navigator - Jacksonville University

10 THE NAVIGATOR • NOVEMBER 6-12, 2007 FEATURES
Mongo’s Grill provides sizzlin’ satisfaction
Brendan Laubner
Editor-in-Chief
Just over the Mathews Bridge, and
tucked away in the corner of the Landing,
lies a hidden gem filled with sound, sites
and flavor. Mongo’s Hot Flat Grill is the
indoor barbeque that any food enthusiast
will love.
There are many restaurants at
Jacksonville’s Landing, but Mongo’s is the
only place that embraces international culture
with a hint of red, white, and blue.
“We try to adopt the Mongolian style
food with a true, beachy Floridian feel,”
said Mongo’s chef Mischel Coffey.
For those not familiar with their culinary
arts, Mongolian food preparation is unique
and interactive. Much like a Japanese steak
house, Mongo’s prepares your food right in
front of you on a large hibachi grill.
At Mongo’s, you don’t order anything
with your waiter or waitress except drinks.
In the corner of the restaurant, perpendicular
to the grill, sits an icy bar full of raw
meats, crisp vegetables, herbs and spices,
and tasty sauces.
The detailed instructions on the menu
explain the interactive process step by step.
Renae Ingram
The delicious barbecue that is served at Mongo’s Hot Flat Grill is prepared by
the quick-cooking, friendly chefs.
The first step calls for one empty bowl.
This bowl is where all the magic begins.
Patrons at Mongo’s get to choose from a
barrage of raw meats including beef, chicken,
pork and even gator. For all the noncarnivores
Mongo’s offers a salad bar and
tofu.
Once you have selected your meats or
substitutes, the second step calls for one
ladle of oil. This step is crucial if you don’t
want the hot grill to burn your food. At this
step one may also select different herbs or
spices. Once the oil is applied it is time for
the vegetables or seafood!
The seafood selection is rather limited;
however, the shrimp portions are plentiful
and extremely tasty. Toward the end of the
bar delicious items like pasta salad or portabella
mushrooms will also tempt you.
Remember this helpful hint: pick your
ingredients wisely. All the food you select
to place in your bowl will be cooked together
almost like a stir-fry.
Just before your bowl ingredients begin
to overflow and topple over, bring your
masterpiece over to the hot, flat grill. There
will be a skilled chef ready to prepare your
meal within a matter of moments.
Now, the best part of the whole experience;
eat! Indulge in the plate of food
you have created from scratch. Take in the
beautiful view of the St. Johns River as
boats and people pass by your second story
window.
Mongo’s offers all-you-can-eat for just 5
dollars more then one bowl. So loosen your
belt and get ready to numb your body by
filling your buddha.
Mongo’s is an inexpensive way to get
out and enjoy our city. With beautiful
views, tasteful music, and delicious hand
crafted meals, this restaurant is sure to
please a wide variety of people.