VIVO Bistrot

Santa Gertrudis has long been a hub for health aware foodies but VIVO Bistrot, located on a quaint corner of the busy, pretty village, has raised that reputation one step higher. Consciousness lies at the heart of this Ibiza restaurant, where every element of the dining experience is thoughtfully considered. From what we put into our bodies and where items are sourced to the nutritional value of ingredients and how to make each dish zing with flavour, it’s all about mindful gourmet recipes that benefit mind, body and soul.

Founded by Italian-born Valentina Balzer, who describes herself as an ‘unusual restaurateur’, this unique Ibiza restaurant came to fruition when she decided to switch swapping a career in high-end fashion for the glittering shores of the white isle. Craving an authentic project that would blossom into personal and professional evolution, she created VIVO Bistrot, a place where likeminded guests can feel at home in a beautiful, community-focused setting while dining on organic dishes that support local producers and set a new bar for tasty cuisine.

The inventive Ibiza restaurant menu was inspired by Valentina’s globetrotting travels, unexpectedly fusing Japanese and South American influences with Chinese cooking and Mexican flair. Bao caseros made with blueberry dough, pepper, peanut butter and leek sit alongside homemade gyozas of seasonal vegetables and red curry, while pad Thai made with rice spaghetti, shiitake, toasted almonds and lime contrasts with the simplicity of marinated endive, lemon, vanilla and shiso leaves. Desserts are also a healthy but delectable treat at VIVO Bistrot, with vegan banoffee and dragon fruit pavlova among the favourites.

Drinks are also a key component at VIVO Bistrot. Spirits are sourced as meticulously as culinary ingredients – for example, one brand of rum has been chosen for its zero impact credentials, while the refreshing cocktail menu features innovative additions like the Mujer de la Terra. Blending dill infused tequila with beetroot, tomato and lime, the result is 100% organic. Further immerse yourself in the liquid journey by sampling the cocktail pairing experience, which takes place at the Ibiza restaurant every Saturday night, or try one of the original tea infusions, juices or smoothies.

Finally, no trip to this Ibiza restaurant is complete without getting a taste of its already legendary vegan tacos. Homemade using a superfood called Nopal – a Mexican species of cactus rich in beneficial health properties – that’s grown sustainably by a local farmer on Valentina’s request. One of the only places on the island to feature cactus on its menu, it’s further proof that VIVO Bistrot challenges how we think about food and the planet, delivering plate after plate of irresistible, goodness-packed gastronomy in the process.