A Pleasant Surprise

Mahogany House Part 3:  The Wine

This post is part of a series on Mahogany House restaurant in The Bahamas. See "Embracing His Game" (about the chef) and "Showstoppers" (about the food).

Pushing past the main double doors, my husband Alan and I were pleasantly surprised to be greeted with a showcase of wines. I hesitated for a moment but the cashier confirmed that this was the way to Mahogany House.

The octagonal-shaped building, which serves as the restaurant’s main entry point, is an adorable wine store called the Market. Its tall shelves display a varied collection of wine and beer including labels not available anywhere else on the island. In speaking to the restaurant's chef, Dan Quirk, we learned that the building's shape was patterned after the Nassau Public Library and originated as a mini grocery.

The main entry to Mahogany House restaurant is a wine store.

Inside the Market, the wine store at Mahogany House

The Nut Bar offers items that easily pair with wine or beer.

The Market carries the restaurant's signature wine label, Bonney’s Revenge -- named after the female pirate, Anne Bonney. The limited edition wines are bottled in Australia, especially for Mahogany House.

Bottles of Bonney's Revenge Rose

"Let me show you one more thing," Chef Dan added before ending our enjoyable and informative mini tour. We followed him to a discreet stairway that semi-spiralled to a wine cellar. The racks along the walls encircled a large round wooden table for 10. Chef Dan told us that this special den doubles as a private function room where you can arrange something as lavish as a multi-course dinner for an intimate group or something as simple as a down-home pizza party for two.

The wine cellar doubles as a private function room.

p.s. I went back a few weeks later and was lucky enough to snag the last bottle of Bonney's Revenge Cabernet Sauvignon. It was an excellent pairing to my dinner that night. 

Mahogany House is one of three dining options at The Island House, located in Mahogany Hill on Western Road (found on the west side of New Providence Island, The Bahamas.) Just outside the exclusive Lyford Cay Club, it is about a 10-minute drive from Lynden Pindling International Airport.

Showstoppers

Mahogany House Part 2:  The Food

This post is continued from "Embracing His Game," a story about the chef of Mahogany House restaurant in The Bahamas.

Chef Dan and I settled on stools at the bar's corner for the interview. We discussed the essence of Mahogany House restaurant as well as his own culinary philosophy. He's an advocate of simplicity and fresh ingredients in cooking. Though he has access to irresistible sweets at home (his wife is a pastry chef), he doesn't touch them. He prefers desserts that bring forth natural sweetness like grilled peaches.

In between our leisurely chat, he'd get up to greet guests walking in for lunch, or he'd reply to staff members asking him quick questions. He was showing me his wedding photo when two of his top-selling menu items turned up in front of us.

I sampled the appetizer first and was immediately impressed after tasting only a small portion.

"OMG. This is amazing!" I exclaimed and pointed to the pork belly. He tried to hide a smile but the glint in his eyes couldn’t conceal his pride.

The Buffalo Pork Belly appetizer is a definite must-try.

This is a killer appetizer: the Buffalo Pork Belly (a creative variation of buffalo chicken wings) with bleu cheese dressing complemented with pickled celery and carrots.

The pork belly is masterfully smoked for six hours then braised for an additional four. When deep-fried to order, the result is an unbelievably succulent pork belly with a perfect bit of crisp on the outside. It was oozing with that unmistakable buffalo chicken wing flavor. Listed under "Bites" or small plates category of the menu, this serving is meant for sharing. Oh, but this is one appetizer I'm not willing to split with anyone.

Next, he introduced me to Mahogany House's best-selling entrée: the Blackened Snapper in chili butter sauce, served with prawn and polenta (a playful twist on shrimp ‘n’ grits), garnished with grilled scallion.

Mahogany House's showstopper: Blackened Snapper

This is outstanding. With just the right touch of spiciness, this dish is rich, elegant, and above all, comforting. Every delicious bite commands another. It is light and exceptionally satisfying. Interestingly, Chef Dan says it is the most popular item on the menu and the easiest to execute.

