Dorado Beach, a Ritz-Carlton Reserve is a tropical retreat unlike any other: the historic location, the ocean-facing suites and the spectacular dining scene are unparalleled to many resorts around the world. Home to restaurant outlets presented by legends such as Chef Jose Ballester, a recent trip to the property led me to a culinary adventure at POSI+IVO, where Chef de Cuisine Daniel Franco’s Izakaya experience left me absolutely floored.
Guests are welcomed through a cantilevered entrance over lush palms and local fauna, walking along a boardwalk toward the ocean. A meandering stroll to a pool verandah, the views open up to a sweeping space with crashing surf beyond. One of my favorite aspects of POSI+IVO is the sand flooring area of the restaurant, where you can bury you toes into the sand while enjoying a delectable cocktail and a delicious meal.
The Izakaya experience is limited to six guests, and on the night we decided to indulge, there were only the two of us which made for a very exclusive offering. Tucked around the corner from the main bar, the Omakase Bar is complete with stone countertop and gently swaying fans transport diners to another place altogether. A smiling Chef Franco greets us and dives right into the Izakaya dinner.
“Immerse yourself in a feast of flavors inspired by the neighborhoods of Japan,” the menu tempts “This experience will enliven your senses while traveling through Japanese culture and cuisine.”
The multiple courses do just that, utilizing seasonal, fresh ingredients and fish for 15 different offerings we enjoyed from lobster gyozas to spicy bluefin tuna tartare; hand-broiled Hokkaido scallops with kewpie mayo and parmesan cheese to mouth-watering Buta Tsukune- a kuro buta ground pork skewer with shiso, garlic, onion and a cured egg yolk.
Enjoying the flavors of Asia, Chef Franco’s skill is well on display with the Izakaya experience, his passion sparkling in his piercing blue eyes as he deftly completes course after course while never dropping a beat of the conversation. Beautifully prepared culinary art continues to be presented course after course, each outdoing its predecessor in both unique flavors and picturesque presentations on distinctive stoneware, ceramic dishes, and poised seashells.
I highly recommend the Izakaya experience at POSI+IVO at Dorado Beach, a Ritz-Carlton Reserve as not only a special meal to enjoy, but as a preeminent offering at this incredible property, something both returning and new guests will absolutely relish. For rates and reservations, visit here.
