Searching for a romantic spot to have an amazing meal? Look no further! TikiVillas at Playa Hermosa introduces Las Velas restaurant. Chef Germán encourages diners to request whatever they crave. Ask him “What can you surprise me with today?” And he will urge you: “Tell me what you desire!”
Inspired Chef German Santamaria has worked in wellknown establishments such as Exotica, Paraiso Tropical and the Manglares Floating Restaurant. He’ll work miracles with any special request. However, the menu offerings are hard to beat and will gratify any cravings for seafood, meat or pasta. Vegetarian and Gluten Free options are delightful. Dishes are prepared with fruit, vegetables, special sauces and herbs like oregano, lemon grass, rosemary and spearmint grown in the inhouse garden. Favorites include Tropical Shrimp, Tilapia, Tuscan Rib Eye Steak and Tagliatelle al Pesto. On the lighter side is Guacamole, Tropical Salad, Calamari or Smoked Trout.
German enjoys creating reductions for meats and preparing fresh catches like snapper to concoct ceviche with the guest ́s sport fishing conquests. Traditional dishes become as exotic as his haute cuisine. All ingredients are grown organically or caught fresh, and locally provided.
His favorite dish is whatever the customer envisions. Give German a challenge, and you’ll receive culinary gratification. Special herbs are part of his secret, especially mint.
Daily desserts include fried ice cream or bananas in a batter that is “Tempura Vida.”
The only distraction from your meal may be the atmosphere. The ambience itself is worth the visit. You’ll forget that you are in a gourmet restaurant while listening to the waves and experiencing the rainforest that produces amazing shadows and hosts all kinds of wildlife. At nighttime, tiki torches and candles replace the sunset. When the food arrives you will remember exactly where you are!
By Annie Drake
Restaurante Las Velas
Tel: 2101 9405
