A fine balance – AristoSushi

Like a delicate dance between day and night, the pursuit of equilibrium in Ibiza is an art form. This exploration of balance is deeply ingrained at AristoSushi, an exquisite embodiment of traditional Japanese cuisine in the Mediterranean. Under the expert direction of seasoned restaurateurs Alessandro Barni Spadacini, co-owner of the much-loved San José restaurant Can Domingo, and Guido Roncarati, the legendary bartender at the same eatery, this intimate and inviting restaurant is nestled in the heart of the island, fringed by lush greenery in San Rafael. Within its cosy confines and charming secret terrace, guests are invited to savour the authentic flavours of Japan, where each mouthful encapsulates the essence of balance and harmony.

“Our deep love for Japanese cuisine is what drives us,” Alessandro says. “It possesses a unique essence and a simplicity that sets it apart from other types of Asian cuisine. With just a few elements, extraordinary flavours are created.” He cites the classic sushi bite, nigiri as an example. “Nigiri is just rice, fish and a touch of wasabi,” he says. “It’s deceptively simple, yet the challenge lies in the precision, quality and the perfect balance of the elements. This is the beauty of classic sushi, where the focus is solely on the quality and the preparation. Japanese cuisine demands harmony among its elements and a masterful touch that brings out the flavours.” At AristoSushi, the preservation of Japan’s culinary credentials is a guiding principle, resulting in a menu brimming with incredibly fresh and delicious dishes.

A taste of Japan in San Rafael, AristoSushi seamlessly weaves Nipponese culinary traditions into a serene Ibiza setting.

By sourcing only the finest ingredients for every dish, AristoSushi honours the much-admired culinary and cultural traditions of Japan. “Our organic rice is sourced from a small producer nestled at the foot of the Italian Alps,” says Alessandro. “When it comes to tuna, we only work with the exceptional bluefin balfegó, which is the finest available. Our salmon is always ecological too.” Once they arrive in the AristoSushi kitchen, these ingredients are treated with utmost respect. “It’s about the ingredients, of course, but also about precise craftsmanship and embodying the revered spirit of Japanese hospitality,” says Alessandro. “You feel a very pure happiness with every mouthful, thanks to the accomplished team we work with.”

The AristoSushi menu is a celebration of the timeless appeal of Japanese flavours, textures and presentation, and the results are spectacular. Take the aforementioned bluefin tuna balfegó nigiri, for instance, in which succulent, butter-soft fish is placed delicately on a bed of expertly prepared sushi rice. Other unmissable dishes include the sublime Mediterranean red prawn hosomaki; and the oh-so-sweet soft-shell crab bao bun. Purists will relish the tantalising selection of tartare on offer, from the salmon marinated in ponzu sauce bursting with umami flavours, to the scallop tartare enlivened with decadent Italian black truffle.

Each delicately crafted morsel is enjoyed within the thoughtfully designed space at AristoSushi, which exudes an air of easy-going tranquillity. Bespoke printed wallpaper featuring elegant fish and seaweed motifs sets the mood, while the charming terrace might just be the perfect place for an alfresco date night. Surrounded by the scent of lavender and the gentle rustle of nearby trees, this peaceful enclave in the centre of the island is like a world unto itself. Dine amongst a wonderful mix of locals and savvy travellers, all enjoying the flavours of Japan both in the dishes and in the expertly crafted drinks, with a strong focus on sake.

“Sake is the perfect complement to sushi because it offers a very clean, pure flavour,” says Guido. “We offer it by the glass so our guests can experience this unique pairing. As well as sake, we have a selection of fine wines and sparkling options that beautifully enhance the experience.” Guido’s expertise shines through as he artfully combines sake and Japanese whisky to curate exceptional libations and, given the intimate nature of AristoSushi, the mixologist also has the unique opportunity to engage with guests on a personal level, allowing him to create tailor-made cocktails right on the spot.

The meticulously crafted sushi plates at AristoSushi are as beautiful to look at as they are to eat.

AristoSushi is open for dinner from Wednesday to Monday from 7pm onwards, offering high-end sushi in a relaxed ambience. For those who want restaurant quality sushi at home, the team has spent many hours in search of the perfect take-away packaging, so you can dine in style in your Ibiza villa, apartment or home. Their traditional style Japanese food is brought to you in biodegradable wooden boxes to add an authentic touch to your dining table and each morsel is just as beautifully presented as it is in the restaurant itself. Impeccable food, delectable cocktails, sublime location – AristoSushi has it all!

Redefining plant-based fine dining

The visionary minds behind beloved island institution Can Domingo never fail to surprise. Their latest venture is the outstanding PLANT Veggie Bistrot by Can Domingo, Ibiza’s first vegan, vegetarian and gluten-free fine dining restaurant. Conveniently located in the heart of Jesús, this superb eatery reimagines and revolutionises the world of plant-based dining, alla italiana. Famed for their appreciation of beauty, good food and savouring life’s pleasures, the team’s bonhomie sets the stage for an unforgettable dining experience that even meat-eaters will relish. 

Owners Alessandro Barni Spadacini, Andrea Sanarica and chef Giuseppe Vivacqua have dedicated a significant amount of time and effort to refine this concept, meticulously crafting every detail of the restaurant until it became a reality. “We don’t rush into opening something year after year,” explains Alessandro. “We prefer to take our time to create something original. PLANT Veggie Bistrot by Can Domingo is the result of Giuseppe’s long-awaited vision.” Carefully nurtured over time, the new venue represents the plant-based revolution sweeping across the world, offering a uniquely Italian and Ibizan perspective on the movement towards conscious eating. “We want to present something truly different,” says Giuseppe, or ‘Beppe’ as he’s known to most. “This is a vegan, vegetarian and gluten-free fine dining experience that is unlike any other on the island.”

Indulge in the ultimate vegan, vegetarian and gluten-free fine dining experience at PLANT Veggie Bistrot by Can Domingo in Jesús.

