On a recent business trip to Europe I had a few days free between meetings to visit my family. I arrived in torrential rains, but it is amazing how good food can change one’s mood.

We had a family lunch at Mada One at the new One Complex in Monte Carlo which is a multiuse residential, retail and dining complex.

Mada One by Michelin starred chef Marcel Ravin is a contemporary restaurant, café and takeout featuring fresh and innovative food. Chef Ravin wanted to create a dining venue where the food was gourmet but casual and available for takeout. Usually gourmet food is not takeout ready in that part of the world.

Mada One offers outdoor seating on the terrace with an open concept and airy interior. When you walk in there is counter/bar seating and then there is the open space dining section. Light in color with a cool, casual and friendly ambience.

I had the cod steamed with organic exotic vegetables in a saffron sauce, while my family had the club sandwich with sweet potato fries and the Cesar salad with chicken. My fish was fantastic, fresh and tasty.

After our meal we had noisettes which are made with expresso and steamed milk. For dessert we had the fig tart and an assortment of dark chocolates, both made in house and just mouth watering good.

Mada One is a great concept dining venue because you can pop in for a coffee, a dessert or a full meal. You can eat in or carry out so there are lots of options. Further, in a town where the dining venues can be small this airy venue is perfect to grab a bite, libation and just sit relax and reflect!