5 Sides to Compliment Your Dish at NoJa

Make your meal a dish to remember with our decadent and always made-fresh side selections. Our meat, poultry and seafood go great with any of our go-to pairings. We mean serious business when it comes to what we serve and take pride in all side dish creations. Give them a try today and see why our guests keep coming back for more. Enjoy!

Roasted Mushrooms 

Unlike sauteed mushrooms, roasting them low and slow for ultimate tenderness in the oven is what we are all about. We first add our special glaze sauce and toss them to perfection. A much-needed side of earthy flavors is here for mushroom lovers. Ask about our wild mushrooms for a touch of spice and firmer texture. This low-calorie vegetable has fiber and is an excellent source of B vitamins as well.

Noja Potatoes

A not-so-secret anymore are our melty and buttery potatoes. Addicting and tender to the touch, it is our specialty and personal favorite. They go great with a tender steak such as a filet mignon or Kansas City strip. If you want a filling and satisfying side dish, this is just for you.

Fingerling Potatoes

What’s the difference between our Fingerling Potatoes and our Noja Potatoes? They are heirloom potatoes with a thin outer skin and are short in length. These cook up perfectly because of their size, so we season and bake them until soft, tender and crispy. We even love them so much we included them to our stuffed pork chop, panko-crusted fish and skuna bay salmon because it is just that necessary. Give these fun-sized pieces a go (trust us, you will want to order an extra side of these).

 Baby Spinach

Try a classic, yet straightforward side made fresh as it is sauteed and wilted to a creamy consistency. Also, it is added raw to our arrange of fresh salads for that added crunch. Not to mention healthy and full of fiber, vitamins and antioxidants, this vegetable is guilt-free and adds tasty greens to brighten up your plate.

Parmesan Grits

Our creamiest and cheesiest creation yet! Parmesan grits are a great base for any seafood or meat of your choice as it adds a thick consistency with a tender buttery feel. The mixture of parmesan cheese and butter is total heaven (and also a fan favorite). It’s all for the love of the comforting savory taste.

Noja is a Mediterranean-Asain restaurant in the heart of downtown Mobile with an ever-evolving menu. Call us at 251-433-0377 to make a reservation today then visit at 6 N. Jackson St. Mobile.

Top 10 Ingredients We Use in the Kitchen

Expand your palate with our unique blend of spices and fresh ingredients added to our seasonal and traditional dishes. Learn how we add that extra depth of flavor to our cuisine that will have you thinking, “I need more of this in my life!”

Ras el Hanout

This Moroccan spice mix has Middle Eastern roots combined with many different spices that make this a great sweet and spicy rub. It is perfect for Mediterranean dishes like chicken, curry, and even hummus. 

Ghee Butter

Calling all butter lovers! This butter is not only richer because of the process it undergoes, but Ghee Butter is also full of vitamins and has many health benefits. It has a high smoke point so it is used for sauteing—a little goes a long way so your lactose self will thank you for it.

Burrata Cheese

Similar to Italian mozzarella cheese, this cheese is made from soft mozzerella skin and mixed with cream, making it a delightful spread for flatbreads or crumbled in salads, and it also goes perfectly with tomatoes. 

Duck Fat

Rendered from duck, this fat is highly useful in Asian dishes. It can be made into a creamy sauce, glazed or roasted with potatoes, making it a great side for poultry dishes. 

Miso Paste 

Made from fermented soybeans, this thick paste is also a favorite for an Asian cuisine base. The umami flavor can be added to soups or you can use the roasted glaze for poultry. 

Farro

An ancient grain full of fiber and protein that adds a chewy texture when cooked to our Mediterranean salads. Find it in pilaf and soups as well.

Marsala

An Italian wine reduced to make caramelized sauces, usually mixed with mushrooms or simmered down to glaze poultry. The sweet acidity renders all the flavors together and adds richnesses to any dish.   

Tamarind

A sweet-and-sour tropical fruit that is used for its pulp, Tamarind can be made into many unique recipes such as chutney, pad Thai sauce and even into fruity drinks. 

Madagascar Vanilla Beans

Float your senses with this bourbon vanilla bean that is sweet, rich and buttery. Although hard to grow, our restaurant transports this gem and adds it to many desserts for your sweet tooth’s cravings. They are primarily added to delicious creams, donuts and custards.

Maldon Salt

With just a pinch of this unique flaky salt, a crunch factor is added to top off meats or any poultry. Full of minerals, regular salt does not compare to our selection of Maldon Salt. 