“Our philosophy has always been about quality service and a serene ambience”, adds Andrea. “We aim to surprise and delight not only vegans and health-conscious people but also those seeking something adventurous.” The menu at PLANT Veggie Bistrot by Can Domingo draws on the principles of haute cuisine, ensuring an impressive fusion of flavours and artistry. Their hearty and indulgent dishes burst with vibrant colours and bold flavours, and are presented with sophisticated elegance, creating a feast for both the palate and the eyes.

A contemporary space with a sense of openness, PLANT Veggie Bistrot by Can Domingo’s modern urban ambience serves as a delightful gathering place for any occasion. The chic interiors and inviting terrace create a flawless backdrop for the culinary creations that await. Chef Beppe has perfected his vegan and vegetarian skills for decades, including training at Michelin-starred vegetarian restaurants such as Joia in Milan under the guidance of the renowned Pietro Leemann, who was the first ever vegetarian cuisine chef to be awarded a prestigious Star. Now, Beppe is ready to showcase his mastery to the world. “Plant-based cuisine is a celebration of nature’s abundance,” he says. “It’s a creative playground. The menu contains experiences that nourish and also feed the imagination.”

Highlights from the PLANT Veggie Bistrot by Can Domingo menu include mouth-watering stuffed tomato with a sublime filling of white bean pâté, black truffle from Umbria and a luscious courgette cream infused with fresh mint. Can Domingo devotees will recognise the tantalising flavours of Beppe’s signature dish, ‘Under the Almond Tree’, where almond milk air floats over a spring garden, a captivating vision that delights the taste buds. The almond, leek and black truffle risotto reveals a delicate balance of velvety Ibizan almond butter, complemented with leek prepared two ways – crispy and in pesto – with a flourish of vegan black truffle to finish. It’s also worth noting that the desserts are on par with the main dishes here – expertly crafted plant-based and gluten-free delights ranging from homemade sorbets and ice creams to vegan tiramisu.

Starting with the warm welcome you’ll receive as you walk through the doors at PLANT Veggie Bistrot by Can Domingo, you can expect a truly remarkable dining experience. In true Can Domingo style, your meal is complemented by a carefully curated selection of exceptional wines. From natural and orange wines to globally renowned labels, the exemplary list is all part of the sensory encounter, unearthing the profound relationship between plate and glass. Regular and organic gluten-free beers flow with abandon and the expertly crafted cocktails also feature local produce. A selection of natural soft drinks from the famed Italian brand Baladin are made with sustainable products harvested from protected regions, while the Ibiza-based Los Fermentistas supply tasty pro-biotic drinks such as kombucha and jun.

With a charming atmosphere, impeccable service, and a carefully crafted menu, this is a must-visit for passionate food lovers seeking an extraordinary plant-based journey through the flavours of Italy.

With its elegant Italian spin on hearty and flavourful plant-based fare, the PLANT Veggie Bistrot by Can Domingo menu showcases the freshest local and organic ingredients prepared with care and reverence. You can taste the devotion and countless hours of experimentation that have gone into perfecting every bite. Open Wednesday to Monday evenings from 7pm, Alessandro, Andrea and of course, the man who is passionately dirving the concept, chef Beppe himself, invite you to savour a world of vegan culinary splendour as they redefine the art of healthy indulgence.

And when the weather cools down in September, the restaurant will open its doors for midday dining too, offering a delectable brunch, a dish of the day and takeaway option, making it the perfect pit-stop on the way to the beach, in between shopping or school runs, or just for a healthy and nutritious lunch with friends. Whether you adhere to a plant-based lifestyle or not, PLANT Veggie Bistrot by Can Domingo has something delicious to offer everyone with a discerning palate.

Are these the last days of luxury?

Quite unsurprisingly, in this summer that has perhaps been the strangest on record in Ibiza’s history (if not the world’s), global travel restrictions and the more recent local lockdown regulations have seen much of the island’s tourist trade heavily reduced, which means many of our favourite island businesses will be closing their doors earlier than usual. We’re definitely grateful for the semblance of a summer season we were able to experience, and there are still a few days and weeks left to make the most of some of the most luxurious destinations on the island before they go into early winter hibernation. If you’re on the island, or have the opportunity to travel to the island in the coming days, here are the places you don’t want to miss – and watch this space, as next week we’ll be sharing some local hidden gems that are remaining open even longer.

The most luxurious, long lunches

Long, luxurious lunches have always been what Ibiza is all about, and if you’re on the island and a lover of fine dining, then there are a few hotspots you should add to your agenda before their kitchens close for the season. By day, there’s no mistaking the gastronomic excellence at Chiringuito Blue, set on the seafront in Santa Eulalia and taking diners on a journey of Mediterranean flavours that traverses Israel, Italy, Turkey, France and of course, Spain. A little further down the coastline is the iconic Amante Ibiza (open until the end of the month), where the high quality Mediterranean menu rivals the stunning views of the secluded cove below. Closer to Ibiza town, on the beach at Talamanca, Chambao (closing September 20) at Nobu Hotel Ibiza Bay offers a classic feet-in-the-sand chiringuito-esque dining experience that’s all about freshness and authenticity. Cala Gracioneta Chiringuito – [pictured] on the west coast of Ibiza – is another of the island’s best beach dining experiences, with a great grill and seafood menu, and those of us who live here in Ibiza have our fingers crossed it will remain open all year round as usual.

Sail away, sail away, sail away…

We can almost hear what you’re thinking. Boats don’t need to close for the season – they can set sail to Formentera any time they have a charter. In a way, this could be true – however for boat charter companies, or even private boat owners, the daily costs of maintaining and mooring a luxury yacht generally require daily customers using the facilities. With the reduced amount of holidaymakers on the island, this means many yachts are being dry-docked and winterised earlier than usual, in order to avoid unnecessary damages.

