Gasparito

Gasparito is a quaint, cozy gem of a restaurant in Aruba. After a somewhat disappointing dinner at Driftwood, which was crowded and noisy, we were pleasantly surprised when we dined at Gasparito the next night. The staff was friendly and attentive, the food was excellent, the portions generous (we had no room for dessert, unfortunately) and the atmosphere simply charming. We ate outdoors where we felt like we were having dinner in a friend's backyard patio. It's a little hard to find as it looks like a cunucu house set back a little from the street. Definitely worth it when you find it, though!

Over the past 12 years we have visited Aruba 10 times and Gasprito is by far our favourite dining experience -- in fact -- we consider it in the top 5 of our dining places in the world! Imagine our dismay however when we learned that Gladys, the owner, had sold in 2002. Our fears dissipated however when we were met with hugs by Henry and Elvina.

WE dined al fresco twice during our week -- Mar 29,Apr 2/04. Although I'm sure everything on the menu is exceptional, our favourite appitizers are escargot (perfect combination of garlic and cheese)Aruban fish soup (superb)and thepiece de resistance,the ragout(seafood chunks in a rich cream sauce served in a puff pastry). Mains we tried this time included the shrimp thermador(extraordinary) and, believe it or not, goat stew(tender and tasty in a tomato based sauce).

As a special treat after the meal ask our newest server friend Jorge for a Chocolate Kiss -- his award winning drink -- it's incredible.

My wife is an executive chef and her description of Gasparito cuisine is that "it's to die for". Nuff said.

We first visited Gasparito's in 2002 and had an excellent meal.
This year was no exception. Our group included 6 couples. The shrimp with coconut sauce was very good! Our table was outdoors with a view of the lovely flowers growing on a trellis. If we return to Aruba we plan on visiting Gasparito's again

Not impressed. Gasparito Chicken was ok, but nothing to rave about,French onion soup below average. Ravioli was excellent.

Like Amy and her husband, this is our favorite restaurant in Aruba.

Always our first night and last night's dinner, when we arrive here to be greeted by Elvina and Henri, we know we have arrived at our home away from home. With their great service and "Cook's" great food,this is a fabulous restaurant.

HIGHLY recommend the Pasta with Mushroom Sauce, Filet Mignon, Keshi Yena and any seafood dish!

We have also acquired 7 pieces of artwork on our various trips, just an added bonus :->)

An extremely "warm and cozy" island restaurant. If you are into food and art this is a place that will keep your interest.

This is our all-time favorite restaurant on the island because they serve Aruban dishes (Keshi-Yena) and they have the BEST service (we see the same wait staff every year.)

You can dine indoors (A/C) or outdoors on the patio.

Highlights on the menu are the Keshi-Yena (either seafood or chicken baked with Gouda cheese) and the Keri-Keri appetizer (ravioli stuffed with shredded barracuda in a red bell pepper sauce.)

Hats off to Gladys, Henry, and Elvina for a wonderful dining experience every year!