Review: MEDITERRA in Princeton NJ for Extraordinary Dining

When you have two great options such as Spanish tapas and Greek taverna fare, why force yourself to choose? This is one of the many winning principles of Princeton's own Mediterra, an incredibly welcoming spot that combines a Mediterranean menu with fine wines, dazzling cocktails, and delightful all-American touches. Mediterra is one of the restaurants in the Terra Momo Group that also includes Caffe Teresa, Eno Terra and the Terra Momo Bread Company.

Mediterra has a diverse, appetizing menu that features standout seafood, superior burgers, salads, and more. The restaurant itself adapts wonderfully to the seasons with their farm-to-table menu highlighted by locally sourced ingredients. In the colder months, visitors can sample artisanal cocktails like the "Fall on Palmer Square" and desserts with fresh apple and spices. When more temperate weather arrives in New Jersey, Mediterra will open its vast outdoor patio, connecting the Matisse-inspired murals and rustic touches of its interior to the outside world and becoming your gateway to the entire shopping and dining experience of the neighborhood.

If you are new to Mediterra, one of the best places to begin is the tapas menu, served both as part of a happy hour and on its own. Inspirations from Mediterranean include herb-marinated olives and Latin choices like Zucchini and Manchego Empanadas. Some a specialty like Lamp Kefta, the lean and juicy lamb kebabs over diced pita bread, or the tender, just-crispy-enough Papas Bravas that are expert spins on the classics. The Bacon Wrapped Dates with grain mustard yogurt are a Mediterra crowd pleaser, completely superb. Finish everything off with one of Mediterra's transporting cocktails, such as the "Bourbon Pomegranate Martini," and you have a meal experience that is both rewarding and original.

Mediterra's lunch selections elevate casual dining to new heights with the freshest salads, tasty starters, pastas, grilled selections and sandwiches. The Griggstown Farm Za 'atar Spiced Chicken is garnished with roasted sunchokes, heirloom baby carrots, celery root and house made black tahini. Their Roasted Porchetta Sandwich has caramelized onion and fennel, pork jus and pickled cherry peppers topped with aged provolone on a French baguette.

For dinner, you can indulge in starters that are a true taste of the Mediterranean with house favorites like Octopus a la Plancha, Falafel and Mussels Provencal. As entrees, scallops, short ribs, salmon, and paella are culinary delights highlighted by the same fresh flavors and perfect seasonings that Mediterra is known for.

The dessert menu has can't-miss combinations such as Caramel Apple Bread Pudding, Carrot Cake, Tiramisu and Chocolate Mousse Cake. This is the point in your visit where you can relax, enjoy coffee or an aperitif and reflect on a superior dining experience.

Mediterra successfully approaches the finest in Mediterranean fare and excellent service. It is a top-notch bistro experience that celebrates a new spirit of culinary excellence. One visit will never be enough. The restaurant is located at 29 Hullfish Street, Princeton, NJ 08542. Call them at 609.252.9680 or visit their web site at http://www.mediterrarestaurant.com/.

Terra Momo Group's fine establishments, Mediterra, Caffe Teresa, Eno Terra and the Terra Momo Bread Company give you even reasons to enjoy your time in the Princeton area. They have long been proud to partner with local arts organizations including American Repertory Ballet to offer discounts to theatergoers. For more information visit http://terramomo.com/.

Broadwayworld.com recently featured Chef Terry Strong of Mediterra in our "Chef Spotlight." You can also read about his work here: /bwwfood-wine/article/Chef-Spotlight-Terry-Strong-of-MEDITERRA-in-Princeton-NJ-20160125.

Photo Credit: Courtesy of Mediterra

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