St. Maarten, known for its turquoise waters and exquisite landscapes, offers visitors a wealth of experiences to enjoy. Recently, I had the opportunity to revisit this mesmerizing island and stay at the Sonesta Resort. While the resort itself boasts many attractions, including its family-friendly accommodations, it was the adults-only Ocean Point property that drew my attention. At Ocean Point, one can find a collection of remarkable on-site restaurants, each offering a unique and unforgettable dining experience. Among these, Portofino, a seafood-forward, Italian-inspired establishment, stands out as a true gastronomic gem. Let me take you on a culinary journey through my experience at Portofino.
Upon entering Portofino, one is immediately captivated by its idyllic location along the coastline of Maho Bay. The open-air seating allows guests to savor their meals while enjoying the breathtaking views. My partner and I began this unforgettable dining experience with a perfectly crafted gin martini. Accompanying our pre-dinner drink was the Original Caprese Salad, a delightful combination of creamy buffalo mozzarella, fresh tomato slices, pesto, and a tantalizing oregano balsamic reduction. This appetizer course was a true testament to the quality and attention to detail that Portofino strives to provide.
The menu at Portofino is divided into five courses, each offering a carefully curated selection of dishes. As we delved into the first course, we were presented with Clams and Vegetable Soup drizzled with pesto oil. Its flavors danced harmoniously, showcasing the restaurant’s dedication to combining fresh ingredients and culinary expertise. To complement the soup, we indulged in a bottle of Domaine Jean Durup Petit Chablis, a wine that enhanced the sensory experience.
Portofino’s main course menu is divided into two sections: pasta and meat. The pasta options were enticing, with offerings such as Lasagna Bolognese, Milano Spaghetti with Meatballs, and Ricotta Spinach Ravioli. On the meat side, tantalizing options included Rack of Lamb with Rosemary Sauce, Parmesan Chicken, and Salmon Carbonara. In a unanimous decision, my partner and I both opted for the Tagliatelle Fruitti di Mare, a dish expertly prepared with scallops, calamari, shrimp, and black mussels cooked in a flavorful white wine, garlic, onion, and Napolitano sauce. While we anticipated the seafood stealing the spotlight, it was the homemade pasta that truly shone. The hand-pulled noodles were perfectly al dente, serving as the ideal canvas for the delicate, slightly sweet seafood sauce. It was a marriage of flavors that left a lasting impression.
No exceptional meal is complete without a sweet ending. After much contemplation, we chose the tiramisu as our dessert. This exquisite creation featured layers of coffee liquor-infused mascarpone cheese, topped with a drizzle of berry coulis. The combination of flavors and textures was the perfect finale to an extraordinary dining experience at Portofino.
Regrettably, many resort restaurants are forgettable when it comes to their culinary offerings. However, Portofino defies expectations and delivers an exceptional dining experience that lingers long after the meal has been enjoyed. From the breathtaking location to the meticulously crafted dishes, every aspect of this Italian-inspired seafood restaurant is deserving of the highest praise. If you find yourself in St. Maarten, be sure to make a reservation at Portofino and allow yourself to be transported to a world of culinary delights.