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East coast trailblazer

Aguas de Ibiza Grande Luxe Hotel is a trailblazer on Ibiza’s east coast, paving the way for Santa Eulalia to steadily emerge as a centre of luxury and culinary excellence. The team at this five-star mecca of indulgence is always seeking ways to enhance the experience of guests and visitors alike. Recent additions to the infrastructure will soon see a new rooftop terrace bar complete with infinity pool and in celebration of the expansion, the gastronomic heart of the hotel, Alabastro, is also undergoing a transformation.

They say a change is as good as a holiday but we all know that a holiday is really the best thing ever – especially when that holiday coincides with the kind of changes happening in the Alabastro kitchen. Argentinian-born chef Emilio Galarza has taken over the reins, bringing in his trusted team of colleagues and collaborators to create some culinary magic. The 2019 lunch and dinner menus have been completely redesigned, refined and rejuvenated to encompass the passion and vitality that seems to emanate from every fibre of Galarza’s being.

Galarza is alert and tactile with a refined sense of texture and a painterly vision for each of his dishes. His conscientious attitude to learning from every single person he meets along his food journey, from his Italian and Basque grandparents to the indigenous cultures of his homeland, has resulted in a menu brimming with intrigue and colour. “My inspiration comes from eating and travelling,” he says. “I choose my destinations based solely on food and restaurants I want to try.” Each dish is carefully crafted and built for flavour as well as visual appeal. Dishes vibrant with colour, aromatic herbs and edible flowers mean dining at Alabastro is a true sensory delight. Ibiza is evident right through Galarza’s menus, especially in the substantial selection of vegan and vegetarian options.

The island shows up in the colours, flavours and produce he chooses to work with. “What I love about Ibiza is the richness of the earth,” he says. “It provides so much. The figs, oranges, watermelons. The list is endless. The produce here is of excellent quality and it inspires me daily.” A deep respect for the abundant local produce has helped Galzara create a lunchtime menu that refreshes and satisfies. Take a daybed by the pool or a table under the sun-dappled pergola of the terrace and enjoy the light, healthy and filling menu that is perfectly matched to the summer sun. Start with a sharing plate such as black quinoa nachos with guacamole or pork and vegetable gyozas with a tart nanban dipping sauce, then the sirvia fish tartar served over a bed of sweet mango and papaya is the perfect starter. The flavours of the fruit juxtapose against the textures of the raw fish creating a delicious explosion across the palate. Another favourite for a quick, easy and healthy lunch is the Alabastro poke bowl. Raw red tuna tossed with edamame, red cabbage, tamari, avocado, chives and sprouts this bowl of goodness is tangy and filling. A wide selection of salads is there for the sharing – or not, just like the oysters with mirin, soy and ginger dressing – sharing is optional.

Lunchtime mains are more hearty, featuring nods to Argentina with farmhouse chicken and baby vegetables with chimichurri salsa alongside classics beloved by one and all such as grilled beef tenderloin with parsnip purée and black rice with sea urchin. “The lunch menu is more simple,” says Galarza. “It’s casual and relaxed but full of details.” It’s those details that take Galarza’s cuisine to a different level. As the sun sets, Alabastro transforms from a sunny daytime lunch spot to an elegant fine dining restaurant. “At night, the dishes have more technique,” says Galarza. “The flavours are a little more complex.”

The night menu is refined but nothing is weighed down by preconception or vanguard tendencies. Galarza’s technical skills are complemented by his inclination towards light-heartedness. Southern Spain is touched on via a redefined gazpacho made with coconut milk and served with a grilled lobster tail. A swirl of fragrant herb oil completes this striking dish that plays between hot and cold, creamy and textured. Seafood features heavily across both menus as is befitting of a luxurious hotel located on a Mediterranean island. The slow-cooked sea bass is destined to become an Alabastro signature. The tender fish is served with a deeply coloured purée of purple carrot, delicate and crispy carrot chips and a rainbow of lightly steamed baby carrots. Lively and colourful blossoms and sprouts are scattered across the top bringing the kaleidoscope of colour to a crescendo.

Vying for signature position on the Alabastro menu is the hangar steak, seared to perfection and served on a pillow of shiitake and pak choi quiche. The juicy, tender cut is topped with enormous Peruvian figs and doused in a beef glaze that takes four days to prepare. This dish is pure Galarza, combining textures and depths of flavour that defies definition. The melt in the mouth beef with the nutty lightness of the quiche and the deep treacle of the glaze is cut through by the sweetness of the figs. This is a dish that requires a slow appreciation, with every mouthful providing a new sensation.

Galarza’s obvious passion for food is matched by his loyalty to his team, which revels in an atmosphere of collaboration. “I came from working in France where the kitchens have a militancy about them,” he explains. “Then in the Basque Country, there is a real seriousness. Here at Alabastro, the whole team is really close. I don’t like to call them my team. We are together in this and we do everything with love and care.” Galarza brought his pastry chef with him and is very proud of what she has achieved. Paula del Sarto also hails from Argentina but met Galarza here in a previous position. She has created a dessert menu of her own devising, which turns out to be a sweet companion to Galarza’s savoury offerings.

The mango semifreddo hides a textured interior of citrus sponge and passion fruit. Its vivid yellow colour opens to a surprising melding of flavours. Tart and sweet, this gorgeous dessert is like eating a huge smile bathed in sun rays. Del Sarto’s cherry tart is a diminutive pile of delicious, with a crunchy outer base filled with creamy mascarpone and topped with rich, red maraschino cherries crowned with a cherry infused siphon bread the colour of Snow White’s ruby red lips. It’s clear Galarza’s confidence in her skills and creativity is well deserved. The new Alabastro menu is bursting with options both indulgent and healthy. Lunch by the pool could easily turn into cocktails and dinner in the restaurant and if a change is really as good as a holiday, you should definitely do both.

Visit the White Ibiza restaurants guide to read more and reserve a table at Alabastro
Bohemian beach dreams

When it comes to fashion, there is a universal belief that a little black dress can relive all your woes, take away all your troubles and generally make life great again – if only you can find it. In Ibiza, the equivalent of that dress is the search for the perfect beach day. It might not be the first thing on your mind when you wake up each morning, but it’s something you always have your eye out for, just in case you spot a place with all the right measurements – somewhere that might just fit and be ‘the one’. The 2019 relaunch of Atzaró Beach at Cala Nova means that the search is finally over, and the quintessential Ibiza beach club experience has been found.

Beach days have a certain list of requirements, not unlike the little black dress. They must be special enough to feel like you’re having a treat, but still casual enough so that you can relax and let go of your cares. They are usually best if shared with friends – the stress-relieving benefits of an afternoon of gossiping cannot be underestimated – and yet, also allow space and time for solitary reflection, getting into that good book that you’ve been dying to read, indulging in fine cuisine or best of all, completely surrendering to an utterly relaxing beach siesta. All of these requirements are flawlessly covered at Atzaró Beach, along with many more.

