As Ibiza’s star as a gastronomic holiday destination has risen, so it has become increasingly attractive to international brands to set up shop here. The question is, can they actually bring something new and exciting to the table? Well, in the case of Novikov, the answer is a resounding YES!
In the ever more populated sector of Asian fusion cuisine, it takes something extra special to stand out and set new standards. And yet the famous brand, originating in London’s exclusive Mayfair, has landed in Ibiza marina with quite a splash.
When comparing Asian Fusion restaurants the differences are often infinitesimal. There are many dishes on the menu at Novikov that are a staple of modern Asian cuisine: Black Cod Miso, Yellowtail Hamachi, Langoustine Tartar, plus of course a full range of inventive sushi options to name a few.
But, it is the finesse with which the dishes are prepared and the subtle addition of super-refined Chinese favourites which makes the Novikov Pan-Asian menu sing.
Setting up shop in the deluxe Ibiza Gran Hotel, on the site formally occupied by Asal, Novikov has a distinctive character that will appeal to the brand's affluent and discerning community. The unique Gaudi-esque interior design of Asal remains but the colour palette has changed with the introduction of chocolate and caramel tones, giving the venue a darker more underground feel - perfect for a late-night cocktail lounge.
Having long been their go-to London restaurant, the owners of Asal decided to partner up with Novikov to create the brand's 10th location worldwide. Judging by the solid stream of clients on this sultry evening, it was a fully justified decision.
Novikov has assembled a squad of super-vigilant waiting staff that never stopped attending to our every need - our table was spotless and our glasses never ran warm or dry.
Inside, diners can sit close to the action and observe the activity through the glass of the open kitchen or the sushi bar. Outside, on the bamboo-enclosed terrace, the resident DJ plays an upbeat medley of classic Pop, House and Funk that always keeps the mood light and happy.
Our choice of cocktails from the Novikov Signature Selection might sound more at home in a Mexican or Caribbean restaurant but was perfect for a hot Ibizan night.
‘Caliente’ - a wicked combo of Amores Green mezcal, Volcan white tequila, ginger, lime, agave, basil and Jalapeño and ‘Punchy Colada’ - a tropical blend of Patrón Silver tequila, coconut elixir, pineapple, and floral essence.
Whilst nibbling some fresh and crunchy vegetable crudités with a Shisho Mayo dip, the courses begin to flow and it is immediately evident we were in for a treat.
Naturally, seafood plays the starring role in the Novikov story, as the Japanese influence is very strong.
Yellowtail Hamachi and Seared Salmon Nigiri with garlic and ginger set the tone for quality and flavour. Each sliver was so delicate as to leave a fleeting, evanescent sensation on our tongues.
A perennial favourite of the team, the Salt and Pepper Baby Squid was universally voted the best Chili Squid any of us had ever tasted - the stack of tender young rings was garnished with a generous topping of fiery red and green chilli slivers. Perfection!
A selection of sushi rolls duly arrived with some familiar favourites and a surprise that none of us could have anticipated. The Salmon Rolls were as smooth and creamy as one could hope, while the Spicy Tuna Rolls were perfectly dainty yet contained a nice crunch and a decent kick of heat.
However, it was the Scallop with Jalapeño Rolls that hogged the limelight. With a jalapeño sauce and topped with fried flour and a hint of black truffle, these delicacies were inspired and exceptional.
An impressive spread of mains arrived comprised of tender Miso Baby Chicken with a Kimchi dip, Black Cod with an excellent Miso sauce, Half a Roast Duck with a light Hoi Sin sauce, grilled Asparagus Spears drizzled with sweet soy and a light and fluffy Novikov Special Fried Rice. All together the spread made an impressive and mouth-watering sight.
Clearly, poultry is a popular element on the Novikov menu and we honestly believe it would be impossible to find more crispy and succulent Chinese-style roast duck elsewhere on Ibiza.
Happily sated after demolishing our delicious feast, and nicely lubricated by a seemingly bottomless flow of icy and crisp Malcorta Verdejo, we had a small space left for an equally refreshing dessert.
Perfectly fitting the bill, Guava and Passion Fruit Sorbets with a selection of fresh seasonal fruits made the ultimate crescendo to a light, healthy and wholesome repast.
As big fans of the Asian/fusion wave that is washing over the gastro-scene in Ibiza, it is always nice to be surprised and delighted by new inventions and combinations of flavours. There are dishes and beverages on display here that still have the power to surprise and awaken the senses.
Ok, in budgetary terms, it is positioned more for superyacht owners and A-list celebrities, but as a once-a-year treat at the start of a big night on the town, Novikov is guaranteed to become a firm fixture in our humble summertime agenda.
Be sure to reserve your table at Novikov here.
