XpBonaire Feature Story
After decades of anticipation, Pier Dos finally opened its doors in July 2024, bringing a vibrant dining experience to the waterfront of Kralendijk. Located along Kaya J.N.E. Craane, next to the well-known Karel’s Beach Bar, Pier Dos quickly became a hotspot for locals and visitors alike. With its origins stretching back to 1989, the restaurant’s eventual completion is a testament to vision, persistence, and the desire to add something unique to Bonaire’s culinary landscape. Now, diners can experience a place that captures the easygoing, breezy spirit of the Caribbean.
From the moment you approach Pier Dos, the relaxed atmosphere is evident. The restaurant is set directly on the pier, offering stunning ocean views from every seat. The design embraces nature with an open-air concept and a massive palapa roof covering a spacious dining area and luxurious bar. There are no walls, so every table provides a front-row seat to sunsets, shimmering waters, and passing sailboats. The wide, inviting entrance is accessible to all, including wheelchair users, ensuring a warm welcome for everyone.
The vibe at Pier Dos is both laid-back and sophisticated, embodying Bonaire’s island culture. After a warm greeting from the staff, we were seated beneath a palapa in the center of the pier. It felt private yet part of the restaurant's lively energy. The moment we sat down, it was clear Pier Dos offers more than just a meal—it’s about embracing the island’s laid-back lifestyle, enhanced by the gentle sea breeze.
The menu at Pier Dos focuses on fresh seafood, with daily meat specials available. Quality and locally sourced ingredients take center stage. Our friendly server quickly brought drinks and provided a detailed overview of the evening’s menu highlights.
Appetizers
We started with a trio of appetizers: oysters, a tartare trio, and gyozas. The oysters, served ice-cold, were incredibly fresh with the perfect briny taste of the sea. The tartare trio included fish (tuna), beef, and a vegetarian option with beetroot, which added a surprising sweetness. The gyozas, crispy on the outside and packed with savory filling, were another standout. Each appetizer was beautifully presented, setting the tone for the rest of the meal.
Main Courses
For our mains, we chose the Red Snapper with risotto, a Ribeye steak, and Thai mussels. Both the Red Snapper and the Ribeye were specials that evening and turned out to be excellent choices.
The Red Snapper was perfectly cooked, with crispy skin and tender, flaky meat. Two generous fillets were served on top of a creamy risotto, which complemented the fish without overpowering it. The Ribeye, a thick and juicy cut of beef, was grilled to perfection and came with vibrant vegetables and a selection of sauces, including a savory jus. A rectangular piece of maize added a pleasant sweetness and texture to the plate, rounding out a hearty and satisfying dish.
The Thai mussels were another highlight. Cooked just right, the mussels retained their plump, tender texture and were served in a fragrant red curry sauce. The bold, spicy flavors elevated the dish and made it a standout.
Wine Pairing & Service
Throughout the meal, the service was attentive but never overbearing. The staff ensured our glasses stayed full and answered all our questions with enthusiasm. We paired the meal with two wines: a crisp Dusky Sounds Sauvignon Blanc and a bold Montepulciano d'Abruzzo. Both complemented the flavors of the dishes perfectly.
Dessert
Though we were feeling full, we couldn’t resist trying both desserts on offer: the Chocolate Strawberry Crunch and the Five Spice Mousse. Each was served with a scoop of vanilla ice cream. The Chocolate Strawberry Crunch was rich and decadent, though its texture took a moment to appreciate. The Five Spice Mousse was smooth and creamy, with the subtle warmth of spices offering a delightful contrast to the sweetness of the dessert. Both were excellent ways to conclude a memorable meal.
Conclusion
As our evening came to a close, we reflected on how Pier Dos stands out among Bonaire’s dining experiences. The combination of breathtaking views, thoughtful design, and a menu that strikes a perfect balance between simplicity and creativity makes it a must-visit. More than just a restaurant, Pier Dos is a sensory experience that captures the essence of Bonaire’s charm.
While Pier Dos falls in the mid-to-upper price range, the quality of the food, excellent service, and unparalleled atmosphere make it worth every penny. Whether you’re looking for a romantic dinner, celebrating a special occasion, or just enjoying a relaxed evening by the sea, Pier Dos delivers on all fronts. It’s quickly becoming a cherished spot for both locals and visitors.
Info
12 Kaya J.N.E. Craane
+599 717 0606
Opening Hours
Tuesday - Sunday: 8 AM – 10 PM
Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
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