We recently celebrated not one, but two special occasions at one of our favorite local spots, Mimi’s Table Bistro & Wine Bar in Midtown Tallahassee. It was my husband’s birthday and our anniversary, and while we’ve dined at Mimi’s several times before, this visit felt truly memorable. From the impeccable service to the delightful dishes and the warm welcome to each guest by the chef-owner himself, every detail made our evening unforgettable.
Located in the heart of Midtown, Mimi’s Table is a charming restaurant known for its sophisticated, yet approachable menu that blends classic French techniques with Southern flair. Chef William Lawson, the incredibly talented classically French trained Executive Chef and Owner behind Mimi’s Table, has crafted a dining experience that feels both elegant and inviting. With years of experience and a passion for fresh, locally-sourced ingredients, Chef Lawson has made Mimi’s Table a beloved spot for both locals and visitors alike.
Our evening began with a delightful appetizer, the Chilled Crab and Lobster Napoleon. This dish featured a plate filled with fresh crab and lobster, layered with creamy avocado and sweet mango, seasoned with a hint of ginger and garlic. The lavash crackers added the perfect crunch, making each bite a textural delight. This appetizer was so fresh and flavorful – perfect for summer!
Next up, we indulged in the Salmon Croquettes, a perfectly crispy exterior encased the tender salmon mixed with shallots, red pepper, and garlic. The croquettes were served with a tangy lemon garlic aioli that elevated the dish to a new level of deliciousness.
For the salad course, we enjoyed the Farmhouse Salad, a vibrant mix of artisan greens, romaine, beets, strawberries, and creamy brie. The candied walnuts added a touch of sweetness, while the buttermilk herb dressing tied all the flavors together beautifully.
Then came the star of the evening, a dish that has now become my personal favorite—Ratatouille Fettuccini. This was my first time trying ratatouille, and I’ve been raving about it ever since! The house-made fettuccini was tossed in a rich red pepper sauce with a hint of spice, with perfectly cooked tomatoes, eggplant, zucchini, yellow squash, and olives. I opted to add grilled scallops, which complemented the dish wonderfully. It was a vibrant, flavorful dish that I’ve been dreaming about for days.
Every year, my husband looks forward to lasagna for his birthday dinner, but with our kids’ school orientation and after school activities on his big day, I couldn’t get it done. Luckily, our date night spot of choice days later came to the rescue with their super tasty Meat and Three Cheese Lasagna. It’s made with house-made pasta layered with rich ricotta, mozzarella, and parmesan, combined with savory beef and Italian sausage. The dish is topped with a flavorful pomodoro sauce made from tomatoes, onions, carrots, olive oil, garlic, and basil—absolutely delicious!
To finish off the meal, we indulged in a decadent Chocolate Torte served with a side of vanilla ice cream. The torte was rich and velvety, the perfect ending to a delicious meal.
What made this visit even more special was seeing Chef Lawson personally walking around, greeting tables, and making sure everyone was enjoying their meals. His smile added a personal touch to the evening – it’s not every day you get to say hello to the chef behind the dishes you love, and it made our celebration even more memorable.
Mimi’s Table has always been a favorite of ours, but this visit was something truly special. If you’re looking for a place that combines excellent food, warm hospitality, and a cozy atmosphere, look no further than Mimi’s Table in Tallahassee. We left with happy hearts, full bellies, and a newfound love for ratatouille!