All is not lost however – we still have a hand-picked fleet of some of the finest luxury vessels that are still on the water (until the end of this month at least, with the possibility of some in October), which means you can cruise over to Formentera for a luxe lunch or with catering on board; you can whizz around Es Vedra and play with luxury watersports toys, or you can enjoy a smooth sailboat ride at sunset around the north west coast of Ibiza. Boat days are always the highlight of any summer, no matter how much of a seasoned Ibiza veteran (or local) you are, so be sure to take one last sail before the season is out.

Shop till they stop

Retail therapy always has, and always will be, a part of holiday culture. And whether you’re looking for that perfect little local souvenir or just want a once-in-a-lifetime splurge session, Ibiza has everything you could wish for and more. Lovers of true designer luxury should head straight to Marina Ibiza, where the glossy floor-to-ceiling glass windows and doors of Dior, Dolce & Gabbana [pictured], Burdelier, TAGHeuer, Giuseppe Zanotti, Hublot, Las Noches Ibiza and LOEWE are all still open (until at least the end of this month). Sure, you can buy the collections online, or back in the city, but there’s something so glamorous about disembarking from your yacht to go on a shopping spree here.

For more unique, vintage-inspired and ideal-for-Ibiza party pieces, there’s no better boutique than Annie’s, in the heart of the cobbled square of Dalt Vila. Blessed with an unrivalled eye for style, owner Annie Doble personally selects each and every piece stocked in the store (and is often spotted wearing them!) and has regular customers like Kate and Lila Moss, Rita Ora, Giovanni Battaglia and Paris Hilton gracing her doors, along with Ibiza’s own fashionistas, stylists and models. If you don’t leave Dalt Vila with an armful of Annie’s signature orange paper bags, were you ever even there?

Don’t let the sun go down on the season

OK, OK… we know, the sun will always set in the west – no matter where you are in the world, and whether you’re locked down or not – but you have to admit, there’s something super special about witnessing it from one of Ibiza’s best sunset watching platforms, with a Balearic soundtrack to boot. The most authentic of them all (in our humble opinion) has got to be La Torre Ibiza, where the Mambo Group have recreated those original Ibiza chill-out sunset vibes, with a line-up of the very finest Balearic DJs each night – not to mention great food, cocktails, and a rustic setting that includes tables peppered all the way down the rugged cliffslide towards the sea [pictured].

For those who still love a taste of the sunset strip, both Café Mambo and Café del Mar remain open until at least the end of this month, complete with music, magic and those front row sunset views. Over towards Cala Conta, it’s Cone Club at 7Pines Resort Ibiza that has risen up as a sunset star in 2020, with its nightly sunset rituals (complete with DJs and a ritualistic gong beating as the sun sinks into the sea) and amazing Spanish-inspired menu. The hotel’s Pershing Yacht Terrace also offers great tapas and unbelievable bespoke cocktails with Es Vedra views at sunset – both venues close on September 20, 2020, so be quick!

Indulge in decadent dinners

Those who love alfresco dining are probably already dreading the extra-long winter season ahead, so be sure to make the most of the island’s open-air restaurants while you still can (especially without the late nights spent dancing until dawn in our sadly-missed clubs). There’s no finer dining than under the stars on Talamanca, on the deck of the super chi-chi Nobu restaurant (in the hotel of the same name – closing night is September 21, 2020), where you can luxuriate over chef Nobu Matsuhisa’s unique Nikkei menu and heavenly sushi and sashimi, given a uniquely Ibiza twist. Likewise, under the stunning Balinese temple [pictured] of Bambuddha, dine on the restaurant’s signature MediterrAsian cuisine – bringing flavours from the orient to Ibiza, and fusing them with the best of the island in one of the most stunning settings we’ve ever seen.

Head west to 7Pines Kempinski Ibiza, where this weekend is your last chance to dine at The View – another heavenly Asian-inspired eatery with front row views to Es Vedra. Speaking of Es Vedra, you can’t get much closer than La Mesa Escondida, within the stunning boutique hotel Petunia Ibiza. Here you can sample some of the island’s finest farm-to-table Italian inspired cuisine, with the energy of the famous rock radiating towards you. Further up the hill, Can Domingo continues to delight with its impressive Italian fine dining à la carte menu and street food options on the back terrace. And no gourmet trip to Ibiza is complete without heading up into the cobbled streets of Dalt Vila for a glamorous starlit alfresco dinner at La Oliva, El Olivo Mio or La Torreta (in our opinion, that’s all the more reason to visit three times).

Sweet dreams are made of this

While many of the smaller boutique hotels have announced plans to remain open until at least the end of October, if not longer, the time has come for the island’s larger resorts to begin closing their doors this weekend, and up until the end of September. If you feel like a last minute long weekend, or perhaps you’re a resident looking to treat yourself with a fancy staycation – now is the time! 7Pines Kempinski Ibiza, on the cliffside at Cala Conta (closing September 20), has everything you need within its spacious grounds, from restaurants, a cocktail bar and pools to a luxurious spa and boutique – it’s even got its own pair of stylish Pershing Yachts, should you desire a sunset cruise.

Back towards Ibiza town, Nobu Hotel Ibiza Bay [pictured] is preparing to close its doors on September 20, meaning this is your last weekend to indulge in its incredible service and facilities and spend time by that glamorous pool. Up north, The Giri Residence is predicting a rise in the demand for staycations, and is offering island residents an incredible 40% off their room and suite rates for the remainder of the season, with an additional discount on spa treatments. With only five rooms in the whole hotel, you’ll need to be quick to snap one up!

