L'Ardoise Brasserie — Restaurant in Moka

I was invited to this restaurant by my cousin, and I was nervous about finding what appeared to me to be a hole-in-the-wall establishment. I duly arrived for dinner, and indeed, it was a hole-in-the-wall. But a gem! As soon as I entered, I was made to feel welcome, and since we had booked (necessary at this establishment), the table was prepared for us, and I was led without delay to our spot.

The service was really very personal. I felt almost like I was a guest in someone's home. The atmosphere was very cosy, and I felt like I was in Europe in a quaint restaurant tucked into a mountain top. The lighting was just right to make you feel you were in a fine establishment without making you reach for glasses to feel your way around.

Now the food. Wow. The food!!!! I have NEVER enjoyed fine dining in Mauritius as much as I did that evening. First of all, the menu is a large chalkboard that is hauled around to the different tables, and each item is explained in detail. I really loved that. Not having to page through a menu on my own, whilst not having a clue what to order. In this case, we discussed the menu with the server, and when the decision was made on what to order, there was none of the angst that usually accompanies me when i wonder if i chose the right thing. In this case, i was certain that I had chosen what would be perfect for me.

The food was impeccable. The presentation was top-notch. Polite company prevented me from gobbling the food down, but never have I cleaned my plate the way I did. I had ordered a steak, and it was done to perfection. I enjoyed each juicy bite and all the accompanying side items. My plate was clean.

The dessert was indulgent. Coffee was the cherry on the perfect steak. I can't wait to visit Mauritius again just to...

I had considered L’Ardoise for my 30th birthday dinner — the food looked very promising, which is why we reached out. Unfortunately, the experience was quite disappointing.

I first sent a message on WhatsApp to enquire about options — it was not even acknowledged. My partner then went in person to get more information. When he asked the owner, “Can I talk to you for a few minutes?”, the owner replied, “I have a few seconds,” and barely listened — all while being more interested in chatting with other customers.

When my partner tried to explain what we were looking for, he was brushed off and told to “just order whatever you want from the menu according to your budget.” And when the date of the birthday was mentioned, the owner casually said he would be on holidays.

It’s a real shame because the food looked great, but I personally won’t support a business where potential customers are treated with no respect and such arrogance — especially for an important event.

It is unfortunate that instead of acknowledging the experience we had, you chose to label it as lies and respond in a defensive and sarcastic tone — which, once again, only confirms the attitude we encountered.

I will not argue further here. I am entitled to share my personal experience as a potential client, which I have done calmly and honestly. The dismissive and arrogant tone that my partner faced — and now your written reply — clearly show the lack of professionalism we experienced.

I won’t comment further — and stand...

Cosy, neat place to be at. Friendly and charming owners who provide quality service with a smile. Food was delicious, all the flavours were there and presentation was on point. Price slightly on the high side but the high quality ingredients explain it. Definitely worth a visit ! Love the menu boards and how the little things there make such a big difference (the little hook on the side of the table to hang...