Exciting Culinary Expansion at Fuerteventura: Chef Rigoberto Almeida’s New Venture
The culinary scene in Fuerteventura is buzzing with anticipation as celebrated chef Rigoberto Almeida announces the upcoming opening of his new restaurant, ‘19’, at the luxurious, recently renovated Hotel Golf Jandía. With his renowned creative approach that fuses Canary Island and Caribbean flavors, Almeida continues to set the gastronomic bar high in the Archipelago.
The Vision Behind ‘19’
Set to open on November 19, ‘19’ pays homage to golfers’ respite after completing 18 holes, embodying a relaxed yet vibrant atmosphere. Almeida envisions this establishment as a playful, rock-inspired extension of his flagship restaurant, El Pellizco by Rigoberto Almeida in Costa Calma. The menu promises an entirely unique culinary experience, featuring fun and innovative dishes designed for sharing and savoring at any time of the day. Diners can expect to indulge in delightful bites from noon until 8 PM, making it a flexible dining option for various schedules.
Culinary Talents in Action
At ‘19’, Almeida will take on the role of consulting chef and mastermind behind the restaurant’s inventive menus. He will be joined by chef Anais González, who has previously led the culinary team at El Pellizco in Morro Jable, showcasing Almeida’s commitment to cultivating local talent. Along with a captivating food menu, Almeida has crafted a forward-thinking wine and cocktail list, supported by one of the island’s top bartenders, enhancing the dining experience even further.
A Unique Dining Space
Spanning 350 square meters, ‘19’ boasts various spaces designed to immerse guests in stunning views of the golf course and the majestic Atlantic Ocean. A standout feature is the breathtaking garden, highlighted by a central fountain that complements the establishment’s serene ambiance. Guests can unwind in a covered terrace featuring the cocktails bar, or in a VIP area designed for an exclusive experience. Additional entertainment options include billiards and dart games, along with a cozy smoking room adorned with elegant Chesterfield sofas, providing a perfect setting for relaxation.
Menu Highlights: A Culinary Journey
The menu at ‘19’ serves as a testament to Almeida’s creativity and experience, highlighting dishes that reflect a playful yet sophisticated approach to Canarian and Cuban cuisine. Diners can expect an array of tantalizing options that cater to various tastes:
- Laksa: A traditional Peranakan dish from Singapore, this vibrant shrimp soup is infused with a refreshing mojo verde.
- Homemade Black Canary Nachos: Served with creamy goat cheese sauce and the signature guacamole ‘19’.
- Smoked Goat Cheese Croquettes: Complemented by Fuerteventura’s artisanal tomato jam, these croquettes are a must-try for cheese lovers.
- Creamy Green Burrata Salad: This dish showcases Fuerteventura’s fresh ingredients, featuring a fig vinaigrette, avocado, and toasted cashews, ensuring a delightful mix of flavors and textures.
- Low-Temperature Braised Black Pig Brioche: A culinary masterpiece with a Canarian barbecue sauce and a crunchy rice topping.
- Warm Roasted Eggplant Salad: Served with a zesty tomato sauce, peppers, and shavings of fresh cheese.
- Vegetable Gyozas: Delicately crafted with a hint of green mojo foam and garlic mayonnaise, perfect for a light snack.
- Almogrote Salad: This unique Canarian dish, paired with grilled fish of the day and black mojo, provides a taste of local traditions.
In addition to these stellar offerings, guests can sample delicious skewers featuring tender entrecot with Canarian potatoes, a bao bun stuffed with octopus, and tantalizing shrimp lollipops wrapped in Iberian ham.
The Accompaniments
To further elevate the dining experience, ‘19’ will provide freshly baked sourdough bread, complemented by exquisite green and red aliolis that burst with flavor. This attention to detail ensures that every meal is not just about the dishes themselves but also about the entirety of the experience from start to finish.
At ‘19’, Rigoberto Almeida is poised to continue his culinary revolution across Fuerteventura, promising a remarkable journey for food enthusiasts and casual diners alike. The blend of local ingredients, vibrant hospitality, and an unwavering commitment to flavor is set to make ‘19’ a landmark destination in the diverse landscape of Canarian gastronomy.