Ultimately, it's the food that makes or break a restaurant. After seeing the true stars of the show here, it's plain to see why their clientele clamor for an encore. I've been to some highly rated restaurants on the island but their offerings didn't excite me. Studying the interesting menu at Mahogany House, I found that there's something for everyone -- from mouthwatering starters, tasty yet healthy soups and salads, all-time favorite pizza and pasta, to savory main dishes. The duck confit manicotti on the menu caught my eye. I'm definitely coming back for that one.

Chef Dan getting ready to chill the braised pork belly

Chef Dan setting out the duck confit

"And what about wine?" you might ask. More on that in the next post called "A Pleasant Surprise."


Mahogany House is one of three dining options at The Island House, located in Mahogany Hill on Western Road (found on the west side of New Providence Island, The Bahamas.) Just outside the exclusive Lyford Cay Club, it is about a 10-minute drive from Lynden Pindling International Airport.

Embracing His Game

Mahogany House Part 1:  The Chef

Dan Quirk, Master Chef at Mahogany House

"Island living is not for everyone. Most everything you need is imported, expensive, and not always available. You can either choose to be upset and bitter about it...or accept it, adapt, and move on."

Mahogany House's chef Dan Quirk shared how he combats exasperation from not always getting the right ingredients for the high end Bahamas restaurant. One must be highly organized, constantly prepared, and wickedly creative.

Mahogany House entrance sign

The restaurant's main entry is through the wine store called the Market.

The timeless and sophisticated dining room of Mahogany House in The Bahamas

“When it storms, the fishermen aren’t out fishing so it’s unlikely I’ll get the seafood items I normally do. I must have a back up plan. Or if the day's shipment brings romaine lettuce of poor quality, then I just don’t serve Caesar salad that day.”

Dan, who hails from Delaware and formally trained in culinary arts, is not new to switching things up at a moment’s notice. Prior to working for Mahogany House, he was a member of a three-chef kitchen team at The Matyson, a once-upon-a-time restaurant in Philadelphia. Their 5-course tasting menu comprised of eclectic offerings that changed weekly.

It seems crazy how he hurdles such challenges. For example, the kitchen is not equipped with those industrial size walk-in freezers. Still he dishes out his masterpieces using fresh ingredients. Through my one-on-one with the 24-year old chef, I uncovered more reasons contributing to the rising popularity and acclaim of Mahogany House.

Chef Dan talks with pride about Mahogany House. 

“It started out as an idea to bring together the local people and their guests,” Chef Dan proudly spoke about the restaurant's beginnings. The Bahamian-owned establishment opened in 2010, intended to be a gathering place, be it a watering hole for wine aficionados or a venue for locals to entertain their visitors. Its resounding success ushered the development of the neighboring 30-room boutique hotel, The Island House, on an 8-acre property near Lyford Cay. (More on The Island House in my next story.)

Comfy couches add a welcoming touch

Mahogany House's simple yet sophisticated interior evokes a sense of belonging. You instantly feel at ease here. The restaurant’s team, especially the chef, mirrors this ambience with their warmth and friendliness. They make you feel like you’re family.

The dining experience here is also flexible. Dan explained that you can choose to casually sit at the bar for pizza and beer; dine al fresco, sharing small plates paired with a glass of wine; or sit at a table in the main dining room and indulge in impressive entrees like duck confit manicotti, kurabata pork chop, or the menu's superstar:  the blackened snapper.

The U-shaped bar at Mahogany House

Outdoor seating for al fresco dining

You'll find elegant yet comforting food like the Blackened Snapper at Mahogany House

“What I love about Mahogany House is that it continues to evolve,” he stated with delight, citing that they recently revamped the menu design, introduced a whole new line of menu selections, and even reconfigured the seating and dining table arrangement. “It’s a product of great collaboration.”

It’s not unusual to catch Dan at the front of house or working at the pasta station on some nights. He’s involved in all aspects of the restaurant operations and is a true team player. Although cooking is his passion, his eyes light up the brightest when he talks about his team. He is proudest when his team members rise up the ranks as a product of his mentoring and training.

