Situated above the idyllic Cala Nova bay at Es Caná, Aiyanna Ibiza isn't a million miles from Punta Arabí - so it's apt that, with it's laid-back global boho aesthetic, the beach restaurant calls to mind one of those glamorous girls who garner their eclectic style from that very hippy market.
Aiyanna is the sister venue to sleek beach club Amante. Drawing design inspiration from its north Ibizan location, the former employs a diverse range of natural materials to achieve a luxe-yet-laid-back vibe which also translates to menu and service style.
Amazing sea views
Breathtaking views of Cala Nova beach at Aiyanna
Entering from the coast path, it's clear that this rustic-chic venue was conceived as a place to linger, whether you're there for refreshment in the form of a cocktail or cold-pressed juice, or a full-blown three-course meal. There's not a whiff of snobbery: all-comers are welcome here - provided they're happy to chill, enjoy the panoramic sea views, and soak up the relaxed ambience.
Tiered in a similar manner to Amante, Aiyanna offers guests a range of spaces - each with its own atmosphere. There's oversized beanbag seating in an area ideal for drinks and sea-gazing; a dining terrace shaded by enormous, colourful Guatamalan parasols; a handful of long tables for feasting with friends; and a interior room that resembles a (very stylish) living room.
It would be a shame to restrict such a versatile, beautifully-designed place solely to dining and drinking and, accordingly, Aiyanna broadens its remit; functioning as a wedding and event venue, hosting exhibitions by local artists and putting on live music evenings, and offering morning yoga sessions.
Vegging out
The beautifully presented mixed mezze dish, the epitome of freshness
That said, the prospect of a leisurely lunch here is rather alluring - and that's what we're here for. As it's only right to whet the new venue's head, we begin with glasses of chilled cava and, in keeping with Aiyanna's healthy outlook, a fresh cold-pressed orange juice (which we refrain from adding to the sparkling wine in the manner of a Bucks Fizz, but could very happily do so).
The menu is chalked up on a blackboard, and I immediately gravitate towards the mixed fried fish and the Spanish black rice with cuttlefish, squid and alioli before learning that, because we're here during soft launch, only the asterisked options are available.
Accordingly, we choose a sharing mezze which evidences the fact that vegans will have a happy time at Aiyanna. Comprising a rainbow of organic crudites from the restaurant's own garden alongside dhal, beetroot dip, baba ganoush, olives and a warm pitta, it's one of those platters that's perfect for picking at as you sip a glass of wine - in our case, a delectable pale Rioja rose.
Tender and toothsome
The delicious octopus dish and muhummara red pepper puree
Satisfied we've made a decent dent in our five-a-day quota, we go with lamb brochettes and grilled octopus for mains, both of which demonstrate the Eastern Med accent chef Oskar Reboredo has brought to the menu.
The former is warmly spiced and served with tsatziki, shredded salad and pitta in the manner of an elegantly deconstructed kebab. As someone who's eaten so much octopus it's surprising I've not yet sprouted a tentacle of my own, I think I speak with authority when I say that Aiyanna's is a standout: boasting an almost-caramelised exterior, it's tender-yet-toothsome, triumphantly paired with a Middle Eastern red pepper puree called muhummara.
Presentation and portion size are both well-judged here. Plating is elegant, but not too messed -about-with. It's fine food, sure, but not overly fancy; much like the venue itself. We're left replete, but not overly stuffed - and certainly ready to explore the dessert menu.
The sweet life
It's one of the hottest days of the year so far, but I can't resist the chocolate coulant. The fact that the liquid-centred pudding requires a 15-minute wait is only a bonus in my eyes, affording us longer to sit and admire the view.
When it arrives, it's worth the wait: a textbook example with an oozing interior which melds well with the earthy, visually arresting beetroot ice-cream sharing the plate. Of course, Aiyanna offers options for the health-inclined - a fruit ceviche leaves the palate refreshed and keeps the calorie count in check.
When you find it hard to leave a venue you know it's a winner, and Aiyanna's definitely got it going on. If you're in the market for casual yet chic beachside dining with a real vibe, this is the one.
FAST FACTS
What? Aiyanna Ibiza
Where? Avinguda Cala Nova, s/n, 07850 Cala Nova, San Carlos
When? Lunch served from 13h - 17.30h daily, with breakfast and snacks served outside these hours.
Why? For a leisurely daytime dining experience with great laid-back vibes - not to mention views of a stunning seascape.
Veggie Options? Aplenty - and vegans are spoilt for choice too. Share a mezze platter with a friend or treat yourself to lentil falafel or black and white quinoa salad.
Disabled Facilities? Aiyanna has a wheelchair ramp.
Top tips? If you're feeling delicate, ask your waiter to recommend one of the fresh cold-pressed juices - it'll sort you out in no time. Foodwise, the grilled octopus is a great shout.
WORDS | Zoe Perrett
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If you havent tried sister venue Amante, add it to your list too or see more great food options in our restaurant guide.
