Ruinas del Mar

Description:

• A table for two in the Garden of Eden? Dining on the crescent-shaped patio of this romantic restaurant is like spending an hour or two before the fall. Unperturbed by the muffled waterfalls nearby, serene black swans and Japanese koi fish glide through the terrace-side lagoon, while tropical birds in the luxuriant foliage serenade the setting sun. It's an artificial environment -- but in lieu of paradise, it will do. There's nothing fake about the food, though. Start with the shrimp and mango summer roll, chicken and tuna spring roll, or lump crab and potato fritters. The seared shrimp and prosciutto-wrapped sea scallops is a good main course, as is grilled grouper with white bean ragout. Other possibilities include sautéed crispy chicken breast with grain mustard sauce, fork-smashed potatoes, spinach, and asparagus. Key lime pie or apple pie is perfect to top it off. The crowded Sunday brunch is a lavish array of food and includes a carving station, fresh donut maker, and chocolate fondue fountain, as well as fresh bananas Foster, caviar, oysters and more.

• © Frommer's 2012

Awards:

Frommer's

•  Highly Recommended 2010