By Dhimiter Gjodede
According to Wikipedia, Serendipity is the effect by which one accidentally discovers something fortunate, especially while looking for something else entirely. The word has been voted as one of the ten English words that were hardest to translate in June 2004 by a British translation company. While the debate on the word’s definite meaning is still ongoing, Serendipity Caf顩s a sure bet for a serendipity experience
An international cuisine restaurant, Serendipity Caf顩s situated right outside the Bloc (bllok) area, the heart beat of Tirana’s night life. A favorite among foreigners, the Caf顩s famous for its cozy atmosphere, wonderful d꤯r and fusion food (Mexican, Southern American, Mediterranean & traditional Albanian). The chef has worked in London for both Maxwell’s and Hard Rock Caf顫nown for their combination of cuisines and the experiences gathered there mirror in the menu and show through, in his cooking.
If you need help with your choices, the service will be there to help you out anytime.
The place & d꤯r
Serendipity Caf顩s nicely organized in 2 dinning rooms, a separate long bar in the corner of the restaurant and an attractive patio which is always full during warm Albanian summer nights. Crazy colors of red, green and orange paint the walls giving it a definite Latin American feeling, dark shiny wood tables nicely situated in all rooms to give the clients the necessary space to enjoy their dinner. Great art works cover the walls: Paintings, pop-art pictures, crazy graffiti and funny phrases written in style such as “Fun, Fun & Leisure”. There’s even an Andy Warhol painting of Mao Tze Dung smiling from above over the tables. Ethnic Latin American d꤯r is also present with lampadars representing Aztec masks made of metal artwork. And if you think you have seen enough, then wait for the menu.
The menu
The menu, one side in Albanian and one side in English, can’t get any crazier. It looks like a Pancho Villa’s Mexican party manifesto. The crazy letters in green and yellow seem to be dancing all over the menu. And it starts with a challenge: “Are you a Mexi-can or a Mexi-can’t.” No wonder, a good part of the dishes are Mexican: quesadillas, nachos, sizzling fajitas and enchiladas. But it doesn’t fall short on other specialties, such as burgers, NY steaks, Pasta & Risotto, wooden-baked pizzas, and even desserts such as cheesecake, apple pie, and banana split. Ten sections overall covering a variety of appetizers, side relishes and main entries to make your mouth drool.
What to eat
The real question would be “What not to eat?” The appetizers themselves are good enough for a whole meal. Try the wonderful Spanish Tapas, or the variety of Quesadillas. There are plenty of options for vegetarians, too. And if you want to try something of everything then go for the El Xhambo Kombo, good enough for 4 people. However, unless you are training for the hot-dog eating World Championship, then I recommend to go slow and save some offerings for next time. A good number of salads and Las Sopas follow the list. Go for the Caesar salad, it never fails. Or you may opt for a Caprese or even a plate of Prosciutto Crudo & Parmigianino for something more sophisticated
Next, Da Heavy Artillery!!!
These are the main entries. Again, you will find various Mexican dishes, plus NY style and a nice selection of burgers. But if you are looking for something different, then go for traditional Albanian. Deep-dish meals oven baked in clay pots are a must. Tave Elbasani is a must. What you get inside it is at your own risk, but it definitely tastes great and it comes sizzling.
And if you simply want a pizza to go with your tap beer, then go for La Bumja, a specialty of the chef. Tomato sauce, mozzarella, garlic chops, black pepper, and blue cheese. Spicy enough to knock an elephant out of his feet, and unless you want to knock out someone with your garlic breath, I recommend to bring your mints with you.
Innovative cocktails from the bar don’t fall short of the food. To the chilled Margarita, Capirinha, and Mojito, you can add your own recipe and the smiling bartender will be glad to comply.
Here I can go on and on for other dishes, but it’s for you to find out. Afterall, why lose a Serendipity experience. The one sure thing is that you will leave this place with a good feeling and a happy stomach. And wanting to return!
Type: Mexican and international food
Address: Rr. “Deshmoret e 4 Shkurtit nr 24
Phone: +355 4 2259377
Opening hours: 10:00 to 23:00
