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Clean Plate Club
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Feb 2nd, 2010 - 13:42:13 |
Clean Plate Club (December 9, 2009)
By Rebecca Hurvitz | photo by Andrea Bonaventura
Dec 8, 2009, 13:14
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Bora Bora Ultra Lounge
Flavors from Aroundthe World
A candle lit room is arranged in private lounges. Leather couches surrounded by rose petals and flickering flames are made intimate by burgundy divider curtains. Hookahs filled with tobacco flavored with everything from fruits, to cotton candy, cherry cola to cappuccino, are available for patrons to mix, match and enjoy. There is a cigar menu, bottle service, dancers and a DJ. One would think Bora Bora in Dearborn was a luxury night lounge, and while this is certainly one of the many hats this establishment wears, it is not the only. An expert culinary team works backstage, putting out ethnically inspired creations sure to impress even the most seasoned globe trotter.
“We have people from all types of nationalities who come here, so we have menu items to accommodate everyone,” says Abe Koussan, co-owner of Bora Bora. The menu is international fusion, each dish combining flavors and techniques from all over the world. One would think a hookah bar/restaurant would offer a variety of Mediterranean fare, and while many dishes do have Arabic influences, this is not the only flavor profile present.
The Fattoush salad is an example of classic Mediterranean cuisine, complete with feta cheese, crisp pita chips, and a homemade dressing. The Citrus Scented Lamb Chops, however, are not so easily categorized. Perfectly cooked and seasoned, the chops are served with gnocchi flavored with sage and served with an arugula presto. Italian flavors mingle perfectly with the citrus flavor infused in the meat, making this a complex dish that embraces a variety of spices. The fried leek garnish is a surprise that offers a wonderfully crispy texture.
The Blackened Salmon is a sweet and spicy plate, providing Cajun heat and Caribbean sweetness in a fresh and healthy meal. A generously sized heat packed salmon filet is served atop a slice of grilled pineapple and covered in a mango and pineapple salsa. Served with julienne vegetables and sweet pepper rice, this plate is an indulgent treat that won’t foil a diet. The Zesty Lemon Chicken is another dish that balances light and rich elements. Lean and moist chicken breast prepared in a marinade is served with rice and fresh vegetables. The dish is drizzled lightly in a creamy citrus sauce. This entree is just another example of how Bora Bora is providing the atmosphere and cuisine of a fine dining restaurant without the fine dining price tag. Entrees are substantially portioned, and fall around the $20 range. The quality of the ingredients is appreciated.
“We don’t want people to think we’re just a night lounge,” says Koussan. “I want people to enjoy lunch and dinner here.” Whether you visit Bora Bora to sip wine, enjoy hookah and an appetizer, or come out with the family for a special dinner, you are guaranteed a flavorful experience. Often referenced as a “hidden gem” in the Metro-Detroit area, Bora Bora just may become your favorite lunch spot in addition to your choice night life venue. | RDW
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