Pandemic Casts Pall On NYE, But Ibiza Dishes Shine Through

CHAPPAQUA, NY — Canceled and scaled-back New Year's Eve events and public health recommendations to avoid large gatherings are putting a damper on plans, but there are still ways to celebrate in a more intimate setting — in Chappaqua, Ibiza Kitchen will bring the flavors and cultures of the world together in a special menu to help welcome 2022.

"My philosophy is a simple one," Ibiza Kitchen owner and chef Ignacio Blanco explained. "Great food is great food. As long as it’s good, it’s good in any culture."

Our world and our social circles might be a tad bit smaller once again this New Year's Eve, but a chance to rediscover the larger world through the eyes and trained pallet of a local chef with an international reputation could make it a good thing that outsized celebrations are out of bounds for the time being. Those lucky enough to experience the meticulously conceived, expertly executed and lovingly prepared one-night-only fare might be glad plans kept them close to home when the clock strikes midnight.

Strict adherence to pandemic safety protocols and a growing, omicron-inspired trend towards celebrating the new year on the couch in front of a television, promise to make Blanco's big night slightly less crowded than anticipated, but this has only strengthened his determination to make the last night of 2021 something his guests will still be talking about well into 2022 and beyond.

“Maybe this year, your celebration will be smaller," Blanco said. "We want our customers to have a happy New Year.”

Highlights of the New Year's Eve menu include lobster wrap in avocado carpaccio; foie gras nougat, cured tuna, caramelized mango, hazelnut, marcona almonds; organic chicken and veal cannelloni, roasted butternut squash bechamel, tetilla cheese and Chatham codfish, broccolini, potato emulsion, raw honey with quince aioli. The signature jamon del mar "swordfish ham" will, of course, also be on the $180 per couple optional pre-fixed menu.

A scaled-down version of Ibiza Kitchen’s regular menu will also be available and can be found on the Ibiza Kitchen website. Reservations are requested for New Year's Eve. Ibiza Kitchen is located at 76 King St. in Chappaqua. Phone 914-458-5044 for more details.