We were quite disappointed with our visit, especially considering the high ratings. When we arrived, the atmosphere felt flat and the music was uncomfortably loud for a dinner setting.
Our waitress was kind, but after I told her I was pregnant, she continued to offer me alcoholic drinks all evening, which felt careless.
We loved the starter — the corn empanadas with cheese and truffle foam were excellent, and they set the bar high. The cocktails were tasty but very sweet and so filled with ice that they were finished in just a few sips.
Unfortunately, the main course was a letdown. The only vegetarian option was the carrot risotto, which I chose because it was also the only dish I could eat while pregnant. The risotto was overcooked and oddly seasoned with something like curry powder, giving it more of an Indian than Italian flavor. The carrots were mushy and sour, and the promised feta turned out to be just a few crumbs. It felt like an imbalanced dish with no real protein. My friend finished hers out of hunger, but I couldn’t bring myself to eat more than half.
We decided to try dessert. The French toast was okay, and the “chocolate in textures” had some interesting elements, but the flavors clashed. Some parts were very salty, others smoky, bitter, or overly sweet. The brownie pieces were a bit stale, but the cookie crumbs were good.
It was hard to get the attention of the staff toward the end. No one asked if we wanted another drink, and when I said I didn’t like the main course, the response was just, “oh, okay.” No follow-up, no offer to change anything or inform the kitchen.
It felt like the chef was trying to be creative, but the flavor combinations just didn’t work. A disappointing...
Read moreShamarkanda offers an exquisite culinary experience that transcends the typical island fare, effortlessly combining a relaxed, garden setting with a menu that delights in its creativity.
Seated outdoors amidst a lush Ibiza-style garden, we were immediately struck by the attentive yet unhurried service—a rare balance that allowed us to truly savor the moment. The background music, a subtle complement, set the perfect tone for an evening that felt both special and comfortable.
The meal itself was a journey of unexpected flavors. We began with the humus, moved to a Peruvian-inspired potato dish, and rounded off with a richly textured risotto. Each dish was an exploration of unique, contrasting flavors that harmonized beautifully. The waiter’s mention of the chef’s "twinkle in his eyes" was not just poetic but accurate; the passion in the kitchen was evident in every bite. We could taste the love, the thoughtfulness, and the precision behind each plate.
The dessert—a seemingly unassuming French toast—surprised us yet again, defying our expectations with its inventive twist. Paired with coffee, the meal felt complete in the most satisfying way. For 77 euros, including tip, coffee, and water, the value was more than reasonable for such an unforgettable dining experience.
Shamarkanda’s charm extends beyond its culinary excellence. It’s welcoming to singles, couples, and families, and even offers a pet-friendly option when seated outdoors. Whether you're seeking a tranquil evening or a flavorful adventure, Shamarkanda delivers on every front. Highly recommended, and without a doubt,...
Read moreThe food was seriously Creative and different. Nonetheless I give it 4 stars, there is not much room left for change to the dishes. Also the portions were very slim. And also because the table service is so good and detailed, it tops the food. Creativity a 5 star though. 1 star down as I called twice in the afternoon to confirm my table for 3, it was my wifes birthday. When I arrived they gave away our table and we were not on the list, leaving us with a table outside of the mid area I wanted to eat.
I ate the sushi - splendid roll, full, tasty and the vigs made it very surprising.
I ate the tartar - superb taste but I found it a shame the tartare was topped of with a show cone of parmezan. I like my Tartare and the structure visible. A Tartare is about seeing and tasting raw tastiness.
Steak sirloin with truffle potato mash - Yes, seriously well prepared, requested cuson and the truffle potato mash was not to strong but a good addition to the Meat.
Chicken taco's - fantastic, small but enough for 1 person.
Cheesecake - never had a classic cheesecake taste as much like cheese as this one, very strong taste on its own and needs to be eaten in combination with the curd/ sauce to tickle the senses and make it complimentary.
Overall great fusion kitchen. But have a look you love the combination of the platters before you go as all combined flavours make the dishes complete.
The service was on top of their game, at the end a little bit of slack! Push through till the end. Ambiance is top notch. Seriously pretty and cozy...
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