February is the month for romance and Ibiza offers the perfect setting to celebrate. The Ibizan countryside is bathed in beautiful almond blossom and the island is once again shimmering in sunlight.
Valentine's Day is a great excuse to get lovey-dovey and one thing that all couples can enjoy on the White Isle is a delicious lunch or dinner at a cosy restaurant. It's an opportunity to park any worries and succumb to a day of hearts and kisses.
There are some truly romantic restaurants to choose from, some of them offering special menus. If you need a little inspiration here are a few of the best to consider.
Cas Costas
For an authentic Ibiza experience head to Cas Costas Grill on the road between San José and Ibiza Town. The restaurant has a great reputation for its grilled meats and vegetables served in rustic yet stylish surroundings. There is a gorgeous garden with a welcoming bar wrapped around an ancient olive tree and lights twinkling above the tables adding to the romance factor.
Have a glass of bubbly on one of the low sofas before your meal and then choose from Spanish favourites such as Iberian ham, cheeses with Ibizan figs, Spanish veal loin or local country chicken. For dessert why not try a slice of the greixonera, a type of bread pudding which is much loved by the locals.
There is also an organic market where you can pick up some gourmet products sourced from around the island.
Restaurante Sa Soca
The charming restaurant Sa Soca celebrated its fortieth anniversary last year. It is a family-run treasure with a delicious traditional Ibicenco menu. Sip a glass of wine or two on the pretty vine-covered terrace with views across the lush countryside or snuggle up in the inside dining area with its cosy fireplace.
You will be made to feel very special by the wonderful brother and sister team Andrés and Alicia. Expect them to dance up to your table with super-bright smiles and a twinkle in their eyes.
You can tuck into a succulent shoulder of lamb or mussels in wine and tomato sauce. There are also tempting specials on the board as well as the main menu. This really is a fabulous place for real Ibizan cooking served with real affection.
Es Petit
This new concept, Es Petit in San Antonio is quickly making a name for itself. Right on the stylish marina you will find this pretty French bistro. Traditional tiled walls and rustic wood tables make the perfect setting for authentic French cuisine. It's like a little piece of France in Ibiza.
Choose from starters like salmon tartare or carpaccio of entraña and then dive into a tasty filet mignon before topping it all off with a creme brûlée. The chefs are trained in French cooking and have many years' experience, which is evident in the quality of the food. On Valentine's Day evening, they are promising some very special melt-in-the-mouth desserts.
The service is friendly and attentive and waiter Norman will look after your every need. Sit inside close to the fire and get loved up whilst you enjoy the old black and white photos of people and scenes around Ibiza. As well as savouring the delicious food you can soak up the views across the bay with the moon shining on the sea and boats bobbing in the harbour. Sheer bliss!
La Dispensa
You will find La Dispensa in the winding streets of Ibiza Town's Old Town known as Dalt Vila. It is an impossibly romantic setting and you will be spoilt for choice between the creative interior spaces and the outdoor seating amid the medieval buildings there. There are different dining options to suit every taste.
The restaurant makes the bold claim of offering the best sushi on the Island produced by their sushi man Malcolm. It's a claim that has popular support. You will also find Mediterranean dishes such as warm octopus salad or sea bream with capers and blackened tomatoes.
As it's Valentine's Day, chocolate will be required. Choose between the brownies or the oozing chocolate fondant. Some things are not for sharing!
Es Sol de Siena
If you prefer a lunchtime option, then you should definitely try Es Sol de Siena in the heart of the pretty village of San José. The menu offers sophisticated Mediterranean fusion with Italian and Asian influences. The quality of the food is exceptional.
There are daily specials which include dishes like sea bass with Cava, shrimp and mushroom sauce, Foie Gras with black truffle and Ibizan potatoes or pappardelle in a juicy prawn and herb sauce. You can either canoodle in the elegant restaurant with its intricate terracotta and cream tiled floors and modern art or sit outside on the sunny terrace and watch village life go by.
Your professional and friendly host Roger will give you a warm welcome. Don't be surprised to be offered a delicious amuse-bouche appetiser before your meal and even a little chupito (shot) of the local liquor, hierbas, to send you on your way. If your four-legged friend is the real love of your life, fear not - dogs are welcome too!
Ibiza has a fantastic selection of enchanting restaurants to choose from. So pick up the red roses and champagne and whisk your partner away for a sumptuous meal out on Valentine's Day. Love is in the air!
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