Xp Bonaire IslandLIfe Feature Story
If you’re in Bonaire and searching for a dining experience that stands out, Mezze should be at the top of your list. Conveniently located at Kaya C.E.B. Helmund 17, near the south pier cruise terminal, Mezze offers a captivating blend of authentic Middle Eastern flavors with a subtle touch of Bonaire. The restaurant’s accessibility and easily available parking add to its appeal.
Atmosphere and Service
From the moment we arrived, the warm welcome from the staff set a positive tone for the evening. We were seated promptly on their spacious terrace, a setting that balances comfort with elegance. The ambiance is ideal for a relaxed dinner, whether you're a couple seeking intimacy or a group looking for a vibrant culinary experience.
Shortly after being seated, we were offered water and handed an impressive drink menu. We decided on a Ripasso wine, which proved to be a great companion to the evening’s meal.
The Menu
Mezze takes its name from the Greek word for small dishes, akin to tapas, and it delivers on this promise with a diverse array of options. While the menu leans heavily on Middle Eastern cuisine, there are a few dishes, such as carpaccio and ribeye, that cater to a broader palate.
To start, we were treated to complimentary Turkish bread and house-made hummus. Normally, I’m not a fan of hummus, but Mezze’s version was exceptionally smooth and flavorful, a promising prelude to what was to come.
Appetizers
For appetizers, we selected the shaved mushrooms and Istanbul-style shrimp. The mushrooms were paper-thin slices served carpaccio-style with truffle oil, Parmesan cheese, and pine nuts, resulting in a delicate, yet satisfying, flavor profile.
The Istanbul-style shrimp, cooked in generous amounts of butter with garlic and pomegranate sauce, were rich, tangy, and absolutely delicious. Paired with the warm Turkish bread, these appetizers set a high bar for the rest of the meal.
Main Courses
For our mains, we opted for the ribeye and the Moroccan-style chicken. Portions at Mezze are generous, arriving with a variety of sides, including fresh salads, truffle fries, roasted vegetables, couscous, and flavorful sauces.
The ribeye was the star of the evening. Known for its marbling and tenderness, this cut of beef can be a challenge to properly cook, but Mezze’s chefs demonstrated their expertise. It was cooked to perfection—tender, juicy, and bursting with flavor. It’s one of those dishes you remember long after the meal.
The Moroccan-style chicken, cooked over an open flame, was aromatic and flavorful. While it was slightly overdone for our taste, the rich Moroccan spices came through beautifully, making it a satisfying choice nonetheless.
Desserts
To finish, we chose Künefe and Dates & Chocolate. Künefe, a traditional Turkish dessert made from finely shredded pastry filled with melted cheese and soaked in a sweet syrup, was indulgent and satisfying, though it leaned on the heavier side.
The Dates & Chocolate dessert, a lava cake served with date puree, nuts, and fruit, broke slightly from tradition as it was presented in a small dish rather than allowing the chocolate to flow freely. However, the flavors were rich and well-balanced, making it a delightful ending to our meal.
Final Thoughts
As we wrapped up the evening with fresh ginger and mint tea, we reflected on our experience. Mezze combines high-quality ingredients with expert preparation, resulting in a dining experience that’s both memorable and unique.
The spacious terrace, friendly service, and reasonable prices make Mezze an excellent choice for anyone visiting Bonaire. Whether you’re a fan of Middle Eastern cuisine or simply looking to try something new, this restaurant is well worth your time.
INFO:
Address: Kaya Charles E.B. Helmund #17, Playa Pariba, Bonaire, Kralendijk
Closed Sundays & Mondays
Open Tuesday – Saturday until 22:30 (kitchen closes at 22:00)
Reservations: +599 786 8631
With its fusion of culture, flavor, and exceptional hospitality, Mezze is a dining experience you’ll want to repeat.
Comments