Michelle Clancy is no stranger to Ibiza, the island has captured her and testing her clubbing stamina on many occasions, when she landed in 2012 for her annual clubathon, we challenged her to discover the other side of this amazing place. Off to San Juan she went, to get a taste of life in the north at the stunning Giri Café…
Ibiza is an island that has you spoilt for choice when it comes to beaches, bars and music, where a 7 day holiday means you need to cram in as many club nights as your body can handle, it’s all too easy to bypass the vast variety of amazing food Ibiza has to offer and opt for the quick and easy option. But, after sampling the amazing cuisine at the The Giri Café, it’s safe to say this is a mistake I won’t be making again. Located in the charming village of San Juan, which for the past 50 years has hardly changed, lies one of Ibiza’s coolest restaurants. Boasting famous celebrity clients and a menu bursting with fresh organic produce, some of which is grown in their very own garden. Although calling itself a Cafe – don’t be fooled by the name; this is no greasy spoon.
The newest concept from the owners of the Giri Residence you can immediately see that the decor and attention to detail follows that of the Hotel, the Moroccan feel oozes class and sophistication and with the newly added covered terrace, you’re spoilt for choice when choosing your table spot. Fresh bread and a gazpacho style dish get our taste buds going while we ponder the menu. I opt for the citric salad and pasta with tomatoes, prawns and asparagus. The salad is fresh and light with an orange zest, well presented and a perfect dish for a hot summer’s day. Especially when washed down with a crisp white wine. Next up came the pasta and I was delighted to find a good sized portion. The prawns were big and meaty mixed through a typically Mediterranean pasta dish consisting of tomatoes, olive oil and garlic.
We decided to pass on the desserts and instead headed straight for the cocktail menu, we were on holiday after all. The list boasts all the classics along with the contemporary and an impressive wine list to boot. One of the many things that shines through here is the staff, laid back but professional and, just like its older sister The Giri Residence, welcoming. Although not officially a fine dining restaurant, the food most definitely has that feel but best of all without the price tag or pretentiousness, which on an island were cash is king this is a refreshing change and one which I am sure will be key to its success.
Sitting back enjoying the afternoon sun looking out to the garden area you feel a million a miles away from the busy party island Ibiza is known for. Families and young kids are dotted around the restaurant taking advantage of the kiddy menu and family vibe. The inside of the restaurant is vacant as you would expect when the sun is shining but you can instantly tell that this place must come alive at night and I feel disappointed at the realisation that our time on the island is almost up and we therefore won’t get to experience an evening here. With its friendly staff, family approach and menu offering a wide range of top quality food and wine the Giri Cafe ticks all the boxes, a sophisticated dining experience with a down-to-earth touch.
CONTACT/ RESERVATIONS:
GIRI CAFE
PLAZA ESPANA 5 (MAIN SQUARE SAN JUAN)
07819 SAN JUAN
IBIZA
t: (+34) 971 333 474
e: cafe@thegiri.com
