Taking inspiration from the history, heritage and above all the recipes of the Middle East, new opening Yalla shakes up the tastes and flavours of Persia, Turkey, Morocco and beyond to create a fusion menu for anyone craving punchy flavours and vibrant dishes. Take, for example, the chargrilled aubergine, tahini, harissa oil and pine nuts. The immense texture and depth make this a dish that would satisfy even the hardiest of meat eaters salivating. Not that meat eaters are neglected here, as shown by dishes such as lamb kofta and tender grilled chicken shish tawook – the combination of bold flavours and an enduring smokiness are spot-on, and combine perfectly with innovative side dishes such as roast and mint yoghurt or zaatar fries.
The gang’s all here: neat whips of silky hummus contain wells of chickpeas, framed by puffy flatbread slices, but it’s the attention to detail of the food that really sings at Yalla. Spiced kofta come sprinkled with a dusting of sesame seeds, while a rainbow-hued fattoush salad is finished with a perfect zesty dressing. With a delightful hot mezze choice that runs from falafel to a sumptuous warm beetroot, labneh and hazelnut salad, and chargrilled aubergine, the cuisine has plenty to offer vegetarians.
Don’t leave Yalla without trying the desserts, which offer another level of deliciousness, from pistachio baklava, muhallabia, halva brownie, and Persian ice cream, to Medjool date balls, Lebanese ma’amoul cookies and a selection of Arabic sweets. Turkish coffee, Moroccan mint tea and rose lattes are here to end your meal perfectly. Take a magic ride up to Santa Gertrudis and step, for an hour or two, in a space of eastern promise. And yes: Yalla really does offer a halva martini. A perfect way to start (or indeed finish) the evening.
Carrer de la Vénda des Poble, 6. Santa Gertrudis de sa Fruitera.
Phone: +34 971 197 337
e-mail: hello@yallaibiza.com
Reservations: 699 533 788
