We decided to go all out, just like we would if Rich Wilson were out to dinner with us, and we ordered a starter (appetizer). We opted for the local raw fish dish, called "ika mata". It was prepared with lots of lemon, coconut milk, onion, carrots, cucumbers, herbs, and maybe a hot pepper (not sure about that part). It was dewlicious and we were both wishing we had some bread to sop up the coconut milk/citrus dressing. Bubby thought the fresh veggies were a real addition. I want you to notice that presentation is a factor, even in third world countries like this one. The curse of the expectaion of the ugly American tourist is broad and far reaching.
For our "mains" (entrees) Bubby had a lasgne prepared with roasted pumpkin and taro tops (locally known as rukau). The taro tops are a favorite of hers from previous trips, and the lasagne was a success and a change from fish. It was deliciously cheesy and very satisfying. The only downside was that when Bubby looked in the mirror after dinner, she found rukau clinging to her teeth. Every spinach-eating princess' worst nightmare.
Poppy has no imagination. The menu was limited, but you know I am not much of a beef guy, so I settled for fish. I had a piece of seared ahi tuna with a papaya onion salsa and risotto. It was very good, but the salsa needed some burn. It would have been much better with a little jalapeno mixed in. All in all, a lovely dinner.
We shared a lemon cake with a tart lemon sauce for dessert, but didn't get a photo of that. We were into it too quickly.
Of course, by the time we left the restaurant, it was raining. For the second time that day, we got wet during transit. That seems to be the theme of this trip. We are sitting in from of Wiggmore's store, using their wifi hotspot right now, and it has drizzled on us once since we got here. Another interesting thing about this spot is that by sitting here, we draw lots of attention from other papaa (in this case a Kiwi who is an Apple computer fan). He lives here four months of each year and owns a vacation home just up the street. He gave us the website, we'll look into it.
Every time I come, I think this will probably be my last trip to the Cooks. Who knows, maybe I'll come again some day. Bubby is smiling as I write that. I think she would come anytime.
Today, we might fish in the lagoon. Play a game of Crowns, and shop for the grands and maybe a new pareau shirt for Poppy.
This is hard work!
Buboppy
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