A resident’s guide to Ibiza restaurants

After almost 12 weeks of lockdown here in Ibiza – including home cooking and all the washing up that goes along with it – it’s no surprise island residents are excited to get out of their houses and return to their favourite dining destinations in June. As the lockdown restrictions are slowly easing on the island, selected Ibiza restaurants have been given the green light to re-open, albeit with limited capacities and opening hours, plus strict safety and hygiene measures (but hey, that’s the new normal for now, so we’ll happily accept it!). Right now islanders currently have the enormous privilege of being able re-discover and experience the island’s gourmet scene as they reunite with their nearest and dearest, before the first wave of tourism arrives next month (which we’re also looking forward to!) and many go back to work. Below is part one of our two-part series focusing on dining out in Ibiza in June, from the old town and the island’s charming villages to the countryside and more – and don’t worry beach lovers, a guide to chiringuitos and seaside eateries is already in the works!

Can Domingo & Mimì Pizza Bistrot, San José, South East

Set on a stunning hilltop in San José, Can Domingo and Mimí Pizza Bistrot are housed on separate terraces of a stunning traditional finca, offering two different spectrums of Italian dining. Can Domingo – which originally opened in the space in 2012 – serves up exquisite Italian fine dining on the front terrace and in the garden, created using the very best products either grown onsite in the permaculture garden, or flown in directly from the motherland, and has a dedicated vegetarian and vegan menu to appease all dietary requirements. Mimì Pizza Bistrot is set on the finca’s spacious back terrace, opened in 2018 as a more laid-back offshoot to the original brand, offering amazing pizza – both gourmet and traditional – plus tasty and accessibly priced Italian street food, all ideal for sharing and very family friendly. Open from Wednesday to Sunday, from 7pm until late, reservations are advised, especially for Saturday nights when the restaurant hosts live music nights in the garden.

Bottega Il Buco, Santa Gertrudis, Centre

In its short two-season history in Ibiza, Bottega Il Buco has become a hotspot for island foodies, families and celebrities alike (you’d be surprised to know who’s been hibernating in Ibiza during lockdown!). In the heart of Santa Gertrdudis, the foccaceria style eatery – the first international outpost of NYC’s legendary Il Buco – is now open again from Monday to Saturday from 4pm until midnight, serving up its classic focaccia by the slice, plus a special à la carte Italian menu and a selection of amazing wine. You can also stock up on gourmet deli products to create your own picnic, if you’re heading the nearby beaches. Due to the limited seating capacity (combined with Bottega Il Buco’s popularity with residents, especially the Santa Gertrudis cognoscenti) at the moment, reservations are highly recommended.

Passion Cafés, Vara de Rey, Marina Ibiza & Santa Eulalia

The Passion Café empire created by Lana Love – with its original outpost opening in Playa d’en Bossa in 2002 – has got to be one of Ibiza’s most well-known and recognised brands. Right now, the Marina Ibiza and Santa Eulalia outposts remain open for islanders seeking healthy and happy cuisine, with food also available to takeaway, or for home delivery. Just prior to lockdown, Lana had been putting the finishing touches on her latest Passion location, a stylish, boho-inspired space that runs between Ibiza towns busiest two plazas, Vara de Rey and Plaza del Parque, with terrace seating on both sides. Good news for ‘townies’ and those popping in for essential post-lockdown shopping is that the new Passion opens its doors to residents on Friday June 5, 2020 – yes, tomorrow! Open for breakfast, lunch AND dinner, this looks set to be the flagship Passion destination for both islanders and holidaymakers alike (once the borders are open of course!).

Aubergine Ibiza, San Miguel, North West

With one of the most spacious alfresco dining terraces in Ibiza, surrounded by rich, fertile farmland and tall trees, Aubergine Ibiza is now open on Fridays and Saturdays for lunch from 12.30pm to 5pm, and dinner from 7.30pm to 11pm, then again for lunch on Sundays from 12.30 to 6pm. With a healthy, wholesome and seasonal menu made predominantly from produce plucked directly from the huerta onsite, or sourced from local farms and producers, the restaurant (part of the Atzaró Group) was one of the island’s farm-to-table pioneers and is the ideal place to connect with friends while nourishing yourself and falling in love with the campo landscape once more. With an ultra-relaxed vibe, a huge interior (perfect should the evenings get chilly), a gallery space showcasing the work of local artists (this month showcasing Simona Marziani’s ‘Up There In The Sky’ exhibition), it’s the ideal place for a large group gathering (up to 10 per table) or a romantic date alike.

La Torre Ibiza, Cap Negret, North West

The world may evolve, the island may change but one thing always remains the same – the sun always sets in the west! Ibiza is known around the world for its iconic sunsets, and right now, island locals have an exclusive front row view from the terrace and rocky coastline of La Torre Ibiza. The spacious restaurant re-opened its doors last month and immediately became a hotspot thanks to its exceptionally curated roster of Balearic resident DJs spinning the nightly soundtrack daily from 7pm, plus its affordable ‘winter’ pricing on food and drink. Reunite with your friends at a larger table on the terrace, or pull up a romantic pew for two on the tables dotted down the rocks towards the sea. Dishes include a selection of traditional tapas ideal for sharing, and hearty mains such as grilled octopus, a Black Angus burger, chunky lamb shanks and healthy salads. Reservations are essential as islanders vie for the prime sunset viewing spots before they have to share them with holidaymakers.

Locals Only, Plaza del Parque, Ibiza town

Never has a restaurant name sounded more apt, although when restaurateur Tito Piazza named his Ibiza restaurant Locals Only, his intention was originally to make citizens of the world feel at home. In June however, the restaurant is open to island locals only – until the lockdown restrictions ease and allow visitors onto our shores – and its central Plaza del Parque location in the heart of Ibiza town makes it the ideal place for a sunny terrace lunch from 12.30pm until 4.30pm, or an alfresco dinner beneath the stars between 8pm and midnight. Due to current health regulations, seating is limited so reservations are recommended so you don’t miss out on enjoying the carefully curated farm-to-table menu. Everything is sourced locally and sustainably where possible, with an Italian-influenced, Mediterranean flair, and is accessibly priced – perfect for locals in Ibiza!

