Le Relais de l’Entrecote, located at Fayfa Avenue on Al-Tahlia Street in Jeddah, offers a French dining experience that brings a piece of Paris to the city. Every element of this restaurant, from its traditional bistro decor to the attentive hospitality, reflects the essence of France.
The atmosphere inside is cozy and intimate, while the outdoor terrace provides an ideal setting for open-air dining when the weather is right.
Known for its single-dish concept, Le Relais de l’Entrecote serves only one main course: a classic steak and fries. This approach, honed since the restaurant’s beginnings in Paris in 1959, allows the chefs to perfect their offering.
The meal kicks off with a simple, flavorful green salad tossed in a mustard vinaigrette and garnished with crushed walnuts. Following this, diners are served a tender steak, cooked to their liking, and accompanied by crispy fries.
Though the menu is straightforward, the quality and attention to detail elevate the dining experience. While waiting for the main course, guests are treated to a basket of freshly baked French baguette. Be cautious, though — the bread is so delicious, it can be tempting to fill up before the main event arrives.
No French meal would be complete without dessert, and Le Relais de l’Entrecote offers an array of indulgent options to finish on a sweet note.
Among the choices are creme brulee, with its delicate, caramelized crust; a strawberry melba with fresh strawberries, vanilla ice cream, and a splash of red currant coulis; and chocolate profiteroles, which feature light pastry filled with vanilla ice cream and topped with warm chocolate sauce and toasted almonds.
Other delights include the rich Sevigne chocolate cake served with Chantilly cream; the refreshing raspberry sorbet with fresh berries and raspberry liqueur; and the Summer Vacherin, a mix of meringues, vanilla ice cream, and raspberry sorbet topped with raspberry coulis and Chantilly cream.
Though a two-course meal here may be on the pricier side, the quality of ingredients and the distinctive dining experience make it worth trying at least once in a lifetime — an ideal choice for a special occasion, rather than an everyday outing.
Check @lerelaisentrecote on Instagram for more details.