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Razzle dazzle – Ibiza Burlesque Festival

Expect sequins, synchronised swimmers and sophisticated seduction at this summer’s Ibiza Burlesque Festival, taking place on Saturday September 16, 2023. Now in its seventh year, the captivating celebration of the centuries-old art form is set to feature incredible, world-class performers from over 10 countries, all coming together on stage in an expertly choreographed poolside display designed to inspire and amaze. The one-day-only extravaganza also features a pool party, cabaret performances, and live music from the island’s best DJs, in addition to a much-anticipated appearance from festival founder and the mastermind behind World Burlesque Day, Sapphira.

Counting Dita von Teese and Richard Branson among her slew of high-profile supporters, Sapphira is a world-renowned burlesque performer who has poured heart and soul into building a community of fellow dancers from the ground up as part of her enterprise, Sapphira’s Showtime. On a mission to bring the joys of burlesque to the world while championing the untold benefits of performing, her goals include showcasing the world’s best performers and using state of the art production to wow her audience. She also aims to enhance the lives of her students by using burlesque as a gateway to powerful self-expression.

Sapphira’s burlesque journey has been at the root of her own personal transformation. The art form proved pivotal as a tool in helping her to overcome a difficult childhood, and then 20 years ago, a traumatic bipolar episode. Since then, every carefully considered movement on stage has played an integral role in her recovery, and she aims to share this positive nugget of wisdom with others. “Above all, I hope that Ibiza Burlesque Festival is testament to the fact that one’s life can always be turned around,” she says. “And that anyone can rise above adversities.”

Sapphira has chronicled her own life’s path — including her arrival in Ibiza — in her published autobiography, Burlesque or Bust, and has tapped into her other, seemingly endless, creative channels to produce an original song. Entitled Tease, the tune was first debuted as the curtain call at the 2017 Ibiza Burlesque Festival, but after a slinky reworking by her husband and festival co-producer, DJ Tonestepa, a big band-inspired re-mix is scheduled to make a return for this year’s festival outing, with Sapphira herself on dazzling performance duties, emerging from behind a shield of shimmering feathers.

The 2023 Ibiza Burlesque Festival promises to be the best showcase yet, with support from a range of well-known brands and personalities, and Sapphira’s characteristic tenacity and vision evident in in every sultry stare and flirtatious flick of the wrist. Through burlesque, Sapphira invites everyone to enhance their lives by embracing empowerment, and in doing so, has created a positive environment in which everyone — both performer and guest — can thrive. Set to unfold on the sun-soaked Aperture Terrace in San Antonio Bay on Saturday September 16, 2023 – everyone is welcome to attend and see for themselves why the free-spirited backdrop of Ibiza is the perfect match for the unbridled expressiveness of burlesque.

White Ibiza Magazine Bundles – Holiday sale!

White Ibiza Magazine Issue 7 & 8 – Bundle

Issue 7 sees our respect for Ibiza’s old guard and the new wave of island characters reflected across its pages, while Issue 8 takes inspiration from the dedication and determination of the chefs, restaurateurs, farmers and suppliers who have made the island their home.

White Ibiza Magazine Issue 6 & 7 – Bundle

In Issue 6, we take inspiration from the exciting new food revolution taking place in Ibiza while paying homage to the island’s culinary roots. Issue 7 sees our respect for Ibiza’s old guard and the new wave of island characters reflected across its pages.

White Ibiza Magazine Issue 5 & 6 – Bundle

In Issue 5, we celebrate the island’s dreamers and free-thinkers: the artists, healers and creatives – old-timers and newcomers alike. Issue 6 takes inspiration from the exciting new food revolution taking place in Ibiza while paying homage to the island’s culinary roots.

A bohemian beach haven – El Silencio Ibiza

Hugged by towering, rocky cliffs and lapped by water so clear you can see your toes through it, Cala Molí is a bastion of unspoilt, wild Ibiza. A pebbly cove where the clued-in come to escape the chaos of the island in midsummer, it’s bohemian to the core; the gem planted at the end of the long, winding road. Perched atop its shores is El Silencio Ibiza, a louche and laid-back beach club that’s cut from the same cloth, and by the same hand, as the famous Parisian nightclub of the same name. It’s a place where nature and art interact freely, unbridled by typical boundaries.

Born from the minds of French tastemakers Arnaud Frisch and Antoine Caton, El Silencio Ibiza is now in its third season, already entrenched as a must-visit on the island’s culinary map. Effortlessly intertwining gastronomy, service, music and art, to while away time here is to surrender to the elements, and in doing so to enter another realm of relaxation and creative inspiration. Whether dining in the stylish beachfront restaurant that’s enveloped by the sea breeze; reclining and dining around the laid-back swimming pool beneath palm-fringed parasols; or checking out of reality in the innovative installation space, exploration of the moment is encouraged.

To help guests into that distinctly unparalleled groove, El Silencio Ibiza has enlisted Argentinian chef Mauro Colagreco, previously of highly decorated restaurant Mirazur on the Côte d’Azur, which was awarded three Michelin stars, to run the busy kitchen. Colagreco has designed a simple, seasonal menu inspired by the beach club’s convivial atmosphere; by the Spanish way of life, which whisks him back to the warm embrace of his home country; and by the crystal-clear sea, which while crashing gently into sand and shingle, somehow interweaves with the deepest depths of his imagination, reemerging as a deliciously formed plate.

Typical Spanish traditions such as sharing are dutifully honoured at El Silencio Ibiza with a range of flavour-packed tapas and hearty salads that can be delivered to your table, or your daybed by the pool. Try the now-famous heritage tomato salad — made with Ibiza’s homegrown produce — plus peach, verbena, candied lemons, ginger, almonds and pistachios, or for refreshing respite on a warm summer’s day, tuck into the lush watermelon salad with cucumber, avocado, feta cheese, red onion and coriander. For something indulgent, there’s nothing better than the creamy burrata salad, served with tomatoes, cherries, anchovies and pine nuts. All classics reinvigorated with flourish, these dishes taste best with the sun’s golden rays slicing through the restaurant’s straw-topped canopy.