It’s Noja’s attention to detail and our focus on farm-fresh ingredients that has allowed us to continue to serve this area for so long. For an intimate meal in one of the Port City’s longest-running restaurants in Downtown Mobile, make a reservation to Noja. We have romantic indoor seating in a secluded area, just steps from Dauphin Street in LODA at 6 N. Jackson Street. To reserve a table now, call 251-433-0377. Learn more about our cuisine and offerings at www.nojamobile.com or on our Facebook page. 

4 Dishes You HAVE to Order at NoJa

Selecting the perfect meal can be difficult at any restaurant. Sometimes you want to indulge and other times you want to be sensible. At NoJa, we’ve made the process simple by offering savory dishes that are full of flavor without the guilt. Whether it’s your first visit or you are one of our regulars, these are the four dishes you must order at your next visit to NoJa.

Scallops and Shrimp

At first glance of our menu, it will be tempting to order a little bit of everything. Why not start off your experience with one of our best dishes, the U-10 scallops and shrimp bowl. Sitting on a bed of parmesan grits and Cajun marsala, the scallops and Gulf shrimp are perfectly sized to leave you hungry for more.

Maple Leaf Duck Breast

Taste NoJa’s true fusion of Mediterranean and Asian flavors with our Maple Leaf Duck Breast dish. Our delicious duck breast is cooked to perfection and served with lightly seasoned baby bok choy and rum-infused jasmine rice. An aged balsamic-cherry reduction complements the entrée.

Kansas City Strip

You can have a delicious steak anywhere in the city, but NoJa’s 16-ounce Kansas City Strip is truly one of a kind. Ours is aged-to-perfection for 45 days; a process that enhances the cut’s natural taste and flavor. You can add to your steak with a variety of toppings including a blue cheese cream, goat cheese, grilled Gulf Shrimp, foie gras, mushroom-peppercorn sauce and U-10 seared scallops. Fresh farm vegetables, NoJa potatoes and a red wine reduction balance the meal.

The Ginger Donut

Now it’s time for everyone’s favorite finale, dessert. At Noja, we offer one of the most unique dessert menus in the city. With classics such as a slice of cheesecake or Crème Brulee, there is something for anyone with a sweet tooth. Our most accomplished offering is the Ginger Donut; an indulgent and delectable treat exclusively at NoJa. Our homemade, pillowy ginger donut is accompanied by a choice of either vanilla bean or locally sourced popcorn ice cream. The confection is then placed is a swirl of caramel sauce, adding a touch of sweetness.

Of course, no dinner or dessert is complete without a glass of wine. We offer an extensive wine list with selections from around the world. From prosecco to merlot, each glass pairs perfectly with one of our dinner and dessert menu options.

Our flavors, service and atmosphere guarantee an experience like no other. Let one of these four dishes make it a night to remember.

It’s NoJa’s attention to detail and our focus on farm-fresh ingredients that have allowed us to continue to serve this area for so long. For an intimate meal in one of the Port City’s longest-running restaurants in Downtown Mobile, make a reservation to NoJa. We have romantic indoor seating in a secluded area, just steps from Dauphin Street in LODA at 6 N. Jackson Street. To reserve a table, call 251-433-0377. Learn more about our cuisine and offerings on our Facebook page.

3 Reasons You Should Book Your Private Parties at NoJa

Are you planning a private party? Maybe it’s a company event or a loved one’s birthday. Either way, deciding where to host the event can be quite stressful having so many options in the Azalea City. However, there’s no better place to book a private party in Mobile than NoJa. We are conveniently located downtown and have an exquisite space that is sure to make your party nothing short of a success. Here are three reasons why you should book your next private party at NoJa.

Plenty of Space

One great benefit of NoJa is the ample seating and space. Whether you’re celebrating a private birthday party, wedding rehearsal dinner or a large get-together, we have plenty of space to provide you with a comfortable fine-dining experience. Be sure to contact our restaurant to make a reservation and let us know how many people you have attending so we can be sure that everyone is comfortable and proper accommodations are made. Our main goal is to ensure that your private party is a success. We want everyone to enjoy their time at our restaurant and offer them an experience they will never forget.

Wide Range of Choices

At NoJa, our focus is on farm-fresh ingredients. Our menu has something for everyone, even the pickiest eater. For the seafood fanatic, we have dishes such as Panko Crusted Fish which includes fresh fish pan fried with fingerling potatoes. We also have the Hook & Line Caught which is our Chef’s daily preparations of seasonal, local and regional flavors that will really give you a taste of the area. For the carnivore, we have an exquisite 14-oz. Bone-In Stuffed Pork Chop. This cheshire pork is stuffed with spinach, bacon, Brie, parmesan and comes with Chef’s vegetables and fingerling potatoes. We also have a wide range of sides such as roasted mushrooms, NoJa potatoes, baby spinach and parmesan grits.

