When I found out that Aura wouldn’t be opening its doors again I have to admit I was a little disappointed; I loved the al fresco dining experience, the amazing cocktails and the numerous party opportunities that it offered throughout the summer and the proximity to our village was an added bonus. As disappointed as I was, I was equally happy when I later learned that the venue would re-open under the stewardship of Jonathan Thorogood, one of the team behind another island favourite El Chiringuito Es Cavallet and his long-term friend George Lamb. We were lucky enough to get a sneak peek a week or so ago when we were invited tov the chef’s table at SACCA for a menu tasting and while it was far from the completed article it was well on its way. As we head along the San Juan road for the official opening, we can’t help wonder what it will look like.
The car park is packed when we finally turn off the San Juan road, Ibiza does love a good opening party and this one has captured the imagination more than most. The giant illuminated letters on the side of the building are striking as we walk into the reception area and through into the outdoor bar. The first thing that becomes obvious is that the bar has been moved into the centre of the area and the giant sail is no longer there. Booths fill the space vacated by the old bar and there is a long sushi station at the back of the garden. The huge kitchen is open and adds a real visual element to the restaurant; the chef’s table is still at the side, giving those diners a chance of interacting with the chefs, which is a great feature. The opportunity of being the first official diners has not been lost and the reservations have gone through the roof, the new bar is three or four deep all around as everyone gets their first look at SACCA.
Having sort of seen this part of the concept already we are keen to explore the inside area of the club and are not disappointed when we do. The air con is certainly working but the room has a minimal feel, using natural elements to create a very cool area for dancing. Andy Baxter is laying the foundation for a proper Ibiza knees up with some tasty down tempo house as we wander through the room and into the garden area that runs alongside it. The minimal theme continues outdoors but apart from some cosmetic differences, this area is very similar to before, which is great news, it was always a great spot for catching up with people and chilling out. The island has turned out in force to welcome SACCA and there are more than a few celebrities. We’ll keep the names to ourselves but suffice to say, anywhere else in the world there would have been a few heads turning as some of the guest walked past but not Ibiza. They wander amongst the mortals without distinction, free to enjoy their own night out.
Sven Vath has had a great season so far, popping up all over the island to play and he is the headline for tonight’s opening. He casually prepares by sipping coffee with a dash of cognac as the room begins to fill. People are filtering through from the outside bar and the early starters are finishing their dinner. The ENTER.SAKE list has been compiled by Richie Hawtin and is going down a storm and the smell of fresh mint fills the air, mojito clearly the cocktail of choice for the night. Kuro offers the perfect intimate clubbing experience and with the experience of Sven Vath and his bag of vinyl charged with getting the opening off to a flyer, it was only going to go one way. The atmosphere is already vibrant by the time we take our leave, this one could get a little messy, just how we like it. The good news is that those of you who love their trip into the Ibiza countryside for great food and a boogie will not be disappointed. SACCA is a stunning addition to the landscape.
Reservations:
Table
t: (+34) 971 333 555
e: reservations@saccaibiza.com
Kuro
t: (+34) 971 333 555
e: kuro@saccaibiza.com