At Mustang Bistro, patrons enter a restaurant whose décor does not advertise its cuisine. Discreet authentic American memorabilia hangs on the wall but does not jostle for your attention since the restaurant is clad in the warm glow that only the natural colour of solid wood and brass can produce.

It is a place that speaks of intimacy and refinement, the right palette on which to present the kaleidoscope of flavours and textures the Chef Patron Adrian Bajada prepares. This is the restaurant to visit when you’re absolutely famished and in need of good food, as its standard of cooking, especially beef is unrivalled in both quality and quantity.

One thing is undisputable – Mustang knows its meat. Fillet steak, two different types of rib eye steak, T-bone steak, succulent BBQ ribs, (purportedly the best on the island) Caribbean duck – a pan fried ginger flavoured duck breast with rich cherry sauce – hot, fresh soups, combo starters, speciality pasta dishes, and the perennial favourite – basil orange lamb.

Beef like you’ve never tasted before is also in abundance – so tender that the knife practically slices through it and has such an exquisite taste that sauces aren’t even necessary. Sauces are, in fact, only served as sides as a policy. Nor are the cuts smothered in butter and oil to enhance the taste; they are simply cooked over a charcoal grill along with a special marinade and the natural beef juices.

Mustang is definitely worth checking out if you’re looking for a relaxing place to dine out, with no compromise on the menu, and with a reasonably priced wine list.

Mustang American Bistro is near the Trade Fairs Grounds in Naxxar, in Triq il Markiz Scicluna, open Tuesday through Saturday for dinner and on Sundays for lunch only.

Tel: 2141 9197 / 7970 6626; www.mustangbistro.com; [email protected].