La Paloma, San Lorenzo, North East

There are famous restaurants in Ibiza, there are restaurants with iconic status and then, there’s La Paloma. Anyone who has ever stepped over its magical countryside threshold in San Lorenzo can attest to the love-at-first-sight affect it has on first-timers, and that’s before they’ve even gotten to the love-at-first-bite food. Set within a beautiful old finca and with tables spaced out on the gardens and farmland it lies on, La Paloma is the very epitome of rustic Ibiza chic. Dishes run from healthy to hearty, inspired by the family’s Italian and Middle Eastern heritages, with most of the produce grown onsite. As Ibiza slowly eases out of lockdown, La Paloma Café is open from Wednesday to Sunday from 12.30pm to 4.30pm for lunch only, and takeaway food is also available. Reservations necessary, as this is without a doubt one of the island locals’ most loved dining destinations. Paloma Restaurant, its fairy-lit night-time incarnation, will open very soon.

Tapas Ibiza, San Antonio, West

We often call it a hidden gem, but in reality, Tapas Ibiza is an Ibiza institution. Whether you’re a born and bred local, an expat, a regular visitor to the island or a seasonal worker, chances are someone in your circle has invited you to their favourite San Antonio hotspot to share tapas, sangria and cocktails on its charming terrace. As the de-escalation process continues in Ibiza this month, Tapas Ibiza is open from 1pm to 11pm from Wednesday through to Sunday, and are offering island residents a 25% discount throughout the entire month of June. The garden bar is also open just for drinks, while the restaurant serves up its newly tweaked 2020 menu made up of classic tapas, traditions with a twist and internationally-themed plates, with plenty of vegan and vegetarian options available.

Bambuddha, San Lorenzo, North East

One of the first restaurants to re-open its doors every year, Bambuddha was no different in Phase One of the de-escalation process. The incredibly spacious temple made it easy to accommodate tables with three metres space in between, and loyal customers from all over the island have been flocking to the iconic MediterrAsian restaurant since the moment it re-opened. Open seven nights a week, the special ‘MiSo Hungry’ all-you-can-eat menu on Tuesdays for 35€ (28€ if you hold a Bambuddha resident card) is a highlight – inspired by the famous Bambuddha buffet, but tailored to suit health regulations by being served to order rather than buffet style. On Sundays, it’s ‘Let the Good Times Roll’, with 40 pieces of Bambuddha’s famous sushi served Bento box style for 48€ (40€ with resident card), and on every day in between, it’s à la carte service. Open from 7.30pm until midnight, with the bar also open for drinks, reservations are recommended.

The best countryside wedding venues in Ibiza

After being locked down in our homes for many months, the thought of a Mediterranean wedding – whether you’re the bride and groom, or an invited guests – may still seems like a dream. But as lockdown laws are beginning to be lifted, thoughts of travel and celebration start to fill our minds, and experts say the late summer of 2020 may be another summer of love, thanks to increase in proposals after the crisis. If you add to that the numerous spring weddings that had to be postponed due to travel restrictions, it’s no surprise Ibiza’s best wedding venues are already inundated with enquiries for late summer and spring 2021. If you’re dreaming of campo nuptials – think long wooden tables beneath 100-year old olive trees, festooned with twinkling fairy lights as the wine flows freely and the couples dance under the stars – now’s the time to start planning to turn that dream into a reality. Ibiza has a special charm for creating that kind of Mediterranean magic, and here, our team of experts recommend the best countryside wedding venues for saying ‘I do’ in Ibiza.

Ca Na Xica, San Miguel, North West

Stylish and understated, hosting an Ibiza wedding at boutique rural hotel Ca Na Xica feels just like a magical celebration of nuptials at your own private estate. Set in the countryside just outside of the northern village of San Miguel, the impressive and restored finca-style hotel sets the scene for your special day, where the ceremony takes place in a magical clearing in the forest, beneath the pine trees. Afterwards, cocktails by the iconic pool lead to dinner on the charming terrace restaurant, Salvia. With 20 luxurious rooms at your disposal, there’s plenty of room to accommodate your friends and family, making it easy to roll your dream island day into a three-day extravaganza. The expert in-house fine dining chefs guarantee a wedding menu to remember, while the hotel’s treatment rooms and spa takes care of pre-day prep and post-event recovery for the bridal party and guests alike. The only things left for you to do are pick a date send out the invitations!

Can Domingo, San Jose, South East

Romantic and whimsical, the rustic gardens of Can Domingo are brimming with all the ingredients needed for a fairytale Ibiza wedding. With 100-year-old olive trees and heavily-laden fruit trees all around, dining tables are dotted amongst the grounds shading your guests in luscious green during the afternoon, and shining on them with twinkling fairy lights in the evening. The Italian team of chefs, led by Giuseppe Vivacqua, offer customised wedding menus including signature dishes where absolutely everything is home-made – vegetarians and vegans are well indulged here. One of the most extensive wine lists on the island offers plenty of choice for your toasts, cheers and late night digestifs, and the Can Domingo in-house wedding planner can take care of all aspects from transport to flowers, decoration to hair and make-up. After midnight, the party moves inside the beautiful finca for the drinking and dancing to continue till late. A Mediterranean mid-summer dream.

A Mi Manera, San Lorenzo, Centre

Laid-back, relaxed and charming, the Ibiza outpost of Formentera fave A Mi Manera is a gorgeous countryside location for an island wedding. Immersed completely in nature in the hills of San Lorenzo, the surrounding gardens are the primary source of the fresh ingredients in the Italian-inspired dishes, making them both organic and KM0, so your wedding can be as healthy as it is happy. From groups as small as 40 guests, where a private area can be reserved, to full exclusivity for up to 120, your special event can begin with aperitivos in the cocktail bar before a garden ceremony and dinner. Bespoke menus are created, and extra services such as live music or a DJ for a late night party, stylish decoration, a wedding cake or an open bar service for your guests are also on offer. The magic of Ibiza comes truly to life surrounded by its stunning nature in this oasis of peace.

