When I think of a Greek celebration, I imagine musicians moving around a circle of dancers, smiling faces raising their glasses for a toast and, of course, Mediterranean food.
This past week, Indigo Bay at the Beacon Island Lifestyle Resort hosted a Greek evening filled with music, wine and excellent food. The evening was headlined by the musical brothers, Nico and Peter and they set the tone perfectly for a great night!
We arrived at the restaurant just before sunset; the music was already playing and the room filling up with eager patrons. Our table offered panoramic views of the ocean and waves crashing on the rocks below. We enjoyed our first drinks as the sun slipped below the horizon, colouring the ocean, mountains and sky.
I couldn't help smiling as I looked across the vibrant restaurant; the music, lighting and ambience blending perfectly with the hub of laughter and conversation. It looked and felt like a celebration. And it was: a celebration of family, of good food, music and wine.
Our first course was a Mezze Platter (a selection of Greek dips served with warm pita bread). I love this style of eating - a sample of this and that whilst enjoying a glass of wine and a good laugh. The authentic Greek flavours of chickpea, cucumber and herbs complimented the wine and our table sat in silence for a moment, looking out over the bay as the sun set. The dishes that caught my eye included sizzling steaks, plates piled with prawns and I was very nearly persuaded by a juicy beef espetada. Tempting dishes of ribs, chicken and fish served with fresh veg, rice or chips moved past our table and the decision of what to order was much debated!
In keeping with the Mediterranean theme, we decided on a Seafood Platter. Indigo Bay is a seafood and steakhouse specialising in fresh fish and quality food. The menu boasts a variety of platters including seafood, meat and a combination of both. Our platter was served for the table: prawns, fresh line fish, grilled calamari, baby squid and mussels served in a light lemon-butter sauce with chips, rice and vegetables. The flavours of the sea took centre stage and the food was cooked beautifully, tender and tasty.
While we enjoyed our meal, the music began to take on a new tone, Greek and Mediterranean songs with a festive tempo. The restaurant staff moved about their work while swaying to the beat and diners clapped their hands in time. A couple of patrons moved onto the dance floor to delight in the unique rhythm. The atmosphere was one of relaxed enjoyment; people enjoying each other's company, enjoying their meal and the music.
Indigo Bay's Greek evening was delightful and encompassed everything good about dining out in Plettenberg Bay: quality food prepared with care, conversation, music and wine - all with the Best Views in Plett!