Stress-Free Cleaning

One of the best parts of booking a private party at NoJa is the stress-free cleanup that follows. Whenever you host an event at your home, the cleanup afterward can take quite a bit of time. When you book with our restaurant, you won’t have to lift a finger. This allows guests to sit back, relax and enjoy their evening with family and friends.

It’s NoJa’s attention to detail and our focus on farm-fresh ingredients that have allowed us to continue to serve this area for so long. For an intimate meal in one of the Port City’s longest-running restaurants in Downtown Mobile, make a reservation to NoJa. We have romantic indoor seating in a secluded area, just steps from Dauphin Street in LODA at 6 N. Jackson Street. To reserve a table, call 251-433-0377. Learn more about our cuisine and offerings at online or on our Facebook page.

NoJa is a Mediterranean-Asian restaurant in the heart of downtown Mobile with an ever-evolving menu. Call us at 251-433-0377 to make a reservation today then visit at 6 N. Jackson St. Mobile.

Why NoJa is the Perfect Date Night Spot

Do you struggle to figure out where you should go for the perfect date in Mobile, AL? If you’re looking for delicious food, ambiance and an intimate setting, then look no further than NoJa! Anyone can go to the movies, but treat your date to something different and make a reservation at one of Mobile’s longest running restaurants downtown.

Amazing Dining Experience

At NoJa, you are guaranteed a night of great food, wine and service that showcases our very best. Our stylish interior is highlighted by the serenely lit dining room that complements our historic brick walls. Our professionally trained staff is here to greet your party and provide you and your date with the top-notch service expected of a fine dining restaurant like NoJa.

Exceptional Menu Options

We offer a seasonal menu that has been meticulously crafted, so date night gets going on the right foot. We have classic dishes such as filet mignon, stuffed pork chops, as well as seafood and amazing salad options. We pride ourselves in our niche, “MediterrAsian” cuisine and have infused that detail into every plate on our menu.

World-Class Wine Options

At NoJa, we have one of the most notoriously extensive wine lists in town. Our trained staff can assist you in selecting the right wine to pair with every course of your meal. We have a wide range of red and white wines from around the world that help you savor the flavor of any of the offerings on our menu.

Delicious Dessert Offerings

Dessert truly is the cherry on top of date night at NoJa. We know everyone has room for dessert despite all of your date’s polite refusals, so we have a delicious selection to choose from. Our Asian inspiration shines through with our famous Ginger Donut served with a scoop of our Vanilla Bean or Popcorn Ice Cream. Maybe you’re in the mood for our delectable Coconut Rum Bombe, a yummy coconut cake layered with vanilla pastry cream and a drizzle of dark rum. Don’t forget to pair your dessert with a glass of champagne.

Treat your date to the very best with dinner at NoJa. Your meal will be a memorable experience for both of you, and may just be your ticket to getting that next date!

It is NoJa’s attention to detail and our focus on farm-fresh ingredients that have allowed us to continue to serve this area for so long. For an intimate meal in one of the Port City’s longest-running restaurants in Downtown Mobile, make a reservation to NoJa. We have romantic indoor seating in a secluded area, just steps from Dauphin Street in LODA at 6 N. Jackson Street. To reserve a table, call 251-433-0377. Learn more about our cuisine and offerings at www.nojamobile.com or on our Facebook page.

Benefits of Consuming Seafood

There is nothing like enjoying the day’s fresh catch. A plate full of boiled shrimp or succulent oysters doesn’t hurt either. Fresh seafood is not only delicious, its pack with many health benefits. Seafood is also versatile, allowing diners to explore various tastes with familiar spices. Need a little more convincing? Read more as to why you should be consuming seafood.

Heart Healthy

Seafood is filled with heart healthy nutrients such as omega-3 fatty acids. Numerous studies have shown the benefits of consuming foods rich in omega-3 fatty acids. Seafood such as mackerel, salmon, oysters, sardines and herring have between 3,000 and 4,000 milligrams of omega-3 fatty acids per serving! Just adding seafood to your plate a couple of times a week will put you over the average goal of 250 milligrams per day.

Filled with Essential Nutrients

Along with omega-3 fatty acids, seafood is also packed with many essential vitamins and nutrients. Fatty fish such as salmon and tuna are rich in vitamin A and D which can improve the immune system and bone maintenance. Most fish and shellfish provide a good source of B-complex vitamins which can help your metabolism, focus and boost energy.

