belgian food!

Mignon Terrace Serves Belgian Cuisine

By Cathy Rose A. Garcia Staff Reporter The first thing that comes to mind when you hear of Belgian cuisine is probably those yummy Belgian waffles and chocolates. Mignon Terrace, located in Itaewon, is a quaint restaurant serving dishes from Belgium and Southern France. The menu, which is written in English and French, features a fairly extensive array of Belgian and French dishes to choose from. The appetizer menu included goat cheese salad, smoked salmon salad, and several dishes featuring mussels. We opted for the mussels in Provencal sauce (14,000 won). While waiting for the dishes, we were served French fries and a basket of bread. When the pot of steaming hot mussels arrived at our table, we were surprised at how big the serving was. The mussels were fresh, and cooked in a light but flavorful tomato-based sauce. While we really liked the mussels, the serving seemed a bit too much for two people. As for the main dish, we decided to go with the house recommendations, Waterzooi of chicken with cream sauce and potatoes (19,000 won) and grilled scallops with garlic served with saffron risotto (24,000 won). Waterzooi, a creamy chicken stew, is a popular dish in Belgium. The chicken is cooked to tender perfection, as the meat easily falls off the bone. Unlike most cream sauce dishes, the cream sauce does not overpower the chicken's flavor in this tasty dish. On the other hand, the scallops dish was cooked well with the garlicky sauce. There was a small portion of saffron risotto, which unfortunately was quite dry. To end our meal, we chose the iced souffle with Grand Marnier (6,000 won) as dessert. Other desserts include cream caramel, dark chocolate mousse, crepes Normandy (flambeed apple crepe with ice cream) and Belgian waffles. Belgian waffles can be served plain; with fruits or with ice cream. Overall, Mignon has a stylish atmosphere, but still remains warm and cozy. Kitschy art prints adorn the walls, while tea lights add glow to the restaurant. There is an outdoor terrace area with plants and even a cozy corner with large pillows where you can chill out with a cup of coffee. Mignon also has a brunch menu, featuring omelets, sandwiches and eggs benedict. Brunch is served from 11:30 a.m. to 3 p.m. on weekdays and 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. on weekends. From Itaewon Station (Subway Line 6) Exit 1, turn right at the first alley. Then, turn left and walk all the way to the end of the street. At your left, you'll find stairs leading up to Mignon Terrace. For reservations, call (02) 793-3070