The new look Atzaró Beach is relaxed and calming, harking back to a more natural Ibiza era, where straw chairs and hanging rattan seats take centre stage and an organic, natural colour palette sets the scene for countless Instagram moments. Striking peacock chairs evokes the feel of the bohemian 70s, when life was much simpler, far removed from the artificiality of today. In the kids’ play area, toys are wooden and solid, while in the bar, straws are plastic-free and biodegradable. The terrace is dotted with plants and straw umbrellas, and sheltered with a vast pergola of eucalyptus, creating a dappled shade where you can go to lunch and escape the rays.

Luxe daybeds face out to sea, housing piles of plump cushions and sheltered by stone-coloured parasols, offering the idyllic vista of shimmering waters amongst the terracotta-potted palms. Start your morning with a healthy green juice or smoothie, before your first swim of the day. Then lie back and luxuriate on the thick mattresses, whilst enjoying an impeccably laid-back soundtrack curated by the Atzaró Beach team. Perhaps a massage before lunch appeals, or you feel the call to browse in the boutique. After all, a beach day is not a beach day unless you find a new treasure, perhaps a new bikini from Columbian designers Entreaguas, or a locally-designed jewel-laden kaftan for covering up later. When it’s time for lunch, the choice is yours – will you move to a sofa in the shade or find a table in the cool interior? The friendly and attentive Atzaró Beach staff are happy to serve your sunbed directly of course, if the effort to move is just too much.

In keeping with the free-and-easy vibe, the fresh, new Atzaró Beach menu features plenty of sharing plates and salads that are spot-on for that mellow beach day with friends, family and loved ones. With dishes made for socialising, you can order as much or as little as you all may desire. Choose from salads such as mouth-watering watermelon and feta cheese with figs, mint and basil, pine nuts, spouts and a Modena reduction, or go for a beautiful Buddha bowl with chickpeas and broccoli, tofu, quinoa and cucumber, topped with sunflower and pumpkin seeds and scattered with raisins. In keeping with the farm-fresh ethos of all of the portfolio of the respected Atzaró Group, ingredients are organic and are sourced from their own local farm before being delivered directly to your plate.

Vegetarians are particularly well catered for at Atzaró Beach. The quinoa, beetroot and chia burger is of special pride, with avocado, goat cheese, tomato and rocket, served with fat home-made potato fries. Although fish and meat lovers will also find things to satisfy, with traditional paella, grilled sea bass and juicy lamb chops covering all bases. It’d be hard not to be tempted by the home-made pumpkin stuffed ravioli served in ricotta cheese and tomato and fresh basil sauce. But then you’d have to save some room for dessert, that chia pudding with mango and pomegranate simply won’t eat itself. And if you’re getting the pistachio coulant with white chocolate and Garrapiñados nuts… then maybe it needs two spoons?

Obviously after that lunch, it’s nap time. Any one of the inviting corners of Atzaró Beach is open to you, but your daybed also calls, with those tempting cushions and that thick mattress. As the sun fades and evening approaches the beach enters into that magical hour of mesmerising twilight where the afternoon seems simultaneously timeless and endless, and going anywhere at all is a complete impossibility. The gently lapping waves of the Mediterranean invite an easy stroll up the beach, and maybe a freshly brewed espresso or a liquor apertivo back at the bar as the heat finally retreats from the day.

With no plans for later – one should never impose a curfew on a beach day – there’s no reason not to order a jug of sangria to share at sunset. And then maybe a quick glance at the menu for something to share? From June onwards of course the restaurant is open til 10pm, and from the first of July until midnight. In the evenings the twinkling of lights transform the Atzaró Beach terrace into a Balearic boho dream. With occasional live music and DJs such as Chino Paino and Howard Hill to serenade, the beach day extends into a romantic and memorable night. Now that really does fit perfectly.

A timeless classic

On an island where life is forever evolving and the beach restaurant scene is growing exponentially with every new year, it’s reassuring to discover the classic island venues that have stood the test of time. Pura Vida Beach Restaurant has been a favourite of Ibiza locals and returning holidaymakers for over 15 years, thanks to its classic approach to pure relaxation and high-end Mediterranean cuisine, in a location that is simply divine. Set right on the sand of the pretty cove of Playa Niu Blau, on the east coast of Ibiza just past Santa Eulalia, Pura Vida Beach Restaurant is a masterclass in timeless hospitality where the vibe is sweetly simple and the vibe genuinely welcoming. Here, everyone is welcome and once you settle in for the day, you just won’t want to leave – in fact, you’ll want to return, again and again and again…

Owners Daniel Sanwald and Alexandra Sixt have been at the helm of Pura Vida Beach Restaurant since 2007 and Daniel – who was born and bred in Ibiza – recalls visiting the beach restaurant regularly as a child. The location is part of their hearts, part of their heritage – something you can really sense when you visit. Since taking the reins of the stylish beach restaurant, the couple have built a loyal and long-standing team of staff who return to Pura Vida Beach Restaurant year on year, further adding to the family-style feeling of warmth evoked on each visit. When the team is happy, guests can feel it and this contributes to each and every experience.

The cuisine concept at Pura Vida Beach Restaurant takes classic Mediterranean dishes and gives them a contemporary feel and a lighter touch. At the beginning of every new season, the menu is lovingly re-worked to ensure it incorporates the very best local produce and the highest quality ingredients, drawing on creative flavour combinations from around the globe. Each dish is a delight, be it a twist on tradition or a long-term classic – inspiring those who return to the golden sands of Playa Niu Blau each year.

The classic steak tartare is served with a perfectly soft poached egg and mustard roe on a fresh brioche, while the grilled whole sea bream has a gentle, mellow paprika sauce and comes with traditional Ibiza-style fried potatoes and a crisp, fresh tomato salad. For something a little different, the zingy poke bowl is a perfect choice for a light lunchtime dish, with salmon, quinoa and teriyaki topped with avocado, sprouts, and a red curry dressing. It’s not just the grown-ups who’ll love a trip to Pura Vida Beach Restaurant – the inventive kids’ menu boasts all the little ones’ favourites and also offers healthy steamed fresh fish with rice and vegetables for the little foodies who fancy a taste of seafood themselves. The desserts on offer are a pleasure for all ages – the mille-feuille of sticky apple confit and delicious cinnamon ice cream is one of the most popular choices.

