Review Of Cafe The Plaza

Cafe The Plaza in Aruba: A Welcoming Gem in the Heart of Oranjestad
Nestled in the bustling Renaissance Marketplace in Oranjestad, Cafe The Plaza is one of those charming spots that seems to strike a perfect balance between relaxed island vibes and European-style café culture. As a favorite among both locals and tourists, it offers a versatile experience, from early morning breakfasts to lively evenings with drinks and live music. During my recent visit, I had the pleasure of dining at Cafe The Plaza, and I walked away with a satisfying impression of both its food and ambiance.

Ambiance and Atmosphere
The first thing that struck me about Cafe The Plaza is its prime location. Situated within Renaissance Marketplace, it's easily accessible whether you're walking around downtown Oranjestad or coming from nearby resorts. The restaurant features a large, open-air terrace, which is ideal for people-watching or simply enjoying the warm Aruban breeze. The outdoor seating area is spacious, with plenty of shade provided by large umbrellas, making it a comfortable spot even during the midday heat. Inside, the décor is laid-back and casual, with a touch of rustic charm. It exudes a welcoming, unpretentious vibe that makes it perfect for everything from a quick coffee stop to a leisurely dinner.

The atmosphere is lively without being overwhelming. In the evening, the restaurant often hosts live music, which adds a pleasant backdrop to the dining experience. Whether you’re sitting outside under the stars or inside at the bar, the ambiance is relaxing and enjoyable.

Food and Drinks
Cafe The Plaza offers a broad menu that caters to a wide range of tastes, from hearty breakfasts to sandwiches, salads, pasta, and steaks. It's a place where you can drop in for a casual snack or settle in for a full-course meal. The portion sizes are generous, and the pricing is quite reasonable, especially considering the location in a busy tourist area.

For breakfast, their "Dutch-style pancakes" come highly recommended and didn't disappoint. The pancakes were light, fluffy, and served with a variety of toppings ranging from fresh fruits to traditional powdered sugar. It’s an excellent start to the day, particularly if you want to indulge in something more authentic than a standard American breakfast.

For lunch, I opted for their Cuban sandwich, a solid choice if you're in the mood for something savory. It was packed with tender, slow-cooked pork, ham, Swiss cheese, and pickles, all pressed between crispy bread. It had just the right balance of textures and flavors, making it a satisfying meal that didn’t leave me feeling overly stuffed.

In terms of drinks, the cocktail selection is vibrant and varied, with everything from classic mojitos to signature drinks inspired by the Caribbean. Their beer selection is also noteworthy, with local favorites like Balashi and Chill available, as well as a variety of international options.

Service
The service at Cafe The Plaza was attentive and friendly, without being intrusive. The staff was knowledgeable about the menu and happy to offer recommendations when asked. Despite the restaurant being busy during my visit, the wait times were reasonable, and drinks and food arrived promptly. I appreciated the warm hospitality, which added to the overall pleasant experience.

Value for Money
Cafe The Plaza offers great value, especially for its location in the heart of Oranjestad. Whether you’re grabbing a light bite or a more elaborate meal, the prices are reasonable compared to many other tourist hotspots in Aruba. The portions are ample, the food quality is consistent, and the overall experience feels worth every dollar spent.

Cafe The Plaza is a fantastic spot for anyone looking to enjoy a laid-back meal or drink while soaking up the local atmosphere of Oranjestad. The combination of its welcoming ambiance, varied menu, and friendly service makes it a solid choice for both casual tourists and seasoned visitors to Aruba. Whether you're starting your day with a pancake breakfast or winding down with a cocktail in the evening, Cafe The Plaza offers a little something for everyone. If you’re exploring the Renaissance Marketplace or just looking for a relaxed place to unwind, this café should definitely be on your list.