Situated just minutes from the main drag of Cala de Bou, Kumharas is one of those delightful oases that stimulate and even stun the senses. The main feature is its central tower, of the like that used to be used to repel pirates in Ibiza. This one is a reproduction, though that doesn't make it any less special. There's something seemingly new to see everywhere you look in this waterfront beach bar and restaurant. From Balinese style beds, to the chill out area to the bar and dining section – all will find something to lure them in. There is even a small hippy-style market and boutiques if you want to do some shopping.
Sunset Cocktails
My two companions and I received a warm welcome on entering and were quickly sat down to enjoy a pre-prandial cocktail, whilst watching the spectacular sunset; almost everyone there seemed to want to photograph it.
There are some great combinations to be found on the cocktail menu using premium spirits and some unusual flavours. We went for classics by way of a mojito, a strawberry daiquiri and a strawberry caipiroska. All were expertly mixed and it was clear the strawberries used were super-fresh. There's also a good selection of non-alcoholic cocktails too, that is if you are willing. Each night has its own entertainment: we were treated to the regular Tuesday night feature, the Paco Fernandez Band with his flamenco show and dancers; it's a great way to take you into the night.
Freshness and Zing
We wandered over to our table as the sun descended and chose from a small and perfectly formed menu, written on a small blackboard and placed at our table. Serving staff here is very helpful, attentive and well trained: they gave us as much advice as we needed and specific recommendations based on our stated preferences. We decided to share starters and try each others' mains so we could swap notes; our charming waiter gave us a hand in choosing. The menu is altered each year and is a true international fusion of dishes; the one presented to us was still being refined, so expect some new additions when you go.
First up in our starters was a thinly sliced carpaccio of lobster with trout caviar which sparkled with the freshness of the sea and the zing of fresh lime. I have to say that it is an amazing way to discover the delicate flavour of lobster, with the explosion of the caviar in the mouth adding an iodine punch. The octopus salad with tandoori red onions, potato and rocket was an equally satisfying affair and beautifully presented; the curry tandoori mix strongly coming through, though without being over-powerful. Then, just as we thought the first two starters couldn't be equalled, we got the king prawn tempura which was seemingly simple. That said, there was a lot of attention to detail, with a superbly light batter accompanied by a Japanese style soya-based sauce. The starter menu does seem to run the full gamut from simplicity to delightfully original complexity.
Special sauces
With such a great start, we dug into our mains curious to see if they could top the starters. They all arrived looking just as gorgeous as the previous dishes we'd seen. It's quite difficult to get cod right, but the confit of cod with garlic coulis did just that, it was moist, supremely melt-in-the-mouth tender and didn't have that over fishy taste: the hallmark of freshness. The ox fillet steak with wild mushroom ragout was a perfectly cooked medium rare, set off with a Japanese black pepper sauce. I'm a mushroom fanatic and was pleased to see this classic steak partner were cooked just right too, plus there were more than enough to satisfy my needs. The wok chicken cooked with a ‘special' oyster sauce that my companion took packed a nice spice punch and had that same feel of freshness; our waiter pre-warned us that you do need to combine it with the accompanying black sesame rice if you aren't used to heat. This proved to be good advice, especially if you are not a ‘spice-aholic' like me. All in all, you'll find very good sized portions or very fresh food here. You'll be pleased that there aren't too many dishes; it means what they do, they do very well.
Relax and chill
Despite feeling full we wanted a sweet finished and shared a chocolate mousse type dessert with a honey ice cream, which was rich and delicate all at the same time, the mousse having some kind of soft sweet base, with an unusual soft, sticky and pleasing texture. The desserts we saw passing us looked amazing and we're glad we decided on a sweet finish. Hopefully, you'll have more room than we did.
The name of the place comes from Hindu mythology and refers to a set of exalted people that could be gods, but choose not to be. And this is what you'll feel: it's far too much hard work being an actual god, so instead relax and chill Kumharas style in this beautiful part of San Antonio Bay.
Quick Facts
What: Kumharas Restaurant
Where: Cala de Bou, San Antonio Bay
When: Open all day: 10:30am - 03:00am. Every day from end of April to early October
Why: A relaxed Bohemian vibe and signature international fusion food. Plus people travel from all over the island to get there – this many people can't be wrong.
Average spend per head: €45-50 including wine
Veggie Options: Not a lot but yes
Disabled Access: Yes, really easy access
Baby and Toddler friendly: Lots of space and easy access for children and toddlers.
Room for improvement: It's been 18 years in the making and it's clear the customers love it here, so no, not really.
Top Tip: Go early and let the entertainment whisk you from day to evening whilst watching a spectacular sunset before moving onto dinner.
WORDS | Julian Heathcote PHOTOS | Julian Heathcote & Joan Sala
