Nestled between the Kimpton Seafire and the bustling public beach, sits Bonny Moon, a beach restaurant and bar which has become a favourite with locals and visitors alike.
While it sits on the same footprint as its much-loved predecessor Calico Jack’s, extensive renovations have created a new-look restaurant, while still maintaining an established and welcoming feel.
Guests enter the premises under the boughs of sea grape trees, with the pathway leading up to reveal the open restaurant and views of the Caribbean Sea beyond.
Natural fibre feature shades, and the thatch roof of the bar, draw the eye upwards, while hanging shell décor trails towards the floor, and tropical curios adorn the host’s table at the entryway.
The natural wood colours of the rattan seating and plank floor contrast perfectly with lighter umbrellas, drapes, tiles and the vibrant sea blues in the background.
A surprising and welcome twist comes in the form of glistening disco balls dotted throughout the property, which is part of the Dart hospitality portfolio.
ANNE BONNY
The name of the restaurant itself harks back to its previous life.
“‘Bonny’ serves as a homage to Anne Bonny, one of the few female pirates in documented history and known as the lover and partner-in-crime of infamous pirate John Rackham (‘Calico Jack’), and who is celebrated for her fearlessness and fiery intensity,” says Laura Skec, vice president of Dart Hospitality.
“The word ‘bonny’ itself has its roots in Scottish heritage, signifying attractiveness and beauty. The word ‘moon’ also has connotations with celestial navigation, a technique that sailors used involving the stars, moon and horizon to calculate position.”
DESIGN
The design process of Bonny Moon was led by an in-house design and landscape team in collaboration with US companies Blur Workshop and MCLV.
“To honour the community’s nostalgic sentiment, we knew that we had to keep the space and overall layout familiar, but weave in new playful design elements throughout,” explains Dana Nauta, interior design creative director.
“Like vintage-style beach towels sewn into custom toss pillow covers by local company Cayman Upholstery – something familiar but with a fresh take.”
The most notable element that pays homage to Calico Jack’s is the custom wall covering behind the bar.
“We loved the spirit of the original bar,” explains Laura. “Because of the bar’s existing layout, we felt the interior of the back bar needed to be celebrated. We created a (tamer) version of the wall covering, gathering more than 300 graphic elements that spoke to the Bonny Moon story.
“We also added in several mascots behind the bar, like Giorgina the cat,” adds Dana. “And have some fun hidden treasures for guests to discover, like laying our cocktail menus with vintage UFO science fiction comics.”
MENU OFFERINGS
Bonny Moon’s menu emphasises ‘slow food’ rituals and sea-inspired beach comfort.
“Our menu is a vibrant celebration of flavours that capture the essence of island living with a global twist,” says chef Ayelen Esquef.
The restaurant’s most popular dishes tend to come straight from the exterior kitchen’s wood-fire oven.
“Like the whole branzino, perfectly roasted and served with a Pinamilit sauce that adds depth and flavour,” Ayelen says. “Or the smoked roasted chicken, glazed with aji panca and orange, striking that balance between smokey and bright, with crispy skin that’s hard to resist.”
Honey and sobrasada flatbread is another diner favourite, as well as the Tuna Nikkei Ceviche.
The beverage menu is expansive and includes signature cocktails named after iconic songs, tea-based cocktails, classic cocktails, vintage negroni, house sangria and the Bonny Moon version of jello shots, appropriately re-named shell-o shots.
SUSTAINABILITY
Sustainability is at the core of Bonny Moon’s approach.
Ingredients are sourced from local farmers and fishermen, to support the local economy and reduce carbon footprint. The restaurant’s production processes are mindful of waste, using techniques that make the most of every ingredient.
“Most of our materials, from straws and napkins to cups and containers, are biodegradable, reflecting our commitment to minimising environmental impact,” says Laura.
Guests are also encouraged to bring their own cups and vessels when they order from either the Holistic Café or bar sections of Bonny Moon.
“Since we’re located on the beach, we’ve also installed turtle-friendly lighting – warm, low-impact lights designed to protect nesting turtles and their hatchlings as they make their way to the sea,” explains Dana.
“Our goal is simple,” stresses Laura. “To create an unforgettable experience while preserving the island’s natural beauty for generations to come.”