Low in Fat and High in Protein

Worried about not getting enough protein as you normally would in beef and chicken? You can cast those worries aside because seafood provides you plenty of protein. It is also lower in saturated fat which is good for your heart.

Variety

Do you feel stuck in a beef and poultry rut? The delicious variety of seafood can help you break out of that! Experiment with a fish dish such as NoJa’s Skuna Bay Salmon or try our chef’s daily fish special which features that days’ fresh catch.

Pairs Well with Wine

Just about any seafood dish pairs wonderfully with a glass of wine. Riesling is traditionally served with raw oysters while Sauvignon Blanc compliments a roasted sea bass or shrimp that has been sautéed in garlic. Delicate tasting red wines such as Pinot Noir or Syrah balance out the flavors in most fish dishes. 

It’s Tasty!

Imagine a pat of butter melting over a lobster tail or the smell of garlic sautéed shrimp. Mesmerizing, right? No matter how you cook or season it, seafood is simply delicious!

It’s easy to see why people are hooked on seafood. It’s delicious and filled with many essential health benefits. At NoJa, we offer a menu filled with delicious seasonal seafood options straight from the waters of the Gulf. Stop in today and give seafood a try!

It’s NoJa’s attention to detail and our focus on farm-fresh ingredients that has allowed us to continue to serve this area for so long. For an intimate meal in one of the Port City’s longest-running restaurants in Downtown Mobile, make a reservation to NoJa. We have romantic indoor seating in a secluded area, just steps from Dauphin Street in LODA at 6 N. Jackson Street. To reserve a table, call 251-433-0377. Learn more about our cuisine and offerings at www.nojamobile.com or on our Facebook page.


Spring Events Happening In Mobile

In between Mardi Gras and the variety of festivals throughout the year, it seems as though the city of Mobile never sleeps. Springtime is especially busy in the Port City and there are many activities planned for the upcoming months. From food to music and the arts, here is a list of events happening in Mobile this Spring.

Rose Bloom Out – Bellingrath

Spend the day walking amongst thousands of roses in full bloom during Bellingrath Garden’s Rose Bloom Out. Over 2,000 varieties of plants best grown on the Gulf Coast will be on display in the award-winning Bellingrath Rose Garden. The roses will begin to bloom in April and continue through the fall with the next Bloom Out forecasted for June.

Girls Night Out at The Pillars

Grab your best gal pals and head to The Pillars of Mobile on Government Street for a fun night out. On April 25th, The Pillars will host an exciting evening filled with local merchants, food, drinks, and entertainment.

Crawfish in the Courtyard

Enjoy a Cajun-themed fundraising event at the Gulf Coast Exploreum’s annual Crawfish in the Courtyard. Admission to the 21 and up only event includes: all you can eat crawfish, brews from Serda Brewing Company, live music and a silent auction and raffle.

70th Annual Blessing of the Fleet

On May 4th and 5th, St. Margaret Catholic Church in Bayou Batre will once again host its Blessing of the Fleet. This year marks the 70th anniversary for the popular weekend community event and tourist attraction. On hand will be arts and crafts, boat cruises, and food options including Gulf seafood and traditional Vietnamese cuisine.

Mud Bottom Revival Music Festival

Bender Point on Riviere du Chien will be the backdrop for the Mud Bottom Revival Music Festival on Sunday, April 28th. This fundraising events promises a good time for all with live music and local eats in a gorgeous outdoor setting. Those attending are welcome to bring chairs, coolers and blankets. Music entertainment includes The Red Clay Strays, Will Kimbrough and Ryan Balthrop.

Creek Fest

Take the family out for a fun day on the water at the 4th annual Creek Fest on May 11th. This event showcases the beauty of the Mobile waterways and the importance of conservation. Activities will include food, live music and kayak rides. There will also be a cane pole fishing tournament for those 16 and under.

When are you done for day, stop by and see us at NoJa for dinner and drinks. NoJa is located in the heart of downtown Mobile, centered around all the best music and entertainment the city has to offer. It’s NoJa’s attention to detail and our focus on farm-fresh ingredients that has allowed us to continue to serve this area for so long. For an intimate meal in one of the Port City’s longest-running restaurants in Downtown Mobile, make a reservation to NoJa. We have romantic indoor seating in a secluded area, just steps from Dauphin Street in LODA at 6 N. Jackson Street. To reserve a table now, call 251-433-0377. Learn more about our cuisine and offerings at www.nojamobile.com or on our Facebook page.

