Popular and long-standing Ibiza restaurant, Samovar, has recently undergone an extensive refurbishment as well as introducing a new menu. Needless to say, we were thrilled when they invited us along to take a look.
Samovar is located on a quiet street in Siesta, Santa Eulalia, but is well-signposted and easy to find with lots of free parking on the street right outside the restaurant.
Now, I must confess I had never visited Samovar in its previous incarnation, but I could tell by Cat's reaction (my editor and dining companion for the evening) that the difference was nothing short of a complete face-lift, and she liked what she saw.
We were greeted by restaurant manager, Sabrina, and even though we were the first guests of the evening, there was a warm and welcoming atmosphere as she showed us to our table. Light and cheerful, with delicately-coloured furnishings and decor, candles already glowing on all the tables and fairy lights twinkling around the door, the restaurant exudes an atmosphere of celebration, akin to walking into a party or wedding reception.
Sabrina soon had us settled with a glass of wine and a selection of home-baked ciabatta, olive and rye bread rolls, which were still warm and accompanied by alioli and tapenade (a delicious black olive puree). Bedazzled by Samovar's impressive menu, we decided to take Sabrina's recommendation and order a grand total of five dishes, four of which we would share. After all, it was Friday night in Ibiza...and we were working. Ample justification for such extravagance, we felt!
My starter of mushrooms with garlic and chilli was still sizzling in the dish when it arrived. It consisted of three different types of fleshy and tasty mushrooms and the perfect amount of garlic (lots!). Cat had opted for razor clams with a hot chilli marinade and after such a spectacular start to our meal, any previous disgruntlement about working on a Friday night had well and truly vanished. Now we were just plain excited to see what was coming next. Our anticipation turned out to be well-warranted, as the second course of mixed leaf salad with raisins, strawberries, apple, caramelised nuts and goats cheese was nothing short of divine. It was served in a balsamic dressing which, rather than being overpowering (as can sometimes be the case) actually brought out the freshness and variety of flavours in the salad.
Linguini with prawns followed. Served with cherry tomatoes and rocket, plus a twist of ginger and chilli which gave it an unexpected but pleasing kick. Next up was tuna steak (served with or without pancetta bacon) accompanied by a salad of mixed leaves, marinated pumpkin, basil and mint vinaigrette. Yet again, the chef had achieved the perfect balance of flavours and it complimented the tuna beautifully.
Our dessert of yin yang cake (half lemon, half chocolate) with mixed fruit and berries, whipped cream and raspberry sauce, together with a good strong coffee, was the perfect rounding off of an exceptional meal.
It is fair to say that we were both more than impressed with our evening at Samovar. The food is of a high quality and prepared with originality which, together with the bright and cheerful surroundings, gives the whole place character and a charming vibe. The service was faultless, and we must compliment Sabrina on being an excellent restaurant manager; friendly, interactive and knowledgeable.
In a nutshell, if you are looking for a thoroughly enjoyable Ibiza dining experience, you would do well to put Samovar somewhere near the top of your list.
Quick Facts
What Samovar Restaurant
Where Siesta
When Thursday, Friday, Saturday evenings from 18.00 hrs and late morning on Sundays for brunch
Throughout the summer season, open every day.
Why Bright and relaxed atmosphere, high quality food and excellent service.
Average spend per head €35-€40 plus drinks. Also a Tapas menu available.
Veggie Options Yes
Disabled Access Yes
Baby and Toddler friendly Yes. High chairs are available and special kiddies' events are organised during the summer.
Room for improvement Dessert forks would be good (you can tell we struggled to find something, eh!)
Top Tip Make sure you check out the famous Ibiza mural on the terrace wall...it's amazing!
More Info
For more information, website and to make a reservation, please see Samovar, Siesta, Ibiza