Atzaró Group, San Lorenzo, North East

When it comes to realising your Ibiza countryside wedding fantasy, the highly professional Atzaró Group have two stunning venues for you to choose from, and the expertise to make it happen as if by magic. The famed Atzaró Agroturismo has iconic appeal for its luxurious and authentic vibe, set amongst orange groves and lily-pond pools, along with an incredibly versatile layout. Great for open-air extravaganzas, elegant garden parties and small sunset soirees alike, your day can flow from ceremony to after-party as desire requires. Just down the road, award-winning garden restaurant Aubergine by Atzaró offers relaxed sophistication, genuine Ibicenco charm and farm-to-table catering for your big day. And regardless of your chosen venue, the passionate Atzaró team takes care of every need – from transport, flowers and decoration to gala menus and custom canapés, while the hotel offers accommodation packages for you to spend your first night (or week!) of wedded bliss.

Can Curreu, San Carlos, North East

Set on the hillside outside the village of San Carlos, the tranquil countryside location of Can Curreu Agroturismo and Spa is unbeatable for an idyllic and romantic wedding day. With tall swaying palm trees and bright bursts of bougainvillea, the rural hotel ticks all the boxes for your Mediterranean celebration, with even its own equestrian ranch if arriving on horseback figures into your wedding dream (and why wouldn’t it?). Around the estate, various locations can be used for ceremony, cocktails and dinner, while in the in-house events team offer a choice of menu to suit your guests tastes and desires. Can Curreu offers three categories of rooms or suites to accommodate your wedding party, along with a fully equipped thermal circuit spa that will leave you feeling fully relaxed and rested, whether before or after you say ‘I do’.

Photography by Maria Simon for Marnosuite

Weddings in Ibiza – Alessandra and Michele

That fateful day at Blue Marlin in 2012 led to a sharing of smiles, an opening of hearts and a melding of lives, and remains a memory they cherish as precious today. In 2017, the fairytale continued as the Italian couple returned to Ibiza to exchange vows and declare their love in front of friends and family – creating even more memories to last a lifetime.

After getting engaged in October 2016, the couple instantly knew Ibiza was to be the destination for their nuptials. “We chose Ibiza because this is the island we belong to,” Alessandra explains. They immediately began making the plans and arrangements for an early summer wedding in 2017, which for many couples may seem like an impossible task, but as Ibiza regulars Alessandra and Michele already knew exactly where they wanted the event to be held.

Having been an Ibiza regular for almost 20 years, Alessandra knew the beautiful 19^th century Church of Es Cubells would make the ideal backdrop for the ceremony they wished to be simple and joyful. With its white stone walls and the view of the shimmering blue Mediterranean extending out beyond its grounds, the church also perfectly combined their dream of a rustic, country chic wedding with that of the classic Balearic wedding. The same was true for their wedding reception venue, fine Italian dining restaurant Can Domingo, in the hills of San Jose. “It’s one of our favourite restaurants on the island,” says Alessandra. “After so many return visits, the owners are now our friends, so it was the perfect choice. For us it represents the true spirit of Ibiza and the style of the venue fitted our theme beautifully.” With sweeping views of the wall plus a vibrant organic garden that lends itself perfectly to the contemporary Italian menu, it’s easy to see how this popular island restaurant ticked all the boxes.

As both bride and groom work in the Italian fashion industry, attention to detail on all the finer details was paramount. Fresh flower arrangements from the farmstead of La Granja were custom created to decorate the church, and Michele styled out his nerves in a made-to-measure suit – crafted by his home tailor, Gianni Molaro Napoli – as he waited for his glowing bride to join him at the end of the aisle. Making a truly glamorous entrance in an open topped black Mustang, Alessandra chose a stunning gown by Inbal Dror for the occasion, complemented by made-to-measure (and personally signed) Francesco Russo shoes. The ultimate accessory came in the form of the couple’s pet dog – a cute as a button pug who almost – but not quite – upstaged the bride herself as it trotted down the aisle like a furry flower girl! Capturing all the magic on camera was island-based wedding photographer Sofia Gomez Fonzo for Gyspy Westwood Photography, with no shortage of stunning people and moments in both the idyllic church and the alfresco surrounds of Can Domingo, with the sea and sunset on the horizon.

It’s common knowledge that most Italians believe no one can make finer food than their mama, but the talented kitchen team at Can Domingo – with chef Giuseppe Vivacqua at the helm – dared them to think differently. Guests nibbled on an array of canapés and mingled on the open terrace, before taking their seats overlooking the beautiful Mediterranean garden for speeches and messages of love, followed by a fresh seafood menu. In a nod to their home and heart lands, a Fefiñanes Albariño Spanish white wine and Italy’s challenge to Champagne, Bellavista from Franciacorta were flowing freely.

In true Ibiza style, the party continued onto the early hours, as the stylish Can Domingo interior was transformed into a dance floor, with beats played by Ibiza’s finest, Franco Moiraghi from Sa Trinxa and DJ Mia. Following on from the joyful day, the couple jetted off to the equally glamorous destinations of New York, Los Angeles and Tulum for their honeymoon – but with Ibiza never far from their hearts. “We will be back as soon as possible!”

Pizza night with a twist

Grazie Italia! Now, what if you could eat the planet’s favourite dish in a setting that was so lovely, so romantic, so divine that people have been known to weep with joy (okay, maybe not weep but you get the picture)? Welcome to Mimì Pizza Bistrot & Cocktails by Can Domingo. The team from the celebrated Italian fine dining restaurant in San Jose have opened their delightful terrace and garden to bring a whole new pizza experience to the island. The menu features everyone’s favourite classics plus a list of toppings served separately, almost like tapas. Each member of your party can create their perfect pizza at the table and best of all you get to try combinations you might never have thought of before. Actually, best of all are the cocktails, which have been perfectly paired, like fine wine, to the pizzas.

