The best way to make the most of Aruba is by booking a room at a boutique hotel that provides peace, a prime location, outstanding service, and flavourful food and drinks. Ocean Z Aruba, nestled in the pulsating Noord area, delivers on all fronts… Especially at the bar counter and the table. Most evenings begin with mouthwatering finger food. Many guests pair it with their go-to drink: a mojito, piña colada or gin and tonic. Others, the more adventurous ones, like to kick things off with playful bubble cocktails to dazzle the eyes and awaken the palate. In the honor of the latter, our favorite kind, let us dive into the secrets behind these bold creations.
The heartbeat of Ocean Z Aruba
The Cucumber Martini offers a fresh start, a sweet and fruity middle, and a spicy finish. Credit: Ocean Z Aruba Hotel & Restaurant
Every day (except Tuesdays), from 5:30 to 10 p.m., the Ocean Z Aruba lounge comes alive. Bartenders polish glasses of different shapes. Sunlight pours through the floor-to-ceiling windows, casting warm orange tones and soft shadows. New and returning guests peek inside, wondering if the night will be as special as they imagine. Spoiler alert: it always is. Why? Thanks to a stunning mix of decadent starters like the paella, a guest favorite, and vibrant spirits along with other colorful drinks.
Inside OZ Restaurant, the bar stands as one of the property’s most popular gathering spots. Lately, bubble cocktails have caused the biggest stir around it (no pun intended!). These beverages deliver a unique experience, enhanced by thoughtful details and a hint of theatrical flair. Each recipe is one-of-a-kind and, naturally, top secret (we won’t spill our magic that easily!). Crafted with fresh, local ingredients, their flavors range from lychee and apple to chocolate and Baileys. You will find them only on our physical menu, each named to reflect its powerful personality. According to our team, the public favorites are the Lemon Drop, the Classic, and the Cucumber… And that makes perfect sense, considering their refreshing taste and eye-catching presentation.
Must-try alcoholic drinks in Aruba
The OZ bubble cocktail experience, explained
Guests will also find a refined list of alcoholic and non-alcoholic drinks at Ocean Z’s bar. Credit: Ocean Z Aruba Hotel & Restaurant
You might be wondering: where is the elegance and drama we mentioned earlier? Let us show you. Close your eyes and picture it. First, scan the menu. Are you craving a Porn Star Martini, made with passion fruit purée and fresh lime juice? Or perhaps a Cucumber Martini, with a touch of spicy mango sauce? Once you make your choice, the bar team takes over. With skill, they blend, jolt, shake, or stir the liquids as needed. In that moment, arms move in sweeping motion, brows tighten in focus, and lips curl into occasional smiles. This scene plays out all night long, and every time, Ocean Z Aruba’s staff will amaze you with their mastery.
But wait! We are not done yet. Next comes the pour: the cocktail flows into the signature conical glass. Then, instead of olives, the classic garnish for a well-made martine, the final flourish takes the spotlight. Using a food-safe CO₂ gun, a bright, airy bubble lands directly on top. This delicate layer draws “oohs” and “ahs”, and spontaneous applause from the nearby audience. The bartender slides the cocktail forward. Finally, you get to enjoy aromas and colors that burst gently upon reaching your lips.
Wine in Aruba: Where to taste the island’s finest labels
A night to remember at OZ Restaurant
The OZ Restaurant menu is a combination of European and local flavors. Credit: Ocean Z Aruba Hotel & Restaurant
At Ocean Z, we love delivering plenty of options. After sipping your bubble cocktail, try an espresso martini with Baileys, perfect as a dessert suggestion from one of our servers. Or channel a Sex and the City vibe with a Cosmopolitan, whose vodka, triple sec, and splash of lemon juice will awaken your senses. To complete the picture, enjoy a perfectly cooked barramundi or our signature shrimp linguine. Listen to live music while our team surprises you with more bubbles, if they notice how much you love them… And we’re sure you will because there’s a reason they’re the most photographed items on the table!
Ready to dine at this “stunning contemporary oceanfront restaurant”, as described by Jim Dobson, senior Forbes contributor? Book a table today:
0 Comments