While it’s easy to see why the fantastic food attracts gourmands to Pura Vida Beach Restaurant, the venue’s laid-back ambience and chic summer style also appeals to those seeking an old-school relaxed Ibiza beach day – think no phones, a good book and a safe place for the kids to play. The pace of life on this side of the island feels gentler and slower than other parts of Ibiza, and the beach at Playa Niu Blau – peppered with shady olive, pine and palm trees – never feels crowded, even in the height of summer. Many Pura Vida Beach Restaurant devotees turn up early to enjoy a light breakfast on the sand – the many loungers and daybeds are perfect for daydreaming or a mid-morning snooze after your coffee, juice and tostada, with the sound of lapping water and island songbirds providing the perfect holiday soundtrack. A soothing full body massage can be booked if you need a little extra help relaxing.

When your appetite returns, a long lazy lunch on the shaded Pura Vida Beach Restaurant terrace is in order, then you can either head back to the beach and a horizontal position where delicious afternoon cocktails can be served directly to your daybed, or stay where you are for some social time around the table, catching up with old friends – or making new ones – over a few glasses of wine or champagne from the extensive list on offer. Three times a week, on Mondays, Wednesdays and Sundays, an island DJ spins soft Balearic beats in the background while on Wednesdays, Fridays and Sundays, kids can be entertained with crafts and activities at the Pura Vida Beach Restaurant kids’ club, allowing adults some blissful hours of uninterrupted conversation.

As day turns to dusk, it’s even easier to linger longer as thoughts return to food – whether a light tasty snack or an evening dinner on the deck – and the sky puts on a kaleidoscopic performance before night falls. If you’re still dressed in your beach gear, a wander around the boutique can re-kit you for the evening (or just provide a reason for some retail therapy), with a carefully curated and colourful range of kaftans, dresses and eclectic accessories on offer. Pura Vida Beach Restaurant clients receive an islanders’ discount in store and more than likely you’ll be offered a glass of delicious local cava while you browse! All the more reason to shop…

After dark, the vibes at Pura Vida Beach Restaurant are pure Ibiza nights – alfresco dining complemented by great music, including live Flamenco from world-renowned maestro Paco Fernandez on Mondays (from June 24, 2019), who performs alongside passionate dancers to create an unforgettable island experience that will stay with you long after your Ibiza tan has faded. It’s all too easy to spend the entire day, from morning until night at Pura Vida Beach Restaurant, immersed in the enchanting atmosphere of this classic Ibiza dining destination that hits all the right notes.

Global excellence, Ibiza style

Yossi Eliyahoo is the creator and visionary behind The Entourage Group – the world-renowned hospitality empire that first launched Momo, an Asian-fusion restaurant, bar and lounge concept in Amsterdam back in 2008. It was a move that initiated a revolution in cool, contemporary fine dining experiences across Europe, and in 2017, Eliyahoo introduced another of his Asian kitchen and bar concepts, Izakaya, to Ibiza. The stylish fine dining space immediately established itself as a destination venue on the ground floor of boutique Ibiza hotel Sir Joan, near Ibiza town, and today remains a hotspot for the jetset, glitterati and foodies of the island.

The name Izakaya translates as a sort of Japanese tavern, where after-work drinks and small dishes are shared in an authentic and sociable environment. In Ibiza – and in his other European Izakaya venues – Eliyahoo has elevated this concept to a level of fine dining gastronomy where the original Japanese kitchen and bar philosophy is served up in luxurious and unique surroundings. Sleek, chic and a testament to urban design, the restaurant and bar boasts a stylish interior and an elegant outdoor dining area by the hotel’s beautifully illuminated pool – the ideal place to gather with friends before heading out into the Ibiza night.

“When I originally visited Ibiza it was purely for pleasure,” says Eliyahoo. “I used to visit with my family and friends early in the season. It always felt friendly and a great place for networking, so I began to think this would be a perfect place to ‘put a flag in’ – in a business sense.” For the founder of such a successful hospitality business, with a range of unique concepts in addition to Izakaya within its portfolio, the first challenge was to decide which of his brands would be the right fit for Ibiza. Also, on a seasonal island where a year’s worth of business needs to be achieved in only a six-month period, there are extra challenges to consider.

It takes a high level of passion, energy and a real understanding of Ibiza’s unique business landscape to navigate these challenges and this is where Eliyahoo’s business acumen comes to the fore. “For me, it was about finding the right location first,” he continues. “When we found this position at Sir Joan, I started working on the concept – I wanted something that would bring innovation and to bring something different to the area. What Izakaya offers is perfect for the location and for the summer lifestyle in Ibiza. Guests are likely to be going off to a party or a club later – they don’t feel like eating too much heavy food and feeling like they’re going to pass out later!” With the location secured and the concept in place, next, Eliyahoo embarked on developing the unique look and feel for Izakaya in Ibiza.

“At The Entourage Group, we never copy and paste,” he explains. “We have the DNA of the Izakaya brand, but all of our venues are completely different. I don’t want to walk into a restaurant in Munich, Amsterdam, New York or Milan, to close my eyes and not know where I am. I want a different experience. Why would I want to go to restaurants in different parts of the world if they all feel the same? That’s boring! For Ibiza, we wanted an interpretation of the island; we wanted a feeling of being outside, the greenery, the water, the reflection of light.” The overall effect has been perfectly executed. In Eliyahoo’s own words, the dining space at Izakaya feels like a luxury yacht, with shiny chrome and marble striking a balance with marina-like tones of aqua and sea green.

Outside, tables are arranged around the pool and the ambience is one of a buzzing, friendly cocktail party, where you’ll find international DJs rubbing shoulders with local islanders. “There are many different things to consider here, like logistics and suppliers and also how to build a team for a business that starts in May and ends in October,” says Eliyahoo. “With the Ibiza Izakaya, we do it more for the soul – for the feeling and the love of it. It’s fun – we work very hard, and really long hours, but we look forward to it every year! People stay up later, they eat later, they go out later. In Ibiza we keep the kitchen open later than in any of our other locations.”

Since Izakaya’s Ibiza inception, Eliyahoo is enjoying spending more time on the island each year, nurturing his latest outpost. In addition to his businesses, he is also a married father of four, so bringing his family to the island for the main summer months helps him maintain a balance between work and family life. His British born wife is the CEO of The Entourage Group, so their time in Ibiza is a blend of working hard and relaxing with family and friends. “I love the options for my kids in Ibiza,” he says. “There are so many great places with stuff for kids to do while the parents relax.

I love Chiringuito Blue in Santa Eulalia, because of course I love the food there, with the wonderful Israeli influence that is from my own background.” When asked whether he manages to ever completely relax and take advantage of the Ibiza ‘chill-out’ vibe, the man behind Izakaya smiles. “For me, I just lie flat and try to recover! It’s hard work but it’s fun. Friends arrive on the island full of energy and they’re like: ‘What are we doing, where are we going?’ But I love life, I love my work, I love people and I love socialising. But at the end of the summer, I’m like: Phew! I made it!”

