Punto Brabo - Casa del Mar expanded its food repertory this weekend with the grand opening of
Matthew's, Beachside Restaurant, a fun eatery by the people who gave us Rumba downtown, Stef & Milca Legger.
The two entrepreneurs decided it was too early to retire and that they would love to embrace the challenge of creating and serving Beach Cuisine at Casa del Mar, under the oversize palapa.
Stef who also enjoys decorating recruited his Dutch-born dad, Jack, for the technical work. Then he collaborated with chef Bas de Boer on the creative Caribbean/Continental menu.
The results of everyone's great effort were inaugurated on Friday with over 200 people attending the mega party. While Randy Dawson and Equator Band entertained, the staff of Matthew's served tastings of the restaurants cuisine and poured many complimentary libations.
Guests who attended the party included press members, members of the resort management, food and liquor purveyors, taxi drivers, concierges, friends and family members. Restaurant managers Ricardo Chirino and Anky Pasch did a good job pampering the crowd and showing them a great time.
Finally,
Matthew's restaurant named after the Legger's ten year old son, is beautifully decorated with yards of flimsy curtain-fabric which billows gracefully in the wind, rustic potted plants and dramatic fire torches, all nicely arranged around tasteful wood furniture.
The retired big chandeliers of the Hyatt Regency's lobby, found a new home at Matthew's and add an elegant aspect to the pyramid-shaped roof.
Matthew's attractive menu has many Caribbean accents interpreted with Continental flair. As appetizers you will find an inviting Caprese Salad with fresh Mozzarella and Pesto, a Roasted Duck Salad with apples, grapes and walnuts, Carpaccio made of sesame crusted yellow fin tuna, and flash seared Goat Cheese wrapped in Italian Prosciutto ham, over field-greens. Veal Sweetbreads and Calamari Rings wrap up the appetizer section.
As main course the Argentinean White Salmon makes a debut on the island. It is joined by Caribbean Shrimp, irresistible Pina Colada Shrimp and a totally Caribbean Seafood Combination. Filet Mignon, Duck Breast and assorted tasty Grilled Kebabs will please meat eaters, all escorted with creative greens and starches.
Watch out for the restaurant's bread basket courtesy of Huchada bakery, created especially for Matthew's; it is very delicious! An equally creative lunch menu focuses on sandwiches and salads, with piled high ciabatta, focaccia and pumpkin seed breads, as well as panninis and southwestern squares, fresh jaw-breakers guaranteed to satisfy vacationers and locals . . .
