el kabron - pecatu
the setting
El Kabron (The Goat) is well-named, as the journey required to reach the place takes you through the incredible landscapes of the Jimbaran and Bukit peninsulas, a sparse and rocky environment that is dotted with scrubby, drought resistant flora that is reminiscent of the kinds of places where goats are usually found roaming.
In contrast, El Kabron itself is a suspended oasis that cruises out into the ocean horizon almost seamlessly from the edge of its infinity pool. Heading away from the pool, you’ll find clusters of cushions arranged around low tables and to the sides, seating arranged under the shade of bamboo roofing. The main bar area, and indoor seating for inclement weather, is Spanish in style and is hung with cartwheels and quirky signage. The long bar has stools on which to perch while you introduce yourself to a drinks menu filled with sangrias, beers, wines and cocktails and allow your troubles to melt away.
the food
At El Kabron, tapas dishes, which go perfectly with a red wine sangria or a Spanish beer, are served before or in place of a main course. The tapas choices here include spicy chorizos, Catalan Buttifarra sausage, calamari, prawns, sardines and the ubiquitous potato and onion tortilla. There is also a choice of imported Spanish hams and cheeses that you can order and add to your tapas plate. Diners may then wish to choose the Paella de Marisco, with or without squid ink, which we highly recommend. Apparently, the recipe is so secret that everyone must leave the kitchen while the chef is preparing it. Diners can also select from a menu of simply prepared grilled fish, seafood and meats. The regular dinner menu is supplemented on Thursday with a barbecue grill. If you are not entirely satiated by your main course, then there is also a dessert menu to explore. The Crema Catalana is light and sweet and goes perfectly with a final drink or a creamy coffee.
the unique
Fine dining at El Kabron, in the words of executive chef Marc, is all about flavour, ingredients and relaxation. His philosophy is quite quirky and very Spanish. Who said that in order to enjoy fine dining you must dress like a stiff? Who said that if you want to eat in a relaxed café you must put up with average food? “Who makes these rules?” asks Marc. Throw these ideas away, he suggests, and instead get relaxed, chill out and at the same time experience the most delightful food possible, prepared with an incredible awareness of effect and taste, and simply enjoy yourself.
On our visit, seaweed, beetroot, sliced marinated fish, homemade cheeses with dried berries, a poached egg afloat on a smoked onion soup, citrus mousse with duck, and a roasted lamb shoulder provided us with a feast of contrasting yet complementary flavours that had us savouring every single mouthful with absolute pleasure.
Bookings for flne dining are essential,
as Marc caters speciflcally,
buying only what is best and fresh for his most discerning diners.
El Kabron, Jl, Pantai Cemongkak, Pecatu, Bukit
T: 0361 780 3416
www.chiringuitoelkabron.com
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