Visit the White Ibiza restaurants guide to read more and enquire with Izakaya
A decade of divine dining

Time truly flies on this little Balearic island – in what seems like the blink of an eye, weeks fly into months, months merge into seasons and seasons spread into years. On that note, the start of the 2019 season also marks the ten-year anniversary of gorgeous Ibiza beach restaurant Amante Ibiza – a huge feat to achieve on an island like Ibiza, where the restaurant industry is thriving and incredibly competitive, with new and noted players entering the arena each year. A decade of divine dining has seen Amante Ibiza quietly, proudly and deservedly earn its place in the white island hall of fame – winning awards, fans, followers and hearts along the way.

Many Ibiza dwellers remember the legendary Amante Ibiza opening party as if it were just last summer – the island was abuzz with talk that internationally-renowned DJ David Piccioni was becoming a restaurateur. Those who knew him well were not surprised – between touring the globe, Piccioni would counter-balance his high-voltage working life with visits to the most tranquil spots in Ibiza, to breathe, re-boot and enjoy the finer things in life. He found his peace and regained his equilibrium in the beautiful cliff-top location where Amante Ibiza stands today, overlooking the rugged pebble beach and crystalline waters of Sol d’en Serra on the island’s east coast.

His own experiences led him to create a venue where others could experience and enjoy that exact same feeling of calmness and recalibration, and Amante Ibiza was born in 2009. The first and most obvious charm of Amante Ibiza is its unparalleled location and incredible, breath-taking vistas. This is a place that invites delicious daydreaming, blissful peace and pure relaxation against a backdrop of the very best views on Ibiza. Sweet dreams really are made of this…

To turn such a vision into a long-standing and established reality requires a true understanding of the clients who come through the doors. Piccioni and the Amante Ibiza team have achieved this by listening to its loyal clientele, constantly evolving and continually manifesting the original dream along the way. Now, ten years since its inception, Amante Ibiza is beautifully fulfilling David’s original plans. Outstandingly welcoming, with a friendly mi casa tu casa vibe and an exceptional Mediterranean menu, Amante Ibiza is Ibiza’s most beautiful rural-meets-seaside restaurant. Set in a stunning cove, the fine dining destination is perfect for anyone looking to relax in a luxurious beach setting.

Amante Ibiza’s appeal is wide and varied – absolutely everyone is welcome and given the same warm, smiling and authentic Ibiza reception on arrival. Frequented by local families, the ever-present glitterati of Ibiza and the global jet-set alike, this beautiful location has developed an aura of accessibility and good times over the past ten years – it’s known as the place where you’re welcome to while away the hours, lounging from day to night with friends, family and loved ones. Whether you are a first-time visitor or a day-one Amante Ibiza devotee, Piccioni’s original idea is that you can enjoy the space as your very own Ibiza home away from home remains firmly in place.

If Amante Ibiza is home, then the team are like family. Managers, chefs, wait staff, kitchen hands, administration and marketing teams – all return to their beloved extended summer roles year after year. On a seasonal island where work opportunities continually shift, this is a testament to Amante Ibiza’s natural charm and supportive work environment. The team share Piccioni’s family vision, and as an extension of this, they view and treat restaurant guests like members of the extended family too.

Presiding over the kitchen team is long standing island favourite, Carlos Fernandez who is executive chef of Amante Ibiza and its sister venue, Aiyanna Ibiza, at Cala Nova. Working alongside long-term chef Jordi Ribas, Fernandez’s profoundly Mediterranean menu is succinctly curated with honesty and integrity – there is no pretence here, no suggestion of fusion cuisine or flashy tricks that confuse the palate. Drawing on traditional and modern influences, flavours are gentle and perfectly timed, locally-sourced ingredients are soulful and magically combined to ensure a flavoursome finish that is pure Ibiza.

At Amante Ibiza, the day starts early, with yoga on the beach terrace, with those phenomenal views, from 8.45am to 10.30am, followed by a delicious and healthy breakfast (included in the class fee). There’s nothing quite like stretching into the great Balearic beyond and breathing in that fresh Mediterranean air in the mornings and the sessions have reached such legendary status that it’s highly advisable to pre-book your mat space. Of course, not everyone wants to start their day with exercise and that’s perfectly acceptable too – the beautiful driftwood bar overlooking the sea is the perfect place to start your day with a freshly-pressed juice or a coffee. Daybeds can also be booked for the day, with no minimum spend for lunch, dinner or snacks (a rarity in Ibiza), giving you another great excuse to settle in for the duration.

If you feel the urge to beach hop, keep it in the family and head to Aiyanna Ibiza (it’s just a short drive up the coast) for lunch, where you can sample more fresh, healthy and seasonal cuisine with a Middle Eastern influence. Later on, return to Amante Ibiza for evening drinks and dinner. On Tuesday nights, the now iconic open-air cinema takes centre stage – a screen that’s been dubbed ‘the most beautiful cinema in the world’ – and guests are invited to nestle into the luxurious oversized beanbags (with a fluffy throw blanket for when the sea breeze picks up) and take in a modern classic or cult movie beneath the stars. Another event that is booked out well in advance, the schedule is available to peruse on the Amante Ibiza website to ensure you don’t miss out.

Over the past ten years, the Amante Ibiza team has put endless effort into all components of the business – sharing a singular passion for making the vision come to life. The interior and exterior spaces of the venue are always carefully tended to, with subtle enhancements always presenting something new for returning guests to delight in. Since day one this iconic island restaurant has been all about nurturing a feeling of belonging and now, with ten years of relaxed integration under their belts, it is all too easy to feel totally at home. Happy anniversary Amante Ibiza!

Visit the White Ibiza restaurants guide to read more and reserve a table at Amante Ibiza
Stylish, sun-drenched indulgence

In Ibiza, rules are few and far between – it’s one of the reasons the island is loved so devotedly by free spirits. Nevertheless, there are some rules worth abiding by, one of them being the idea that if you work hard, you also play hard. After all, what’s the point in being cooped up in your workplace all day if the reward doesn’t involve letting loose a little? Letting loose is where this Balearic island excels and those looking for a venue that specialises in non-stop, sun-drenched, feel-good fun should look no further than Nikki Beach Ibiza.

Located on the shores of S’Argamassa on Ibiza’s spectacular east coast, Nikki Beach Ibiza is also just a stone’s throw from the bustling marina town of Santa Eulalia. Step inside this stylish beachside venue however, and you’re going to find it hard to leave – the unique blend of cosmopolitan vibes, upbeat music, fine food and stunning views here are totally magnetic. The iconic global brand recently bestowed a series of stylish improvements on its white isle outpost, making it even more of a must-visit on any epicurean tour of Ibiza.

