Having just opened two months ago, El Náutico is already causing ripples among Ibiza’s culinary cognoscenti. With a setting, service, and succulent gastronomy like this, it comes as no surprise.
What used to be the HQ of the nautical club has transformed itself - under the competent management of the dynamic, jovial chef Pau Barba - into a gastronomic gem in the heart of the port of Ibiza, with what are arguably the finest views of the harbour and the old town, Dalt Vila, rising beyond.
Tucked away in its own little enclave, just steps away from the ferry terminal, the restaurant is the ideal spot for lunch or dinner, as witnessed by the enthusiastic diners who came alone, with friends or in large groups on the day we visited.
Our first impression on entering was that of a clean, spacious venue with lots of light and a notable but not over-the-top maritime vibe. The interior space - with an open kitchen - has large, well spaced tables, ideal for convivial dining. One corner of the interior is given over to what will be regular pop-up art exhibitions featuring suitably sea-based themes.
From here, you step out onto a lovely external terrace overlooking the port. Just metres away, tiny, colourful pleasure craft bob at their moorings. The presence of abundant greenery is soothing, adding to the sense of a secluded waterside niche. At the same time, the ferries plying their way in and out of the harbour enforce the impression of the port’s characteristic hustle and bustle.
The service at El Náutico comprises younger and older staff, in other words, the perfect blend of vigour, experience and professionalism. It’s attentive yet not intrusive, friendly but not over-familiar.
Cast off for the culinary voyage!
We commenced our meal with a nice range of starters comprising a variety of delicacies. Naturally, the accent was on fish and seafood.
The smoked, roasted aubergine strips with burrata and pesto were delicious. Other entrées included that local staple, farmer’s salad, along with Roman-style Ibizan squid and scampi from the waters off Formentera.
At this point, Pau emerged from the kitchen to explain his particular approach to preparing paella. Served in both individual and full portions, it is cooked to perfection with a broth that is completely natural and with no trace of colourants or additives. The result is easy to digest and extremely flavoursome.
On his recommendation, we opted for the arroz del señoret, or “gentleman's rice” in English. Made with seafood that has been peeled and prepared, it’s easy to eat without needing to remove bones or shells.
It came with a 'dry rice' with tender pieces of chicken and ribs, another paella-style rice dish that’s cooked until the liquid is fully absorbed. Needless to add, we devoured it "con gusto" as they say in Spain.
By this time, the restaurant - in and out - had filled with diners eager to feast on its fare and clearly enjoying the experience.
Our desserts consisted of a traditional-style cheesecake baked in an earthenware dish and a chocolate fondant with vanilla ice cream.
The sweet-toothed among you will be happy to hear it will soon introduce a wide range of decadent desserts displayed in a showcase: stay tuned!
El Náutico is open from Thursday to Saturday in the evening throughout the winter. During the daytime, it opens every day of the year. On top of that, it will host special events such as Halloween and Christmas, as well as parties and themed activities. And we haven't even begun to talk about the marvellous terrace above that the owners aim to convert into a buzzing rendezvous point!
With reasonable prices, this port-side palace of fine, home-cooked food looks set to quickly become a favourite of residents and holidaymakers alike. From here on out, it's plain sailing all the way!
Call El Náutico to reserve your table by the sea.
