About
Quinta Del Carmen is a 100-year-old "cunucu style" home that has been the home of a physician and a clubhouse during WWII.
Chef Luc and Gerco, owners of Barefoot Restaurant, purchased the Aruban home in 2014 and transformed it into an enchanting restaurant.
Today, Quinta Del Carmen is one of Aruba's most distinguished dining establishments. It reflects the Dutch colonial style with a visually stunning façade.
Dining inside or al fresco offers unique dining perspectives and ambiance. The decor within whispers stories of the home's history and Aruba's past. The charming outside garden marries Caribbean starlit nights with the twinkling overhead lighting.
The restaurant's culinary offerings are as captivating as its history. Chef Luc and Gerco create artisanal ala carte entrees, tapas, and signature cocktails and wine abound.
Adding Quinta Del Carmen to your Aruba dining itinerary is a must. Savor gourmet fare in a historical setting as unique and colorful as the Caribbean.
Vibe
Dining at Quinta Del Carmen is like a time capsule where time slows down, and dining is an experience. It's the perfect spot to unwind and reflect after a day of sun and surf on Renaissance Island.
With its well-preserved Dutch colonial architecture, the exterior sets the stage for an enchanting evening. Lush gardens and outdoor seating offer dining amidst natural beauty, setting high expectations for what lies within.
The home's interior combines the comfort of a cherished home with the excitement of a fine dining adventure. High ceilings and open spaces create an airy and welcoming atmosphere, while tasteful decorations hint at its rich past.
Whether enjoying a meal under the stars or dining indoors, the ambiance is sophisticated without being pretentious, luxurious, yet welcoming. This unique atmosphere and exemplary service ensure that each visit is special.
It's easy to see why Quinta Del Carmen is not just about dining; it's about creating memories in an ambiance that's as unforgettable as the cuisine.
Quinta Del Carmen: Menu & Drinks
Chef Luc and Gerco have curated an ala carte and tapas menu showcasing artisan cuisine. From appetizers to main courses, tradition and innovation reflect culinary mastery. The restaurant prides itself on dishes that are an ode to the local heritage and a nod to international cuisines.
With so many options, it's impossible to include all the best, but here are notable standouts.
A seafood option on the ala carte menu is the Grouper, Mushroom, and Truffle. The grouper filet is served on a bed of pasta prepared in truffle oil, topped with duxelles of local mushrooms and creamy truffle sauce.
Under Grandma's Favorites is the Skewered Surf and Turf. This mouth-watering entree features skewered Black Angus beef tips and jumbo shrimp, complemented with red wine and garlic sauces.
The Tapas Garden menu offers shareable small plates, perfect for sharing after a day on the Caribbean with Isabella Catamaran Aruba.
The Homemade Garlic Sesame Bread is a perfect tapa for a group, featuring garlic-sesame bread, miso-garlic dip, and bell pepper mayo. Other standouts are the Beef Taco and Chipotle with skirt steak, veggies, and chipotle sauce and the Salmon Carpaccio with lime, lemon, capers, and garlic.
The drink menu at Quinta Del Carmen is equally inventive and refreshing. Rosemary's Cucumber Cooler is a delight made with sliced cucumber, gin, lemon and lime juice, and rosemary, finished with a splash of tonic.
Quinta Del Carmen is a must-visit on any Aruba vacation, promising an experience that tantalizes the taste buds and nourishes the soul.
Local Tips
- Arrive early to enjoy a cocktail in the garden before dinner.
- There are vegan and vegetarian options.
- Booking a table in advance is recommended, especially during peak travel seasons.
- Ask for a table outdoors for a romantic setting under the stars.
- There are no split checks, and groups of 8 or more receive an automatic 18% gratuity.
- The extensive wine list makes pairing a breeze!
