You can officially scratch this one off my bucket list — my first visit to the newly opened St. Regis Aruba became the perfect setting for an unforgettable Autentico Bucket List Experience. The evening began on the rooftop terrace of Akira Back, the resort’s Japanese–Korean fusion restaurant led by Michelin-starred chef Akira Back himself.
Even as someone who lives in Aruba and sees spectacular sunsets daily, this one felt extraordinary — almost as if the sun had been hired for the event, delivering a cinematic sky that made the moment feel surreal.
A champagne sabering ritual kicked off the evening before guests were escorted through the service elevator for an exclusive, behind-the-scenes culinary adventure. Dim lights, a live DJ, and intimate “backroom” ambiance set the tone for a night unlike any traditional dining experience.
Autentico Bucket List Experiences
Part of the Autentico Aruba Culinary Festival, these limited-seating experiences pair local and internationally acclaimed chefs to ignite culinary curiosity through creative, immersive dining moments.
The Culinary Journey
After elegant stops for canapés and cocktails — complemented by exceptional service from the St. Regis team — guests arrived at Eskama Cucina Italiana for a six-course wine-pairing dinner hosted by Chef Tim Golsteijn, Executive Chef at Michelin-starred Restaurant Bougainville in Amsterdam.
Born and raised in Amsterdam, Chef Tim began his culinary path as a dishwasher at just 13. His dedication and evolving passion for pastry guided him through the city’s top restaurants, earning him his first Michelin star by age 30.
Here’s a taste of the extraordinary menu:
1. Lionfish Tiradito
Accompanied by a live violinist, this refreshing raw fish dish struck the perfect balance of flavor and elegance. Featuring lionfish — an invasive species — it was both delicious and environmentally conscious.
2. Mahi Mahi Filet
Chef Tim flew in extinct yellow cucumbers from Amsterdam for this dish. The meaty Mahi paired beautifully with a creamy ‘achterham’ sauce and a striking black butterfly tuile made from squid ink.
3. Crunchy Potatoes
A dish that embodied “complex simplicity.” Layered, crisp potatoes with creamy sour cream and cheese created a nostalgic yet elevated flavor explosion — a personal favorite for those who appreciate simple pleasures done exceptionally well.
4. Local Chicken Rouleau with Foie
A tribute to Aruba’s local ingredients, this course included a flavorful vol-au-vent with ragout made from local chicken and mushrooms, and a sauce enhanced with Papiamento rum.
5. Popcorn & Caviar
A daring sweet-and-salty creation that surprised and delighted. Unique, balanced, and unlike anything served before — a true conversation piece.
6. Chef’s Signature Thai Mango Sticky Rice
Inspired by Thai flavors but reimagined with Mediterranean touches, this dessert offered a warm, sumptuous finale to the night.
🇦🇼 Aruba Through a Chef’s Eyes
Chef Tim shared how easily he understands Aruba’s title as the One Happy Island — praising its people, relaxed atmosphere, climate, and natural beauty. He described Autentico as a “game changer” for Aruba’s culinary future, showcasing the island’s creativity and gastronomic talent to both locals and visitors.
I couldn’t agree more. This experience highlighted the innovation and passion thriving behind Aruba’s kitchen doors. We Arubans — born or honorary — are modern, creative, and driven not just to meet expectations but to surpass them.
Autentico proved that Aruba is not an ordinary food destination. Here, you meet the world through food, and every bite tells a story worth remembering.
Photo Credits : https://www.aruba.com/us/blog/xa-on-the-go-autentico-bucket-list-experience-eskama-chef-tim-golsteijn
