Rather under-represented in Ibiza, Greek food has found a new niche at Elia, the stylish clifftop restaurant at Destino Five Ibiza, in Talamanca.
Located on a breezy terrace overloking Talamanca Bay, Dalt Vila and Formentera, the open-kitchen restaurant is a refined yet easygoing dining destination that captures the spirit of modern Mediterranean living with a distinctly Greek soul.
Looking for somewhere to go with friends or your innamorata for a memorable and romantic evening meal? With some of the island's best views, sumptuous Hellenic fare, attentive service and - this being Pacha - a golden-hour-appropriate musical backdrop - Elia ticks all the boxes.
As you would expect when Aegean gastronomic traditions collide with Ibizan glamour, the fare ranges from refreshing salads, tasty dips and mezze to crisp savoury pastries, fresh fish and expertly grilled meats. The starter dishes can all easily be adapted to suit those who are vegetarian or vegan.
Once seated, Spotlight's eager reviewers began with a couple of cocktails, a non-alcoholic Aphrodite - composed on the spot by Elia's mixologist - and the (red) Pachamama. Our chosen wine for the occasion: a sublime M de Minuty from the South of France.
Nothing awakens the palate and quenches the thirst on a hot summer's day quite like a watermelon salad. Comprising juicy, chilled cubes of watermelon and salty, creamy feta cheese along with toasted almonds, rocket leaves and mint, Elia's version was an instant hit with our team.
What else could we possibly combine it with than a classic Greek salad? Featuring sweet, locally sourced cherry tomatoes, cucumber, olives, onions, bell pepper, feta, oregano, and olive oil, it was a lovely mix of textures, colours and flavours.
Rather than choose the starters, we left it in the kitchen's able hands to supply a selection of what they deemed most representative. Alongside classics like tzatziki, smoky babaghanoush, kafteri and hummus, the spread of moreish mezze featured a mystery fifth - a piquant, orange-red purée with hints of roasted red pepper that left us scraping the bowl.
Warning: warm from the oven, Elia's pillowy, wholesome pita bread may spoil your appetite - eat with restraint!
The Yellowfin Tuna Tartare featured fresh diced tuna mixed with lime, oregano, and shallots for a bright, herby kick. The addition of creamy avocado balanced the acidity, while the crushed macadamias lent it a subtle crunch.
Thanks to the liquorice notes of fennel and a velvety coriander dressing, the delicate portion of lavraki (sea bass) ceviche was a welcome introduction to the seafood and fish to come.
Brought from Galicia, the Mussels El Greco were plump, briny gems steamed with fresh fennel, parsley, and spring onion to best effect. A squeeze of lemon was all they needed.
Another standout classic of Aegean cuisine, the Feta Saganaki - wrapped in flaky, buttery filo pastry - was sensational. It comes drizzled with thyme honey and sprinkled with roasted sesame seeds. We loved how our waiter carefully quartered it in front of us before laying a portion on each plate.
Next came a contemporary twist on the centuries-old Greek youvetsi — a wood-fired, one-pot feast. Here, lightly seared, locally sourced carabinero prawns rested on the bed of orzo pasta, its edges crisped to perfection. The crowning touch was a drizzle of truffle cream to enhance the decadence.
A meat-stuffed, slow-roasted aubergine with tahina yoghurt and pine seeds ensued. Earthy, spiced, and multi-textured, it was a humble, traditional dish done just right.
The dessert might be called Greek Yoghurt, but - to be honest - the name does not do it credit. This superb creation consisted of a whipped cloud of strained Greek yoghurt that was light yet rich, with a subtle tang. Drizzled with thyme honey, pomegranate jewels for tartness, and a final gloss of extra virgin olive oil, it was the perfect finale fit for Zorba the Greek himself!
Blending Ibiza's trademark contemporary elegance with a rich culinary heritage from the Eastern Mediterranean, Elia is all set to make waves on the island's gastro scene this coming season.
