Bright Flavours at MESA – A Lovely Meal with a Minor Flaw

Introduction
This past Saturday evening, we spontaneously decided to head to Bennebroek for dinner at the relatively new restaurant MESA. Located in a building with a rich culinary history, we were curious to see what this place had to offer.

Atmosphere & Location
MESA features a beautiful patio, and thanks to the weekend’s lovely weather, we were able to enjoy the last of the day’s sunshine. The atmosphere was pleasant and inviting. That said, the terrace is quite densely packed with tables, which does take away a bit from the sense of privacy.

Food & Drinks
We started with a tasty bread platter, served with oil and pesto. On the staff’s recommendation, I went with the tuna tartare on a papadum as a starter, followed by the sea bass for my main. My partner chose the shrimp croquettes and a side of sweet potato fries. Every dish was well-seasoned and beautifully presented. Special shout-out to the sweet potato fries: perfectly crispy — which is rare for this type of fry.

Final Touch
We wrapped up the evening with an espresso, served with a truffle from Patisserie Van Dam — a perfect ending to an enjoyable night.

Conclusion
MESA Bennebroek delivers a flavourful experience in a cosy setting. While the patio can feel a bit crowded, the quality of the food and the friendly service more than make up for it. A great pick for anyone looking for a relaxed yet refined evening out in Bennebroek.