Why K23?
Not many people plan a trip to a foreign country around the cuisine they may encounter. Most people think of activities and landmarks. Or even geographic location, like being close to the beach, lake or mountains. For me, I’d be happy going from one food stop to another. I’m thinking about the next meal (or snack) before I finish my current one. Yeah, I’m that person.
So, I came to the Nickelodeon Hotels and Resorts in Punta Cana, Dominican Republic. Why? Because Karisma creates their resorts known for a high level of excellent and diverse cuisine. This resort had more than enough options. This included their most “fancy” restaurant, K23 (Kitchen 23).
A Little Background
K23 was designed around the Le Chique model of fine dining. You’ll find Le Chique at the Azul Sensatori Resort in Cancun, Mexico. This restaurant is known for its eclectic and large menu. Each small dish showcases an art of food preparation. The many small courses turn eating into an experience like no other.
K23 is basked in white and gold, with comfy white cushions and modern fixtures. The kitchen is open to the dining area for diners to get a peek into how the dishes are made. There is no printed menu for K23. The chef changes the options to keep everything fresh and new.
The Dining Experience
Each food and drink presented to you comes with a detailed explanation from the wait staff. For the foodie in me, this seals the deal. I love knowing more about any new cuisine. The restaurant presents each dish with an artistic flair.
After being shown to your table, you will be presented with an aperitif. I would liken this drink to a creamy lemon soda. The sugar-rimmed glass adds just the right amount of sweet. After this, you will try some tasty appetizers, savory main dishes, and creative desserts.
On to the Next One
I have to admit that I thought the smaller dishes wouldn’t be enough food. This couldn’t have been more wrong. I lost count of the number of courses to this meal. The following dishes stood out to me, based more on my own food preferences.
Start with two tasty appetizers.
- Potato ball filled with seasoned beef
- Shrimp ceviche with a cream sauce
Move on to more hearty entrees.
- Pork belly with plantains and tortilla crisps
- Onion stuffed with shredded beef
Finish with something sweet.
- Pineapple granita with cream
- Sample of chocolates and cookies
Delicious Additions
If you’re in the mood for wine or other drink options, there are a few sample menus, for an extra cost. Each provides well-chosen additions to pair with the K23 cuisine. I opted for one with some of my favorites, from Spain, France and Napa Valley, California.
If you like a coffee to sit and relax, try their macchiato. It has just the right amount of sweetness to play off the variety of treats for your final course.
Final Thoughts
Even if you’re not a foodie, you can appreciate what K23 has done. There is something for everyone here. If you are adventurous and willing to be surprised, this is the place for you. The executive chef, Dayleny Dominguez, has done a great job continuing the tradition of Le Chique’s fine dining.
If you’re interested in seeing more of the restaurants the Nickelodeon Hotels and Resorts in Punta Cana have be sure to check out the previous post: Culinary Adventures at a Nickelodeon Resort.