Named after a geologic era of abundance and transformation, Ordovician was built with a vision to create opportunity in one of Panama’s most naturally beautiful, yet historically overlooked regions. The resort is redefining purpose-driven travel, offering guests a high-end escape that directly supports local people, culture, and progress.

A VISION ROOTED IN PURPOSE

Once known as Bananas Village Resort, the property has been completely reimagined by Rick and Loan Hill, a husband-and-wife team whose successful tech careers in Silicon Valley ultimately led them to something more meaningful. Rather than walk away, they chose to build forward, creating a resort model rooted in purpose, impact, and long-term community investment.

“Ordovician isn’t just a resort, it’s a commitment to the people of this region,” said Loan Hill, co-founder and owner of Ordovician Beach Resort. “Our goal has always been to help shine a light on an area that’s long been overlooked, not by changing it, but by investing in what already makes it so special. This place boasts a rich history, vibrant culture, exceptional talent, and breathtaking beauty in every direction. We’re here to help it thrive.”

Built immediately after the pandemic, with 95 percent local labor, the resort employed over 300 full-time staff to bring the owners’ vision to life. It will soon launch a foundation to fund education, infrastructure, and wellness initiatives across nearby communities.

WHAT SETS ORDOVICIAN BEACH RESORT APART

• The only resort in the area with a private beach, offering calm Caribbean waters, rainforest trails, and total seclusion.

• First overwater bungalows in Costa Arriba, Colón, with private decks, floor-to-ceiling sea views, and direct ocean access.

• Direct access to nearby islands, including curated day trips to the stunning San Blas Islands.

• VIP arrivals, including boat transfers and private helicopter service via a new on-site helipad.

• A complete rebuild, constructed using 95 percent local labor and a 100 percent regional hiring model, now employs over 100 full-time staff, many of whom are from surrounding communities.

CULINARY EXCELLENCE, GARDEN TO TABLE

Ordovician’s immersive garden-to-table culinary program is led by Executive Chef Stiven Hernandez, emphasizing freshness, simplicity, and local connection with more than 90 percent of exotic produce grown on-site in the resort’s organic garden. Every dish reflects freshness, simplicity, and local connection, from exotic vegetables to fragrant herbs, shaping a truly place-based dining experience.

Signature venues include: 

• The Shell Bistro – A vibrant all-day venue offering colorful breakfast and lunch dishes that fuse bold Panamanian flavors with global influences.

• El Acuario – An elegant dining destination where Japanese, Vietnamese, Caribbean, and Panamanian cuisines come together in refined, flavor-forward combinations.

• Rick’s Café Americain – A breezy over-the-water tapas bar where guests enjoy gourmet tapas-style plates, inventive cocktails, and relaxed coastal vibes.

WELLNESS, NATURE & CULTURE COMBINED

• Elevated wellness offerings include cryotherapy, an overwater yoga studio, sauna, and personalized spa treatments, all within a car-free(pollution-free), coastal sanctuary that creates an uninterrupted, relaxing oasis free from noise and light pollution for ultimate relaxation.

• Adventure with elegance through curated, concierge-led experiences: snorkeling mangroves, island-hopping, wildlife encounters, private picnics, guided Panama Canal tours, historic explorations of Portobelo Spanish Fort, and offshore sport fishing.

• A luxury Dive Center opens in September 2025, specializing in warm-water dives with curated excursions to coral reefs, caves, and historic shipwrecks.

A FAMILY ENTERPRISE WITH GLOBAL VISION

Ordovician is more than a destination – it’s a mission in progress. Since breaking ground in June 2022, the resort has created jobs, provided skills training, and served daily meals to hundreds of local workers. Plans include building a school and sports complex to further empower the region’s youth and support long-term growth.

REDISCOVERING PANAMA

Panama continues to attract global interest for its biodiversity, cultural diversity, and accessibility. However, the Caribbean coast, particularly the Costa Arriba region of Colón, remains one of its hidden gems. Ordovician Beach Resort introduces fresh vitality and increased attention to this remarkable area, positioning it as the upcoming top destination for discerning travelers.

“Panama has always had the potential to be a world-class destination, and now people are starting to see it,” said Rick Hill, co-founder and owner of Ordovician Beach Resort. “We want guests to say, ‘I’m going to Panama because I want to stay at Ordovician.’ That’s the vision, to create something so special it elevates the entire region.”

