The Delicious Divas: February 2009

Our dinner club was pretty poorly attended this month. In fact, for various reasons, there were only 5 of us that were able to make it. Everyone who wasn't there was very missed and, in turn, missed out on a fabulous evening. It was Nicky's chance to pick a restaurant this month and she chose the first Kurdish restaurant in South Africa, Mesopotamia

I was first to arrive and, very unlike me, had a cup of coffee while waiting for the others to join. Honestly, I think it was my favourite part of my meal - THE most delicious coffee I've ever had in my life! I was offered 2 variations - Turkish (without milk) or Kurdish (with milk). I chose Kurdish, since it was a Kurdish restaurant. It was served in an espresso cup, which made me nervous, but honestly, it was like liquid chocolate. I can't stop thinking about it! It was a little gritty, but that was just part of the experience! The waiter (or kitchen staff) had also pre-mixed sugar in, which I don't normally have - it was honestly the most enjoyable cup of coffee I've ever had. Chocolate... Hmmm....

So, Mesopotamia... As I've already said, it's a Kurdish restaurant, which means it serves Middle Eastern foods. One sits on the floor, on cushions and low cushioned chairs around low antique copper tables. I think if our group had been any bigger, we would've needed 2 tables (each seats 5) and that would've broken up the party up a bit. The room is really dimly lit with candles on each table and colourful, lanterns hanging from the ceiling. The walls and ceiling were decorated with traditional rugs of various colours and shades and they were playing traditional music quietly in the background - I really enjoyed the atmosphere and enjoyed having a few moments to to myself to take everything in. There was just so much to look at.

I think we were all too busy chatting to be bothered to read the menu properly, so opted for a set menu and the food was good - such beautiful and interesting flavours. The meal was shared, which I always find fun, relaxing and very social!! Starters included pates (humus, tzatziki, coriander and feta), aubergines and a spicy chicken dish. This was served with flat breads. I think we were all pretty full after starters and were quite glad that we were given a decent breather before mains arrived!

Mains were served on a tray and included, roast leg of lamb, lamb chops, mixed vegetables, a chicken bake and chicken skewers done in 2 variations. Since Michelle's a vegetarian, the restaurant accommodated with a vegetarian set menu for her, which looked divine!! For dessert, we all had baklava with ice cream; I was so full, I couldn't manage mine.

In between mains and dessert, the music in the restaurant was turned up and a belly dancer entertained us. She was really good and I am sure that the Indian men find their dancing incredibly sexy. She did make me feel less conscious of my rolls - hers were all on display and she looked great. I can't believe how well she could move - she didn't deserve any of the little rolls of fat around her waist!!! Having her perform, livened up the room and she called on various patrons to get up and dance with her. Chantelle was the first up, though most of us got a turn at some point. She made me feel like an un-coordinated plank on the dance floor!