After discovering the mesmerising city of Maastricht only two (maybe three) years ago, something miraculous is happening as of two weeks from now – I’m studying to learn Dutch! I’ve developed such a fondness for Maastricht and The Netherlands that it seems only appropriate to pursue my love for this city and its country. The Dutch culture particularly attracts me most. They’re such friendly people, have very good taste (if you don’t mind me saying so) and when it comes to food – well they certainly town know exactly what they’re doing.
Eetcafé Ilya is a pleasant Mediterranean restaurant located on the Koestraat, right by the picturesque Onze Lieve Vrouweplein – the perfect place for people watching. Food here draws its influence from a whole range of cuisines but mostly French, Portuguese and Italian with the cooking here being very simple, honest, home cooked style and very personal – it’s like eating in someone’s home. The décor feels just as personal with its very eclectic (and rather religious) styling too. We started our meal with some bread which was perfectly fine and came served with a tuna mayonnaise for dipping which was very (very) addictive. A starter of deep-fried arancini had all the flavour we were expecting and its filling being very well seasoned, but the outside was a little overcooked. I like my arancini crunchy but this had a little too much crunch. The truffle infused dipping sauce on the other hand was absolutely delicious – so good in fact we made sure to keep hold of it for our main courses.
The one thing you notice when travelling from London to Maastricht is the sheer difference in pricing of food. A two-course meal at lunch with wine here will set you back around 50-60 euros per couple. In London this would easily be double, especially given the quality of the ingredients used here. With a craving for meat we couldn’t help but ordering the entrecôte, which was served with a rocket and tomato salad and the most delicious bowl of perfectly crisp and golden fries. Dipping these fries into that leftover truffle sauce was immensely satisfying, believe me. The entrecôte arrived and was cooked so rare it was practically still mooing at the table. At first I was a little sceptical to its under-cooking but actually it turned out to be a stunning piece of meat. Cutting through it was like slicing into butter and its flavour seemed to no end – even the seasoning was perfect. If a good, healthy entrecôte is what you’re after then this is the perfect place for you.
Eetcafé Ilya was such a lovely discovery in Maastricht and one which really did surprise us. With its fantastic service, affordable wine list and a range of dishes spanning the whole of the Mediterranean, this is a restaurant which should certainly be on your list if living/visiting Maastricht. I plan to spend many a long evenings here eating my way through its whole menu because quite frankly – it all sounds rather delicious.
7/10