“The unique blend of cosmopolitan vibes, upbeat music, fine food and stunning views at Nikki Beach Ibiza are totally magnetic.”

As we ease into summer 2019, Nikki Beach Ibiza has just unveiled a completely fresh look and feel. Brand new wooded decking has been installed, which means lazy sun lounger days have become even more Instagrammable. Even better for those guests dedicated to having a great time come rain or shine is the news that there’s a glass partition covering the restaurant area so on the very rare days it rains in Ibiza, the party can always continue. Such is the dedication to good times at Nikki Beach Ibiza – satisfaction, as always, is paramount.

It’s not just the look and feel of Nikki Beach Ibiza that has had an upgrade this season – the already stellar menu has also been revamped with a focus on sharing plates and social dining. After all, conversations with friends over a plate of delicious food and a glass of champagne is what this venue is really all about. Fish lovers will adore the sushi platters such as the Dragon, which features tuna rolls, salmon rolls, nigiri, sashimi and wakame salad – the perfect light lunch for two. Or dive straight in with the Nikki Beach Famous Sushi & Ceviche boat, which further includes Koh Samui vegetable rolls, Ibiza rainbow rolls, tropical seafood ceviche and a whole host of other treats designed to nourish up to eight people.

Other sharing plates include the delectable Dubai Mezzeh, loaded with hummus, falafel, tabbouleh and olives, and the Piscine Boat brimming with Angus beef sliders, chicken quesadillas, lobster tacos and Mediterranean flatbread. Traditionalists will be keen to try out the Mediterranean seafood paella with lobster, red prawns, scallops, artichoke and bomba rice, or the Balearic tapas platter, which features multiple island favourites like Iberico ham, chorizo, cured sausage, Mahon cheese, Menorcan sobrasada, crushed tomato and padron peppers – Nikki Beach Ibiza offers plenty to satiate a wide variety of appetites. In keeping with today’s health-conscious and socially-conscious mindsets, the menu has also been updated to cater for vegetarian and vegan tastes.

The Vegan Bo Ssam platter for two people, for example, consists of mixed lettuce leaves, kimchi, mushrooms, smoked tofu, rice, ssam sauce, garden herbs and pickle – it’s the perfect, light accompaniment to a hot afternoon spent in the sun. The Dubai Grilled Cauliflower, meanwhile, is a great option for non-meat eaters; served with green harissa, sliced almonds, golden raisins, marinated olives, arugula, herbs and a lemon and tahini dressing, it’s an undeniably mouth-watering option and one you can rest assured your carnivore friends will want to sample. The Nikki Beach Ibiza restaurant is open from 12pm to 7pm daily (with the venue itself open from 11am to 8pm), so there’s plenty of opportunity to sample as much or as little as you’d like.

“Conversations with friends over a plate of delicious food and a glass of champagne is what this venue is really all about.”

Then, of course, there are the famous Nikki Beach Ibiza parties. Centred around the venue’s stunning pool, with the Mediterranean glistening in the distance and upbeat tunes reverberating round your ears, hours spent here soon turn into memories. The week begins with Less Monday, More Summer – a retro-inspired beach bash that’s all about bidding farewell to the Monday blues – and Nikki Beach Ibiza does its bit by offering everyone a complimentary sunbed. On Tuesdays, it’s Ladies First, when the female of the species is unashamedly celebrated.

Summer Lovers take over Nikki Beach Ibiza on Wednesdays, when a two-course lunch featuring the venue’s signature dishes costs just 50€ per person and includes pool access and a beach bed, subject to availability. On Thursdays the Sintillate crew take over, showcasing a unique approach to music and entertainment that leaves guests with grins plastered across their faces. They’re back again on Fridays for the Deluxe Pool Party, only this time with more palm trees and pool floats. Rosé Saturdays invite you on a journey to cloud wine and Amazing Sundays is all about a luxurious champagne brunch.

In addition to the regular events, there is also an entire calendar of one-off, special events running throughout summer. One of the key season highlights takes place on Wednesday August 7, 2019, as Nikki Beach Worldwide turns 20, and to mark this momentous anniversary Nikki Beach Ibiza is hosting a spectacular afternoon showcasing signature music, dining and dancing, with a few surprises thrown in along the way. On July 12, 2019, the venue hosts its ever-popular White Party – with a strict dress code of course! And while it may seem like quite some time away, it’s worth blocking out Sunday September 29, 2019 in your diary now, when Nikki Beach Ibiza closes the summer season with its annual Red Party – obviously, the dress code is red.

1Keep your eyes on the White Ibiza Events Calendar and the Nikki Beach Ibiza website for more events taking place during summer 2019. The venue is also available for private hire, so whether you’re part of a large group hoping to band together to celebrate a birthday milestone in true Balearic style, or you prefer a quiet, intimate corner to enjoy a relaxed family lunch, everyone’s requirements can be catered for. Whatever you decide, just remember to throw out the rulebook and indulge yourselves – the only stipulation here is that you have the best possible time with your loved ones by your side, and preferably a cocktail in hand.

Culinary magic exists

Every year, Oscar Molina, executive chef at La Gaia at Ibiza Gran Hotel, holds an all-star potluck dinner, inviting another chef into his domain to mark the start of the season while presenting the season’s new menu along with a special announcement that La Gaia is repositioning its style of cuisine as Mediterranean Kaiseki. The Four Hands Dinner is like no other potluck on earth – it is truly star-studded. This year, Molina invited his old friend, two Michelin star, three Repsol Sol master of culinary amazement Mario Sandoval to join him and the result was nothing short of a gastronomic big bang.

Sandoval heads up Coque in Madrid and is one of Spain’s most celebrated and innovative chefs. It’s no wonder he and Molina go way back – the two not only share a friendship but an essential culinary curiosity that leads to the necessary experimentation required to create art for taste buds. Indeed, Molina and Sandoval’s creations are inspired, almost painterly in presentation, using flavour, taste, scent and texture to create an elegant and surprising gourmet journey and the Four Hands Dinner at La Gaia was no different.

A traditional Japanese Kaiseki meal consists of multiple dishes, much like the ubiquitous tasting menus enjoyed in haute cuisine and is a perfect description for Molina’s vision. This event began with a non-alcoholic cocktail – a cooling infusion of Jasmine tea with cranberry and traces of clove and ginger. Its flavours were remarkably layered with a hint of sherbet. The following ‘welcome’ starters, presented by the chefs themselves, were more like miniature works of art. This is a tradition that will continue throughout the season at La Gaia, allowing Molina a moment to connect with guests on a totally new level.

