We were invited to Bistro Boca, a French bistro in Ta' Xbiex, for an influencer's dinner to try the vibrant flavours of the cuisine.
Jump straight in
If first impressions matter, Bistro Boca in Ta' Xbiex knows how to roll out the red carpet. The newly opened French-inspired bistro invited a group of influencers to sample their menu.
Let me tell you, the evening was a parade of flavours, textures, and a few surprises. We also loved the warm welcome, service with a smile, and the free-flowing prosecco!
But let's not rush—this isn't a race to dessert (although the Crème Brûlée alone could warrant such a sprint).
What's the Buzz About Bistro Boca?
Nestled in the scenic waterside area of Ta' Xbiex - a place that is becoming increasingly vibrant - Bistro Boca aims to bring a slice of French bistro charm to Malta.
Having replaced the much-loved The Black Egg, its sleek interior does justice to its predecessor. Its French-inspired menu has it in the sights of being one of the best restaurants in Ta' Xbiex. So, does it live up to the hype?
Spoiler alert: for the most part, it absolutely does. The evening felt like a delightful gastronomic dance with dishes ranging from refined classics to inventive twists.
Canapés to Kick Things Off
The dinner began with a medley of canapés, each offering a unique introduction to the kitchen's creative flair. The Chicken Liver Pate on Toasted Brioche was a rich, decadent start paired with a spiced prune chutney.
The in-house-cured Salmon with Chive Cream Fresh and Caviar followed it. This personal favourite balanced the caviar's brininess with the chive-infused dressing's creaminess.
The Ham Hock Croquette with Mustard Emulsion delivered a satisfying crunch and tangy zing. At the same time, the Celeriac with Baked Apple Puree and Cognac Salt Baked Gel proved a more delicate affair.
While beautifully plated, the Oyster with Cucumber textures struggled slightly with balance; the cucumber overwhelmed the oyster's natural briny essence.
Overall, it was a good start, with a few highlights stealing the show.
Starter Stars
If the canapés set the stage, the starters upped the ante. The Balsamic Roasted Beetroot was the undeniable star here. Whipped goat cheese, honeycomb, and candied walnuts worked together like a well-rehearsed symphony, offering sweetness, crunch, and tang.
It was one of those dishes that makes you pause and wonder, "Is this a starter or dessert?"
The Pan-Seared Foie Gras was a luxurious affair, with its fluffy texture complemented by apple and parsnip purée.
Meanwhile, the Steak Tartare showcased robust, meaty flavours, though some might find its boldness not for the faint-hearted.If you're a Tartare fan, this one will likely hit the spot.
The Mains: Big Plates, Big Flavours
Regarding the mains, Bistro Boca didn't shy away from generous portions. The Argentinian Beef Rib Eye with Bearnaise Sauce was everything a steak should be—tender, juicy, and flavoured. The dish reminds you why steakhouses will never go out of fashion.
The Half-Roasted Chicken (apologies for the blurry picture) stood out for its moist texture and the comforting addition of pomme purée and chicken jus. If there were one critique, it'd be the portion size—generous to a fault, leaving little room for dessert.
The Dover Sole Meunière, pan-seared and served with lemon and caper butter, was a triumph of simplicity done right.
The only letdown? The Braised Cabbage. Topped with buttermilk and blue cheese dressing, pink peppercorns, honey, and truffle, it felt like an overly complex attempt to elevate what was, at the end of the day, a quarter of cabbage. It was a miss in an otherwise solid lineup.
Dessert: A Sweet Goodbye
Dessert brought the evening to a delightful close. The Crème Brûlée was a textbook example of the French classic, light yet rich with that satisfying crack of caramelised sugar on top.
The Salted Caramel and Chocolate Tart with Vanilla Chantilly was indulgent without overpowering, rounding off the meal on a high note.
Why Should You Visit Bistro Boca?
Now, the big question: should you visit Bistro Boca? Suppose you love French cuisine, beautifully executed dishes, and a waterside setting perfect for a special occasion or a fancy weekday treat.
In that case, the answer is a resounding yes. The service is attentive without being overbearing. But, like any new restaurant, it has its teething issues.
Some dishes, like the Oyster with Textures of Cucumber and the Braised Cabbage, could use a bit of refinement. Yet, these minor hiccups are easy to forgive when the overall experience is this enjoyable.
Just a small extra note. Bistro Boca’s bathrooms are a trip—quite literally! The walls are adorned with wallpaper that looks like a Van Gogh painting come to life, swirling with colour and vibrancy.
Add a disco ball glittering overhead, and you’ve got a mini art-meets-party moment. It’s the bathroom you don’t mind lingering in, snapping a quick selfie, or just soaking in the whimsical vibe.
Frequently Asked Questions
What makes Bistro Boca one of the best restaurants in Ta' Xbiex? Bistro Boca combines the charm of a French bistro with its talented chefs' culinary creativity, offering classic and inventive dishes.
Is Bistro Boca suitable for a romantic dinner? Absolutely! The ambience, coupled with its refined menu, makes it an ideal spot for date nights.
What dishes are must-tries? The Balsamic Roasted Beetroot, Argentinian Rib Eye, and Crème Brûlée are highly recommended.
Is Bistro Boca family-friendly? While the menu leans toward a fine dining experience, its welcoming atmosphere makes it suitable for family outings.
Final Thoughts
Bistro Boca is a welcome addition to the Ta' Xbiex restaurant scene. It's a place where French classics meet creative flair, service feels personal, and every meal is an experience to remember.
Sure, there's room for growth, but isn't that part of the charm of a new restaurant? We're already planning our next visit.
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