5 /5 Bob: We’ve been coming to Chez Mireille since they first opened, though we’re not regulars by any stretch, more like infrequent flyers.
The owners are very enthusiastic and always friendly, but not in an effusive way. They seem a bit reserved and very serious when it comes to their waffles. Most times we’ve gone, we’re asked if we know about authentic Belgian waffles. The owners like to teach their customers about the various kinds, and seem slightly disappointed if we come in already knowing what we want before they can give their spiel. Understandably, this is a part of their culture, they’re proud if it and want to share it with others, but if you’ve been coming here over the years it can seem a bit like a hurdle one must pass to get to the goods (in this case, delicious waffles).
Americans are weird when it comes to food, and especially so when it comes to food outside their culture. I’m sure most Americans feel Belgian waffles are those big puffy things they get at Dennys or IHOP, so when they’re introduced to the real deal, they get confused and put off by it. Americans, in general, tend to think they know better even if they’re basically luddites and culinary challenged. My brother in law wouldn’t even try the waffles at Chez Mireille because his idea of a perfect waffle comes out of a toaster. I’m sure he’s on the extreme end of the spectrum, but you get where I’m coming from. So I totally understand why the nice people at Chez Mireille wish to set the record straight.
We usually get the Liège waffle, but they’re all good. And though these waffles are authentic, the experience is not. All of the waffles I’ve had in Belgium tend to be cooked to order (so they’re served warm). There are places in Belgium that pre-make their waffles and reheat them on the iron, though this practice tends to be frowned upon by avid waffle aficionados. Yet it’s understandable that Chez Mireille cooks their waffles ahead of time as they’re in Central Florida, not downtown Brussels.
The owners at Chez Mireille suggest their waffles may be eaten at room temperature, which is fine, but if you have access to a toaster oven I suggest you warm them up a bit.
To close, I recommend everyone go and try these delicious waffles and support this small, family owned business.