Raw ingredients are treated with precision delicacy at El Silencio Ibiza. Think classic Peruvian ceviche made with catch of the day, then served with tiger milk and cancha corn; pert oysters served simply with red wine vinegar and shallots; and hamachi sashimi accompanied by local herb ponzu gel, gomasio and toasted sesame. Decadence continues at the grill, with flamed Ibicencan lobster served simply with alioli sauce, salt and lemon so that its natural sweetness shines through, and wood-fired king crab legs served luxuriously with brown butter, trout roe, chives and zesty sudachi sauce.

Continuing his passion for clay-pot cooking, Colagreco uses an ancient-inspired clay oven to breathe a certain smokiness into other parts of the El Silencio Ibiza menu. Sicilian aubergine is baked and served with smoked Scamorza foam, tomato, basil and sweet fried shallots; veggie lasagne is bursting with tasty fillings like spinach, tomatoes, onions, aubergine and mozzarella, and pizza is luxuriously adorned with truffle, fior de latte mozzarella, and spring onions. Toes dug deep into the sand beneath the table, eyes looking out toward the horizon, dining on these dishes, amid the aromas of salt and flame, is like stepping back in time.

Moving onto main courses, fish dishes include grilled turbot with pil-pil sauce, mashed potatoes, olive oil and chives, and extravagant linguini with lobster, with a luxe lobster and saffron fricassee. Cuts of meat El Silencio Ibiza are of the finest quality – try the melt-in-your-mouth lamb shoulder served with Basquaise sauce with olives, meat jus, espelette pepper and fresh herbs, or the butter-soft Wagyu beef sirloin steak with Creole sauce, romesco and shallot jus. Pair with an abundance of sides like grilled sweet potatoes drenched in herb butter, and the mouth-watering spring onion gratin with chunky chorizo and Parmesan.

It shouldn’t need to be said but be sure to leave room for dessert because El Silencio Ibiza boasts one of the most extensive selections anywhere on the island. The churros with dulce de leche, chocolate sauce and whipped cream are hard to beat, but the hibiscus and lemon infused melon carpaccio with Batak’s black lemon sorbet is an invigorating alternative. There’s a touch of Argentinian heritage in the dulce de leche fan, made according to Colagreco’s traditional family recipe – a comforting nod to the past to those who grew up with this sweet treat. Alternatively, sip on a liquid dessert, with a well-curated range of spectacular wines, champagnes and cava also available.

After sunset at El Silencio Ibiza, the lilac skies give way to starlit nights, and guests arrive – whether straight from a hazy beach day or as a pre-party destination – ready for post-sunset dinners in one of the most beautiful destinations in Ibiza. A well-curated soundtrack sets the scene as the venue transforms from day to night – let the Balearic atmosphere and bohemian ambience inspire you. This is Ibiza at its very best, and there’s not a single moment to lose before the summer slips away…

A creative culinary clubhouse – Juntos House

Hidden within the walls and gardens of a beautiful 19th-century farmhouse located on the edges of the petite pueblo of San Mateo is a sanctuary designed to inspire a new generation of island freethinkers. Juntos House is a fascinating venue that transcends the boundaries of the conventional ideas around farm-to-table-eating, enveloping the concept in a singular philosophy where the spirit of collaboration and creative freedom reigns supreme.

Flourishing like a mighty tree, its roots firmly embedded in the soil of Ibiza’s heritage, Juntos House has branches reaching all corners of the island via its culinary offerings, eclectic boutique and endless opportunities for creative connection. As the sun sets, embrace the magical colours of dusk with aperitifs beneath the tranquil Pergola before embarking on a gourmet adventure on the starlit restaurant terrace.

It’s here where you can savour dishes prepared with ingredients sourced from the restaurant’s regenerative farm, local small producers and island suppliers. While the Juntos House menu changes according to the season, starters might include delicious morsels such as baby beetroot with local organic bufala blue cheese and caramelised pecan; or dry-aged cecina with gremolata and preserved lemon. It’s hard to resist the pretty-as-a-picture Juntos Farm salad with edible flowers – about as KM0 as you can possibly get. Continuing onto the mains, diners will find melt-in-the-mouth line caught amberjack with cucumber, aguachile and fermented tomato; or organic pork katsu with beurre blanc, wild salmon roe, dill, kale, apple and celery.

If you’ve got a hearty appetite, order the local lamb shoulder, served for two people with baby potatoes, green mojo, fennel and pomegranate, or tuck into the speciality, meloso rice made with cuttlefish and Ibiza red prawns; or ask about the fresh catch of the day. As your meal concludes, indulge in delectable desserts – think chocolate ganache with pistachio and raspberry, or the addictive matcha and white chocolate coulant with Ibiza almond gelato – before retreating indoors to the heart of Juntos House, where a cosy bar is home to specialist mixologists crafting libations reflecting the spirit of Ibiza.

Dip into the Juntos Boutique where a thoughtfully curated selection of treasures includes botanical skincare by Rassa Botanicals, exquisite artisanal jewellery inspired by the energy of Ibiza and handcrafted by Elisa Pomar, plus silk scarves and kimonos created  by Figtree Collection, using plant-based tints sourced from the surrounding land. Every product bears the stamp of quality craftsmanship and environmental consciousness, reflecting a commitment to excellence and authenticity.