The chef is no longer stuck behind the kitchen door but becomes an integrated part of the experience before guests move onto the main dining room. The English translation of huveo de pepino, jengibre y shichimi (cucumber egg with ginger and shichimi) doesn’t do justice to the delicacy of the dish’s flavours. Nestled into a silver spoon was what appeared to be a half egg shell, a dollop of cream sitting in its centre, topped with an orange dusting of shichimi, a Japanese spice mix. The flighty morsel was fresh with cucumber, complemented by the crisp texture of the shell and the bright kick of the spice – future La Gaia diners take note!

Throughout the La Gaia menu, colour is used to expertly enhance the senses and the next dish presented at the event took that playfulness a step further. Tapioca crisps flavoured with beetroot cast a blushing pink across a serving dish that can only be described as a sculpture. A glass jellyfish sat atop a slender plinth, its tentacles represented by a lacing of black tulle. The little fragments of tapioca were pleasingly crisp and provide an exquisite hit of citrus. The following starter was clearly related to Molina’s experience travelling through Peru: wild rice pressed into a kind of mini-tortilla dotted with a crown of bright yellow corn cream and a generous spoonful of deliciously salty caviar. Again, the textures played amongst the flavours, offering a multi-sensory moment of flavourful joy.

As the last flavours of the starters were imbibed at the impromptu kitchen bench, diners then made their way into the main room. The new menu at La Gaia is suitably eclectic and refined. For many guests, choosing will be difficult but the experienced La Gaia servers have an almost encyclopaedic knowledge about each of the dishes to guide you to the right plate. The trio of Amelie oysters features one of these delicate bivalves doused in Peruvian acevichada sauce and topped with flying fish roe and sweet potato. The ensalada de crostes is Molina’s take on a much-loved traditional recipe – an age old peasant’s salad presented with peix sec (sun-dried fish) and tomatoes pickled in dashi. Again, Molina has managed to blend the flavours of Japan, Peru and the Mediterranean in one single plate.

Those lucky enough to attend the Four Hands Dinner at La Gaia also had the opportunity to sample two of Sandoval’s creations. The first was the essence of grilled carabinero prawn cooked to perfection – the head filled with a fragrant gelée made from some kind of magic plus amontillado dry sherry – truly sublime. Sandoval’s tuna sequence is a powerful selection of bite-sized moments. Instructed to start from right to left the dish begins with tuna infused ‘bone-marrow’ before moving onto tuna belly topped with finely sliced piparra chillies. Finally, tuna parpatana – a particularly tender cut – glazed with a tamarind marinade. The whole sequence from start to finished is like eating a Queen’s regal frock – smooth, gelatinous, velvety, rich and sweet.

The Sandoval dishes won’t appear on the La Gaia menu (which means one must book a trip to Madrid and a table at Coque), however Molina’s creativity flows all the way through, providing more than enough for any gourmand. Of particular note is the Falso Risotto de Piñones – risotto made from pine nuts. This is classic Molina, good-naturedly playing with our sense of culinary reality. The pine nuts are served with wild asparagus spears, sheet of cristal de patata and a sprinkling of coffee powder. Its only when this odd combination of flavours is translated to he language of taste buds does it all start to make wonderful, delicious sense. Molina’s lamb is also not to be missed. This slice of tender melt-in-the-mouth local lamb comes with a peanut mousse, spring onions and a gelée of citrus and cardamom. Its multi-layered flavours carry a perfumed after taste that lingers pleasantly on the tongue. Lovers of La Gaia will be happy to know the menu still retains La Gaia’s famous ceviches and sushi as well as an abundance of seafood, meat and vegetable dishes, all of which have been filtered through Molina’s singular imagination.

Desserts at La Gaia are as theatrical as their savoury counterparts. The Mignardises is a board of jewel-like sweetness containing an ‘egg’ of coconut and passion fruit, a miniature strawberry tart, a macaron of lime and yoghurt, a chocolate covered caramelised almond and a bombon de monte – an explosion of Pedro Jimenez sherry which is best described as Christmas in one bite. The crumble made from milk curd sourced from Santa Gertrudis is served with apple and pecans and somehow manages to be avant-garde and traditional at the same time.

Molina and the La Gaia team never disappoint. The attentive and knowledgeable staff expertly orchestrates every second of the experience. Each dish is clearly the result of intense research and experimentation. Even though it seems like nothing is left to chance, there is a sense of possibility running through the entire menu. It surprises and delights and sometimes challenges us to check our assumptions and reassess the possibility that magic – culinary magic – really does exist.

Visit the White Ibiza restaurants guide to read more and reserve a table at La Gaia
Family matters

Kids on holiday don’t need much to be made happy. A beach, a bucket, lunch and most importantly – ice-cream. As for parents on holiday? Well, in order for mums and dads to be happy, they need to ensure their kids are entertained, fed and happy before thinking about themselves. Stylish beachfront restaurant Chiringuito Blue ticks all the right family-on-holiday boxes so everyone can be happy all at once. From fantastic food and drinks with sea views, sunbeds (from May 1) and sand at your feet to a super cool kids’ club the little ones will never want to leave – family holidays in Santa Eulalia have never looked so good.

Start your experience with a freshly brewed coffee while gazing out over the tranquil beach. Follow up with a lazy dip in the sea, luxuriating in the gentle lapping of the glistening Mediterranean. If you’ve got little ones you might build a sand castle and beachcomb for shells. Take advantage of this quiet moment with your kids because when the effervescent and endlessly fun team from Kids In Ibiza arrive at Chiringuito Blue at 1pm (on weekends), you probably won’t see your offspring again until the sun goes down. To a frazzled parent on a beach holiday, it’s the very definition of bliss.

Chiringuito Blue is not like other Ibiza beach clubs. There are no hoards of fluoro-garbed clubbers at the bar and there’s definitely no techno floating over the airwaves. Nestled into the south end of Santa Eulalia beach, there’s a sophisticated yet casual vibe here – it’s all about taking your time, enjoying your family, eating well and basking lazily in the Ibiza sunshine. At Chiringuito Blue, time slips away in a haze of holiday indulgence. The staff are friendly and attentive, the DJ is in tune with the waves and the food is simply divine. Don’t forget to pack that book you’ve been meaning to read, because it’s entirely possible to spend all day here. Then again, you could always just make the most of the quiet time and catch up on some rest…

The biggest difficulty arises when it comes to choosing between a table with a view, a sofa with a view or a sunbed with a view. First things first: get the kids settled in with a starter of cauliflower popcorn, soon to be followed by a choice of mini burgers, penne with red sauce, basmati with carrots and zucchini, chicken schnitzel with potatoes or fish fingers with chips. The Chiringuito Blue kids’ menu is almost enough to make the grown-ups mouths water – until they see the options on offer for adults, that is. With a menu crossing the Mediterranean all the way to the Middle East and back, capturing those holiday flavours is easy. Sharing is encouraged – basically because it’s going to be hard to keep your fork to yourself once the food arrives on the table.