Dan and his team working their magic in the kitchen

Over the years, Mahogany House has gained a strong following from both locals and visitors alike, including those with celebrated names (and I mean BIG names). A sampling of the best-selling items on his menu made it clear to me why patrons give Mahogany House a roaring approval and keep coming back for more. 

Continued in next blog post called "Showstoppers."

Mahogany House is one of three dining options at The Island House, located in Mahogany Hill on Western Road (found on the west side of New Providence Island, The Bahamas.) Just outside the exclusive Lyford Cay Club, it is about a 10-minute drive from Lynden Pindling International Airport.

Here, There, and Everywhere

I spotted a land crab!
Click here for the short video clip.

I have seen ducks crossing the road before...but crabs???

I was confused. I wasn't even anywhere near the beach and yet there was this huge gray-colored crab that crossed the street, climbed onto the sidewalk, and then scurried towards the bushes in the garden. Where did this fella come from?

"I found this guy today. Do you know what it is?" I showed the photo to a local.

"That's a land crab," she quickly identified it. "We eat those," she added and asked if I've ever tried the country's popular dish called Crab & Rice.

It so happens that it's mid-August and still well into the crabbing season. The crab behavior I just witnessed was part of the land crab's life cycle. The geek in me had to learn more so I did some researching. Here's what I found out:

Land crabs actually live on land, burrowing in muddy areas where the soil and rock are saturated with water. When the heavy rains begin to pour -- usually in late May/earlyJune -- these crustaceans mate. About two weeks later (when their eggs have fertilized), the females must release their eggs into the saltwater. That's when they migrate from land to the ocean.

Andros, the biggest island in The Bahamas, is home to the largest population of free roaming land crabs. During migration and spawning season, its main road is blanketed with the clawed creatures. I've seen YouTube videos and photos and it's an incredible sight. Look at this photo by Tru Bahamian Food Tours, for example.

Crabs everywhere!
Photo credit:  Tru Bahamian Food Tours

The migration typically happens at night and during a full moon. Here's how a writer describes this occurence: "Each evening you will find folks all over the island with flashlights, burlap sacks, and 50 gallon drums lining the lone street in search of Mr. Crabby..."

Land crabbing in Andros has become an annual festival drawing not only locals but visitors from around the world. It's a big deal! The Crab Fest spotlights on local headliners, presents a smorgasbord of crab delicacies, and highlights culinary competitions. Of course, the main event is when locals catch crabs with their bare hands.

I have yet to visit Andros and experience all this because I missed Land Crabbing this year. For now, I'll leave you with this YouTube video that had me in stitches. Start at the 20-second mark.

"Ladies and gentlemen...This is breaking news. There are crabs, crabs everywhere...Everywhere!"

To learn more about land crabs, click here.

The Daiquiri Shack

The Daiquiri Shack in front of Melia Nassau in The Bahamas

If it weren't for my desire to explore the island by bus, I would have never found this gem. Directly outside Melia Nassau Beach Hotel, it is situated in front of the bus stop that shuttles passengers downtown.

Friendly tourists enjoying a frozen daiquiri

The Daiquiri Shack is as welcoming as the people inside. Party beats spill out of its windows and the interior oozes with character. Shelves are colorful with stacked fresh bananas, strawberries, oranges, pineapples, mangoes, and more. Plastered on the wall are autographed dollar bills and photos of visitors from all over the world. The rafters and ceiling are decorated with team T-shirts donated by visiting tourists.

Team shirts hang along the ceiling beams.

Of course, the hero is the bar at the center of it all. Juice blenders whizz as the cheerful bartender creates concoctions for his daiquiri fans.

When I walked in, I found some folks sitting on the stools surrounding the bar while others were leaning against the shack's railing as they waited for their drinks.

Bartenders here use large cooking spoons when preparing the best daiquiris in town.

When it was my turn, I ordered my favorite pineapple daiquiri.

"With alcohol?" the bartender asked to make sure.

 "Hell, yeah!"