Throughout the year, Juntos House hosts special events bringing together like-minded people on a quest to explore creative, philosophical and purely fun pursuits. The programme comprises panels about ecological living, earth skills workshops, art exhibitions, game nights and so much more. This charming farmhouse is a year-round playground, where warm summer evenings foster easy connections between locals, artisans, farmers, and guests during convivial gatherings on the enchanting terrace. In the winter months, lunch sees the terrace still bathed in sunshine and as the sun dips find a cosy dinner spot within the ancient walls of this stunning hacienda where friendships flourish around a crackling fire, nurturing a sense of belonging. All of this, and more, is available for private events and special celebrations. 

The word juntos means together in Spanish and, at its core, Juntos House embodies the true spirit of its name. It all began with a pioneering vision to revitalise the surrounding farmlands through innovative earth-friendly practices and blossomed into a celebration of the vibrant community inhabiting these shores. Beyond its culinary delights, Juntos House has evolved into a bohemian clubhouse, where locals and visitors alike come together to breathe life into extraordinary dreams, in classic Ibiza style.

An exciting new path – Villa Mercedes

It’s no revelation to the world’s clued-up foodies that Ibiza’s well-earned status on the gastronomic map is now cemented — the white isle is home to some of the most innovative restaurants and forward-thinking chefs on the planet. And yet, one area of the island that’s been gastronomically bubbling away without too much fanfare is San Antonio, the pretty seaside town that’s most renowned for spectacular sunsets. Fortunately, restaurants like Villa Mercedes are readdressing the balance by enlisting talented new executive chef Iván Acquistato push the culinary boundaries and prove that there’s more to this west coast enclave than just mesmerising skies.

That’s not to say that Villa Mercedes hasn’t always been a beacon of great food and excellent dining experiences. Beloved by the island’s born and bred, and always adored by visitors, the restaurant has maintained the kind of low-key but still luxurious atmosphere that appeals to one and all. Boasting a beautiful alfresco terrace and garden dining area right next to the harbour, the whitewashed restaurant building is something of a local icon in itself, built in 1901 and converted into a restaurant by the famous Mambo Group in 1999. Dinners here are sound-tracked by live music and local DJs, not to mention the tinkering of yacht sails in the distance.

While the original essence of Villa Mercedes remains unchanged, a new era is dawning at the restaurant, thanks to the creative vision of executive chef, Iván Acquista. Born in Argentina and with a standout career that’s seen him helm the kitchens of Heart Ibiza, W Verbier, Ocean Drive, Belmond, and alongside his much-revered mentor Rafa Zafra at Casa Jondal, this creative and ambitious young talent has now decided to go his own way. This summer, he has reinvigorated the menu at Villa Mercedes through his use of impeccable local products (treated minimally so natural flavours shine), a touch of local tradition and a side of culinary flair. “You’ll see be a big leap in quality,” he says. “People have known Villa Mercedes for a long time, but now we want to elevate its name again and bring people back to San Antonio for great dining experiences.”

Those grand aspirations are backed by both skill and prowess, and after years of honing his craft, Iván is ready to strike out and create a menu that embodies his own interpretation of fantastic food. “Our new menu at Villa Mercedes is based on contemporary Mediterranean food, with a few tributes to Ibiza’s traditional cuisine,” he says. “We want it to have a very local identity.” Much inspiration has been taken from San Antonio harbour, which almost laps the restaurant’s doorstep – for example, almost all of the fresh fish is sourced from local suppliers and guilds – although there are also a few obvious (and delicious) nods to Iván’s homeland across the menu too.

The evening must begin with a bespoke Villa Mercedes cocktail. The Golden Mercedes is a heady blend of Jack Daniels, amaro, honey syrup, lime, ginger and sage while the Tanit Moon celebrates its namesake goddess with G-vine infused butterfly pea tea flower, lime, and orange. Follow up cocktails with a bottle from the thoughtfully curated cellar of Spanish, Balearic and international drops before considering some of Iván’s favourite dishes. “The caviar empanaditais one of the dishes you really have to order,” says Iván, speaking about his culinary homage to Argentina. “It brings together the flavours of the sea with memories from my birthplace. It’s a dish that reminds me of my mother, because there were always empanadas at home.” A richly layered combination of quality caviar with golden-tinted pastry that boasts just the right amount of crisp, it’s the perfect blend of luxury and nostalgia, and a symbol of what’s to come.

Must-try light bites at Villa Mercedes include perfectly plump oysters, and acorn-fed Iberian ham — two classics reimagined and the rest of the starters follow the same tantalising path — all the favourites are there but with a twist. Think creamy mushroom and blue cheese croquettes; juicy Marinara mussels with homemade sauce and parsley; and red prawn carpaccio (made from the famously sweet and delicious prawns from the island) served with caramelised onion purée and toast. There’s also roasted aubergine carpaccio with Ibiza honey, caramelised pine nuts and fresh cream; Gallega clams with green salsa; and in a twist on Ibiza tradition, broken eggs with sobrasada, local honey and mushroom.

Seafood serves as the stimulus behind many of the main dishes at Villa Mercedes. “I always recommend our fresh fish cooked on the Josper grill,” Iván says. “John Dory, sea bass, sole — we make all our stocks with the residual juices and serve the fish with a Bilbao-style sauce.” Other options are equally mouth-watering. There’s Ibizan crayfish accompanied by fried potatoes and peppers; lavish king crab leg and warm Rocoto (a Peruvian red pepper) foam; and in a tribute to Iván’s mentor Rafa Zafra, fried scorpion fish tacos with corn tortillas and other toppings. And for something truly traditional, don’t miss the Villa Mercedes speciality, a hearty red prawn rice to share.

Prime cuts of meat – like the luxe Black Angus tenderloin, a tender Angus Picaña, and the oh-so-flavoursome Japanese Wagyu – are imbied with a subtle smokiness, courtesy of the Villa Mercedes Josper grill. Meanwhile, boneless chicken thighs are marinated in 30 different spices, and luscious lamb chops (“In Ibiza the lamb is so good!” adds Iván) served with frita Ibicenco – fried potatoes, red peppers and local herbs. Choose your favourite main and load up your table with plenty of tasty sides, including sweet potato chips; candied and grilled piquillo peppers with a Bilbaína sauce; and grilled asparagus, which also gets the Josper grill treatment, and is served with Rocoto Hollandaise sauce.

