Pacha Restaurante, Ibiza, Spain
When compiling a list of ‘must-visit’ destinations in Ibiza, Pacha is guaranteed to appear. Those in the know however – a glitzy mix of young trend-setters, celebrities, DJs and clued-up locals – realise there is more than meets the eye to this famous farmhouse, starting in the ultra-glam surrounds of Pacha Restaurante.
Whether you enter with the cognoscenti via the club’s main entrance or opt for the discreet street corner entrance to the sushi lounge, the imminent dining experience is one of Mediterranean luxury tinged with Spanish charm and Asian elegance.
Pure white décor is bathed in soft pink lighting, in stark contrast to the traditional Ibicencan wooden beams throughout. Sliding doors lead onto ever-popular terrace, where the Orient meets Ibiza – rustic wooden furnishings, giant pots of bamboo and red and white wall hangings set a dramatic scene for the sushi bar, a large square affair where three sushi chefs expertly slice and dice while woks sizzle and tempura bubbles, as Buddha gazes on in approval.
A traditional Mediterranean kitchen is set apart upstairs to ensure all food is prepared puritanically, meaning there is truly something for everyone – no matter how picky your palate – on the menu.
Regulars swear by the ox steak with foie gras, sushi fans dream of the deep purple hues of spiced tuna sashimi and those planning on dancing until dawn crave the famous mixed energy sushi. The prawn tempura has a near legendary status, however new for 2009 is a lobster version that may surpass it in terms of mouth-watering flavour.
The restaurant fills up early, so reservations (three days in advance) are essential. However there’s no pressure to dash off to the dance floor – the kitchen remains open until 3am and guests are welcome to linger over cocktails until 4am, proving this hidden gem really is Pacha’s proverbial cherry on top.
Published on May 22, 2009.