Mallorca, Pittsburgh, PA

Mallorca, Pittsburgh, PA

My first visit to Mallorca was 10 years ago, and it was quite memorable.  My cousins and I decided to try out the Spanish restaurant on a Friday night; without a reservation.  We arrived at 7pm sharp, and the place was buzzing.  The bar was full, and every seat in the joint was packed with hungry foodies.  The two of us decided to wait (we had heard such good things) and didn’t want to chance going somewhere else.  We sat after half an hour, and ate (I can’t remember what).  The only thing I do recall is the craziness that ensued.  The wait staff was running about feverishly, and the Maitre’ D was filling his time by demeaning them in front of everyone.  We were also encouraged to leave after our meal was complete; there was, after all other people waiting to be seated. I left without the slightest interest in returning.

Well, I did go back a few weeks ago for brunch, and the atmosphere was quite different.  The restaurant was quiet and clean, and the staff was accommodating.  As a matter of fact, we were in for an early lunch, and got royal treatment.  We ordered our drinks, and our waiter presented us with complimentary grilled hot peppers and stuffed mushroom caps.  The peppers were served as-is; no dipping sauce, just the char-grilled taste for us to enjoy.  The mushrooms were loaded with hot sausage, and browned.  They were delicious, just enough earthy flavor, and the sausage was spicy.  For lunch, I ordered the Pollo Marsala, (Chicken with Wine Sauce and Mushrooms $9.95), my lunch mate opted for the Paella Valencia, (Seafood, Chicken, and Spanish Sausage with Rice $16.95).  As we sipped our iced tea and mimosas, we noticed the restaurant getting busier.  The bus boys were hurried with their iced waters, dressed to the nines, wearing white pressed shirts and bow ties.

Our meals arrived in 20 minutes and we dug in.  My chicken was moist and seared properly; brown not burnt.  The mushrooms were seared and tasty as they absorbed the sweet Marsala wine sauce made with lots of real butter.  The Paella Valencia was equally as good.  The shrimp were soft and tender, as was the chicken.  The rice and Spanish sausage was a nice accompaniment.  In between bites our server and busboy were attentive, filling our water glasses and clearing used dishes.  We had chocolate cake and mango sorbet for dessert; both were good, but I’m still not sure if they were made in-house.  Our meal was pleasant, and we were able to enjoy it at a relaxed pace without anyone rushing us out the door.

We had a great time at lunch, but its dinner that you have to experience. Some of the recommended offerings are: Calmar Frito (Lightly Breaded Fried Squid $9.95), Mellinoes in Salsa Verde (Mussels in Green Sauce ($9.95), Langosta Rellena (Broiled Stuffed Lobster with Crab Meat and Shrimp $34.95), Colas De Longosta Al Champagne (Twin Lobster Tails with Champagne Apple Sauce $35.95), and Camarones Enchiladas (Shrimp in a Lightly Spiced Tomato Sauce $22.95).  There is also a wide variety of specialty chicken and fish dishes prepared Mediterranean-Style.  If you’re a vegetarian, there are also a wide variety of choices too.

Authentic Spanish Cuisine…that’s what Mallorca offers.  With its rich history, colorful employees, and fresh food, it’s worth a visit.