Finish proceedings with a dreamy dessert like fluffy matcha cheesecake; roasted pineapple and coconut carpaccio; indulgent flan with cream and dulce de leche; and the sweetest strawberries with cream and chocolate. Evenings at Villa Mercedes are designed to be lingered over so there’s no rush here – be sure to take time to enjoy the live music, convivial vibe, great company, and incredible sea views, all fundamental pillars in San Antonio’s resurgence as a foodie destination.

Alongside Villa Mercedes manager Jorge – a San Antonio local who is passionate about the culinary revival of the area – and experienced hostess Marta, Iván is confident that his vision for raising the reputation of this renowned island dining destination is in sight. “San Antonio is on an exciting path,” he concludes. “And Villa Mercedes is at the heart of it.”

Uncharted territory – Territori Ibiza Performance Art Festival

Ibiza has served as muse for countless art forms across as many centuries — there is something about the island’s unique character that fits into creative souls like a jigsaw piece, inspiring ceaseless ingenuity and artistic transformation. From September 15 through to the 24, 2023, the island becomes the backdrop and inspiration for Territori Ibiza International Performance Art Festival where a series of performances, workshops, talks and exhibitions are hosted by local and international artists posing the question: does performance exist without an audience? 

Founded in 2020 by Isa Sanz, who was curating for the International Festival of Theatre and Street Arts in Valladolid when the idea first came to her, Territori Ibiza is a cultural event committed to live and action-based artistic expression. Taking place at various locations across the island over 10 days — from urban spaces to rural outcrops and bustling art galleries — it offers an inclusive environment for a diverse array of emerging and established artists to confront and explore pertinent cultural themes through creative communication, with audience participation acting as an important pillar of the experience. 

Over 25 artists and speakers have been invited to participate across the multi-platform Territori Ibiza programme, with Raíz y Vanguardia (Roots and Vanguard) serving as the central theme. Each performance has distinct merits and artists to look out for include pioneers of the scene such as Nieves Correa from Spain, who has performed at festivals all over the world since the 80s, and Roi Varra from Finland, who is renowned for his visual and physical performances that bind site and situation to poetry. Abel Azcona is another figure of note, whose powerful, autobiographical work leaves a deep, lasting impression. He will also be hosting an exclusive masterclass. Local creator, Joanna Hruby – whose work with local folklore is well-known across Ibiza and beyond – joins the stable of brilliant artists. 

Every year, Territori Ibiza’s organisers extend an open call to artists born or residing in the Balearic Islands to engage with a particular motif or idea. For 2023, the Mediterranean Sea served as the central concept for the selected artists (three from Ibiza; and one from Formentera, and Mallorca Menorca respectively), resulting in a kaleidoscopic spectrum of responses that have each reacted to the stimulus differently. Scholarships and grants are also offered to local creatives and those from further afield who demonstrate a propensity for performance art, with the subsequent pieces converging in a public exhibition.

In previous years, the festival burrowed into ideas surrounding Ibiza’s natural landscape and heritage sites, plunging the audience into local history and myth. And while the themes of this year’s Territori Ibiza vary, the resistance between the island’s reputation as an avant-garde destination and ingrained local identity rests at the fore. Throughout this questioning, Ibiza itself is a constant presence, on occasion even taking centre stage as a complex character that artists interact with and respond to over the seconds, minutes and hours of their performance. 

Just like Ibiza, performance art is ephemeral by nature and invites the audience to set aside thoughts of the past and future in favour of the present moment. Each staging comes alive at a specific time and place — with the potential for infinite outcomes — which means every member of the Territori Ibiza crowd holds the power to influence what unfurls. Such a poignant connection between artist and viewer roots every element to the here and now, creating an unrepeatable explosion of thoughts and actions that might be examined later through photos and videos, but will never again exude the same intensity.

More than just a festival, Territori Ibiza is a commitment to nurturing the local artistic community by celebrating the island’s landscapes and residents and encouraging insightful dialogues on pressing topics. This dynamic event not only enriches Ibiza’s art scene but also offers a fresh perspective, casting the island in an illuminating and transformative light. 

Ibiza charisma – Casa Linda

For some families, certain facets are passed down through the generations like treasured heirlooms. Sometimes they come in the form of personality traits, other times as physical attributes, or in the case of the Abellán clan, a propensity for culinary prowess. For acclaimed Catalonian restaurateur Tomás Abellán – the man behind famed Barcelona venues Bar Alégria and Casa Luz, and founder of hip new Ibiza restaurant Casa Linda – there’s no question that gastronomy and hospitality are in his blood thanks to his father, the revered Michelin-starred chef Carles Abellán. And yet, when it comes to entrepreneurial skills and success, it’s quite clear that he does things his own way.

After growing up in restaurant kitchens and dining rooms – working alongside his father from his early teens – Tomás flew the Catalonia coop to spend three years studying at the renowned New York Film Academy, where he developed a passion for aesthetics. He returned home, and began to work alongside another chef titan, Nandu Jubany, before working his way up from waiter and maître d’ to senior management roles in Comerç 24 (awarded a Michelin star during his tenure) and Bravo. Still, despite his career success, Tomás was looking for something to put his own unique stamp on. Something a little more relaxed and perhaps even a little more edgy.

In his first foray into the foodie scene in the Balearics, acclaimed restaurateur Tomás Abellán of Grupo Alégria fame has launched Casa Linda in San José.

