In the heart of the bustling high-rise strip, a culinary gem emerges, captivating the taste buds of locals and tourists alike. Drunk’s Denial, a name that resonates with an intriguing allure, offers an unforgettable gastronomic experience. This establishment, the brainchild of the renowned Tessa Pietersz, intertwines her Aruban heritage with an innovative culinary concept.
Tessa Pietersz, an island girl at heart, has been a household name in Aruba long before embarking on her culinary journey. Crowned Miss World Aruba in 1995, she also had the honor of meeting Nelson Mandela during the pageant in South Africa. However, it’s her two-decade-long stint as a popular face on Aruba Television, the local NBC licensee, where she truly made her mark. After the channel’s closure, Tessa pivoted her career towards her long-held dream – Drunk’s Denial: Alcohol Infused Gourmet.
The genesis of Drunk’s Denial occurred amidst the COVID-19 pandemic, a time when Tessa seized the opportunity to transform her dream into reality. The concept was simple yet revolutionary: to create cakes infused with various liquors and wines. These creations, known for their light, moist texture and sophisticated flavor profiles, offered an elegant alternative to the traditional, overly sweet confections flooding the market.
Drunk’s Denial, however, is not just about cakes. It has introduced a novel twist to the classic crêpe, drawing in even the most discerning French aficionados. The recent addition of Dutch Pancakes pays homage to Tessa’s Dutch ancestry, just as she celebrated her French roots with her crêpes. Customers now enjoy the unique option of having their menu choices served in a variety of forms – be it a waffle bowl, a crêpe, a Dutch pancake, or the delightful Dutch ‘Poffertjes’.
Open from breakfast through dinner, Drunk’s Denial caters to a wide array of tastes. The menu ranges from savory delights like the ‘Breakfast of Champions’ to healthier options such as frozen yogurt bowls and fruit smoothies. For coffee enthusiasts, the venue offers a selection of specialty coffees, highlighted by the Lavazza Super Crema espresso bean and must-try items like the salted caramel affogato.
At the heart of Drunk’s Denial’s philosophy is a commitment to health-conscious, balanced meals. The offerings are designed to be light in fats and sugars, exploring the harmonious interplay of flavors – sweet, sour, salty, and sometimes umami and spicy.
The dessert section is equally impressive, featuring a variety of ice creams and pancakes accompanied by fresh fruits, deluxe nuts, and an array of ‘drunken fruits’ such as Whiskey Pear and Gin Elderflower Lychee. Notable additions include rum whipped cream and champagne sorbet.
Tessa’s personal favorites, like the Strawberry Champagne Dutch Pancake and the Amaretto Cappuccino Milkshake, are testimony to the culinary innovation at Drunk’s Denial. As for the cakes? Tessa assures, “They are all unique and exceptionally delicious.”
Drunk’s Denial is more than a restaurant; it’s an embodiment of gourmet creativity, offering not just food, but a memorable dining experience. Located on Paseo Herencia in the High Rise Strip and open most days from early morning to late at night, it’s a must-visit for anyone seeking culinary excellence in Aruba.
Contact Details: Drunk’s Denial Paseo Herencia, High Rise Strip, in front of the Holiday Inn Resort Open Mon-Sat: 8 am – 11 pm (Closed temporarily between 1 pm – 4 pm) Sun: 5 pm- 11 pm Phone: +297 594 3222