He gladly added the magical rum and fired up the blender. He then poured the mixture into a plastic cup, finished it with a straw, and handed the overflowing drink to me. All it took was one sip and I was hooked.

My overflowing pineapple daiquiri

During my first time here, I found a snack menu posted on the door. Ahh, all of a sudden the picnic tables outside made sense. Aside from drinks, they also serve chicken wings and a burger combo meal with chips. They were quite good and they didn't bust my budget. Who said everything was expensive in The Bahamas?

I must say that the frozen daiquiri here is the best I've ever had. I crave it especially on a hot and humid day on the island. A small cup costs only $6 but I always opt for the large one for $10. Whether large or small, I'm sure either size would be enough to make anyone happy.

The Cloister and Versailles Gardens

The Cloister is eye-catching day or night.

"Hello!" came out of nowhere and it startled me. It was a polite warning rather than a greeting. I looked around until I spotted someone's head peeking from behind a wall.

"I'm just taking pictures. Hope that's ok," I told the hotel guard as I backed away from the entry to the pool. I had just finished reading the sign that said, "For members and hotel guests only beyond this point."

I was in the alluring Versailles Gardens of the The Ocean Club, a Four Seasons Resort in Paradise Island (Ocean Club was formerly a One&Only Resort). It's a popular attraction and a dreamy backdrop for an elegant wedding in The Bahamas. It's nowhere near the scale of the Garden of Versailles in France. But this miniature, inspired by the original, is charming. I found love and romance everywhere I looked.

Mother and child bronze garden statue

An adaptation of Greek Mythology's Cupid kissing Psyche, maybe?

One of a few water lily ponds in the garden

If you follow the pathway up and across the street from the gardens, you'll find the picturesque Cloister. It is so stunning that passing tourists and even runners would stop to admire it.

The Cloister at One&Only Ocean Club in Paradise Island

The garden path doesn't stop there. There's a pleasant surprise past the cloister. Like a proper ending to a fairy tale, an adorable gazebo sits at the foot of the steps, facing the harbor.

The gazebo sits at the end of the garden path.

The cloister is seen at the top of the stairs behind this gazebo.

What exactly is a cloister anyway? My curiosity steered me to fascinating information.

A cloister is a quadrangle structure that is at the center of a monastery. Characterized by walkways with arched walls, it links the monastery's church, refectory, and dormitory.

There's so much history behind this 12th century cloister.

In medieval times, it served as a quiet place for monks to meditate and learn. Earlier versions were open air and they typically surrounded a courtyard garden. The open area, in contrast to the monastery's indoors, received bountiful natural light, making it conducive to studying and writing manuscripts.

The cloister's hallways with arches and columns 

A lone statue of a pensive woman at The Cloister's courtyard

Why is there a cloister here? I discovered that this particular installation was reconstructed from the remains of a 12th century Augustinian cloister in France. It was imported by William Randolph Hearst. (Yes, of the Hearst Castle fame.) He was well-known for spending his riches on buying and reconstructing entire rooms from European castles and palaces.

This cloister was reconstructed stone by stone.

The dismantled cloister was later purchased by George Huntington Hartford, heir to the A&P supermarket fortune, and had it reassembled at his Ocean Club in The Bahamas.

The Ocean Club was originally called Shangri-la, a paradise-on-earth estate developed in the 1930's. It was owned by a Swedish industrialist named Axel Wenner-Gren. (Think Electrolux vacuum cleaners and refrigerator technology.) In 1959, Hartford bought the estate with grand visions of developing it into a place as luxurious as Monte Carlo in Monaco. He renamed what was then Hog Island into Paradise Island and over the course of three years, built an opulent 52-room hotel on the grand estate which he named Ocean Club. Sadly, this huge investment turned his life "from riches to rags" and he later lost ownership.

Hartford's ambitious project was handled by renowned Cavalier Construction which was co-founded by Godfrey Lightbourn of The Bahamas. The same construction company, reputed for its excellent standards, rebuilt about 30% of the cloister's original pieces that were broken during the shipment.