As a starter, the chargrilled aubergine is subtly smoky with a smooth, creamy texture best matched with a plate of Nablus-style tabbouleh and a bowl of Greek tzatziki – you’ve just imbibed the taste of the Eastern Mediterranean. Mains  at Chiringuito Blue consist of myriad choices from tantalising sharing plates such as raw red shrimp with citrus aioli and spicy chilli sauce to a herbaceous ceviche, crispy calamari, clams marinera, grilled octopus and the not-to-be-missed araies – charcoaled pita bread stuffed with minced lamb, herbs and spices.

Naturally, with such proximity to the sea, seafood takes a star turn on the menu and the catch of the day, either grilled or salt baked, is a traditional Spanish lunch offering. However, there are days when a classic burger is essential to one’s wellbeing and the Chiringuito Blue burger is really a sight to behold. Even the most burger-centric of diners in your family will be pleased with its soft bun encasing a 100% Galician beef patty dressed with lettuce, tomato and shallots and served up with a robust side of French fries. Repeat visits to Chiringuito Blue might be a necessary addition to your Ibiza holiday itinerary, if just to sample the grilled free-range chicken, chargrilled squid and the linguini seafood pasta with tarragon. Decisions, decisions…

All parents know ice-cream is crucial to a successful day at the beach. The Chiringuito Blue ice-cream counter is stocked with everyone’s favourite flavours plus a few exciting specials to pique the interest of ice-cream loving adults too. Be sure to sample the tahini olive oil ice-cream – it’s dairy and gluten-free and an unexpected taste sensation. Within the dessert menu is a lovely lavender frozen yoghurt, an aromatic and cooling option topped with crushed pistachios and homemade Orgeat almond syrup that would go well with a handful of spoons if you were willing to share.

Everyone needs a lie-down after such a satisfying meal. Back to the beach it is then, for more sunbathing, chatting and zoning out. Kids In Ibiza has all the little people’s needs covered in the shaded kids’ area. Games, face-painting, arts and crafts and general hullabaloo in addition to oversized beach-friendly versions of Connect Four, giant Lego and turn ball plus a selection of architecturally approved sand castle building tools mean that, for grown-ups, the rest of the day is a breeze filled with cocktails and sunshine. As the sun finally descends, leaving a trail of outrageous pinks and reds across the sky, thoughts might turn to dinner and before you know it you’ll be perusing the menu once again. Even though Chiringuito Blue is the definition of a family beach day, upon seeing it under a star-filled sky might have you thinking of date night. Call in the babysitters…

An epicurean emporium

It takes quite a lot to impress the local Ibiza foodie set. Not only do they have a plethora of fantastic restaurants on their doorsteps and exceptional local produce to use in their own kitchens; they’re also regular travellers with plenty of gourmet air miles clocked up and a taste for the finer things in life. When restaurateurs Donna Lennard and Alberto Avalle of famed New York restaurant Il Buco opened the brand’s first international outpost in Ibiza this year, there was no shortage of gourmands ready and waiting to take a seat on the buzzing terrace of the rustic chic Santa Gertrudis eatery. Its big sister’s reputation certainly preceded the all-new Bottega Il Buco and true to form, it delivered culinary satisfaction on a variety of levels.

From the outside, the rustic chic restaurant appears like a casual café; a laidback focacceria where one might catch up with friends; a place to pop in after the morning school run or to grab an after work aperitivo. Indeed, it is all these things. But Bottega Il Buco is so much more – scratch the surface and you’ll discover a multi-faceted gourmet hub that truly offers something for everyone. “When people hear Il Buco, they’re expecting something original and delicious, something local or very carefully sourced” explains Donna of the concept. “The idea was that we could have the background of this beautiful focacceria, but make it a multi-purpose space with all these other wonderful things going on like delectable bites, a beautiful wine list and the Alimentari.” It’s like a gourmet gift that keeps on giving.

Speaking of gifts, ‘tis the season to be giving and Bottega Il Buco is open throughout the holidays (see the seasonal menus here), making it the perfect place to get together with family and friends to celebrate or to do some Christmas shopping for the foodie in your life. The Alimentari is a cornucopia of gastronomy; lovingly refurbished antique post office drawers are home to row upon row of high-end olive oil, aged balsamic vinegar, beautifully packaged tinned fish, artisanal pickled vegetables, mouth watering pates and of course, wine. Over 90 organic and bio dynamic drops have been expertly chosen by acclaimed Il Buco wine director Roberto Paris. “For Roberto, being in Ibiza was like being in a candy store,” says Donna. “There are so many amazing wine producers we know here [in Europe] and we don’t have to worry about importing to New York!”

Those looking for guidance in the Alimentari may find themselves falling under the spell of the well educated team – the service here is exceptional – as they guide you through the selection of products available. They’re well versed in how to serve or use everything on offer; while you may come for a special olive oil or pate, you’ll leave with a cherished recipe or unique serving suggestion. It’s all part of the experience. “There’s something for everybody here,” says Donna. “Regulars pop in to have coffee one day, then a few days later they’ll sit down with eight friends and go through the whole menu and some bottles of wine. It’s really become the hub that we wanted.” The local community has embraced Bottega Il Buco into its fold; Donna says the connection people have formed with the brand has been the most satisfying element of the expansion to Ibiza.

While the signature focaccia (made with ancient low-gluten grains) could almost be considered the ‘entry level’ dish at Bottega Il Buco, it’s just the beginning of the creative menu devised by executive chef Guido Trombettoni. The menu changes regularly to reflect the seasons and most dishes have been designed to share, Italian family style. Chunky tubes of paccheri are oozing with mozzarella, spinach and tomato stuffing, vying for attention alongside the savoury sausage, mushroom and artichoke lasagne; meanwhile the herbaceous classic chicken cacciatora with olives and chilli is a feast unto itself and seasonal roast veggies, salads and the soup of the day put paid to the old adage ‘Italians do it better’.

Diners are also welcomed to choose their favourite tinned goods from the Alimentari and eat-in the stylish restaurant surrounds; alternatively opt for a selection of the impressive salumi and cheese – hand-picked by Avalle himself. Paleta Ibérica, Mortadella, Salame Milano, Prosciutto and more tempt and tease alongside premium grade Pecorino Reserva, Salva Cremasco, Castelmagno, Fiore di Latte and other slabs of formaggi goodness – it’s the pick and mix of your epicurean dreams. It’s very easy to get carried away with all the heady home-cooking scents coming from the Bottega Il Buco kitchen and the dazzling display of the Alimentari, but a word to the wise: save room for dessert – you won’t regret it.

