Raw enthusiasm
Parawdiso, Ibiza, Spain
In the heart of the bustling village of Santa Gertrudis lies an oasis of tranquillity and calm; a sun-drenched slice of paradise with a unique approach to fresh, healthy and organic food.
Parawdiso is the creation of couple Kristyan Geyr and Sarah Weyrich, who relocated from Berlin to Ibiza late 2007. Offering oh-so-much more than meets the eye, the spacious restaurant, bar, eco-deli and store – featuring an exquisitely styled outdoor terrace, chic interior and quaint courtyard – will delight vegetarians, greenies and gourmet foodies alike.
Inspired by the raw food movement, Parawdiso’s menu features classic items such as burgers, tacos, spaghetti and falafels, made from the finest locally sourced produce. The twist? Think tubes of spaghetti carved from raw zucchini, topped with luscious diced tomato, freshly picked herbs and finely grated pine nuts or delectable golden taco shells made of carrot and linseed, dehydrated rather than baked, stuffed with avocado, tomato, onion and spicy sauce.
So convincing is the presentation it’s not until first bite you become aware the food is uncooked, when sensations of surprise turn to amazement, swiftly followed by satisfaction. Action emails over breakfast as you sip organic coffee with soymilk or taste-sensational smoothies. The warm and comfortable surroundings provide an all-day escape for those who can’t bear to give up their seats.
After dark, delve into the world of organic cocktails – caipiroskas, mojitos and daiquiris whipped up with organic spirits plus fresh fruits and natural syrup, a difference you’ll notice in taste and reduced ‘morning-after’ side effects. Not content with tempting our tastebuds, Parawdiso offers dried foods, a selection of fine wines plus educational films, books and the socially conscious fashion label, Kuyichi. For those on-the-go, menu items are available to take away – who needs refrigeration or heating?
They say raw, we say well done!
This story was published on October 22, 2008