Xp Bonaire IslandLife - Feature Story
Nestled on the corner of Kaya Bonaire 4C, amidst the serene waters and next to the well-known bar, Little Havana, lies Hooked by Sunsets since its inception in October 2023. Once known as the erstwhile La Quernica, this establishment has undergone a remarkable transformation to emerge as Hooked by Sunsets, a resto-bar with good food, drinks, and the best sunsets, as they say themselves.
Upon stepping inside, guests are greeted by a spacious bar adorned with an array of beers, both bottled and on tap, alongside a selection of exquisite wines. The centerpiece of the bar space is a majestic tree, seamlessly integrated into its design and complemented by a tropical mural that sets the tone for an enchanting evening. It's a perfect reflection of the vibrant Bonairian nightlife.
The masterminds behind this culinary venture are none other than Roxanne and Brandon, whose vision was to create a menu that celebrates the bounty of fresh, local ingredients while offering a fusion of flavors inspired by their Trinidadian and South African roots. Roxanne, warmth and hospitality as the gracious hostess, shared with us that Brandon, a culinary virtuoso from South Africa, spearheads the creative endeavors in the kitchen, infusing the dishes with a blend of Trinidadian and South African influences.
Outside, tables are set along a strip bordering both the boulevard and Kaya Bonaire. While the space may seem snug at first glance, once seated, the convivial atmosphere sweeps away any reservations and secretly the best spot to watch the car cruising nightlife of Bonaire. The service is prompt and affable, allowing us ample time to peruse the menu, which offers a unique concept where dishes can be ordered as appetizers or bites.
Bites Selection 1
Opting for a mixed selection as our appetizer, we entrusted Roxanne to curate a medley of favorites, and she did not disappoint. Our platter boasted a tantalizing array of culinary delights, including ceviche made from local fish, infused with Spanish pepper, cilantro, and passion fruit, offering a delightful balance of sweet and sour notes. The octopus, tender as butter, paired exquisitely with chorizo and crispy potatoes, while the two tacos featuring local fish and skewers of satay added a satisfying variety to our culinary journey.
Bites Selection 2
For our main course, we indulged in the Louisiana ribs bathed in a sticky Asian sauce, and a personal favorite of mine, the half chicken pili pili, a South African take on the classic piri piri. The ribs were a revelation, perfectly cooked to tender perfection with flavors that danced on the palate. As for the half chicken, it deserves special mention; meticulously brined the day before cooking, the result is succulent meat bursting with flavor, a testament to the attention to detail that sets Hooked by Sunsets apart.
Desserts
Despite a modest dessert selection, we found our preferences well-represented. The deconstructed cheesecake offered a playful twist on the classic, with a tantalizing combination of creamy cheesecake, crumble, and fresh berries. Meanwhile, the Chocolate Sunset, a decadent brownie adorned with blueberries and granola, provided a fittingly sweet conclusion to our culinary voyage.
From the first bite to the last sip, every moment at Hooked by Sunsets was a testament to the culinary prowess of Roxanne and Brandon. As we savored our final sips of Liquor 43 and Irish coffee, crafted with the same care as the preceding dishes, we couldn't help but marvel at the exceptional value offered by this establishment. With a bill that pleasantly surprised us, Hooked by Sunsets has unequivocally earned its place as a must-visit destination for discerning diners.
For those seeking a culinary adventure that transcends the ordinary, Hooked by Sunsets beckons with its tantalizing array of flavors and warm hospitality. Whether you're a local looking for a new favorite haunt or a visitor eager to explore Bonaire's culinary landscape, a visit to this waterfront gem promises an unforgettable experience.
INFO:
Hooked by Sunsets
Address: Kaya Bonaire 4C, Kralendijk, Oceanfront Boulevard
Opening Hours: Daily from 4:00 PM to 11:00 PM
Phone: +599 700 7738
Social Media: Facebook & Instagram - Hooked by Sunsets
Comments