Romance on the Menu by Susan Campbell Steal away with your significant other to canoodle tête-à-tête at these very special spots. Barefoot in the sand, secreted away inside a sophisticated enclave, or glammed up to the max in a trendy gourmet hot spot, we guarantee you’ll always find romance on the menu at these first-rate dining establishments.
Seaside enchantment in the sand
The only thing more romantic than long walks together on a beautiful beach is dining surfside by tiki torchlight with your bare toes touching in the soft white sand. The soothing sound of gentle waves and the brilliance of the stars in a tropical night sky set the stage for a night to remember forever. Aruba has many beachfront dining options, each with their own individual appeal. And if you reserve early enough in many of these retreats, you’ll also be treated to a spectacular sunset over the sea. For playing footsie under the table with bare toes, Barefoot Aruba offers creative cuisine right on Surfside Beach, and their covered dining area is carpeted in sand – perfect for couples in love. Pureocean at the Divi Aruba Phoenix Resort offers tables on the beach as well, and they have intimate private seaside dining options with their three-course Romance Menu. The Hyatt Regency Aruba has also set aside some tables in the sand for couples seeking intimate beach dining as part of their Pampered in Paradise menu that includes a three-course dinner with champagne. And private palapa dining is very romantic and popular with honeymooners or those seeking to propose. The Old Man & The Sea at Aruba Ocean Villas in Savaneta has one such private palapa pier over the water that will instantly
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attract couples in love. They have tables on their private beach, but it’s a very tiny boutique property, so reserve well in advance to avoid disappointment. Alluring alfresco & heavenly hideaways
If you’d prefer that your sandals and stilettos remain on solid ground but still seek a dining spot close to the sea, Pinchos Grill & Bar is situated on its own sparkling private pier with underwater lights that allow you to see the colorful tropical fish swimming right by your table. Matthew’s Beachside Restaurant at Casa del Mar is mere steps from the surf and affords epic sea view vistas, while the Sunset Grille at the Hilton Aruba is aptly named for its nightly show and seduces couples with gourmet food as well. And now, you’ll find upscale casual fare at the new Allegra Bistro at Courtyard by Marriott Aruba; choose a table by the lovely lit garden facing the ethereal glass wall for the best privacy. If you’re dressed to the nines and seeking an inside escape, then Windows on Aruba offers a classic upscale and sophisticated vibe with a panoramic glassed-in view. But if an indoor, casual, more nautical theme is to your liking, then legendary Driftwood is the place for fresh fish and seafood lovers. And though Aruba is famous for its fresh fish and seafood, couples who are passionate about red meat are more than E
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