With its blend of refined design, cultural integrity, and community-rooted hospitality, Ordovician offers a boutique beach escape unlike anything else on Panama’s Caribbean coast. It’s more than a place to stay, it’s a place to connect, reflect, and be part of something meaningful. Designed for travelers who seek both luxury and purpose, Ordovician is poised to become a defining destination in the region’s next chapter.

For more information and reservations, please visit www.ordovicianbeachresort.com and follow the resort on Instagram at @ordovicianbeachresort.

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Korčula: A Tapestry of History, Cuisine, and Elegance

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Madrid’s most dynamic neighborhoods are within an arm’s reach. Chueca, Huertas, and Malasaña each have a distinct vibe and energy. Whether you’re in the mood to browse designer boutiques along the Gran Vía or spend the day immersed in masterpieces at the Prado and the Thyssen-Bornemisza, everything feels close at hand.

Contemporary Design Meets Historic Roots

Originally opened in 1956 and given a sleek 2016 refresh, this five-star gem blends modern design with historic charm. Notable guests have graced the building over the decades, most famously Ernest Hemingway, who frequently enjoyed cocktails here during his time in Madrid. Even with interiors that are now modern and refined, a sense of legacy is still woven into the place. You can almost picture him sitting at the bar.

The hotel’s 123 rooms and suites have a minimalist aesthetic, with neutral tones, hardwood floors, and bold, big black-and-white photography behind the beds. Guests will find modern comforts like flat-screen TVs, free Wi-Fi, Nespresso machines, kettles, and well-stocked minibars. 

Many rooms offer stunning skyline views of Madrid, and if you feel like splurging, some of the premium and Junior suites include spacious private terraces. Bathrooms are large and thoughtfully designed, featuring both bathtubs and walk-in rainfall showers, NH-branded toiletries, and powerful Black Mambo hairdryers.

Culinary Delights, Rooftop Views, and a Secret Spot for a Nightcap

Just off the main entrance, the Lobby Bar at Casa Suecia offers an inviting all-day escape. With its large windows, warm colonial-inspired décor, and relaxed atmosphere, it’s the kind of spot you could settle into morning, noon, or night. Light breakfasts transition to afternoon bites, then curated cocktails and tapas plates crafted from high-quality, locally sourced ingredients. Don’t miss the truffled grilled cheese, it’s a standout. Whether you’re craving a well-pulled espresso, a mid-day snack, or a low-key evening drink, the Lobby Bar delivers every time.

Casa Suecia, the hotel’s main restaurant, serves a Mediterranean-influenced menu in a space that feels more like a stylish neighborhood favorite than your typical hotel dining room. Mornings begin with a generous buffet featuring everything from freshly sliced Spanish jamón and classic Spanish omelets to an array of Iberian meats, house-made pastries, pressed juices, and plenty of gluten-free options.

Evening brings transformation as Casa Suecia shifts into a warm, buzzy dinner spot. But insiders know there’s more to discover. Excuse yourself “to use the restroom,” and you might just stumble upon Clandestino, the hotel’s hidden bar. Tucked behind a discreet door in the corridor, this sultry hideaway invites you to settle into plush red velvet banquettes or slip into the cheetah-print-draped back room. Anchoring the space is a striking wooden bar, said to be salvaged from a cathedral in France, adding a note of grandeur to the moody ambiance.

For a change of scenery, head upstairs to Ático, the hotel’s rooftop bar. Spread across two levels, it draws a chic local crowd for sunset cocktails and panoramic views over the Madrid skyline. Try the RoofTOP Spritz or a White Negroni. On weekends, it transforms into one of the city’s most talked-about brunch scenes, with tall glasses of ice-cold Cava, croquetas, Spanish charcuterie, platters of seafood, and a DJ spinning the kind of tunes that might just get you dancing.

Wellness and Relaxation

While the hotel doesn’t feature a full-service spa, it does have a well-equipped fitness center for guests who want to maintain their workout routine while traveling. For those seeking relaxation, in-room massages can be easily arranged through the concierge or the hotel’s StayApp. It’s a convenient, no-hassle option. Simply wait for a knock at the door, and a professional therapist will arrive to help you unwind on your schedule.