Special pre-fixe feasts have been designed for the festive period at Bottega Il Buco, starting with The Feast of the Seven Fishes on Christmas Eve. Bringing a touch of Italy to the village, the fabulous four-course meal includes oysters and Cava, an array of focaccia (naturally) plus specially selected tinned fish from the Alimentari and chef’s salad to start; an incredibly decadent risotto carnaroli with fresh mussels and bottarga comes next, followed by spit-roasted yellow tail and finishing with Yuletide treats such as Panettone, Pandoro with Chantilly cream, chocolate, grapes and clementines.

Due to the limited seating – and popularity amongst island residents – reservations are essential and the cost is 80€ per person, excluding drinks. For those looking to avoid all the hassle of cooking and washing up on Christmas Day, a special lunch menu is on offer at Bottega Il Buco for 70€ per person (again, pre-booking is a must) excluding drinks. A spread of antipasti kicks off the affair, with sautéed lamb offal, poached egg and artichoke, Sicilian anchovies and more, followed by Primi Piatti of Cappelletti in brood. Secondi Piatti comes in the form of Gran Bollito de Carne with pickles and the dessert spread (as above) gives you all the more reason to take the typical Italian passeggiata through the pretty village square after your meal.

To end its debut year with a bang, Bottega Il Buco is hosting a very special New Year’s Eve event that can serve as either the perfect start to your Ibiza party night or a cool and cosy way to end 2018 in style. The five-course set menu (95€ per person, excluding drinks) is a testament to chef Guido’s skills and a salute to the flavours of Il Buco; first, an aperitivo of focaccia and canapés with a glass of Frannciacorta. Next up, marinated wild Alaskan salmon and seaweed salad plus poached egg with black Umbrian truffle. To follow, a melt-in-your-mouth risotto carnaroli with langoustine and then yellowtail ‘al cartoccio’ and mixed roasted vegetables with fresh herbs.

The icing on the cake is the aforementioned desserts – then you can happily roll home into 2019 or into a nightclub to dance it all off. Whichever feast takes your fancy, Donna recommends taking home a personalised hamper to enjoy the following morning when you wake up. “It’s so nice to wake up after a special dinner and to already have that beautiful bread, salumi, cheese and those delectable tins at home,” she says – you can thank her later when your head’s a little fuzzy and you don’t have to walk any further than your own refrigerator. On the topic of thanks, Christmas and New Year always inspire bouts of gratitude and this year, Ibiza gives thanks to Bottega Il Buco, for bringing an authentic slice of New York – along with plenty of slices of that unforgettable focaccia – to our beloved island.

Commitment to coffee

In Ibiza – even internationally – Passion Café is renowned for its healthy, colourful and creative cuisine. It’s responsible for some of the most Instagram-friendly dishes on the web, however a lesser known fact about Ibiza’s most-loved café empire is that it is also home to the one of the best cups of coffee in Ibiza. The Passion commitment to coffee harks back to as early as the 80s when a young Lana Love would visit her older brother and his wife in their beautiful apartment in Belgrade. She recalls looking up to her glamorous sister-in-law, who would talk about the arts and use products from Germany – which included, among other things, Nescafé and condensed milk. “She just had this finesse about her,” Lana recalls. “She’d make coffee and we’d sit and sip it for hours… I am sure this is where my obsession with coffee began – though the Nescafé days are long gone from my life! People often don’t realise I have more passion for my coffee, and even my coffee machines, than I do for fresh juices!”

Over the years – as her personal journey saw Lana move to London followed by Ibiza – the love of coffee continued to grow. Evolving into a well-travelled coffee connoisseur, her addiction was not fuelled by caffeine addiction; rather, a pure unadulterated passion for flavour, ingredients, techniques and of course, that magical scent. It made sense then, when Lana launched her own café that she would seek out and serve the very best coffee she could find. Back then (in 2002), Illy coffee was the best to be found on the island. Today however, as Passion has grown to include seven different locations across Ibiza, her roast of choice is an exclusive bespoke blend created by on-island artisans Meke Coffee Roasters. The team behind Meke share Lana’s pure passion for coffee, and worked tirelessly alongside the Passion founder, roasting, roasting and roasting some more, until they reached the perfect blend. Described by the brand as a ‘delicious espresso blend that brings a nutty, chocolatey flavour to the cup with just a hint of fruits of the forest’ – a sip of it’s described (quite accurately) by Lana as heaven. Whether you like it straight up as an Americano, a double espresso, in a latte, a flat white, a cappuccino, cortado, macchiato or Bulletproof – the custom Passion blend is what gets Ibiza’s coffee cognoscenti going.

Any self-respecting coffee enthusiast will tell you, a good blend does not necessarily guarantee a good cup of coffee. There are other aspects to consider when it comes to the art of making a good coffee, such as equipment, cups, cleanliness, freshness, water filtration, milk quality (if that’s how you take it) and of course, the skills and experience of the barista making the cup in question. Passion Cafés take all these elements very seriously, starting with the investment in high-tech La Marzocco coffee machines (“When it comes to my coffee, I spare no expense!” laughs Lana) which are meticulously maintained in order to preserve the integrity and consistency of Passion coffee. Not only is the Meke Coffee Roasters Passion blend very freshly roasted, it’s also ground seconds before going into your cup. The water used is the very best filtered water and milk is organic and high-grade – be it coconut, cow’s, almond, soya, cashew or oat. “I have to give a lot of the credit to our baristas,” says Lana. “They are really amazing and true coffee nerds themselves. You can have all the best toys and ingredients, but you really need to have their skills too. Our baristas are top notch.” With a high volume of coffee being ordered on a daily basis, the Passion baristas are like the ninjas of Ibiza’s coffee culture.

In addition to all the coffee classics, each Passion also boasts an extensive menu of ‘trendy lattes’ – matcha, pink, turmeric, charcoal, frozen and many more – which sees their artistic skills taken to another level, and gives those who (gasp!) don’t drink coffee the opportunity to experience latte art and coffee culture without the caffeine hit. “When someone tells me they don’t drink coffee… I’m in disbelief!” says Lana jokingly. While the combination of a coffee lover, her own custom coffee blend and seven cafes in which to indulge in her obsession may sound like a recipe for disaster (or a very hard-thumping heart as an occupational hazard), Lana says she generally sticks to one strong coffee in the morning (opting for the authentic ‘Bulletproof’ – made with double espresso blended with MCT coconut oil, collagen and a dash of oat milk) and another pick-me-up in the afternoon. “I like that afternoon coffee to be sharp and black,” she says, with a distinct look of love in her eyes.

If you’re yet to sample the caffeinated delights at Ibiza’s home of health and happiness yet – you’re in for a treat. And once you’ve taken your first sip of that steaming hot cup of liquid black goodness, you’ll very quickly come to realise where the ‘happy’ part of that tagline comes from.