A Taste of Brazil - Blue Garden

Xp Bonaire IslandLife Feature Story

For almost a decade, Blue Garden has been serving up more than just great food—it’s been sharing the warmth and hospitality of Brazil right in the heart of Bonaire. Founded by Yara and Paulo, a couple whose passion for food and community brought them from Brazil to this island paradise, the restaurant has become a local favorite, known for its authentic charcoal-grilled meats, fresh seafood, and welcoming atmosphere.

From Brazil to Bonaire

“When I first came to Bonaire, I had no idea it would one day become home,” Yara recalls. She and Paulo first visited the island between 2002 and 2013 as diving enthusiasts. “Our first dive was a night dive—so scary! Tarpons circling us, and when we came up, jellyfish everywhere!” she laughs. But the next day, diving in daylight, the beauty of Bonaire hooked them. “No phones, no rush—just peace.” Over time, they found themselves coming back again and again, until one day, they decided to stay for good.

Cooking has always been a huge part of their lives. “We love cooking for each other, for family, for friends—it’s how we show love.” Paulo had been barbecuing since he was just 10 years old, and Yara grew up in a home where food was everything. “In Brazil, my mother’s house was like a restaurant—always food on the table, always people gathered around.” When they saw that Bonaire lacked a true Brazilian grill experience, the idea for Blue Garden was born. After renovating a space from top to bottom, they opened Blue Garden in 2015.

The Heart of the Grill

From the very beginning, Blue Garden focused on authentic Brazilian flavors, high-quality meats, and a relaxed dining experience. “We were the first to bring Picanha to the island,” Yara says proudly. Brazil’s most famous cut of beef, Picanha is grilled over charcoal, developing a crispy, flavorful crust while staying incredibly juicy inside. “People take one bite and are hooked.”

Every dish at Blue Garden tells a story. “Our sides are just like back home—rice and beans, fresh tomato salsa, crispy yucca fries.” One of the biggest hits? The chicharrón. “We slow-cook it for hours before crisping it up—so crunchy on the outside, so tender inside.”

And then there’s Lobster Night on Fridays—a true indulgence. “The lobster tail, the creamy cheese sauce—it’s rich, it’s decadent, and it’s one of my favorites!” The freshest local fish is also served as sashimi, tartare, or tataki, letting the ocean’s flavors shine. 

New Additions to the Menu

As Blue Garden prepares for its 10-year milestone this summer, Yara and Paulo are bringing even more exciting dishes to the table. “We’re always looking for ways to surprise our guests,” Yara says. Their newest additions include:

Tenderloin: Buttery soft and packed with flavor, grilled to bring out its natural richness.

Beef Ribs: Slow-cooked until they fall off the bone, then finished on the charcoal grill for a smoky, caramelized crust.

Octopus: Tender, slightly charred, and full of delicate ocean flavors, it will be a new favorite for seafood lovers.

More Than Just a Restaurant

For Yara and Paulo, Blue Garden is about more than food—it’s about community. “Sometimes before work, we watch the sunset together. It’s our moment of peace before the busy night begins.” They love exploring the island, whether it’s biking, boating, or spending Sundays in Rincon. “Paulo chats with the fishermen; I play pool with the locals—it’s our way of feeling connected.”

Yara still visits Brazil a few times a year, and when she’s away, customers always say they miss her. “To be honest, I like when they miss me!” she laughs. She loves bringing that Brazilian warmth to the restaurant, making sure every guest feels at home.

Some of Blue Garden’s recipes have deep personal ties. Yara learned to prepare Christmas ham and turkey from her Canadian mother and her own mom, and now these dishes are part of their holiday menu. Their famous cheese bread comes from their home region in Brazil, a little bite of nostalgia with every piece.

Whether you’re a longtime fan or visiting for the first time, one thing is certain: at Blue Garden, you’ll always feel like family.

Info

Blue Garden - Brazilian Grill

6 Julio A. Abraham Boulevard, Kralendijk, Caribbean Netherlands

Hours: Monday – Saturday, 5 PM – 11 PM | Sunday Closed

Phone: +599 717 2600

Reservations & Menu: bluegardenbonaire.com