A Taste of Paradise: Heavenly Ceviche, Caribbean Elegance & Some Magic @ Bonito St. Barth – by Shari & Sabrina
Ceviche, Sunset and Laughter in St. Barth
St. Barth has a way of seducing you the moment you step onto its shores. There’s a distinct rhythm here – where the azure waters shimmer like sapphires, and every sunset feels like it’s been painted just for you. But beyond the island’s postcard-perfect beauty, it’s the lifestyle that truly captivates. This isn’t just a destination; it’s an escape into elegance, where even the simplest moments – an espresso in the morning, a stroll through Gustavia’s cobblestone streets – carry an air of sophistication. It’s a wow all the time.
For those who live for the effortless fusion of understated elegance and unapologetic indulgence, St. Barth is the ultimate escape – a paradise where authenticity becomes the ultimate expression of luxury.
And while the beaches are undeniably divine, it’s the dining scene in Gustavia that has our heart. Here, every restaurant tells a story – a tale of exquisite flavors, unparalleled style, and a commitment to excellence that lingers long after the last sip of wine. It’s a place where you don’t just eat – you savor, you celebrate, and you lose yourself in the art of living.
Gustavia is the kind of place where culinary dreams come alive, and as we settled in for yet another unforgettable meal, we couldn’t help but think: St. Barth doesn’t just feed your appetite; it feeds your soul.
When you find yourself in St. Barth at the end of November, there’s a certain magic in the air. Maybe it’s the golden sunsets, the gentle Caribbean breeze, or the undeniable allure of this island paradise. For us, it was all that – and the tantalizing promise of a ceviche degustation at Bonito, the crown jewel of St. Barth’s culinary scene.
We’ve both been around the world, dined at Michelin-starred establishments, and indulged in decadent fare, but something about Bonito felt different. Perhaps it was the sophisticated compilation of ceviche that night, or the charm of the restaurant, perched on a hillside with sweeping views of Gustavia’s glittering harbor. Or maybe it was the sound of soft laughter and clinking glasses that greeted us as we walked in. Or maybe the most exceptional cocktails made by Johannes and Vincent… Either way, we knew we were in for something special.
Ceviche: A Love Letter in Lime and Sea
Let’s talk ceviche (let’s talk about love).
Oh, the ceviche. It wasn’t just a dish; it was a journey. Each plate was a harmonious blend of freshness, zing, and creativity. The classic ceviche was a symphony of lime-marinated fish, bursting with the vibrant flavors of the ocean.
Sabrina, ever the adventurer, declared midway, “If I were stranded on a desert island, this is all I’d need. Well, this and maybe a great playlist.” Meanwhile, I (Shari) couldn’t stop marveling at the textures – the perfect crunch of plantain chips paired with the melt-in-your-mouth fish. “It’s like art, but edible,” I proclaimed, probably louder than intended, to a bemused waiter.
The Bonito Vibe
Beyond the food, Bonito has a vibe. Picture chic island elegance mixed with a sprinkle of French sophistication and just the right amount of Caribbean cool. The staff, effortlessly friendly, made us feel like old friends rather than guests. The decor, with its breezy whites and touches of nautical charm, was almost as photogenic as the dishes (and you know we took photos of everything).
As the sun dipped below the horizon, painting the sky in hues of pink and orange, Sabrina leaned back and said, “This is the kind of moment that reminds you why St. Barth is so special.” I nodded, fork in hand, too busy savoring another bite to respond.
The Unmissable Finale
The meal ended on a sweet note – a passion fruit dessert that was as bright and refreshing as the island itself. We lingered long after our plates were cleared, sipping cocktails and swapping stories about our favorite travel memories. It felt like the perfect culmination of a year filled with adventure, challenges, and moments like these that make it all worthwhile.
Our Verdict
Bonito isn’t just the best restaurant on the island – it’s an experience, a celebration of flavors, and a reminder of why food is such an essential part of travel. Whether you’re a local or a first-time visitor, this is a place that will steal your heart (and tantalize your taste buds).
As we left, full and happy, Sabrina joked, “When can we move in?” And honestly, I wasn’t sure if she was kidding.
So, from our table at Bonito to yours, we raise a toast to the joy of discovery, the power of good food, and the beauty of sharing it all with someone you adore. Cheers to next time!
P.S.: more to follow soon about the hotspots in St. Barth!
follow us on instagram:
@whatweadore_mag
@gypsella
@shari.inessa
photocredits: Bonito St. Barth, What We Adore Magazine, Sabrina Kihm