Written By: Dana Freeman

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At the center of the kitchen is a custom-built wood-burning grill that delivers deep, smoky flavor to Porters signature steaks and seafood. Cuts of premium beef, including USDA Prime and locally raised Wagyu, are seared to perfection over mesquite and oak. Fresh seafood, house-made sides, and farm-fresh vegetables round out a menu that is both comforting and sophisticated. The culinary team balances bold Texas flavors with seasonal ingredients, offering a menu that is dynamic while still rooted in tradition.

The restaurant’s interior is thoughtfully designed, blending rustic charm with modern elegance. Rich wood accents, leather seating, and soft ambient lighting create an inviting space that’s perfect for everything from intimate dinners to corporate events. Whether guests are stopping by for a casual meal or a special celebration, the atmosphere is both relaxed and refined. Hand-crafted cocktails and an award-winning wine list enhance the experience, offering a diverse selection of pairings to complement every dish on the menu.

Porters is more than just a dining room—it’s an experience. The restaurant features two private dining rooms for special occasions or business meetings, as well as the Butcher Room, an exclusive space perfect for hosting unforgettable events. These options make Porters a favorite for celebrations, Aggie Ring Days, and private gatherings of all kinds.

Whether you’re visiting for a weekend brunch, a business lunch, or a celebratory dinner, Porters Dining + Bar offers an unmatched combination of flavor, ambiance, and service. It’s where classic Texas hospitality meets culinary innovation—right in the heart of Aggieland.

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Global Fusion & Cultural Crossroads

Opened in April, Meski delivers an avant-garde diasporic concept, reimagining contemporary Afro-Latin cuisine through an Ethiopian lens. Co-founded by NBA Champion Draymond Green, restaurateur Guma Fassil, and Top Chef’s Nelson German, the restaurant offers an elevated yet soulful take on diasporic cuisine. Meski features lush interiors inspired by Black Girls Green House and a cocktail program as adventurous as the menu.

Modí is a new inventive Mexican-Italian fusion restaurant, where “the Mediterranean Sea meets the Caribbean Sea, the forest meets the Tropical Jungle, and the intriguing flavors of Mexico meet the classic ones of Italy.”

Morella, San Francisco’s first Argentinian-Italian restaurant, celebrates the gastronomic influences that immigrants from European countries, particularly Spain and Italy, had on Argentinian cuisine in the decades following the mass migrations at the turn of the 20th century. Morella features traditional empanadas, wood-smoked meats, pastas and internationally inspired drinks — all meant to be enjoyed in the bright, convivial space.

Outta Sight Pizza II from Mister Jiu’s alumni Peter Dorrance and Eric Ehler serves classics and fusion by the slice in its new Chinatown location. Toppings range from Peking duck to tandoori butter masala on crisp, chewy granny or crisp standard slices.

Bombay Brasserie takes diners on a journey through India’s culinary landscape, from the aromatic spices of the North to the coastal flavors of the South, all meticulously crafted with a French twist under Executive Chef Thomas George

Newcomers & Fan Favorites

After 14 memorable years on Sacramento Street, Chef Tyler Florence’s first Bay Area restaurant, the iconic Wayfare Tavern, relocated to a larger two-story building in the Financial District this April. The upgraded space features a reimagined design inspired by the splendor of San Francisco’s rich culinary history and retains the restaurant’s Barbary Coast character.

There’s an OG Chef Cast at Foreign Cinema, a Mission District icon itself. The restaurant is hosting a five-night guest chef series saluting icons of San Francisco’s culinary history. Upcoming events feature legendary chefs Bruce Hill (Bix, Zero Zero) on May 8, Jeremiah Tower (Stars) on September 25, and Cowgirl Creamery on October 16. The series showcases collaborative menus, curated cocktails and wines and the chefs’ cookbooks.

A new entry to the Mission’s dining and drinking scene is Bar Brucato, from Brucato Amaro’s founders James and Sierra Clark. The venue—housing a distillery, tasting room, and restaurant– features Brucato Amaro’s complete line of liqueurs and a menu of California-Mediterranean cuisine. Distillery tours can be booked on Fridays and Saturdays, as well as feature tastings of upcoming releases of Brucato’s modern amaros and liqueurs native to California.

Merchant Roots moved from a small location to one with five times the space (4,500 square feet) last year, yet it still serves only 12 people per seating. Chef/owner Ryan Shelton remains true to his vision of intimate, fully immersive conceptual meals. Four quarterly-changing menus feature meticulously curated food and beverage pairings and music, lighting, and décor to match. His summer experiential tasting features a 14-course savory and sweet menu themed “Sleepover – Bedtime Stories and Nursery Rhymes.”