Romance is everywhere in The Cloister and Versailles Gardens

Today, The Ocean Club resort in The Bahamas remains a symbol of ultra luxury and exclusivity. Its Cloister and Versailles Gardens continue to be sought after for that quintessential and romantic wedding venue in the Caribbean.


Note: What was formerly the One&Only Ocean Club was acquired by Four Seasons in November 30, 2017. This blogpost has been updated to reflect the new property name of The Ocean Club, a Four Seasons Resort in The Bahamas.

Bus Number 10

Bus No. 10 in Nassau, Bahamas

It was February when I visited Nassau for the first time.  The weather wasn’t exactly what I expected.  It was gloomy, blustery, and a little chilly. I recall eyeing the luxurious pool and the famous Cable Beach from my hotel window. Oddly, I had no desire to swim. Instead, I set out to explore the island. Getting a map and some tips from the tour desk, I took the local bus downtown.

Some call it the jitney. Most call it a bus. But by my standards, it's a 32-seat shuttle. If you’re lucky, you might catch one that is air-conditioned. Across from my hotel entrance is a bus pick-up/drop off point next to a daiquiri shack. (More on that later). There I stood and waited for my ride.

I waited for the bus in front of the Daiquiri Shack.

Bus number 10 took a straight shot down West Bay Street heading to the east side of the island. It only cost $1.25 one way and the bus route showed me brightly hued buildings, lush trees, and a view of the turquoise ocean. The trip would have been shorter but we were on a single-track road. The traffic congestion didn’t help. Along the way, passengers randomly got on and off at no designated bus stops. Whenever there’s a break, the bus would pick up speed and I had to latch on to anything I could grasp. 

I hopped off in front of the Christ Church Cathedral on King Street -- the end of the bus route. Even though it wasn’t a Catholic church, I stopped in for my customary three wishes. (Read about this from a previous post.) It's beautiful inside.

Inside the Christ Church Cathedral on King Street.

I was in the heart of downtown near the cruise ship dock and the straw market. Walking past the Pirates Museum, I was reminded that Nassau was once the Republic of Pirates in the 1700’s.

The Pirates Museum showcases a large part of Nassau Harbor's history.

Through my self-guided tour, I discovered the iconic British Colonial Hilton and shamelessly took selfies with a member of the Royal Bahamas Police Force. His Wolseley pith helmet was a dead giveaway.

A selfie with the po-po (Royal Bahamas Police).

My meanderings led me to places I consider cruise passenger magnets. Junkanoo Beach is hard to miss with its lively music and cheerfully colored shacks. Then there’s Arawak Cay (pronounced “Key”) also known as Fish Fry where they prepare made-to-order conch salads. I didn’t have time to sit down and try it, unfortunately. The looming dark clouds warned that I should be heading back to my hotel.

Junkanoo Beach in Downtown Nassau

Colorful shacks offering food, drinks, beach rentals, and even massages.

At Arawak Cay a.k.a Fish Fry

The restaurants and bars at Fish Fry

Junkanoo Beach is the closest to the cruise ship dock.
Click on this video clip for a taste of Junkanoo Beach. 

I braved crossing the street to catch my return bus. On this island, they drive on the left-hand side just like in Britain. I boarded another bus number 10 not realizing that it was almost empty. Its only other passenger disembarked at a nearby gas station. After a few hundred feet, the driver pulled to the side of the road in front of KFC. He got up and turned to me, “I’m just going to pick up lunch, ok?”

My face spoke for me.

“Do you want me to get you another bus?” he offered. Before I could utter a word, he yelled after an approaching Number 10 but it just passed us by. “Oh well,” he shrugged, “I won’t be long.”

Neither was the next bus. I soon learned that the Number 10 transport was frequent. I quickly found another one to ride and made it back safely. By the way, that wasn’t the most unusual bus ride I've experienced here. The other time, my bus driver stopped for a beer.

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Travel Tips:
If you're planning a trip to Nassau for the first time, click here to visit their official website for helpful information. Find more advice on my previous post Traveling to The Bahamas.