There is no Je ne sais quoi when it comes to Monkey Ibiza. With its privileged position on the San Antonio sunset promenade, sparkling seafront views, and Mediterranean restaurant with a Parisian twist, it's abundantly clear exactly what makes this place so special.
Now well-established as a super-cool and sophisticated dining location, Monkey delivers the French finesse that’s long been desired by San Antonio.
You may think all this is enough, but no. Monkey has even more up its sleeve. Gaze up from the lower terrace deck and you’ll notice the extra cherry on the cake: a doorway to a night of pure delight and decadence.
Cabaret Sauvages’ Velvet Lies is this summer's hottest show. Filled with fantasy, glamour, and huge helpings of drama, its Neo-Burlesque-style cabaret is an all-encompassing journey into the temptation of love and heartache.
IMAGES: Leopard print sofas and people seated
With a glass of fizz in hand - a welcome treat for guests on arrival - we entered the showroom ready to take our seats. Red lights shone over the leopard print decor, tassled at every turn for that extra layer of glamour. With all the feels of a glitzy back-street boudoir, the scene had already been set for the intimate night ahead.
IMAGE OF DANCERS
Our first glass of wine had barely been sipped before the first love story began to unfold before us. Twisting and twirling between tables, the lovers danced the salsa, as their relationship played out upon the dancefloor. Hips swayed and eyes gazed deeply; we were transfixed.
A welcome reprieve came in the shape of Christina Aguilera - or her body double - as Ain’t No Other Man rang out from the microphone, filling every corner of the club. A Beyoncé mega-mix was next, which my colleagues and I, along with every other table, shrieked along in unison to. Thank goodness the microphone stayed with the professionals.
IMAGES OF FOOD AND VENUE
Distracted us briefly from the glittering sequins, our selection of delicious dishes arrived. The stars of the show, a fire-roasted and meaty eggplant, with creamy tahini sauce and crunchy pomegranate seeds that burst at every bite. The Trio de Mezze, a selection of all equally delicious dips with warm pitta bread, was a real treat and fought over until the last bite.
For our main course, we devoured the Crispy chicken, labne, with dates and almonds; a creamy delight. The perfect partner, a rich, red wine-infused Shakshuka, with a dippy egg. More pitta bread, please!
IMAGE OF WOMEN ON MOON
Between mouthfuls, dancers paraded through the tables and demanded our eager attention from the stage. Swirling on moon beams whilst belting out sultry numbers certainly takes some skill, but these guys and girls are true performers.
Every corner of the intimate venue was at play, turning the restaurant into a theatre that captivated its audience. Drawn in by the love stories or sing-along tracks, it was hard to remember we weren’t part of the show ourselves.
IMAGES SPARKLERS
Don’t think you’ll simply remain an observer; sparklers and shots of homemade passion fruit liqueur ensure you’re fully involved. Did we need to say yes to the third offering? At the time, it was hard to resist, but our sore heads told another story the next morning.
IMAGE SHOW/RESTAURANT
The magic unfolds every Friday throughout the summer. Beginning at 21:30, you’re welcomed by a glass of Cava before making your selection from the à la carte dinner menu. Then allow the decadent drama to unfold around you. This winning combination of the razzle-dazzle and haute cuisine makes for an unforgettable evening.