Big Finish, a new laidback wine tavern in the Mission District, is pouring 48 taps from around the world and serving elevated bar food. Glasses of wine are priced from $9 to $12.

Altamirano by Chef Carlos Altamirano celebrates the rich Peruvian culture while incorporating local California produce for a contemporary twist, bold flavors and unique preparations. The restaurant is in NOPA (north of the Panhandle) and features an outdoor dining courtyard with a fire pit, ample seating, and a bar.

Chef Bradley Kilgore opened his first San Francisco restaurants, Café Sebastian and Mad Lab Gelato & Kakigori, at the historic Transamerica Redwood Park. Next up at the Transamerica Pyramid Center is Kilgore’s fine-dining Ama.

Longtime Dogpatch favorite Piccino opened a second location in the Presidio at the Letterman Digital Arts Center. The seasonally driven menu includes antipasti, hand-tossed pizza, homemade pasta, and a selection of entrees, craft cocktails and wine—ingredients sourced from Piccino’s Healdsburg farm and the Organic Garden at Skywalker Ranch.

Miguel Escobedo, the chef and founder of Al Pastor Papi, opened a pop-up location in April in San Francisco’s historic Union Square. Known for its authentic Mexico City-style al pastor, Al Pastor Papi has garnered a devoted following since its inception in 2018.

Top Chef’s Tu David Phu debuted GiGi’s, a Vietnamese wine bar featuring a menu that includes standout banh mi and wagyu hot dogs.

Fifty Vara, a neighborhood kitchen and bar serving creative takes on San Francisco cuisine, opened in the Outer Sunset. Complementing the creative menu is a rotating selection of house-brewed beers enjoyed in a fresh, coastal atmosphere that reflects the neighborhood’s connection to nature.

French is more than the flavor of the month in San Francisco. Michelin-starred chef Bruno Chemel opened Le Parc Bistrobar in the Galleria Park Hotel near Union Square, bringing a taste of Paris to the city. Other French venues that recently opened include Caché in the Inner Sunset, whose chef hails from a two-star Michelin restaurant in Bordeaux; Michael and Lindsay Tusk’s chic Verjus, styled as a cave à manger; and Galinette, a beach bistro in the Outer Sunset.

The second location of Little Original Joe’s in the Marina has drawn crowds since its opening in 2024. The restaurant and bar serve elevated casual Italian American food.

Cheezy’s Artisan Pizza opened at food hall Saluhall, marking award-winning U.S. Pizza Team member David Jacobson’s first independent restaurant project. The concept features a five-day, slow-fermented sourdough base for three distinct styles: Neo-Neapolitan, Grandma Style, and Gluten-Free options. Smish Smash also opened in the food hall, bringing the ultimate smashed burger patties and specialty sauces.

Club Fugazi announced the lineup for the 2025 Chef’s Series at Dear San Francisco, the critically acclaimed intimate, immersive circus experience created by Bay Area natives and The 7 Fingers co-founders Shana Carroll and Gypsy Snider. Each month, guests will have the opportunity to savor signature dishes from a different restaurant, expertly curated and presented in the vibrant ambiance of Club Fugazi.

Revived Icons

Izzy’s Steaks & Chops reopened in the Marina District this year following a six-month restoration and renovation. The nearly 40-year-old family-owned restaurant with Barbary Coast saloon roots is known for its comforting cuisine, classic cocktails, and warm hospitality.

Seal Rock Inn Restaurant has been revived by its new owner. Chef and chocolatier Alfred Schilling serves a menu reflecting his French heritage. Located two blocks from the historic Cliff House and Sutro Baths, the half-century-old dining room and its stunning views remain the same.

Turtle Tower, the renowned pho and Northern Vietnamese restaurant, made its comeback downtown this year, opening on California Street.

North Beach neighborhood icons, Park Tavern on Washington Square and North Beach Restaurant, have reopened. Park Tavern is under the culinary direction of American chef and partner Jonathan Waxman.

Magnolia Brewing in Haight Ashbury has reopened with new, local owners. The refreshed venue features a 17-tap system and brews beer using its seven-barrel brewing system, producing favorites like Kalifornia Kolsch and Proving Ground IPA.

