BY EDWARD RAWSON
If you have ever been to La Maison in Port au Prince, chances are you found it the same way I did, killing time near the airport before you are leaving. It is right down the road from the Toussaint Louverture International Airport as you are heading toward the UN base, and its a nice little place to sit down and enjoy a few moments before heading off to your flight. They have a great little outdoor seating area with large natural umbrellas and big fans to cool you off. They also have a dark cool indoor dining area where you can cool off quickly. On this particular occasion i opted for the indoor seating, and sat by the window. I ordered a cold Prestige that came out sweating and was accompanied by a frosted glass and on this hot afternoon was like a small slice of heaven. I didn't have too much time so I didn't order too much, though the menu looked awesome with everything from breakfast spaghetti, to akra, to ice-cream. I decided just to pick up some akra and some fried Kibbe. The akra came to the table with this picklies that was among the best I've ever had in my life. It had a yellowy mustardy and citrusy flavor along with all the traditional flavors of vinegar, cabbage, onion, and carrot. It was such a unique twist on what is arguably Haiti's biggest claim to culinary fame. Together with the akra it was perfection. I bet there are a handful of people who would try it and say "this isn't traditional - I don't like it" and we are all entitled to our opinions, but personally this dish alone was enough to make me come back again. I'm told they have a very nice hotel here as well, which I could see as being convenient if you have an early fight in the morning. I've personally never stayed here, but if it is anything like the restaurant, i'm sure it is just as charming, and I will certainly choose it should I find myself needing to catch the early flight.