March 28, 2025: The Five-Star Experience

Two years ago in Aruba, we stumbled upon a restaurant we'll never forget. 

The drive took half an hour on twisty roads through empty landscapes. We started to worry. Were we lost? 

As darkness fell, our GPS led us to a gravel lot in the middle of nowhere. Just a few cars and lots of trees.

But then, hidden behind lush foliage, we spotted a wooden door marked with the restaurant’s name. We opened it, and BAM!

It was like stepping into Willy Wonka's chocolate factory. Flower-lined path, marble sculptures, the soothing sound of water. Following the walkway, we turned a corner and came face-to-face with a smiling hostess.

She guided us to a private stretch of beach, where a table waited at the water’s edge with white linens and flickering candlelight.

One of the most enchanting meals of our lives.

Today, Jess and I ate lunch on our deck. Sunshine and a perfect breeze. Sure, it wasn’t Aruba, but it still felt magical. No elegant hostess, only a golden retriever begging for scraps. 

Still a five-star experience.