Xp Bonaire IslandLife Feature Story
Sonrisa Restaurant is part of the charming Boutique Hotel Sonrisa, owned and operated by Corinne Harder and Beat Stocker. Originally from Switzerland, Corinne and Beat bring their heritage and passion for Swiss hospitality to Bonaire. They are committed to providing guests with a warm, personalized experience, ensuring every detail reflects their values of cordiality, honesty, trust, and exceptional service. Reservations are recommended, especially for themed dining nights, and group bookings can be arranged for lunch or dinner for six or more people.
Restaurant and Hotel Location
The restaurant and boutique hotel are conveniently located near the Bonaco gas station roundabout. Though the property’s fencing gives it a discreet appearance, stepping inside reveals a well-maintained tropical garden with lush palm trees and a charming dining area, creating a serene and welcoming atmosphere.
Restaurant Details
Sonrisa serves dinner on select evenings and is renowned for its themed culinary nights, including Swiss cheese fondue every Sunday and schnitzel night every Tuesday. The restaurant accommodates dietary needs and allergies, provided they are communicated in advance. With limited seating, the intimate setting creates a cozy and welcoming atmosphere.
Swiss Cheese Fondue
Traditional with truffle oil and Swiss cherry schnapps
Saffron
Pesto
Vegetables/fruit (pre-order required)
All options include homemade crusty bread, making it a quintessential Swiss dining experience.
Schnitzel Night
Breaded pork schnitzel with French fries and a small starter salad
Chicken cordon bleu (pre-order required), filled with ham and cheese
Veal Wienerschnitzel with French fries and a starter salad
Optional sides include French fries, polenta fries, pepper sauce, and herb butter.
Our Dining Experience
We visited Sonrisa on schnitzel night, and the experience exceeded our expectations. Reservations were easily made by phone, followed by a WhatsApp confirmation and menu preview to whet our appetites.
Upon arrival, we were warmly greeted and promptly seated. A bottle of water was brought to the table, and the staff took time to explain the menu options. As per the menu’s suggestion, we pre-ordered the chicken cordon bleu, which features a chicken breast filled with cooked ham and cheese, breaded and fried to golden perfection. We also ordered a pork schnitzel and a veal Wienerschnitzel. Each schnitzel dish came with French fries and a generous mixed salad starter dressed with a delightful homemade salad dressing. For added flavor, we opted for pepper sauce and herb butter as accompaniments.
Schnitzel night truly lived up to its name, with these breaded delights taking center stage. The breading was perfectly crispy and light, while the meats were juicy and tender—a testament to the kitchen’s attention to detail. The cordon bleu was a hearty portion, featuring a full chicken breast. The pork schnitzel’s smaller size made it ideal for a lighter meal, while the veal Wienerschnitzel was very delicate and incredibly tender, delivering classic European flavors. A fresh lime wedge accompanied each dish, adding a refreshing acidic balance to the rich breading.
To complement our meal, we selected a bottle of La Granja Tempranillo red wine. This full-bodied, smooth, and well-rounded wine paired beautifully with the schnitzels, enhancing the overall dining experience.
Desserts and Extras
For dessert, we indulged in a lava chocolate cake and an ice cream coffee. The lava cake was perfectly executed, with a molten center that oozed decadence, while the ice cream coffee was a delightful mix of creamy and rich flavors. Before leaving, we chatted with Corinne, who shared her passion for creating memorable dining experiences. We also purchased leberkäse—a traditional German meat dish—to enjoy at home.
Ambiance and Service
The ambiance at Sonrisa is warm and inviting, with a strong sense of community. Guests and staff alike exude friendliness, creating a welcoming environment that feels like dining among friends. The service aligned with the restaurant’s philosophy of Swiss hospitality and attention to detail.
Value
Sonrisa Restaurant offers value for its quality food and service, especially by island standards. The pricing is fair, and the portions are generous, making it a great choice for both locals and visitors seeking an authentic and satisfying meal.
Conclusion
Sonrisa Restaurant is a must-visit dining destination in Bonaire. Whether you’re in the mood for a hearty schnitzel, a flavorful cheese fondue, or simply a warm and friendly atmosphere, this restaurant delivers on all fronts. The combination of great food, attentive service, and a relaxed setting ensures a memorable experience. Be sure to make a reservation and savor the culinary delights that Sonrisa has to offer!
Info:
Sonrisa Boutique Hotel & restaurant
Address: Kaya Finlandia 3, Bonaire
Phone/WhatsApp: +599 777 78 55
Special Nights: Swiss Cheese Fondue (Sunday), Schnitzel Night (Tuesday)
Reservations Recommended
Comments