Icoa, the goddess of water worshipped by the indigenous people of Venezuela's Paria peninsula, was renowned for her exceptional beauty and alluring perfume; innovative Dutch chef Jurgen Wevers crafts food that likewise stimulates all the senses, drawing his own adoring acolytes. The minimalist space (Cubist- and Constructivist-inspired art, IKEA-style simple lines, ornate mosaic floor, and lots of stark Starck-like white) allows his cutting-edge cuisine to take center stage. Taste buds tango to such dishes as lump crab cake with marinated melon salad, basil and yuzu; chicken liver pate with caramelized nuts, golden raisin compote, puffed cereal crisp, and honey; and braised beef short ribs with gremolata (minced garlic, parsley, and lemon peel), roasted potatoes, and saffron-garlic aioli. Fresh baked breads make a meal in themselves. Desserts are remarkable (you can also buy handcrafted chocolates infused with fresh key limes, passion fruit, pineapple, and Cayman honey).
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