This could well be the best restaurant in Cozumel. Approaching through the outdoor patio, we walked through one of three open doorways and we were greeted by Manuel and made to feel very welcome, with jazz fusion music softly playing in the background. Manuel offered us a choice of seating, and we took a small booth on the patio where we could sit side by side and enjoy the gentle sea breezes of the evening. We could still hear the soft music from the patio, and enjoyed the view of the large park-like square and the pretty cathedral across from it. Water and drinks were served promptly as we studied the menu, delighted with the possibilities presented to us.
We ordered to share, starting with tapas. First was a yummy dish, six bite-sized sweet potato appetizers wrapped in bacon, with a slightly sweet sauce. Next was an elegantly presented Caprese Salad, with slices of very fresh tomato alternating with delicately fragrant mozzarella presented on a swirl of pesto (which seemed to be worked with a light sprinkle of cheese, very tasty) and complemented by a another swirl of balsamic (which seemed to have a hint of plum sauce. Truly an epicurean delight!
Our next dish was a chicken satay, with eight moist strips of chicken perfectly roasted to a delicate golden brown and appropriately presented on thin wooden skewers with a nicely prepared thai peanut sauce. I think I will be craving the satay again tomorrow. But with our last dish, however, we were completely wowed by the red snapper, presented over lightly braised slices of asparagus, red pepper and carrot, perfectly prepared and accompanied by a light sauce which we believed to be a red wine Basil vinaigrette accompanied by olives, capers and hint of garlic. Although we had fun guessing at all the ingredients, what we experienced was the delightful taste of a very well prepared dish.
Enchanting setting, dishes which outstripped any other we have had on the island (and most we have had in the States), superior service. Chillin is a true gem. read more