King Ribs, Aruba

King Ribs is what the name implies, a king of ribs in Oranjestaad, Aruba. I’ve wanted to get to this place for a long time, and finally did yesterday for the Sunday BBQ fest that happens each week all across the island. Here’s a look at the joint from street level.

There are two guys working the grills full time, slapping down ribs, chicken, and such delectables atop the hot coals. Here they are in action.

The smell wafting out of here is all the advertising they need. Take a look at the menu to see what’s on offer and the corresponding prices.

Please note those prices are in Florins. Divide by 1.75 to get the price in US dollars. In other words, the prices are very reasonable, especially for the quantity of the food you get. Let’s take a look at the chow.

On the left is the four piece chicken meal, complete with corn on the cob, boiled plantain, smashed potatoes. On the right you have the large ribs with the same sides. These two boxes easily fed three people. Maybe you like more in your belly. If so, order up accordingly. A line does form here, so you may want to call ahead. It’s also fun to watch the pit masters at work, chat with others waiting, and take in the local scene. Either way, you’ll enjoy the fun and flavor at King Ribs.

Bon dia.

Published in: on September 5, 2011 at 12:20 pm  Comments (1)  
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Hyatt, Aruba, Aerial

People ask me about hotels in Aruba, where they are, what the complexes are like, and so forth. There’s nothing better than an aerial photo to put it all in perspective. Here’s a look at the Hyatt Hotel as seen from above:

You see how the hotel structure wraps around the pools, bars, and restaurants. In the lower left corner is a favorite bar of mine. I used to linger there for hours, writing and drinking. Just above that is the restaurant area where they serve a very good Sunday Brunch. The Japengo Restaurant is open in the evening, serving creative dishes for those with exotic tastes. Of course, the pools are lots of fun. Don’t miss the slide on the lower right side of the frame. Just off the bottom of the photo is the beach. Everything you need is right there.

Bon dia from Aruba.

Published in: on September 3, 2011 at 9:09 pm  Leave a Comment  
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Cuba’s Cooking, Aruba

Cuba’s Cooking recently moved to a new location at the Seaport Mall in Oranjestaad. It’s easy to find on the front side of the mall, near the main highway. There is parking in several locations around the complex, including on the back side near the ocean. As the name implies, Cuba’s Cooking serves Cuban dishes, ranging from roast pork to olive chicken, two of the dishes I sampled recently. The empanadas are good, too, and you have a choice of chicken, beef, and fish in this department. Let’s take a look at those first.

You’ll notice the three sauces served with the empanadas, each one a style for your varied tastes. Next came the entrees. Olive chicken as seen in this photo:

The chicken is marinated and slow cooked to fall off the bone, the way it should be. Then there is the roast pork seen here:

Also slow cooked to be cut with a fork. These main courses came with rice and fried plantains and a bit of salad on the side. What is an added benefit to this restaurant is the live music. During my visit there was a fellow on stage with a guitar and the lively crowd joined in to play the bongos, maracas, and sing along. Lots of fun. Here’s the stage and note the artwork on the surrounding walls.

You’ll enjoy yourself at this restaurant, especially during the mid-week when things are less crowded. Bon dia from Aruba.

Published in: on September 2, 2011 at 12:54 pm  Leave a Comment  

WEB, Aruba

One of the reasons Aruba is a popular destination may sound simple, but it is very important: Safe drinking water. Aruba’s fresh water supply comes from the WEB facility located in the Balashi area of the island. The desalinization plant produces millions of cubic feet of clean, delicious water every single day. Here’s a look at the place from the air.

The smokestacks indicate the location of the electrical generating and fresh water production equipment. Recently, more efficient generators have been installed as the island upgrades its capacity to meet rising demand. There are also the windmills on the southeast side of the island. I’ll have a photo of them soon. In the mean time, the tap water in Aruba is excellent. Drink plenty of it, especially if you’re spending time in the sun.

Bon dia from Aruba.

Published in: on September 1, 2011 at 12:59 pm  Leave a Comment  
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