Anniversary: Part Three: Aiyanna Ibiza & Restaurante Port Balansat

After Las Dalias sent our senses into overdrive. It was only right to have a more relaxed plan for the next day. I couldn’t believe that we were already on our second day. We haven’t even scratched the surface!

But we must make the most of our time here, and today we wanted to check out a couple of places. Our first stop is Aiyanna Beach Bar in Cala Nova, just about 10 minutes drive from our hotel at Aguas De Ibiza.

Aiyanna Beach Bar

A stunning new beach club in San Carlos opened its door this year. Nestled in the cove of Cala Nova, my first impression of Aiyanna was definitely love at first sight. I had a fair idea of what a perfect beach bar should look like, and Aiyanna comes very close to my version perfection.

The bar is slightly elevated overlooking the beach, with seatings on different levels. Maintaining the boho and hippy vibe, this beautiful little oasis is made from natural materials blends in directly with its surroundings.

As we already had plans to go somewhere else for lunch, I can’t comment on the food. But their menu looked awesome. Aiyanna offers a fusion of Eastern and traditional Mediterranean cuisine, with ingredients sourced from their own organic garden. They also have a food truck that serves fresh juices and freshly prepared snacks with options to eat in or take away.

We visited during the second week of October, so we missed out on the summer events. During the peak season, Aiyanna also offer a program of activities. Such as early morning yoga, live music and art exhibitions.

Aiyanna is, in short, a place for people who are looking for a relaxed ambience. It’s child friendly, the cocktails are great, staff are very attentive and of course the view, simply amazing!

Restaurante Port Balansat

Feeling a little happier after those cocktails, we headed to the other side of the island to Port De San Miquel. The great thing about Ibiza is how quickly we got from one side of the island to the other. And within 30 minutes we arrived at Restaurante Port Balansat.

A friend of ours who had lived in Ibiza recommended Port Balansat as one of the best places to try Bullit De Peix. You know, I’m not the type to refuse any kind of food, and the thought of a traditional fish dish sounds very appealing!

Bullit de Peix

Bullit de Peix is a typical dish that’s is enjoyed in Ibiza and Formentera. It’s a traditional fish stew composed of monkfish, grouper and rotja that’s commonly found in the islands.

The fish is boiled with spices to compose a rich broth that also goes towards in making the arroz a banda (I’ll explain this later). Potatoes and vegetables are also added to the fish, soaking up these party of flavours, before serving the dish covered with sauce made of alioli.

As we waited for our food, the restaurant filled up with Spaniards and their families. We heard ‘Bullit De Peix’ repeatedly ordered from the tables. A good sign so far and we couldn’t wait to try it!

The fish is served on a large plate apparently enough for two people. But honestly, the portion was so big that I think it can serve around 3-4!

My husband and I tucked in, impressed by the large pieces of fish that just melts in your mouth. The garlicky but not overpowering creamy sauce goes very well with the fish. I could say that this is probably one of the best fish dish that I’ve tried in Spain.

It’s also traditional that Bullit De Peix is followed with rice. After the initial struggle of finishing our first course along came a large paella pan of arroz a banda to finish us off.

Arroz a banda means ‘rice on the side’, it’s cooked with the left over fish broth and small pieces of cuttlefish and shrimps. The rice is customarily eaten straight from the pan, but you can also ask for a plate if you prefer.

As seafood lovers, we thoroughly enjoyed this meal. It was more than enough, and we really struggled to finish both dishes!

The restaurant is situated in a cove, surrounded by lush pine-covered cliffs overlooking the crystalline beach of San Miquel. So, not being able to move after that feast is not such a bad thing. And during this time of the year, we were able to enjoy the views without a mass of people and sunbathers!

This will not be the last time we visit Port Balansat, their impressive seafood menu is something I would love to try on our next visit. For €33 per head (minimum of 2 people) you get a lot. It’s a small price to pay for amazing food, excellent service and of course the beautiful location.