A Peppermint Dream

This peppermint green broderie anglaise dress, another by Self-Portrait, is as sweet as candy. I bought in the sale knowing it’d be perfect for our holiday in Calpe. At first glance it could appear rather frou-frou, but the characteristic short lining and the strap detail on the chest give it some edge. Well, as much edge as a peppermint green broderie anglaise dress is able to possess.

I don’t have many designer pieces, but when I do invest, I do so with the intention of wearing them over and over and for several types of occasions. So, just like I did with my black and white lace Self Portrait dress, I wore it twice in one week. Once dressed down with flat sandals and “undone” hair for a seafront barbecue, and once with my glittery Jimmy Choos for a formal dinner.

I don’t have any full length photos at the barbecue but just imagine flat beaded leather flip flops. Doesn’t Calpe Rock look beautiful in the background?

We did however take rather more before we dined at Beat, a Estrella Michelin (Michelin Starred) restaurant in Calpe. We took the first few in our hotel lobby.

The rest of the photographs are from the restaurant.

It was the first time that either of us had dined in a Michelin Starred restaurant. We chose a ten-course degustacion menu, (the next option was 12 courses!) It sounds a lot, but each dish is tiny. The first three courses: canapés, hors d´oeuvres and amuse-bouche are little more than a mouthful. These tasting menus undoubtedly showcase the chef’s skill and creativity which is what makes it special. The service was impeccable as was the presentation and we enjoyed the experience at Beat. But, we both preferred the degustacion menu we had at Abiss. Abiss isn’t a Michelin starred restaurant but it IS in the Michelin Guide. (This website explains the difference between Michelin star and Michelin guide because I wasn’t sure). The prices were comparable as was the wine, the service and the quality of ingredients. The menu at Abiss was a little more adventurous, a touch more theatrical and more varied in content. And the view was better too. But like everything it’s a matter of personal taste. I’m just so glad that Ian and I share this passion for good food and wine.