispy garden greens, tomatoes, onions, olives and peppers that were topped off with cubes of Greek feta cheese, special herbs and seasoned evenly with balsamic vinegar and extra virgin olive oil.

  With such impressive yet simple starting affairs, I was primed for the grilled skewers that Esmirada built its name upon.

  Desserts are tempting, with sinful treats like that of the aptly named “Melting Moments, which is a dish of a freshly baked chocolate tartlet that is topped off with a creamy vanilla ice-cream and serves with a side of cherries ($12).

• The famous Esmirada Skewers
  I was served an assortment of all the varieties available on the menu, and would highly recommend the lamb ($37), beef ($37) and the vegetable ($21) skewers. Evenly coated Mediterranean herbs were expertly paired off with the natural juices that were retained within the meats, and were individually tender and succulent. The vegetable skewer offered a burst of flavours with the natural sweetness of the mushrooms, peppers and onions that complemented the distinct flavours of the grill that lingered.

• Drink up!
  No Mediterranean cuisine is complete without its fine wines. Esmirada’s extensive list of wines offers a range of flavours and taste sensations that originate from all over the world, specifically from the Mediterranean region. Customers are also encouraged to walk into the glass cellar to personally hand pick their wines according to their fancy, with the provision of some tasting to ensure satisfaction in their choice. Cocktail drinkers should definitely try the Esmirada Sangria that is flavoured with fresh slices of orange and lemons, soda, red wine, brandy, orange juice and cinnamon powder. Fruitier than the average Sangrias available elsewhere, this Spanish cocktail is delightfully sweet and is popular amongst the ladies.

The SD Food Advisor’s take on Esmirada at Chijmes
To be honest, I arrived at Esmirada with no expectations of its food, however, was pleasantly surprised at the end of my meal. Esmirada charmed me completely with its authentic Mediterranean food and wine that is served in a simple fashion, amidst a heartwarming backdrop. Already a well favoured restaurant amongst many expatriates and locals alike, this restaurant is really a humble eating house whose timeless charm is matched by its sumptuous food, and definitely a place to return to time and time again.