Pincho’s Restaurant, Aruba

Pincho’s Restaurant sits on a platform over the water. You can look out at the ocean, back at the island of Aruba, or at the cruise ships docked at the port. The food here is exceptional. Most all of it is prepared on a grill which I prefer. They have tapas sized portions if you only want a snack and larger items for a full meal. The bar is centrally located, surrounded by tables for up to eight people. Here’s a look at sunset.

This is one view that’s hard to beat. If you’re on a cruise ship, you may have time to come here for a meal, as it is only a short cab ride from the terminal. And if you’re staying on the island, this is one place I would say belongs on your must try list. In particular, my wife likes the catch of the day here. I prefer a mixed grill appetizer portion. Even if you’re not in the mood for a meal, the bar is a good place to relax with a beverage of your choice. The wine selection is fairly good, as is the variety of beer, whiskey, and other liquors.

And like I said, that view is hard to beat.

Published in: on July 14, 2008 at 8:37 pm  Leave a Comment  
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Ribs at Amazing Restaurant, San Nicolaas

This restaurant is now called, “Amazing.” It was formerly known as The Promenade and is located at the beginning of Main Street in San Nicolaas, Aruba. I enjoyed many meals with friends at The Promenade and now like to head to the same place, albeit under a different name for the Thursday night, all-you-can eat, rib special. Here’s a look at the outside.

There is a waitress here who does an exceptional job, supported by another fellow who is as warm and friendly as you’ll find anywhere. I’ve been to this place enough to have a regular table, but truth be told, everyone is treated as if they’re a well-known regular. Here’s the dining room:

It’s a very welcoming space and usually quiet, which I appreciate as I have some difficulty hearing in a crowd. So let’s get to the ribs. Here’s a photo of round one.

There’s plenty of meat on those bones. The baked potato is also a decent size. Cole slaw and beans come on the side as does a dish of the rib sauce for extra flavor. There were three of us at the table and we each gnawed off two racks of ribs, drank a couple gallons of water, and polished the sides to boot.

If you’re on the island and you want to head down to San Nicolaas, why not stop here to fill your belly? It’s worth the ride and the price is right.

Published in: on July 13, 2008 at 9:32 pm  Comments (1)  
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The Sultan in Aruba

My friend Bob introduced me to this local gem of a restaurant on the island of Aruba. The place is called the Sultan and they serve Arab specialties, like shoarma sandwiches and platters. My favorite is the chicken shoarma platter which comes like this:

The platter also comes with Arab bread that is not shown in the photo. All the key ingredients for an excellent meal are on the platter: juicy, flavorful chicken, fluffy rice, taboule, and hummus. You can make a wrap with the Arab bread or just pick away with your fork. There’s enough garlic to last at least two days.

The mixed shoarma platter expands the meat and salad selection. Here’s a photo to peruse.

Above you’ll see the beef, chicken and lamb that comes with this choice. I almost forget to mention the key sauce you see on the right side. This stuff is knock-out good. I go through two of those cruets per platter. It adds more garlic, more goodness to the experience.

Finally, here’s a photo of the outside.

One of things I like about Aruba is the various cultures that can be found on the island. You have a place like the Sultan, as well as French, German, and Italian Restaurants, all operated by natives of those countries. What a pleasure to have the convenience of authentic cuisine on a Caribbean Isle!

Published in: on July 12, 2008 at 1:14 pm  Leave a Comment  
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Cassave Chips

I have to admit to being a potato chip junkie. One day I was looking for some really delicious homemade potato chips when I came across Cassave Chips. This was on the island of Aruba, where I happen to be right now. Anway, I bought a bag of these things, which come from Surinam. Here’s a look at the bag:

Notice the bag has been opened. No, I couldn’t wait to take the photo without crunching into one of these bad boys. These chips are harder than potato chips, as well as slightly thicker. They have a mild sweetness to the aftertaste that comes through the initial salt very well. I should mention the flavor is more subtle than plantain chips. These things are perfect with sandwiches, crumbled into a salad, anywhere that needs a little extra texture.

Of course be sure to do what my cardiologist advised: Pre-pay your open heart surgery. This way the price is fixed and you’re good to go. Eating stuff like this can not be good for the cholesterol.

Published in: on July 9, 2008 at 3:33 pm  Comments (1)  
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