Antony, Ben & Clémence
Crossing the threshold of Monkey Ibiza means accepting its rules. The Balearic sun sets the pace on a terrace with an undeniably Caribbean flair. Your palate will need a passport to travel between French bistros and bustling Lebanese souks. And finally, as evening falls, the neon lights ignite a night-time show packed with feathers and velvet. Gastronomy, hedonism and mystery sit together at the same table, at last.
Located next to Caló des Moro, Monkey Ibiza occupies one of the most sought-after balconies to bid farewell to the day on the island. The sunset is merely the visual appetiser for a chameleon-like project that transforms with the passing hours. Under the gaze of the ape sculptures that preside over the venue (a nod to Japan’s legendary three wise monkeys), the outdoor space breathes calm. Earth tones, raw wood and wicker create a bohemian atmosphere that seems to have landed straight from the beaches of Tulum to blend into the Ibizan coastline.
Stepping through the doors into its indoor space provides a fascinating aesthetic shock. Organic textures give way to exotic wallpapers, leopard prints and velvet armchairs. Suddenly, the Mediterranean breeze dissolves into the clandestine atmosphere of an exclusive Pigalle cabaret.
Behind this carefully curated setting are Antony Faotto, Ben Janaud and David Janaud. In 2022, they decided to import the overwhelming success of their Parisian venue (Monkey Pigalle) to conquer the Balearics with a philosophy of fresh, preferably locally sourced produce, and a concept of tapas with nods to haute cuisine.
Fusion dominates the kitchen here, where French heritage goes hand in hand with Middle Eastern recipes. The French influence comes to the fore with impeccable cod accras, fresh Galician turbot à la meunière and a chocolate mi-cuit with hazelnut ice cream that justifies a reservation all on its own. Alongside them, North African spices shine. Sumac, harissa, labneh and tahini elevate bold starters, from the addictive mezze trio and crispy feta cheese, to the flavourful shakshuka or grilled aubergine with pomegranate.
This season, the menu debuts a refreshing sea bream carpaccio with citrus and ginger vinaigrette, as well as a beef tartare topped with harissa mayonnaise and fried capers. The playful element extends to the plate, too: the staff prepare guacamole right before your eyes, alongside impeccable signature cocktails. The sweet finale is updated with a raspberry tartlet with caramelised pistachios, and churros with cream and chocolate to satisfy the most demanding sweet tooth.
When the sun disappears, the music takes control. The jewel in the night-time crown is Cabaret Sauvage, an exuberant dinner show that ignites summer nights on Fridays and Saturdays. With choreographer Shadia Erazade at the helm, this year’s show, christened “Iconic”, pays a resounding and brilliant tribute to the great classics of cinema.
The evening kicks off with a champagne toast at the upper pool before moving diners into the indoor dining room. From there, dinner flows between musical numbers and crackling sparklers. The concept redefines the idea of festive luxury by opting for an intimate, mischievous and highly accessible format. Once dessert is over, the tables are cleared away and the dining room is transformed into a mysterious private club.
For those who prefer to make the most of the Balearic light, the terrace hides a small pool club far from the summer crowds. It operates with a midday day pass ranging between 25 and 50 euros, with a drink and towel service included. Under the sun or under the stage spotlights: Monkey Ibiza demands that you surrender completely to pleasure without looking at the clock.