Realising he could fuse his meticulous eye for detail and style with the hospitality industry he loved, Tomás branched out on his own in 2019 as he revamped Bar Alegría in Barcelona, which dates back to 1899. Even the name hinted at his new mindset (alegría means ‘happiness), and the concept centred around an elevated tapas menu – ultra-luxe but nostalgic. The branding was fun, in keeping with Tomás’ light-hearted spirit and vision, and the restaurant quickly became a success. His drive saw Tomás expand his restaurant portfolio (Grupo Alegría) in 2021, with the opening of rooftop restaurant Casa Luz – a sun-drenched spot in the heart of the city serving up his now signature good vibes and spot-on cuisine from morning until night. And then, Ibiza came calling…

The same way he’d felt compelled to leave his father’s restaurants and forge his own career, Tomás was once again feeling itchy feet. City life was wearing thin, and opportunities in Ibiza were tempting. With his father now living just a zip across the Med in Formentera (where he opened another Tapas 24 outpost), Tomás knew that the quality and abundance of fresh produce in the Balearics would be a dream to work with and a concept began to take shape in his head. When a good friend recently acquired and renovated the gorgeous boutique hotel Jardines de Palerm, nestled in the rolling hills of San José, he offered Tomás the opportunity to run the restaurant space and in 2023, Casa Linda was born. “I was ready to start a new adventure in a new place,” he says.

The seemingly remote location of Casa Linda belies its proximity to the bustling western village – although completely secluded, it’s just a few minutes to the main road. Exclusive and chic, the Mediterranean Sea glistens in the distance while at dusk, the light from Ibiza’s pastel-shaded sunsets sweeps in through the boughs of trees strung with twinkling fairy lights. There’s a sense of magic in the air here, and it’s easy to forget that anyone else is around as you revel in the ambience of what feels like your very own secret garden that blooms at night – this was always Tomás’ intention. “I want people to feel at home here,” he says. “To taste local products and natural wines in a unique environment, and to enjoy the energy of the island.”

Relishing the challenge of opening an Ibiza restaurant from scratch, while embracing a lifestyle that’s slightly more chilled out (Tomás still travels back and forth to Barcelona each week to remain hands-on with his businesses), clearly agrees with the charismatic restaurateur. “I love to see the sea every day,” Tomás says, gesturing through the trees of the stunning pine-clad garden. “Even if it’s just for five minutes in the car. I love being on the island, surrounded by nature.” Casa Linda is testament to that admiration. Rooted in the quality of local products and built on foundations that depend on a network of Ibiza’s best fishermen and farmers, the menu is a parade of the island’s daily bounty, and every dish is bursting with the purity and flavour of Ibiza’s soil and seas.

Casa Linda is located in an exclusive garden setting that truly blooms at night, under the light of the moon and strings of sparkling fairy lights.

Focaccia and sourdough are made daily by lauded local chef David Reartes, olive oil and honey from Ibiza are kitchen staples, and the man in charge of transforming it all into the ever-evolving delights on offer at Casa Linda is Mexican-born executive chef, Mariano Segura. Already well decorated after stints in some of the world’s best restaurants – including Albert Adrià’s Ticketsin Barcelona, Máximo Bistrot in Mexico City and Bar Alegría with Tomás – Mariano brings much experience and creativity to the restaurant.

The Casa Linda menu is simple, honest and delicious fare inspired by the typical comida casera (which roughly translated means homemade) of Catalonia. Every seasonal ingredient is beautifully prepared, imbued with love, and delivered to the table by staff who regale the tale behind each dish. An homage to the spaces that once characterised Ibiza’s ancient farmhouses, the menu has been designed to take your tastebuds on a tour of the cold store cupboard (la fresquera); the pantry (la despensa); the garden and henhouse (el huerto y el gallinero); the grill (los fogones); and the wine cellar (la bodega).

Start with the ultra-fresh tomato tartare – scooped into nasturtium leaves with wasabi guacamole like tiny tacos – or the Catalan classic, anchovies with smoked butter. The Ibiza-inspired bikini is a toastie filled with bubbling sobrasada and mozzarella, then drizzled with local honey; the king crab salad is at once light, fresh and creamy. Mains include the smoky, local catch of the day – often snapper, mullet and scorpion fish from Ibiza – or the succulent Middle Eastern style lamb ssam. Don’t leave Casa Linda without sampling dessert, including creamy Basque cheesecake; the ice cream twist on Carles Abellán’s iconic chocolate with bread, olive oil and salt, best enjoyed with an an ice-cold cocktail from the bar.

Charmed by the island, Tomás’ famous eye for detail abounds, from personally curated playlists, to live music on Tuesday nights that conjures the perfect, romantic ambience. Much of the décor at Casa Linda has been repurposed – upcycled from Tomás’ and his father’s restaurants – with Tomás himself involved in every step from painting chairs and tables to hand-selecting vintage tableware. The Abellán family connection continues through Tomás’ sister, Jùlia Navarro, who also relocated to the white isle to join her older brother and mentor in his new venture, as maître d’ and restaurant manager. Casa Linda may be his first foray into the foodie scene of the Balearics, but Tomás Abellán is no stranger to attention-grabbing venues and exceptional gastronomic experiences – island gourmands should take note and book now!

A new chapter for Playa d’en Bossa – Playa Soleil

For some time now, the buzzing beachside town of Playa d’en Bossa on Ibiza’s southern coastline has been undergoing a resurgence. While it’s always been a popular tourist hotspot, it’s now transformed into a slick seaside destination that draws a jet-setting crowd – think Miami but in microcosm form. The success of open-air venues like Ushuaïa Ibiza and its late-night sister nightclub Hï Ibiza – along with their accompanying bevy of eponymous hotels and restaurant spin-offs – undoubtedly have a lot to do with the area’s regentrification, and the brand’s expansion on those golden shores looks set to continue with the launch of all-new luxury beach club Playa Soleil.

