This post is also available in:
Spanish
Every once in a while we come across something really nice. Sometimes, we are treated to something exceptional. We are happy to report that we found a place, a mere 15 miles from Casa de Campo resort (or 20 miles from Central Romana), which in short is exceptional, in every respect of the word. Having previously done a mini-review of Tracadero as part of Casa de Campo Living’s press trip to La Romana-Bayahibe, we were pleased to be invited back to complete what we started.
Tracadero is a unique place in Bahayibe which is part restaurant, part country club, part movie set – yet completely fabulous. From the moment you step foot in Tracadero you are transported to an exclusive club on the shore of Porto Fino or St. Tropez. The chic and elegant decorations provide the nautical touches that help set the mood, yet do not detract from a truly exceptional view of the Caribbean sea. From here its easy to understand why the La Romana-Bayahibe area of the Dominican Republic is gaining a strong reputation for being the riviera of the Caribbean.
So what about the food you may be asking by now. In short – devine. As we were invited to come and try a few representative dishes, we were pleasantly surprised that our senses of taste, smell and touch (texture) had been tingled, teased and quite pleased. Our expectations suitably surpassed we allowed ourselves to be enchanted by the freshness of it all. Each dish used the freshest of ingredients, infusing playful touches and unexpected flavors, resulting in unique sensations that we can not only recommend, but will be visiting again soon.
I shall elaborate. The cuisine is clearly Mediterranean, with a distinct Italian influence and an obviously experienced hand running the show behind the scenes. Starting with a fresh, home-baked bread which is brought out with extra virgin olive oil, balsamic vinegar, rock salt and pepper grinder, the scene is set for a palate teasing meal. We got the chance to try a few items, all of which were exquisite!
Ceviche de Chillo – This appetizer was delicious, its freshness bursting in your mouth. Prepared with hints of passion fruit and light touches of citrus, this ceviche was done just right.
Fresh Shrimp Ceviche – Fabulous! This unique dish really set a high standard, with its presentation and aroma. From the second this dish landed in front of me, the aroma ignited my imagination with a mysteriously delicious smoky flavor which we struggled to identify. After some frustrating attempts to identify it, we were informed that in addition to the citrus, fresh avocado, a touch of balsamic vinegar – the magic touch was delivered by something as simple, yet unexpected as an apple. Don’t ask us how, but do take our word that this is a dish that will surly please the pallet.
Fried Calamari – We frequently make light that most restaurants seem to have an overlap in the dishes they serve, so seeing when the plate of fresh fried calamari and shimp arrived, for a moment we may have had our doubts, which quickly dissipated. The freshness of it all was apparent, but the flavor was what you would expect from calamari done right in a small restaurant in Fumiccino. Crispy, light and not at all greasy, this dish will be sure to please anyone who is fond of a crispy seafood treat.
Shrimp Cocktail – Fresh, fresh, fresh! The shrimp cocktail was very fresh. Its a simple dish you’ve had several dozen times, so the freshness of the dish is what most impressed us – a shrimp cocktail done just right.
Turbante de chillo con salsa de pimenton dulce – Fresh chillo wrapped around a couple of fresh shrimp, prepared with a fresh sweet red pepper sauce on a bed of fresh mashed potatoes with hints of garlic, this dish was creative, fun and vibrante.
[nggallery id=252] After such a great meal, there is nothing like being able to relax in the shade by the ocean – maybe taking a dip in their ‘ocean pool’, which is as lovely as it is refreshing and fun. Though there is no proper beach within Tracadero, it is nevertheless an absolutely stunning, relaxed and chic place to enjoy an evening or afternoon, sipping a cold mimosa or refreshing beverage.
We’ve been also informed that on weekends they have a ‘Chilli Beach’ concept which is not unlike an outdoor club (similar, yet smaller, version of the Minitas New Year’s Eve Party). We’ve yet to experience this, but if you have and would care to write a review, we would love to hear from you! Like Lucas or Dom Ham, we know that Tracadero will not only be around for some time to come, but it will soon become a staple for Casa de Campo villas owners, residents and guests alike. Here are some photos of the ‘Chilli Beach’ area – taken during the daytime. I’m sure you’ll agree, it’s absolutely stunning and would no doubt make a fantastic spot to party the night away – we can’t wait to go back!!On a side note, while hard at work, sacrificing ourselves ‘researching’ this unique place for our review, we bumped into a few Casa de Campo villas owners whom have already discovered Tracadero and were returning for more – choosing Tracadero as the place to spend their wedding anniversary! Congratulations Guillermo and Malele Strofer, from all of us at Casa de Campo Living, we wish you the best and many more!
Here are our photos of the Strofer’s enjoying their special family lunch:
[nggallery id=253]
This article was written by Rebecca Hughes, editor of Casa de Campo Living and Casa de Campo’s entertainment specialist! Rebecca Hughes, Editorial and Events Marketing rhughes@casadecampoliving.com TEL: 809-523-2045 CEL: 809-949-8906 BBM: 230DA5D1 Altos de Chavón, Casa de Campo This article was produced exclusively for www.casadecampoliving.com