On the Embarcadero

The team behind Michelin-starred Sorrel (Chef Alex Hong and Director of Operations Joel Wilkerson) will debut Parachute Bakery and Arquet Restaurant in the San Francisco Ferry Building. Slated to open in June, Parachute will offer a morning-through-afternoon bakery and café experience, plus a retail area filled with house-made packaged products. Next, Arquet will open as a full-service restaurant, lounge, and bar. Helmed by a Michelin-starred culinary and service team, the restaurant will highlight locally sourced ingredients, wood-fired cooking, and seasonal vegetables.

Parachute and Arquet join a thriving variety of venues in the Ferry Building Marketplace.  Nopa Fish is also slated to debut there this year, and recent openings include Lunette Cambodia, Ocean Malasada, and Palmvy.

Downtown’s waterfront Embarcadero, which the Ferry Building anchors, is becoming a buzzy culinary destination. New restaurants like Alora (serving modern Mediterranean cuisine) and Bon Délire (a chic, creative take on a Parisian bistro) have joined stalwarts such as Epic Steak, Waterbar and La Mar.

Culinary Corridors on the Rise

The corridor between SoMa’s waterfront Oracle Park (home to the San Francisco Giants) and Mission Bay’s Chase Center (home to the Golden State Warriors) has seen a surge of fan-favorite openings.

Mission Rock, the new 28-acre mixed-use development in Mission Bay, welcomed Flour + Water Pizza Shop. The shop serves the team’s signature 13-inch pizzas, “Big Slice” squares, and fan-favorite antipasti in a casual setting steps away from China Basin Park and McCovey Cove.

Arsicault Bakery opened on the ground floor of Verde in Mission Rock, joining nearby Ike’s Love & Sandwiches. Next up are Quik Dog and a new restaurant by the Che Fico team.

Surrounding Chase Center, the 11-acre Thrive Center recently welcomed the Bay Area’s favorite Filipino fusion spot, Señor Sisig, along with Kayah by Burma Love, Taco Primo, and Splash at Thrive City, a state-of-the-art, 30,000 square foot sports bar and restaurant. Splash encompasses two levels and features three bars, over 75 televisions, an elevated menu, and multiple indoor and pet-friendly outdoor entertainment areas.

New and existing outlets such as Che Fico Pizzeria, Cupcakin’ Bake Shop, Dumpling Time, Gott’s Roadside, Harmonic Brewing, Miller & Lux, GluGlu, and Philz Coffee will be joined by Fikscue Craft BBQ.

The Yerba Buena neighborhood, the city’s premier arts and convention district, will welcome eight new businesses in 2025, adding to the 18 that opened in 2024.  Shoji, a Japanese-style café and cocktail lounge from The Shota crew, opened in April. It joins Golden Eye Social, Sextant Coffee Roasters, Hungry Table, West Coast Sourdough, El Dorado, Hey Tea and Dabao Singapore.

Coming Soon

Opening this summer is The Happy Crane, a contemporary Chinese restaurant. Chef James Yeun Leong Parry’s debut restaurant will pay homage to the authenticity of Chinese cuisine whilst reimagining it in a fun and inviting atmosphere. James brings culinary credentials, having worked in internationally acclaimed restaurants, including Bo Innovation and Ta Vie in Hong Kong and Nihonryori RyuGin in Tokyo. In 2017, he moved to the Bay Area to work at Chef Corey Lee’s celebrated three-Michelin-star Benu, before becoming the head chef of Palette Teahouse and then launching The Happy Crane as a pop-up in 2023.

JouJou, the next restaurant from Michelin-starred Lazy Bear chef David Barzelay and True Laurel‘s Colleen Booth, is slated to open soon in SoMA. Inspired equally by great restaurants and louche lounges, JouJou will bring French food to the table through the California lens of Chef David Barzelay.

Founders Danielle Thoe and Sara Yergovich will bring Rikki’s, the Bay’s first bar prioritizing women’s sports, to 2223 Market St. The owners aim to open the women’s sports bar in time for the Valkyries’ first WNBA season.

SAN FRANCISCO TRAVEL

San Francisco Travel is the official destination marketing organization for the City and County of San Francisco. The city is one of the top tourism and meetings destinations in the U.S., attracting over 23 million visitors annually. In 2024, total visitor-related spending contributed $9.26 billion into the San Francisco economy and supported nearly 62,000 jobs.

For information on reservations, activities and more in San Francisco, visit www.sftravel.com.