Set on the seafront at the very centre of the beach (the location was home to Bora Bora in its heyday), this prime piece of frontline real estate has been given a glamorous reinvention, shaking up Bossa’s golden shores for the better. A collaboration between some of the island’s most influential hospitality pioneers, Playa Soleil is a summer oasis where sunshine, sophistication and style effortlessly entwine. The spacious beach club is divided into a series of distinct spaces, each with its own characteristic mood designed to ignite the five senses. Whether you’re chilling out and sunbathing on luxe daybeds, dining with friends and family in one of the many restaurant spaces, or dancing barefoot in the sand to world-class music, this is a place for new memories to be made.

With famed island nightlife promoter The Night League (the brand behind Hï Ibiza and Ushuaïa Ibiza’s signature parties) curating its events, Playa Soleil has been popular with the high-glam party set since day one. There are three unique spaces to enjoy spectacular soundscapes within the venue: beachfront restaurant Playa Chica, covered terrace dining space Le Restaurant – described as the beating heart of Playa Soleil, where the vibes pick up around dusk with some of the best international and local DJs – and Maison Musique, the venue’s divine indoor club space where an inspiring selection of electronic musical talent perform behind the stunning carved stone DJ booth with the state-of-the-art sound at the venue’s flagship events all summer long.

Wednesdays belong to the All I Need crew, fronted by island favourite Andrea Oliva, who is joined on a rotating basis by the likes of Nico de Andrea, Cristina Tosio, Afshin Momadi and more. On Fridays, Israeli maestro Guy Gerber returns with his much-loved Rumors party, alongside superstar DJs like Nic Fanciulli, Shahar and Talón. And on Sundays, end the week with Palmarama, where dancing atop sand comes courtesy of an eclectic bunch of invited DJs, with special appearances by big names like Luciano, who kicked off the opening event, and none other than the revered Sven Väth, who’ll be spinning the Playa Soleil soundtrack on Sunday, August 20, 2023.

The beauty of Playa Soleil is that it’s much more than just the sum of its parts. Simultaneously a hub for carefully curated music, food, art and holistic practices, the gorgeous beach club offers a multi-sensorial experience designed to nourish mind, body and soul. It’s a must-visit for the world’s free-spirited creatives, who instantly feel at home in its surrounds. While dusk-till-dawn dancing is de rigueur, it’s the quieter areas of the venue where you’ll discover the new soul, spirit and serenity of the venue, starting with the palm-fringed paradise of Les Palmiers. Here, heavenly Balinese beach beds are designed for pure relaxation – ideal for couples or groups of friends alike – and all you need to do is lie back and order cocktails.

Nearby, Les Dunas is an intimate, shaded premium bar designed to encourage deep conversation and the forging of new friendships, thanks to its concave design and shaded, handcrafted seating. By day, it’s laid-back luxury – by night, firepits add a sizzling ambience. Knowing not all beach days are alike, Playa Soleil also boasts the ultimate beach club hangout dubbed Playa Grande, where hammocks are strewn between palm trees, 80 stylish sunbeds and 50 luxurious double daybeds are lined up to ensure unobscured Mediterranean views, and laid-back tunes spun by talented selectors waft among the sea breeze. Beach kits and safety deposit boxes allow you to relax in style, while the service is no less than impeccable.

Head to Oasis for a peaceful and relaxed dining experience, surrounded by exotic cacti and succulents while gazing out to sea, or for a feast with high vibes, head to Playa Chica, where world-class gastronomy is served beneath bamboo parasols and billowing sails. The beautifully curated menu is an ode to the finest quality, locally sourced and organic ingredients, prepared with precision craft. Snacks at Playa Soleil include decadent treats like plump oysters with caviar and vinaigrette; squid Andalusian style with zesty lemon mayonnaise; and gourmet sandwiches piled high with luxe fillings like Stracciatella and caviar, and Japanese Wagyu with red cabbage and barbecue sauce. Don’t miss the expansive sushi platters or the hearty, traditional paella to share among the table, just add lobster for a luxurious twist.

For the ultimate Playa Soleil gastronomic experience, reserve a table at Le Restaurant, a shaded terrace dining room where Imperial Caspian Osetra Caviar is served with arepas and crème fraîche; marinated Galician rubia beef is sliced thinly like a fine ham; and silky-smooth grilled aubergine is brought to life by cool tzatziki, pomegranate and caramelised hazelnut. Sushi makes the perfect interval on a day spent splitting time between sea and sun, and the Playa Soleil selection is hard to beat. The classic California rolls, made with sweet crab, mango and cucumber are irresistible; the flambé tuna tataki is tender and served with serranita sauce; and the tasty salmon nigiri is a melt-in-the-mouth morsel you’ll never forget.

Days spent lazing on the silky sand are thirsty work so to satiate guests’ thirst, Playa Soleil boasts a menu of exquisite signature cocktails. Mediterranean Dreams pays homage to Ibiza’s abundant flavours, blending Bacardi rums with star anise, orange, cinnamon and pear; the Caletta Express reinvigorates the classic Ibiza drink café caleta by combining it with Zacapa 23 rum, herbal liqueur and fragrant vanilla; and the Fiero Spritz is a refreshing concoction of Martini Fiero, elderflower liqueur, Prosecco and mint. A fine selection of Champagne is also available, as well as fruity-fresh jugs of Sangria, and non-alcoholic smoothies and juices.

Be sure to stop off at Le Boutique, where a veritable treasure trove of hand-picked pieces from island designers and bohemian brands sit alongside hand-crafted organic products – an elevated type of souvenir that certainly eclipses the sarongs and beaded bracelets of Bossa in years gone by. And if you have little ones in tow, they’re also welcome to enjoy the sights and delights of Playa Soleil at Mini Playa – a kids’ club like no other in Ibiza. Open daily from midday until 6pm, children aged between four and nine years old are welcome to take part in face painting, arts and crafts, games and much more as they make new friends from all corners of the globe under the watchful eyes of the expert team.