Naturally, the philosophy of quality seasonal produce is followed as rigidly as in Can Domingo’s fine dining menu – which is presented alongside the new concept for those who cannot resist the delicate and delicious offerings. The mozzarella is delivered from a small producer in Italy every week; the sausage is handmade in the Can Domingo kitchen; the rocket and herbs are plucked directly from the garden and the cocktails are created from scratch using various homemade syrups, tinctures and flavourings. Toppings include home-grown grilled vegetables, Parma ham, Cetara anchovies, Salina capers, homemade sundried tomatoes, fresh rocket, Taggia olives – the list goes on and on. Order a classic Margherita, Bianca, Marinara, Quattro Formaggio or Spicy Salami and go to town on the toppings of your choice. Each slice designed by you. Or of course, you could do as the Italians do and simply enjoy the pizza in its simplicity. There are no rules at Mimì Pizza Bistrot & Cocktails by Can Domingo. There’s also a selection of focaccia with everything made to be shared, including the view stretching out in a kaleidoscope of greens and blues across the gardens to the sea.

Every month, Chef Giuseppe Vivacqua adds his own creations to the menu with four or five bespoke pizza combinations. The homemade dough might be topped with roast potatoes, smoked Scamorza and Guanciale bacon; buffalo stracchino cheese, mortadella and lemon zest or fresh tomatoes with avocado, buffalo mozzarella, olive oil and basil. There is also a refined list of everyone’s favourite Italian dishes such as Caprese salad, melanzane alla parmigiana and a seriously impressive lasagne. On Thursday nights at Mimì Pizza Bistrot & Cocktails, pizza comes with very accessibly priced champagne – a culinary match of pure genius that blends perfectly with the smooth tunes and the sparkling stars above. And during July and August, an extra dose of magic is added to the happenings at both Mimì and Can Domingo, as the resident jazz band brings harmony to the stunning location with everyone’s favourite jazz, blues and soul classics.

Pizza night isn’t really pizza night if it’s not followed up with a classic Italian dessert (and a glass of Italian dessert wine or another cocktail, if you insist). Local strawberries with creamy vanilla ice cream, traditional pannacotta that melts on the tongue, sgroppino sorbet with vodka for a grown-up sweet treat, and a range of homemade ice creams and sorbets. However, the Mimì tiramisu is truly mind-blowing – the perfect concoction of creamy mascarpone, velvety cocoa, uplifting brandy and coffee to end the evening. Mimì Pizza Bistrot & Cocktails is set to become an Ibiza institution, creating a new island tradition amongst families and friends, locals and visitors alike. There is nothing better than pizza night – especially when the pies are made with so much love and come with cocktails and champagne served under the glittering Mediterranean skies.

Truffle season in paradise

Collette, the writer and provocateur, was quite partial to truffles. She, with her much younger husband Maurice Goudeket, would indulge in these aromatic tubers with great delight every autumn. It was Maurice who said: “Anyone who does not declare himself ready to leave Paradise or Hell for such a treat is not worthy to be born again.” Luckily islanders don’t have to leave paradise in order to declare themselves worthy thanks to Italian fine dining restaurant Can Domingo and their annual truffle tasting menu. The white Alba truffle found in the Piedmont region of Italy is considered the most delicate and delicious of all. Naturally they’re the ones Can Domingo Head Chef Beppe Vivacqua features on his tasting menu. The truffles are delivered with great care directly from the hunters to Can Domingo, which deserves acclaim as the place that introduced Ibiza to the delights of the Alba. Bravo e grazie!

Beppe’s connection to the Alba truffle could be said to have started at birth. His hometown, Turin, is the capital of this stunning province known for its never-ending source of culinary delights. Over the years Beppe has befriended several trifulau – truffle hunters – and their extraordinary and highly trained dogs. These lovely canines are carefully taught to seek out the bulbous delicacies hiding under chestnut trees. The trifulau digs out the truffle with a special tool called a sapin before gently dusting off the ugly yet oh-so-tasty morsel of food gold. The rituals and process of truffle season suits the contemplative Beppe and his personal connection to the natural world. With a deep respect for tradition, wild food, and his homeland Beppe and the truffle seem to be intrinsically unified. This year he’s been doing overtime in the inspiration and imagination department and come up with the best tasting menu yet. Combining his love of innovation and tradition plus his refined palate there is nothing like it in Ibiza.

Starting off with leek millefeuille layered with Raschera cheese and Alba truffles, the richness of the Alpine cheese compliments the heady aromas of the truffle. Next up is homemade tagliolini with Alba truffle, French butter and 36 months cured DOP Parmesan Cheese. The following dish joins the classic combo of egg and truffle with a smooth, creamy potato mash and a sumptuous beef jus. Dessert marries the nutty flavours of chestnut mousse with a sweet persimmon sauce and a sprinkling of truffle. The ingenious Coravin system allows a glass of wine to be poured without opening the bottle and means diners can design their own wine pairings. Alternatively, leave it up to owners Andrea Sanarica and Alessandro Barni Spadacini to recommend something from the expertly curated list. No doubt Andrea and Alessandro have put a lot of thought into the best wines to go with truffles especially during their yearly pilgrimage to Italy’s best vineyards. Rely on their expertise; they’ve had a lot of practice!

Can Domingo has somewhat of a cult following amongst the cognoscenti of the closing party season, coming to indulge one last time before winter sets in. The charming restaurant – x hidden away in a secret patch of pristine countryside – is the go to place for end of season celebrations, especially when it involves truffles. Well-known Ibizaphiles, locals and workers flock to commemorate the passing of the summer sun with what is arguably the culinary world’s most treasured, adored and exulted ingredient: the Alba Truffle. Reservations are recommended – book now to ensure you don’t miss out.

