Mistral (Meh-strahl’). The name evokes a sure Mediterranean wind bringing clear water and fresh weather to those sailing the sea. Now, Restaurant Mistral offers Chef Scott Anderson the chance to create ever-changing, seasonal offerings that can be adjusted to the prevailing winds of his unsurpassed creativity and taste.
Scott Anderson has evolved from the “chef to watch” to the “chef everyone is watching.” Following the critically acclaimed success of elements, co-owners Anderson and Steve Distler bring Princeton another showcase celebration of contemporary cuisine with Mistral.
The atmosphere at Mistral is “refined rustic.” A variety of exposed wood surfaces, and even a large sculptural wooden tree signal you that this restaurant is in touch with and cares about the environment. It’s comfortable and casual. If you like the excitement of the open kitchen, you can watch everything going on up close when you sit at the bar for dinner. Another option is to eat outside at the café under umbrellas. Later this season, the restaurant is erecting a canopy and outdoor fireplace, giving Princeton a new dining experience that’s private and refreshing.
Mistral is BYOB. So maximize your experience by going to the restaurant’s website, www.mistralprinceton.com, and checking out what’s on offer, so you can bring some wines that enhance the taste of your meal.
You’ll soon find when you revisit the site that the menu changes often, reflecting the freshness of seasonal markets. The range of the menu is as wide as the world and you’ll have fun noting the culinary influences of the Middle East, Japan, Thailand, the Mediterranean and Latin countries in various dishes. What’s even better for diners is that the offerings are small plates, designed so you can taste a wider assortment of foods in a single visit. The restaurant staff likes to say “the plates are small enough to share,” meaning “add to the fun of your meal by ordering a range of foods to pass and talk about.” Try it all at Mistral!
Mistral, 66 Witherspoon Street, Princeton (across from the Public Library). Open 7 days for lunch and dinner. 609-688-8808, www.mistralprinceton.com.