As Ibiza’s famous sunset begins to take hold of the skies and the horizon blushes, an altogether different atmosphere settles over Playa Soleil. Relaxed vibes make way for excited anticipation, as the line-up of world-renowned international DJs, special guests and exceptional performers take to the stage beneath the Balearic stars. The sound waves rebound across Le Restaurant and Maison Musique – which also features exclusive VIP areas and services – and continue well into the night. A space in which to rest, eat, dance, and soak up all the elements that continue to make the white isle completely unique, Playa Soleil is reimagining Playa d’en Bossa in a new light.

Clandestine encounters – El Silencio Ibiza Cabaret

Ibiza morphs into a different beast after dark. The crisp blue lines of the horizon become hazy; sea salt clings to the body, prickling the skin; and a hush-hush, clandestine atmosphere is ushered in. Anything can happen on a hot Balearic night, when every second brings fresh opportunities to the fore and the air crackles with possibility. These are unequivocal facts at chic Ibiza beach club, El Silencio Ibiza, on Cala Molí. Set on the sands of a usually quiet cove on the island’s southwest coast, come twilight, it twists and transforms into El Silencio Ibiza Cabaret, where world-class performers contort and writhe for the sensorial pleasure of a select few.

Hidden behind a heavy green velvet curtain that shrouds the spectacle still to come after dinner, El Silencio Ibiza Cabaret unfolds in a low-lit space on the beach club’s upper terrace. Walls and ceilings are painted in lucid tones of turquoise, purple and orange, and in the centre of it all rises a giant, phallus-shaped installation adorned in mirror ball tiles, glistening in the kaleidoscopic light. Tight-knit tables are peppered across the floor, a low ceiling evokes the feeling of being in a slightly sleazy, Parisian backstreet bar, and the stage sits at eye-level, within touching distance of eager and excitable spectators.

First brought to life from the wildly vivid imagination of Rodolphe Salis, who unleashed the now infamous Le Chat Noir on to the streets of Montmartre back in 1881, the concept of cabaret was initially deemed too off-the-wall for the well-to-do residents of Paris. But for the city’s slew of bohemian-minded artists, writers, poets, and philosophers, it promised a kind of exoticism that was hard to resist. Providing a nightclub experience where contemporary music entwined with performance, erotica and shadow play, it was the beginning of a new era for entertainment – one that would play out in Ibiza, at El Silencio Ibiza Cabaret, over 100 years later.

Today, creative powerhouse and multi-hyphenate Ali Madhavi has reimagined the idea in the creation of El Silencio Ibiza Cabaret. Artistic consultant to celebrities including Dita von Teese, Karl Lagerfeld and Kylie Minogue, as well as high-end fashion houses like Balmain, Thierry Mugler, Jean Paul Gaultier and Agent Provocateur, he cites a fascination with the human body and the exuberance of beauty, as well as the fantastic and subconscious realms, as influences. Respected across multiple genres, including photography and filmmaking, each visual element forms a pillar of the captivating show that unfurls at the legendary beach restaurant.

A groundbreaking production in which tradition and modernity collide, El Silencio Ibiza Cabaret plunges spectators into an immersive world conjured by Madhavi and his right-hand man, Djanis Bouzyani. Whisked on a journey that merges the ambience of Le Chabanais, a luxurious French bordel, with the seedy, post-Franco underground of Spain’s La Movida, every night, six sensational performers take to the diminutive stage in six distinct productions. No two nights are ever the same, as world-class artistes improvise and respond to stimulus from the crowd, weaving their way from stage to floor to aerial hoop in fluid motion to the hypnotic sounds of a soundtrack that wouldn’t be out of place in an episode of Euphoria.

The night’s proceedings are led by the divinely dramatic performance artist Mina Serrano, whose slinky, figure-hugging gown is painted with vignettes of intertwined body parts (mirroring the evocative prints on the ceiling and the floor), and whose playful ribbing of the crowd deepens as the night darkens ¬– be warned: she speaks multiple languages, so no one is safe from her suggestive soliloquies. Drinks flow freely as Mina meanders through the maze of tables at El Silencio Ibiza Cabaret, introducing an ever-evolving parade of performers whose talents range from pole dance and flamenco to classic burlesque striptease and daring acrobatic feats – each carefully crafted movement more sensual and intriguing than the last.

Though the staging at El Silencio Ibiza Cabaret is minimal — all eyes here are on the voluptuous curve of a silhouette or the sky-high heel of a stiletto thanks to expertly wielded lighting – abstract visuals can transport the crowd to something akin to a David Lynch set. Picture a veiled cinema screen with a live action film noir scene being acted out in the moment. Two magnificent burlesque dancers appear, dressed in classic French trench coats; cigarettes languidly hanging from their mouths as smoke snakes around their necks. They begin to strip, slowly, removing one item of clothing at a time, until eventually, just the dewy reflection of skin glowing beneath the light remains.

On other occasions, El Silencio Ibiza Cabaret plays host to solo performers, with dazzling artists defying gravity as they fly through the air, limbs wrapped seductively around an aerial hoop or strategically placed pole. One statuesque beauty sports a towering pair of perspex platform heels and heads out on stage to tempt the crowd with a trance-like simulation of sensual self-gratification, before reaching a breathy, hypnotic climax, while another performer, glistening in equal parts body oil and silver shimmer, dons a diamante-encrusted g-string before swinging up and down a pole with deft. At other times, trios take the spotlight, a jumble of mesmerisingly entangled body parts symbolic of the salacious acts that usually take place in secret.

