Seminal disco-pop band the Bee Gees, who called Ibiza their home-away-from-home, famously sang that ‘nobody gets too much heaven’ in their outstanding 1978 hit single. Well, it seems the good people behind the rather magical rooftop Mexican restaurant CIELITO and its beautiful hotel Bonito Ibiza did not get the message, as any trip to this oasis with its unique uplifting view west across the bay to the glistening Mediterranean will attest.
Stepping into the restaurant with its warm teak and pale wooden tones the spectacular sunset vista stretches out to the horizon. Top tip: sunset during the season is between 8.45 and 9.05 – worth bearing in mind for the full experience. So, what is the experience? Bold, modern Mexican, a real celebration of culture, flavour and style.
The open kitchen brings a sense of drama to proceedings, and the dishes that emerge are stunning: a cured seabass aguachile with serrano chili hits just the right notes of freshness and zing; the beef ribs in an authentic mole sauce and traditional Mexican rice disappeared as fast as the dipping sun on the horizon. Freshen your palate with an extraordinary watermelon infused with mezcal: a pairing not to be forgotten.
The mezcal smokiness brings to mind: cocktails. The Green Chihuahua is special: a perfect blend of Patrón Silver T equila, Humo chipotle liqueur, lime, basil, salsa verde and habanero bitters it delivers a lift and a warming punch. The evening buzz grows: choose an evening with live Mexican music and order another cocktail: there is no rush. Try some shots from the tequilateca… And don’t leave without trying their star dessert: caramelized mango cream and chamoy.
The hotel Bonito Ibiza, designed by architect Andrés García, pulls off the neat trick of being totally modern with stylish flashes of Ibizan heritage: contrasting exposed wall and ceilings are married with wood and slats, old materials from Ibizan farmhouses and local stone are paired with fired brick and open light spaces. The rooms themselves are beautifully considered: floor-to-ceiling windows shed light across sandy, neutral tranquil tones and all rooms are set in low-rise blocks surrounding the pools which brings a real intimacy to the whole space. Daybed abound, the pool area is the real vibrant hub and there is also a spa, gym and sauna.
Carrer des Molí, 9, 07820
Sant Antoni de Portany
Reservas: (+34) 628 717 990
Horario: 11.00 – 00.30 / @cielito_ibiza
