MARIO’S
By Vicki Wheaton
Mario’s, in The Grove, has only been open a number of months, yet there is no question that its interesting approach to dining is a hit.
Rather than an a la carte menu, all food decisions are left up to the chef. and the dishes change daily. It is a set price of $90 plus gratuities for five courses (with an additional amuse-bouche at the start, and sweet surprise at the end of the meal), and accompanying beverages can be a la carte, or there is an excellent wine-pairing option for $90.
“Vegan, vegetarian, gluten-free… we can accommodate a range of requests,” says Alison Bieber, head chef at Mario’s. She notes the restaurant excels at creating dishes to suit specific tastes, provided they are given the information in advance.
Before you even enter the premises, you’ll encounter the aperitif patio, where those with dinner reservations can relax before a meal with a palate opening tipple. Covered in vines, and supporting plant boxes overflowing with homegrown herbs, this is a lovely space reminiscent of European terraces.
The indoor dining area has been thoughtfully laid out, allowing for a maximum of 50 guests, with long lounge seating, intimate booths and comfortable armchairs positioned under soft lighting.
This, coupled with an impressive wine cellar and luxurious bar, makes for decadent and relaxing surroundings. Nothing about dining at Mario’s is rushed. No one is hovering so they can turn your table for the next set of reservations.
Owner Mario (of Tasting Room fame) has very definite ideas of what he wants this restaurant to be, and considering his years of experience in the industry, if anyone knows what works, it’s him.
One night you might indulge in tuna tataki crostini with cucumber pearls or coconut ceviche, followed by other sumptuous delights and flavours leading up to dessert. A salted dark chocolate brownie with a rum granita and hints of chili? Who knows? Only the chef is aware of what delights lie in store.
W: marios.ky
More new businesses to check out…
SEVEN MILE ANIMAL CENTRE
A new veterinary clinic opened its doors in April of this year.
Seven Mile Animal Centre in Marquee Plaza caters to all types of furry and feathered friends. The centre offers state-of-the-art equipment and services, and was designed with fur babies in mind.
There are separate entrances, waiting room areas and exam rooms for dogs, cats and exotic pets, as well as separate cat and dog wards for those staying for longer periods. Dedicated dental and surgery suites are also on site.
Each exam room includes views outside at pet level, and comfy couches and ottomans are used in place of exam tables, while yoga-type mats are used for animals that prefer to be on ground level.
The facility’s flooring was developed in partnership with Canine Arthritis Management specifically for pets to reduce slippage and increase comfort. To reduce stress, there are short waiting times to limit interaction with other unfamiliar animals, and calming music is played throughout the wards.
For sad times, when saying goodbye, a compassion room is provided, as well as a separate door for exiting privately when emotions are running high.
W: 345vets.com
UPSTAGING CAYMAN
For those looking to up the style ante in their homes – whether for personal enjoyment, or in preparation for listing on the real estate market – there is a new option when it comes to professional assistance: Upstaging Cayman.
As an extension of her business Upstaging Limited, located in London in Ontario, Canada, Jillian Summers now provides the same services here in Cayman.
The business offers interior design, decorating and home staging services, with a current focus on staging properties for the real estate market.
She provides owners with in-home consultations, offering them a one hour in-person meeting to help elevate their space.
Jillian has more than 15 years in the industry, with a successful career as designer and stager under her belt, as well as three locations worldwide. She has also been involved with community initiatives like the Dream Lottery homes for London’s hospitals.
CAYMAN E-FOIL
Nearing its first anniversary, Cayman e-Foil offers thrill seekers an exhilarating alternative to traditional watersports.
eFoiling involves riding a surfboard equipped with an electric motor and a hydrofoil. The hydrofoil lifts the board above the water, reducing drag, and providing a sensation of flying over the surface. Riders control propulsion via a wireless remote, making it easy to manage speed and manoeuvrability.
The watersport is accessible for all skill levels, from beginners to seasoned watersports enthusiasts, with a range of options from introductory demonstrations – which all new Cayman eFoil riders must complete – personalised one-on-one lessons, certified rider sessions, and multi-session packages offering one demo and three lessons, or four lessons. Cayman eFoil partners with established foil producers Lift Foils.
POM POM
Hotel Indigo opened its doors in May 2024, and locals and visitors have already been enjoying the new premises through vacations and staycations, pool and beach days, and indulging in multiple dining or drinking venues on site.
One such area is Pom Pom, a rooftop lounge and restaurant which sits at the top of the hotel, offering 180-degree views of Seven Mile Beach and the Caribbean Sea.
Latin-inspired cocktails and small plates are on offer from the extensive menu, as well as live DJs and numerous comfortable areas to lounge and enjoy.
Dress code for visitors is smart island casual, but no swimwear or athletic wear is permitted. Guests must be 18 and older. Open daily 4-10pm, with drinks being served until 12am.
This article originally appeared in the Summer 2024 issue of What’s Hot magazine.
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