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Marking Dusit’s debut in Hanoi, and its second managed hotel in Vietnam following the success of Dusit Princess Moonrise Beach Resort Phu Quoc, the new property brings Dusit’s signature Thai-inspired gracious hospitality to the tranquil shores of West Lake, offering an elegant blend of modern luxury and timeless Vietnamese charm.

Inspired by the legacy of Princess Từ Hoa, a royal figure celebrated for her pioneering contributions to the silk industry in the Nghi Tàm area near West Lake, the hotel captures the spirit of craftsmanship, community, and cultural pride that defines the neighborhood.

A daughter of Emperor Lý Thần Tông, who reigned from 1128 to 1138, Princess Từ Hoa famously left the royal court to cultivate mulberry trees and teach silk weaving to the local people. Her legacy lives on in the area’s continued association with quality craftsmanship – and now, in the design and spirit of Dusit Le Palais Tu Hoa Hanoi, where traditional elegance is thoughtfully reimagined for the modern era.

Comprising 207 beautifully appointed rooms and suites with panoramic views of the lake or city skyline, the hotel has been designed as a serene retreat for business and leisure travelers alike. Each space combines contemporary comfort with subtle Vietnamese detailing, all enhanced by the intuitive service and warm hospitality for which Dusit is known.

Guests can enjoy a curated collection of dining experiences celebrating both local and international flavors. Soi Restaurant showcases bold and authentic Thai cuisine, while Vinci Italian Restaurant and Rooftop Bar offers refined Italian fare alongside sweeping views of the city. Phở Lụa presents a cozy al fresco setting dedicated to Vietnam’s beloved noodle soup, and Dusit Gourmet provides an inviting space for artisanal pastries, afternoon tea, and freshly brewed coffee. The hotel also features four private dining rooms designed for exclusive gatherings and VIP occasions.

Alongside a fully equipped gym and spaces for wellness activities, the hotel also offers three elegant ballrooms and a rooftop event space with spectacular views over West Lake – ideal for weddings, corporate functions, and social celebrations.

“We are honored to expand our presence in Vietnam and bring Dusit’s distinctive Thai-inspired gracious hospitality to Hanoi for the very first time,” said Gilles Cretallaz, Chief Operating Officer, Dusit International. “Inspired by the remarkable legacy of Princess Từ Hoa, Dusit Le Palais Tu Hoa Hanoi is much more than a new hotel—it is a celebration of cultural heritage, artistic spirit, and heartfelt service. By seamlessly blending the elegance of Vietnamese tradition with the warmth of Thai hospitality, we aim to create enriching experiences that resonate deeply with our guests and foster meaningful connections with the local community.”

Conveniently located on Au Co Street, just 20 minutes by car from Noi Bai International Airport, Dusit Le Palais Tu Hoa Hanoi provides easy access to many of the city’s cultural landmarks and attractions.

To celebrate its opening, the hotel is offering a special Princess’ Welcome package exclusively for Dusit Gold members. Benefits include exclusive rates, a bespoke welcome drink, daily breakfast for two at Soi Restaurant, early check-in, late check-out, and a complimentary room upgrade (subject to availability), plus up to 25% off dining.

Dusit Gold membership is free and available online at dusit.com/enrollment. Members enjoy a wide range of year-round privileges at participating Dusit Hotels and Resorts worldwide.

For reservations and enquiries, please visit dusit.com/dphv or contact dphv@dusit.com.

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Blending traditional Italian cooking techniques with a contemporary approach, standout dishes from the new menu include the Braised Lamb Pappardelle, a comforting and hearty pasta elevated with baby kale and demi tomatoes, and the Skull Island Prawns, perfectly paired with heirloom beans and a fennel slaw. Guests can also indulge with the Truffle Macaroni, featuring winter black truffles and caciocavallo cheese, or savor the deep, complex flavors of the Beef Short Rib for Two, slow-cooked with black garlic and barolo jus.

“For me, Italian cuisine is all about vibrant flavors and the finest ingredients, prepared with finesse,” said chef Shawn McClain, Balla Italian Soul. “Our new menu reflects that spirit, featuring seasonally-driven salads, a parade of handmade pastas, seafood and steaks from our wood fired grill and finishing with classically-inspired desserts. Our team takes great pride in both honoring traditions, as well as finding new ways and perspectives to bring such a richly-storied and colorful cuisine to life.”

