XpBonaire IslandLife Feature Story
Located in the heart of Kralendijk, The Captain's Table is a culinary gem that celebrates the wonders of seafood in a variety of dishes. Under the guidance of owner and chef, Rick Baak, the restaurant offers a delightful array of seafood delicacies that highlight the natural flavors of the ocean. While seafood takes the spotlight, meat and vegetarian dishes are also available, providing a well-rounded dining experience for all guests.
Rick's Culinary Journey
Rick, the owner and chef of The Captain's Table, embarked on his culinary journey by first studying baking, his childhood dream, driven by his love for sweets. He took a sidestep when he went into security, but Rick's passion for the culinary arts led him to pursue additional studies in cooking after mastering the art of baking. It was cooking that truly captured his heart. Growing up in Lisse, near Noordwijk, a seafood-rich coastal town in the Netherlands, solidified Rick's passion for seafood, laying the foundation for what would eventually become The Captain's Table in December 2022. It was during his formative years, working in French and Asian fusion cuisine, that Rick's love affair with seafood truly blossomed.
Rick arrived on Bonaire seven years ago. His odyssey through the culinary world has taken him from his beginnings at Foodies to the innovative kitchens of Ocean Oasis and Melissa Sailing. Along the way, Rick took a break to travel and immersed himself in diverse culinary cultures, from the flavors of Europe to the spices of Thailand.
Rick has been victorious in numerous cooking contests across the Netherlands and Bonaire. As a member of the island's Culinary Team, he competes in the seafood category. The Bonaire Culinary Team, comprising adept chefs, proudly represents the island in culinary competitions in Miami, challenging other Caribbean islands.
Craftsmanship Behind the Culinary Creations
In the Captain's Table kitchen, Rick, his sous chef Ivo van Ommeren and a dedicated team works tirelessly to bring each dish to life. Drawing from their diverse backgrounds and culinary expertise, they collaborate to create menus that showcase the best of both land and sea. From the initial preparation to the final presentation, every dish is crafted with care and precision. Complementing the culinary delights is the impeccable service orchestrated by Maître Anouk and her team. With a wealth of knowledge in wine and cuisine, Anouk ensures that each guest receives a customized dining experience, complete with expertly curated wine pairings.
A Seafood Symphony
At The Captain's Table, seafood is more than just a meal – it's a journey of discovery. From succulent lobster, fresh oysters, to delicate scallops, each dish is thoughtfully crafted to showcase the freshness and quality of the ingredients. Guests can expect a diverse menu that changes every half-year, ensuring a new culinary adventure with every visit.
Meaty Complements
While seafood tries to steal the show, meat lovers will find plenty to enjoy on the menu as well. Tender steak tartar, succulent pork belly, and buttery foie gras are prepared with the same attention to detail, offering a delightful balance to the seafood offerings. Whether craving the ocean's bounty or land's richness, there's something to satisfy every palate.
Intimate & Exclusive Experiences at The Captain's Office
For those seeking a more exclusive dining experience, The Captain's Office provides a cozy retreat with space for private dining, and meetings, guests can enjoy a chef’s menus paired with selected wines under the personal care of the service staff. Every moment in The Captain's Office is a memorable one.
Wine Tasting
The Captain’s Table has an extensive wine selection and a separate wine room. Guests are invited to explore the world of wine through Privat wine tastings that you can book with your own group of grape enthusiasts in their wine room, adding an extra layer of enjoyment to their visit.
Choices
You have the choice of creating your own dining experience with the à la carte menu, or you can hand it over to the professional team and choose a monthly changing chef's menu with 4 to 6 surprise courses, taking your dietary restrictions into account, or opt for a full experience menu that includes an exclusive wine pairing starting with champagne.
The Captain's Table is a testament to Chef Rick‘s, and his team‘s, culinary vision and their dedication to creating unforgettable dining experiences. every dish skillfully crafted with attention to detail, it's no wonder that The Captain's Table has become a beloved destination for food lovers from near and far.
INFO
Phone Number: +599 786 7777
Website: www.thecaptainstablebonaire.com
Address: Kaya Grandi 7-3, Kralendijk, Bonaire.
Opening Hours (Dinner): Monday, Tuesday, Friday-Sunday: 5:00 – 10.00; Wednesday & Thursday: Closed.
Opening Hours (Lunch): Monday and Tuesday: 12:00 pm – 4:00 pm.
IG & Facebook: The Captain's Table
