It’s hard to say what Midi is or is trying to be. It calls itself a French bistro, has a number of French dishes and the waiters are French, but upon a closer inspection seems to make most of the profit as a convenient lunch option for the people working in the nearby offices, including Vienna’s stock exchange. My primary interest was, however, the Brettljause-like dishes that it serves, for whatever reason, after 5 p.m. only. Considering that no food at Midi is available after 9 p.m., it is not easy to say whom these dishes are really targeted to.
Be warned, if you are expecting a French-themed Brettljause, Midi will disappoint you. The most French ingredient was the Saucisson – tiny salty sausages one can certainly buy as a pre-packaged snack at a supermarket. The other meats – ham, salami and Speck – looked and tasted totally Austrian, and the menu made no secret of their origin. Not that I am complaining; the ham in particular was excellent. The three types of cheese included had a greater chance of being related to France, especially the soft and tasty sort, but I cannot guarantee that 100%.
French or not, however, the “Planche” was tasty, well-presented and filling, and although it was too expensive for what was, the price did not appear exorbitant considering the quality. I just wish a few “sides,” such as pickles, mustard or even fresh vegetables were provided to make the dish more interesting. Midi should also work harder on the interior to make it look more like a true restaurant and less like a canteen serving as an walk-though entry to a fitness studio (which is true). The way Midi is now, I can almost recommend its Brettljause but can hardly endorse it as a place to have a memorable dinner or even a lunch.
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