The complete dinner menu follows:

Bread Service

• House-Made Focaccia – Rosemary crackers, balsamic, pecorino, extra virgin olive oil
• Warm Castelvetrano Olives – Citrus, spices

For the Table

• Caesar – Sweet baby gems, fresh herbs, anchovies
• Roasted Eggplant – Roasted garlic, mint, pickled peppers, castelrosso cheese
• West Coast Oysters – Fresh tomato mignonette, horseradish, agrumato
• Wild Arugula – Red onion, lemon, walnut, pecorino riserva
• Whipped Ricotta – Roasted baby beets, basil, pistachio, balsamico bianco
• Italian Ham Trio – Parma, culatello, speck
• Blue Fin Tuna Crudo – Red onion, capers, lemon, extra virgin olive oil
• Meatballs – Beef, pork, veal, golden raisins
• Fritto Misto – Calamari, lemon, zucchini, peppers
• Steamed Blue Hill Bay Mussels – Pancetta, preserved lemon, green garlic

Pasta

• Spaghetti al Ragù – Piedmontese beef, house-made sausage, stracciatella
• Truffle Macaroni – Winter black truffles, caciocavallo cheese
• Tomato Casarecce – Garlic, Calabrian chili, basil
• Linguini Fra Diavolo – Red shrimp, calamari, ‘nduja sausage
• Chicken Canneloni – Alfredo sauce, rosemary, parmesan
• Braised Lamb Pappardelle – Baby kale, demi tomatoes
• Nonna’s Brodo – Prosciutto, black pepper, herbs

Pizza

• Calabria – Spicy tomato, basil, parm
• Formaggio – Green garlic, caciocavallo, ricotta, pecorino, mozzarella
• Spagnola – Spanish chorizo, red onion, piparras, pecorino

Mains

• Ocean Beef New Zealand 8-Ounce Filet – Toasted pepper, roasted bone marrow
• Piedmontese 8-Ounce Flat Iron – Roasted garlic, rosemary
• Allen Brothers 18-Ounce Ribeye – Aged 21 days, roasted garlic, rosemary
• Flannery 14-Ounce New York – Dry aged 14 days, roasted garlic, rosemary
• Mary’s Chicken Diavola – ‘Nduja sausage, preserved lemon, chili
• Chicken Parm – Red sauce, mozzarella, oregano, basil
• Beef Short Rib for Two – Slow cooked with black garlic, pickled radicchio, barolo jus
• Riverence Rainbow Trout – Cauliflower, almonds, golden raisins, prosecco butter
• Mediterranean Sea Bream – Lemon butter, capers, wild greens
• Skull Island Prawns – Heirloom beans, fennel slaw
• Heritage Pork Chop – Roasted peppers, Tropea Onion Agrodolce

Sides

• Roasted Cauliflower – Bagna cauda, pickled chilies
• Potato Purée – Roasted garlic, parm crust
• Crispy Brussels – Pancetta vinaigrette
• Broccoli di Cicco – Garlic, lemon, spicy crumbs
• Stuffed Mushrooms – Imported cheese, marsala

Dessert

• Panna Cotta – Limoncello, seasonal fruits, brown sugar pizzelle
• Dark Chocolate Tart – Hazelnuts, mascarpone, Nutella
• Tiramisu – Espresso, feuilletine, amaretto cream
• Bomboloni – Sweet cream, raspberry preserves
• Gelato – Pistachio, Luxardo cherry or Nutella crunch
• Italian Cookies – Chef’s assortment

In addition to its la carte menu, Balla also offers a decadent chef’s tasting menu for $95 per person, with the option to add on a $65 wine pairing. The four-course menu is curated by Balla’s chefs utilizing distinctive and seasonal ingredients.

Hotel guests presenting their SAHARA room key to the host at dinner may also enjoy an exclusive three-course menu for $49 per person. The hotel guests-only menu includes the following:

First Course (choose one):

• Caesar Salad – Baby gems, fresh herbs, anchovies
• Wild Arugula – Red onion, lemon, walnuts, pecorino

Main Course (choose one):

• Macaroni al Ragù – House made sausage, beef, stracciatella
• Chicken Parm – Bufala mozzarella, red sauce

Gelato (choose one):

• Nutella Crunch
• Pistachio
• Luxardo Cherry

Dining hours are nightly from 5 to 10 p.m. For more information or to make a reservation, click here.

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Hiking, Wellness and More

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