Why We're One Of The Longest Running Fine Dining Restaurants In Mobile

Owning and operating a local business is not a task to be taken lightly, especially in the restaurant industry. While at NoJa, we are lucky to say our business has been operating successfully and is one of the longest running fine dining restaurants in Mobile, it has not been without hard work and dedication. We know the importance of creating a fine dining atmosphere that combines the perfect mix of exquisite cuisine and comfort for all those who walk through our door. Every customer walks in with the desire for a good meal and leaves already planning their next trip back. So, what has been our secret?

Perfecting Our Menu

First and foremost, without great food, there is no great restaurant. At NoJa, we have put countless hours into creating the perfect menu with options for everyone. We created a menu that has an ample amount of options without completely overwhelming guests with too many choices. In addition, we offer seasonal dishes that allow for our guests to change it up and try something new that isn’t always on the menu.

Hiring Great Staff Members

The staff at NoJa deserves a lot of credit for the success of our restaurant. Each and every staff member truly cares about our goal and strives to provide the ultimate dining experience for each individual that walks through our doors. Poorly trained and rude staff members can completely ruin a dining experience. This is why each member of our staff is adequately trained and strives to make your visit enjoyable.

Every Detail is Carefully Considered

We take every detail into consideration no matter the size. Our menu has been carefully crafted to provide the ultimate cuisine experience. The staff has been trained to offer the best service in the restaurant industry. Our furniture has been chosen with comfort in mind. And the décor was chosen to bring our vision to life and make it appealing. Noja is a place where anyone in the Mobile community, along with those passing through, can come to relax and enjoy a nice meal.

The main reason we’re one of the longest running restaurants in Mobile is because of you. Each of our loyal customers that continue to choose our restaurant for their dining experience. Without you, Noja wouldn’t be possible.

It’s NoJa’s attention to detail and our focus on farm-fresh ingredients that has allowed us to continue to serve this area for so long. For an intimate meal in one of the Port City’s longest-running restaurants in Downtown Mobile, make a reservation to NoJa. We have romantic indoor seating in a secluded area, just steps from Dauphin Street in LODA at 6 N. Jackson Street. To reserve a table now, call 251-433-0377. Learn more about our cuisine and offerings at www.nojamobile.com or on our Facebook page.

What You Should Know About Cuvée Wines

For wine connoisseurs- and the occasional taster- the term “Cuvée” can be seen easily today. Nationwide, cuvée wines can be found in every price range. Today, we will tell what you should know about cuvée wines. At Noja, our goal is to expand your palette to a wide variety of wines and heighten the enjoyment found in a good wine.

What Does the Term Cuvée Mean?

The term cuvée means many different things depending upon the variety. Cuvée is a French term that, when referring to wine, means coming from a vat or tank.

Is Cuvée Wine of Higher Quality?

For some wine producers, the answer to this question is definitely yes. On wine labels of certain wine producers, especially in the Napa region, when you see cuvée on the label it denotes wine derived from vats of a higher quality than the winery’s standard vats. This can mean a distinct quality difference in flavor.

Is Cuvée Wine Pressed from Certain Grapes?

Certain regions of the country as well as abroad use the term cuvée to indicate a wine produced from a mixture of several grape varieties. Likewise, in the region of Champagne, the term cuvée is used to indicate to the buyer that this wine has been pressed from the best grapes available.

Does Cuvée Come in all Wine Blends?

Cuvée wines are certainly found in a broad spectrum. From red blends to white and blush blends to sparkling varieties.

What Occasions Call for Cuvée Wines?

Cuvée wines and sparkling wines are suited for any occasion. Of course, the variety of cuvée wine you choose depends upon your taste, the occasion and the tone you wish to set. But with such a wide variety of cuvée wines readily available, you are sure to find one that is a perfect match for your special night or evening out with friends.

Are Certain Pairings More Appropriate for Cuvée Wines?

Cuvée wine pairings run the gamut. Many cuvée wine red blends are perfectly paired with steaks of all varieties and cooking methods. With that, white cuvée wines pair well with seafood and pasta. Cuvée wines are a welcome change from other standard dessert wines as well when looking for something new.

It’s NoJa’s attention to detail and our focus on farm-fresh ingredients that has allowed us to continue to serve this area for so long. For an intimate meal in one of the Port City’s longest-running restaurants in Downtown Mobile, make a reservation to NoJa. We are just steps from Dauphin Street in LODA at 6 N. Jackson Street. To reserve a table now, call 251-433-0377. Learn more about our cuisine and offerings at www.nojamobile.com or on our Facebook page.