We were quite disappointed with both our mains, and explained our concerns with the waitor. He told us they had a "young and ambitious team" in the kitchen with a philosophy behind their menu (modernizing traditional dishes). As a chef and a cooking class teacher I would like to elaborate and share my thoughts:
A young chef in his mid-to-late twenties may think his menu is based on some special well-developed "philosophy", but more often than not, this is an ego-driven delusion (I speak from first hand experience as I had my first head-chef position at a way too early age, back in 1999).
There is a reason we use fatty cuts of meat for long term braising/baking (preferably still on the bone): Lean muscles will get dry and impossible to eat if you dry-slowcook them, therefore, you need to use more fatty cuts for the "roast lamb" dish, alternatively use whole roasted leg of lamb.
There is also a reason classical dishes like stroganoff and goulash are served with pickles... they add salt and acidity. An experienced chef would never put a creamed, cheesy, fatty bechamel over a long cooked stew... the pasta with braised beef needs more acid- skip the heavy cheese sauce and simply sprinkle som thinly cut red onions, parsley and black olives (or maybe tapenade) on top to "break up" the rich dish.
"Fusion", "cross-over", "modern traditional bla bla" is very hard to get right, most people fail (and the restaurant closes just be opened by a new similar "concept" which also closes) that is why almost every experienced chef always return to the classical dishes, with special attention to the produce and seasons. To succeed with "modern-traditional" takes much more than just choosing fancy plates and squared serving-trays and changing technique to something that sounds cool.
That being said, the pommes frites, the burger and meze/starter were all cooked right and tasty - the service was friendly and professional, and investors should be applauded for giving young people a chance, I was once such a chef, and my guests were also paying for me to learn...
If you order the modern dishes I am sure you will have a nice meal, however the modern twist to the more classical ones need more thinking and testing, understanding the role of fat and acids is important here.
Good luck, I wish you all the best & success- never...
Read moreWhile visiting Kos, my wife and I had the pleasure of dining at The Rooster Bar, Café & Restaurant, located near Tigaki Beach, a true standout both in location and service.
From the moment we arrived, we were welcomed with genuine smiles and offered our choice of seating. The staff were consistently kind, polite, and professional, creating a warm and relaxed atmosphere. Service was swift and attentive, our water glasses were regularly refilled without needing to ask, and nothing felt rushed.
I ordered the chicken burger from the street food category, minus the lettuce and tomato and was served a flavourful combination of crispy bacon, grilled chicken, sliced cheese, and chili mayo, all packed into a soft brioche bun. It came with a portion of golden chips and one of the most delicious garlic sauces I've ever tasted. Each bite was pure joy, and I was genuinely disappointed I couldn’t fit in more.
I also enjoyed a refreshing strawberry milkshake that perfectly complemented the meal. My wife chose the Greek salad, which featured a unique twist: instead of traditional feta chunks, it came topped with a light, creamy feta mousse. Paired with a glass of white wine, she was thoroughly pleased.
We paid and left still surrounded by friendly smiles and sincere gratitude, a small touch that made a lasting impression. The restaurant itself is right in front of Tigaki Beach with its own walkway and beach access, surrounded by beautiful greenery that adds to the serene setting.
For those arriving by ferry, The Rooster is approximately 12–13 km from Kos Port and Kos Town. We drove from our accommodation near Vasileos Georgiou B 22 in Kos Town and it took roughly 25 minutes by car.
All in all, it felt like a place where people are genuinely happy to take care of you, and the food? Exactly what I had hoped for and more. Highly recommended for anyone looking to dine well by the beach on the...
Read moreLovely looking restaurant spacious and clean. Staff attentive and friendly. However ordered lobster as a special holiday treat 35 euro each and it came overcooked and underwhelming. Like half a large shrimp that had seen better days. As we were on holiday we didn't want to complain spoil the mood. Staff asked if we were happy with meal and we knew they could also see it was poorly cooked (hinting for us to complain?) My girlfriend commented she was struggling as it was tricky to de-shell (a hint it was rubbery hoping Staff would be the ones to say it shouldn't be that way) instead they just brought napkins. We decided not to chance a dessert for more disappointment and asked for bill again asked if everything was OK. Now I know people may say we should have said something but surely Staff cooking and serving should be the ones responsible for quality. We paid we left we even left a tip as the atmosphere Staff and drinks were nice but I really think they need to consider their responsibility to ensure quality food. Hopefully just a one bad meal situation but every meal should be amazing especially when you order the most...
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