Food Review - La Plancha Del Mar

While any new restaurant in town is cause for celebration, a new restaurant WITH PARKING is especially on our radar.  Thus, when La Plancha Del Mar opened recently in the old China Shack location at the Marketplace, we were sooo on it.  Immediately my husband Tyler (who works at the Marketplace) reported that the Opening Day appetizers (seared diver scallops with prosciutto and succotash, crab croquets with red pepper remoulade) were very promising. We waited a couple of weeks, then three of us descended on the place for dinner. I have to say, we were in heaven.  Salads, appetizers, main courses-all were excellent and well thought out. We honestly can't think of a thing we'd steer you away from.

The distinguishing thing about the menu is that it balances fresh ingredients with spices and sauces that do not overwhelm. Nothing is over-rich, nothing is over-sauced or overprocessed. The basic ingredients shine. The three owners of the restaurant are hands-on and because the kitchen is completely open, you can see how they hustle-and we appreciate that. The service is attentive but relaxed and one of the owners is likely to be your waiter; this virtually guarantees the waiter will know the menu inside out and maybe have a few stories about whatever you're ordering.  The ambience is hip, upbeat, and islandy in a funky way (lighted resin sea urchin bartop).

The menu is well-priced and moderately expensive (entrees are $22-35, small plates are $8-16).  One favorite is the chicken roulade with sun-dried tomato and red pepper romesco, with a Moroccan couscous side ($22). The cheese plate ($9) is a close second, because it's done so well (strawberry papaya mustard with cheese is amazing and complex). Kelly raves about the tiger prawns with manchego and herb polenta ($26).The location is a little off the beaten path, for tourists at least, but we hope more tourists and locals both will find this gem. We need more places like this!  It's very good, it's friendly, and you should go. 

La Plancha del Mar, at the Marketplace, Cruz Bay
Open for dinner Mon. - Sat. 5:30-10 and lunch Mon. - Fri. 11:30-2.
Reservations appreciated (340) 777-7333

Note: The Sun Times policy is to visit a restaurant at least three times before committing to a review. We attend anonymously and do not accept freebies!

March 2009