The Great Food Adventure

IT’S FAIR TO SAY that Amazónico Monte-Carlo has generated quite a buzz since its grand opening on the rooftop of the newly revamped Café de Paris in the spring of 2024. As someone who tends to steer clear of hype, the fourth addition to the Amazónico concept - following Madrid, Dubai, and London - initially slipped under my radar despite all the noise.

But as I stepped into the restaurant’s luxuriant Lounge Bar area and was politely ushered to a table almost hidden by lush vegetation and montages of magical butterflies, I realized the hype was very much justified. Every now and then, it’s perhaps wise to listen to those in the know.

Created in Madrid in 2010 by husband-and-wife duo Sandro Silva and Marta Seco, Amazónico invites diners on a unique journey along the banks of the world’s second-largest river. Our adventure began the moment we settled into opulent brushed velvet chairs and were presented with a Peacock Spritz - served not in a glass or a cup, but in an exquisite porcelain figurine shaped like, naturally, a peacock. This extravagant concoction of Aperol, Champagne, Vodka, and passion fruit set the tone for our incredible gastronomic exploration.

Fortunately, our Amazónico tour leader - I hesitate to call the serving staff “waiters” given their specialized expertise and deep knowledge of the dishes and wines - was close at hand to help us navigate the extensive menu. Known for its Latin American-inspired cuisine, the restaurant also features a remarkable selection of sushi, woks, and caviar.

Our journey began with a moreish dish of Pão de Queijo (€14) - small, delicious rounds of cassava cheese bread, a popular Brazilian snack made with tapioca flour. Living in the land of French bread and patisseries, the pleasantly chewy texture was surprising and made for a welcome change. These cheese breads were followed by entrées to share: an Ensalada Amazónica (€23) - made with mango, avocado, confit tomato, and a vibrant burst of citrus - and Aguachile (€32), a Mexican-style stone bass ceviche with avocado cream and a bold kick of jalapeño. It may sound like a cliché, but both starters were a true feast for the senses. If I had to pick a standout, the stone bass, with its fiery chili hit, was the undeniable showstopper.

Next on my tour of Latin American cuisine was a main dish of Entraña (€62), chimichurri-marinated Angus skirt steak served with Papas al Horno (€14), delightful tiny new potatoes grilled with thyme and rosemary. Chimichurri, a herb sauce from Argentina made with parsley, garlic, olive oil, and red wine vinegar, infused the perfectly cooked steak with a zesty kick. My companion chose the Merluza Negra (€64) - marinated Chilean sea bass served on a spinach and pomegranate purée with citrus-glazed endive. The mains were paired with an Argentinian red wine and a Chilean white, both perfectly suited to their respective dishes.

And just when we thought we couldn’t be more impressed by the incredible flavors of the dishes we had sampled, the desserts arrived! First, the Piña Rostizada - roasted, caramel-glazed pineapple served on a cinnamon-infused cornbread with coconut sorbet. Then came undoubtedly the best hot chocolate fondant we had ever tasted - the Chocolate al Moctezuma. Living in France, where this dessert is practically a national treasure, that is high praise indeed. The rich cocoa flavor was so pure it felt as though it had come straight from the cacao trees, and when paired with the Bailey’s sorbet, it was pure bliss on a plate.

As Sandra Silva says, “The Amazon is more than a river, it connects people, cultures and traditions.” Amazónico is truly a journey worth repeating, one you’ll want to share with those you love so they, too, can immerse themselves in its vibrant and unique atmosphere. I am eager to return, next time with my family.

Amazónico Monte-Carlo
Place du Casino
Dinner Thursday to Monday, 6pm to 2am
+377 98 06 14 14

By Suzanna Chambers

Senior Editor

Suzanna is a former Fleet Street journalist who worked for The Sunday Times, The Telegraph, the Mail on Sunday and the Independent. She has lived in France for 20 years where she has carved a freelance career writing for UK, US and local publications. Meanwhile, her day job sees her leading the Communication, Marketing and Press team at Top Marques Monaco, a role she has held for ten years.