Nola Restaurant Review

To add to this eclectic mix I was surprised to find Nola and their rib's night reminiscent of American Southern cuisine and even more surprised by the quality and authenticity of their Cajun Creole menu.

Having visited Emeril Lagasse's restaurant, the original Nola in New Orleans, Louisiana I was a bit skeptical especially since Cajun Creole cuisine is not a very popular genre in the Mediterranean. But again I was pleasantly surprised.

The rustic interior of this small and intimate restaurant, located on Sant Magí in Santa Catalina definitely resonates with the ambiance of what one may find in the French Quarter of New Orleans, not during Mardi Gras of course, but none the less a fun experience where one could bring the family and friends or simply go for some cocktails before a night out on the town (try the Kentucky Twist, a refreshing twist on Bourbon sours with Four Roses, grape sugar syrup, Orange Bitters and homemade lemonade).

Having grown up in the States I have had my share of all you can eat ribs and was delighted to find an all you can eat rib's night in Palma at Nola. For me 'all you can eat' means all you can eat so I went with an appetite and was expecting to eat a lot! Chef Zoli stepped up the plate with tender lean beef ribs full of flavour, served Americana style on a wooden platter, with a side of Acadian BBQ sauce. With over 20 years of international culinary experience this Hungarian chef, having also studied and worked in Mallorca for years, really impressed me with this authentic culinary experience paying homage to New Orleans cuisine. This isn't your typical American barbecue. American-style barbecue isn't simply about slapping something on the grill and then removing it a few minutes later, it involves smoking the meat for a period of hours in an oven which can be considered seasoning itself, and then there's regional variations to consider, such as Cajun Creole. It is truly soul food.

These ribs were so meaty and succulent they have you wanting more. The portions were enormous and the best part was the meat fell right off the bone. I didn't have to use my hands, which brings me to another great point - it's a great place for date night as well - no messy fingers or barbecue sauce on your cheeks! The staff were very friendly and accommodating, always asking if you need a refill on your drink or if you fancy another portion. I didn't want to, but I had to say no at some point!

This restaurant owned and run by married couple, James and Nadja both of whom have grown up in Mallorca and really contribute to the warmth and energy of the restaurant. They are both very approachable and were so especially on this busy night, asking patrons if they were enjoying their meal and what they could do to make their experience better. I didn't think there was anything else that they, the staff or especially Chef Zoli could have done to make this experience more enjoyable.

I'd definitely recommend Nola for meat lovers but if you're not a meat aficionado there are plenty of seafood options as well. The menu is definitely hearty so do go with an appetite and you will not be disappointed. Depending on the night I would recommend making reservations. There was a special theme on the night I went to Nola, rib's night, so it's best to call ahead and make reservations since they plan on organising more events like this. There is an outdoor section in the back of the restaurant where jazz nights and other music inspired themes are scheduled to take place as summer approaches. Don't miss out a small part of New Orleans in Palma de Mallorca.

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Nola Restaurant