Mamma’s love

This dish contains the touch of millions of Italian mammas, who over centuries invented pasta. Following in their creative footsteps, head chef Giuseppe Vivacqua has paid homage to his mother and her ancestors and to his adopted home in this gorgeous dish. It’s a culinary nod to his past and his present. But first… the pasta! Over thousands of years, across the changing shape of Italy, women young and old, stood in kitchens, flour dust swirling in the sunlight. They talked about loves, loss, passions, children, the men they had and the ones that got away… and all the while they played with variations of flour and water. This was how Italy’s pasta as we know it came to be. No one bought machine-made pasta (the scandal!), no jars of sauce (che cosa!) and most definitely, no pre-grated, plastic-clad cheese!

Every pasta shape is deigned to carry sauce in the most efficient way. Think how the twirls of fusilli carry pesto, or rigatoni is faultless, steeped in hearty vegetable sauces or tiny orzo always looks at home in hearty winter soups. The names were taken from the shape of the pasta (orecchiette – little ears) or in the case of ferro, the tool that made it – a long thin metal skewer around which the dough is rolled. Interestingly, pasta didn’t reach the New World until early Spanish settlers brought it to the United States. It was Thomas Jefferson who popularised pasta after a four year-long stay in Paris, where he tried something he called macaroni and brought home two cases. When his stash was finished he implored any friend travelling to Europe to bring more. Nowadays pasta is the go to dish for almost everyone. However, there is pasta and then there is proper pasta

Can Domingo’s maccheronicini al ferro is so lovingly prepared that once you watch the process, it is impossible to take a bite without feeling intense love. Ultimately that’s what Italian cuisine is – the love of all the Italian mothers that ever existed packed into one plate. Chef Beppe is surely channelling his mother when his elegant hands expertly roll the soft white dough over the metal stick; again, flour dusts swirls just like it did in the kitchens of antiquity. But Beppe is not an Italian mamma living in a small village sharing his life across a wood table with friends. He heads the kitchen at one of the most exacting fine dining restaurant in Ibiza. He is also master of an extraordinary and productive permaculture garden that provides much of the produce used at Can Domingo. So, his maccheronicini al ferro is quite different than that of his Mamma’s but just as delicious. She would be very proud.

Locally made sobrasada sausage is crumbled into a tomato-based sauce, smoothly coating the ferro. Hunks of creamy Burrata embellish the dish, topped by a green crown of freshly picked rocket and a scattering of home-grown cherry tomatoes. The velvety Burrata balances the salty and faintly spicy sobrasada while the rocket and cherry tomatoes provide crisp freshness. In other countries, women shared the story of their lives over quilting or needlepoint. In Italy, life is shared via preparing and eating food. At Can Domingo, Beppe continues this tradition of connecting life with the food we eat. He daily renews and reinforces the strongest bond of all. That between Mamma and the food she provides for those she loves.

Wine, music and romance unite

Every summer the co-owners of Ibiza’s revered Italian fine dining restaurant return from unique fact-finding missions, looking for delicacies and deliciousness to add to the Can Domingo experience. While Chef Giuseppe Vivacqua spent time refining his skills at the Europe’s only Michelin starred vegetarian restaurant, the two front of house maestros Andrea Sanarica and Alessandro Barni Spadacini turned their focus to Italian wines and French Champagne. This year the pair were able to set their sights on expanding their wine list, thanks to an ingenuous mechanism that allows guests to enjoy a glass of wine without removing the cork from the bottle. “We have regulars who come just to see what we have brought back from Italy,” says Alessandro.” With the Coravin system, they can enjoy a high-quality wine without having to buy the whole bottle.”

An American medical inventor developed the Coravin system in 2013. The simple machine has the appearance of a fancy corkscrew. A medical grade needle is carefully inserted into the cork while a gas capsule is employed to help draw the wine into an internal canister. A lever gently releases the wine into the glass. The elasticity of the cork allows the tiny hole to reseal almost immediately, protecting the wine from oxidation, keeping it fresh and clean until the next glass is required. “Our clients love to try new wines,” adds Andrea. “This system means people can enjoy something they might not ordinarily order. They can treat themselves to a quality wine.” And because the Coravin allows the integrity of the wine to be maintained for longer, the Can Domingo team have been able to expand the wine list to include drops from Italy’s most exciting regions.

As well as a suggested list of 20 wines by the glass, diners are free to choose from any bottle on the menu, which includes drops from Piedmont, Alta Adige, Tuscany and other Italian regions plus a selection of Spanish and French wines. “At the moment, I like the 2015 Schweizer Pinot Noir from Alta Adige,” says Alessandro. “The 5 Stelle from Valtellina is also lovely.” When it comes to whites, he says the Terre Alte from Felluga is beautiful. “It’s the best region for white wine in Italy,” he explains. The team is clearly excited by the prospect of continuing to develop Can Domingo’s carefully curated cellar. The Coravin system is opening new opportunities to delve deep into wine culture. “We love to discover new wines ourselves, and to be able to bring that experience to our guests is a real pleasure,” says Andrea.

Can Domingo continue its role as Ibiza’s unofficial patron of jazz, blues and soul music in 2017. What better way to enjoy quality wines by the glass than accompanied by the honeyed tones of jazz? Until the end of August, the Can Domingo resident band takes to the terrace on Saturday nights from 9.30pm. Vocalist and Alessandro’s wife Chiara Croce serenades diners with a selection of classic jazz in the vein of Ella Fitzgerald and Sarah Vaughn. Tuesdays from July sees the highly regarded Muriel Grossmann Quartet spread their cool tunes across the gardens. Muriel is a multi-talented saxophonist, singer and composer. With Radomir Milojkovic on guitar, Salvatore Licitra on the double bass and Uros Stamerkovic on drums, Muriel plays tracks from her latest album Momentum in addition to a selection from her eight previous releases.

The terraces and gardens of Can Domingo form one of the most romantic venues on the island. Andrea has lost count of the number of marriage proposals they have helped to arrange. There is something about the feeling of being tucked away in secret garden, sitting under the stars, listening to beautiful music, eating fine Italian cuisine and supping on the best wines available that bring out the romantic in all of us.