Trip Report Part 3 – Dinner and Cocktails!

I already mentioned in my first report some of our Grand Case dining so going on from there.

The Palms – I could eat here at least three times a week and just rotate what I would have and all are so different that it works. Greg’s Spicy Lasagna one night, Drunken Ribs the next night and the Filet Mignon the other night. If he has his burger then that works to be a fourth night and I would be OK with that. The cocktails here are also pretty damn good and that even adds more to what is offered. I have stated before that it is more that just the food at any place you go, it is the people and the relationships that make places even better than they are. This is one of the best of the best for all parts that make up an enjoyable evening.

Lal’s – Lal did not open until December so we lost many nights that we probably would have spent there but like The Palms, Lal makes it what it is. Rock and Roll Indian Food.

Avantika – The rest of our group likes this place more than I probably do, it is good but Thai is not something I crave when on island and I am never in awe and the lack of any vibe or view just isn’t my thing. But a lot of people really like the place, but we all know it is all really just about me. As it has been said by Islandgem, we can go to great restaurants at home but we don’t have much for beach bars and this place just doesn’t have a special feel with the location.

3 Amigos – OK, felt lazy and staying at Royal Islander and our first choice was not open and we just didn’t want to go far so gave it a second try. MJ had a quesadilla which was unimpressive, I had three tacos which were actually pretty good. The margaritas tasted like they used a bit of Prestone as the mix, absolutely terrible and those were the best they offered. We miss Taco Macho.

Sublime – Opened up in Maho when we were there, it was good but I would not say it was great and again here I am eating inside on island. I know the place has a good following and while we did not go to the previous location I get the sense that the cost to go is up a bit. I wish them luck and I am sure it will get better and better, you get a sense that they care.

Ma Ti – Back open but in a different location, this is a favorite of a few of our friends. While finding it and the feel of the location when you are parking is not exactly welcoming once you get to the restaurant area it has a very nice feel and setting. We liked it enough that we went twice and both times it was very good. They have Chicken Cordon Blue that is not on the regular menu so you have to ask for it, have it served on their fresh pasta and you will be pretty happy with that suggestion. Good food, great staff, nice bar and good drinks, all in a very nice setting. Absolute enjoyable evening both trips.

Astra – This just opened, where Snoopy’s was and they have spent some money and energy making the place very inviting. They did not open until late in our trip but this is a “we will be back” kind of place. Total package with food, drinks, staff (although could have been better educated on the menu) and setting. I would expect Astra to do very well and become very popular.

Sale & Pepe – Another that checks the boxes, from the food and drink to the service and setting. There are some places that have better Italian food but the setting here out on the back deck next to the yachts is very pleasant and makes the difference.
One more report to go if I find the time.

So many places that we intended on going to and did not make it, such as Mario's which from what I have heard has an absolute fantastic setting now that they moved to The Cliffs. We will just have to go back, 155 days and counting!

Cheers!