Restaurant al-Mansoura

17 August 2011 | 0 Comments

For a unique dining experience in Kelibia, be sure to visit al-Mansoura restaurant. Al-Mansoura is located on Mansoura beach, situated in the greater Kelibia area, on the Cap Bon peninsula.

Al-Mansoura bills itself as the restaurant with “Pieds dans l’eau” [Feet in the water], and the spectacular setting lives up to this expectation. The restaurant is situated directly on the beach, surrounded by rock pools in which diners can enter the water for a dip in between courses. Mansoura beach is famed for its fine white sand and crystal-clear water, all of which is easily accessible from the restaurant. It is the perfect setting for a family day at the beach, a group of friends celebrating an event, or for a romantic evening for two. The natural beauty of the place is indeed a rare find.

As one could expect from such a venue, the food and drinks are quite pricey. A small assortment of grilled fish cost 35 Dinars/person and totaled 175 Dinars. Spaghetti Fruits de Mer was higher than average, at 14 Dinars. Tunisia Live sampled the grilled fish and the Spaghetti Fruits de Mer. Both were average – not bad but nothing outstanding either. The Faux Filet in a Mushroom Sauce (25 Dinars) did, however, please the friends who accompanied Tunisia Live.

The service left something to be desired, however.  al-Mansoura restaurant opens at noon daily, and there is a rush of people waiting before then to obtain a table. Staff was unhelpful and consistently acted as though we were a burden upon them. We also had long waits between ordering and receiving drinks.

Alcohol is also available. al-Mansoura has a comprehensive list of Tunisian wines, as well as highly-priced foreign spirits. Our advice?  Stick to beer or wine. The local white and dry Muscat of Kelibia pairs well with any of the seafood dishes that the restaurant specializes in.

Needless to say, the setting alone makes Restaurant al-Mansoura a place worthy of Tunisia Live‘s recommendation. The food is passable, if expensive. The poor service is mitigated by the fact that while you are waiting, you can simply go for a swim. Relaxing on the beach with a cold beer on a hot day is something that cannot be beat. Open during Ramadan, 7 days per week. Reservations highly recommended.

3.5/5 Stars

Specialties: Seafood, Grilled Meats

Approximate Budget/Person: 40-50 Dinars

Alcohol: Beer, Wine and Spirits

Other: Ocean View, A/C