For our last restaurant review of 2013, and being in fine festive fettle, Ibiza Spotlight's Editor in Chief, Cat Milton, and I had invited two guests along to join us…and what a great decision that turned out to be; we were just about to discover that La Petite Belgique is not something you would ever want to keep to yourself. It is most definitely an experience to be enjoyed and shared with friends. Preferably lots of them.
Located in Marina Botafoch, next door to Bubbles and opposite Heaven, brothers Maarten and Niels, along with Belgian Master Chef, Leon, opened La Petite Belgique only one month ago, but already in terms of experience, expertise and quality, it is quickly earning a reputation for effortlessly sitting up there with the best of them. In fact, at one point during our meal, Cat commented that there are a couple of so-called five-star restaurants on the island who could learn a great deal from La Petite Belgique…and as Editor in Chief of Ibiza's largest website, she knows a thing or two about good restaurants.
From the offset, it was clear that we were in the hands of maestros, and the four of us were very happy to accept Maarten's recommendations for each of our starters and main courses. All personal tastes and dietary requirements were taken into account, and we went to relax outside, enjoying soft, fresh bread rolls with (somewhat unusually for Ibiza) butter, good quality wine and dark, smooth Danish beer.
So far, so good. Then the starters arrived…and at this point, I beg forgiveness, dear readers, as I struggle to find the words to do justice to La Petite Belgique's stunning cuisine. The presentation of all of our meals was nothing short of spectacular, in fact, we all agreed that my starter of vegetable carpaccio was the most beautiful dish any of us had ever seen. Ever. And I can assure you that it tasted every bit as good as it looked. My friends soon overcame their envy as they tucked into prawn tempura, shrimp croquettes and beef teriyaki with enthusiasm as big as the smiles on their faces.
Our main courses were equally as imaginatively presented and faultlessly cooked. Ratatouille with fresh cod topped with chilli, a delicious selection of salmon, rack of lamb and sirloin steak with foie gras, all freshly prepared, the vegetables locally sourced in Ibiza, and everything served with aplomb.
The two desserts we shared were just sweet enough and just light enough to round our meal off perfectly, and even the coffee was outstanding…good and strong, and served with a glass of cream-topped Baileys and a little Belgian chocolate.
We were delighted that Maarten, Niels and Leon all took the time to join us for coffee and liquors, clearly interested in our feedback which was, of course, nothing but positive. They have, quite simply, got it just right.
As we finally left La Petite Belgique (with a great deal of reluctance, it has to be said) we were all in agreement…this was not just a meal, it was entire sensory experience, and one we cannot recommend highly enough.
Quick Facts
What? La Petite Belgique
Where? Marina Botafoch
Why? We can't think of one good reason why not.
When? Every day except Mondays 12.00 - 16.00 and 19.00 until late.
Reservations recommended on 695 499 253 or 616 44 466
La Petite Belgique will be closed from 20 - 27 January 2014.
Average Price Per Head? €40 - €50 for three courses and wine.Also available is a set menu del dia at €22 per head for three courses, €16 for starter and main course, and €14 for main course and dessert.
Veggie Options? If not on the menu, Leon will be happy to accommodate.
Disabled Access? Not as yet.
Top Tips? Go, try it, tell everyone, then go back again!