When they’re not performing, members of the beautiful cast pop up in unexpected places – at behind the bar, in the crowd, at the tables – before graciously heading back to the stage to take a well-deserved bow at the end of the night. The crowd is kissed, embraced and thanked, and as the curtain falls, they snake their way out onto the terrace to mingle with their now adoring fans – sheer stockings, high heels and red lips silhouetted in the moonlight. Exclusive but never exclusionary, there are two showings at El Silencio Ibiza Cabaret each night at 9.30pm and 11.30pm, and though everyone is welcome, seating is limited.

Bringing flashes of ebullience to the island in the style of Crazy Horse or Moulin RougeEl Silencio Ibiza Cabaret is a dazzling addition to Ibiza’s cultural line-up, and a fine example of the unique creative vision of the beach club’s founders, Parisian tastemakers Arnaud Frisch and Antoine Caton. While you’re there, be sure to check out DJ and producer Dan Ghenacia’s immersive installation, The Oracle, a 15-minute sensory journey guided by unique soundscapes and frequencies that conjures similar emotions to a psychedelic trip – the perfect pre-amble to your cabaret experience. A slice of sultry Paris on Ibiza’s pristine shores, open minds will relish this prismatic experience.

Ottolenghi at Atzaró – A culinary first for Ibiza

Ibiza gourmands, take note – all gastronomic roads lead to the bucolic countryside of San Lorenzo this Saturday evening, where globally revered chef, author and restaurateur Yotam Ottolenghi hosts a very special sharing dinner in collaboration with Atzaró Agroturismo Hotel. An intimate, community-style event designed to tantalise the tastebuds and transport diners into a world of edible wonder, Ottolenghi at Atzaró takes place within the glorious Atzaró Vegetable Garden from 8pm – the magnificent three-hectare organic garden providing the perfect backdrop for the five-course feast curated by Yotam himself.

When it comes to cuisine, the chef-patron of the Ottolenghi Deli and Restaurant Group is a true trailblazer, having hugely influenced the way much of the world cooks and eats ever since he opened the doors to his very first deli and bakery in 2002 and launched his first cookbook (of many) in 2008. His philosophy is based on vibrant and colourful dishes, bold flavour combinations, and innovative use of herbs and spices. Television specials, more cookbooks, a regular column in The Guardian, and a string of successful restaurants and delis across London made Ottolenghi a household name, and the culinary phenomenon known as ‘the Ottolenghi effect’ has significantly shifted modern gastronomy via an adventurous foray into a vegetable-centric approach to cooking and eating. And now, it is the chef’s time to shine here in Ibiza with his first ever island event, Ottolenghi at Atzaró.

Arrive at Ottolenghi at Atzaró at 8pm to enjoy welcome drinks and live music as the setting sun casts a golden tint across the charming walkways, terraces and meticulously tended organic vegetable patches of the Atzaró Vegetable Garden – the authentic heart of Ibiza. Bright pink bougainvillea dusts the vistas and the scent of night jasmine drifts past long wooden tables shaded by olive, palm and pine trees, and beautifully set with crisp linens, flickering candles and rustic, natural decoration. Here, guests will take their seats – bookings for groups of four or six are recommended for easy conversation and sharing over the course of the night – as Ottolenghi himself will welcome you to the event and introduce you to the evening’s concept.

Ottolenghi at Atzaró features a five-course, sharing-style dinner that showcases a harmonious blend of Ottolenghi’s unmistakable style, the organic bounty sourced directly from the Atzaró Vegetable Garden, just metres away from your table, and non-vegetable elements that have been sourced locally. Expect dishes that dance with delight across the palate, each moment carefully crafted to pay homage to the vibrant spirit of Ibiza and Ottolenghi’s Israeli roots, as the chef and his talented team brings the carefully considered menu – created just for this event – to life. A pairing of local wines has been selected to complement the cuisine, creating the perfect union of Ibiza flavours and Ottolenghi’s iconic style.

The first taste of virtuosity arrives as honeyed, caramelised onions doused in a fresh herb salsa and served with crudité from Atzaró Vegetable Garden, served alongside grilled pimientos de padrón with muhammara – roasted red pepper dip – topped with walnuts and a sticky pomegranate molasses. Ibiza’s world-famous tomatoes (also from the Atzaró Vegetable Garden) are served with confit herbs and a scattering of sesame while a black lime focaccia is a tangy moment ensconced within the bounciness of homemade bread. As the wine and conversation flow at Ottolenghi at Atzaró, diners are not only seduced by the flavours of each dish but by the soft melodies of Flamenco guitar travelling across the gardens, a perfectly calibrated collaboration of the senses.

Main dishes at Ottolenghi at Atzaró present a wonderful melange of flavours. Roasted aubergine comes with feta cream, chermoula and orange; chargrilled zucchini is layered with Manchego cheese, steeped in burnt butter and sprinkled with pine nuts. A tender lamb shawarma appears with pita pockets slathered in sumac tahini, stuffed with mint salad, and dusted with pomegranate arils. The white flesh of celeriac arrives on skewers basted in a fragrant chilli oil accompanied by a refreshing herb salad and toum – an Israeli relative of alioli. To end the meal, Ottolenghi’s fabled pavlova reflects the colours of sunset at Atzaró Agroturismo Hotel with apricots, orange blossom and crushed pistachio.

This extraordinary night of gourmet excellence reaches its crescendo with a rare chance to connect with the legend himself. Ottolenghi will be signing copies of his bestselling book, Flavour, for each guest to take home, a treasured keepsake that will forever remind them of this already unforgettable experience. The fusion of Ottolenghi’s culinary artistry with the natural beauty of the surroundings and the abundant fresh produce plucked directly from the rich red soil of the Atzaró Vegetable Garden grounds creates an atmosphere of unparalleled enchantment.

Tickets to Ottolenghi at Atzaró are 225€ per person, and include the five-course meal, drinks, live music, the Flamenco show and a signed Ottolenghi book – advance reservations necessary as this event is guaranteed to be a sellout.