From Fresh Seafood to Fine Wine: A Dinner Made for Two
Have you ever had a dinner so perfect that it felt like the very essence of your holiday? Where the setting, the food, and the company all came together in a truly unforgettable moment? For me, that moment happened right on the beach at Cafe One Love in Arugam Bay. After a day spent exploring the coast, my partner and I were craving a special evening meal that would truly sweep him off his feet. That's when I decided to take him to Cafe One Love, a spot I'd heard so much about. And let me tell you, it was a decision that paid off in the most magical way. This isn't just a cafe; it's a place where romance is not just found, but created.
The Beach is Our Dining Room
As we approached Cafe One Love, the sun was just beginning to set, and the place was already buzzing with a warm, laid-back energy. The tables are set right on the sand, so the first thing we did was kick off our shoes and feel the soft grains between our toes as we walked to our spot. The sound of the waves breaking just a few feet away was the perfect backdrop to the evening, a natural rhythm that complemented the chilled-out music playing softly in the background.
With the sky turning to shades of orange and purple, and the cafe's gentle lighting beginning to glow, the ambiance was nothing short of magical. It's a truly bohemian and relaxed space, designed to help you unwind completely. We found a small, low-lit table right at the edge of the water, and as we sat down, I could feel all the day's stresses melt away. The barefoot policy, the gentle sea breeze, the perfect glow from the lights - it all came together to create a setting so intimate and romantic, it felt like we were the only two people there.
A Toast to Us: Our Perfect Wine Pairing
As we settled in, we decided to start the evening with a special drink. We perused the drink menu together, our fingers occasionally brushing as we pointed out different options. The menu was full of interesting choices, but for a romantic evening, nothing felt more special than a glass of wine. We decided on a glass of Saltbush Pinot Grigio to start. The description on the menu was what truly sold us: "Australian medium-bodied White Wine, vibrant fruit aroma". It sounded sophisticated and refreshing, a perfect fit for the casual beauty of our surroundings.
As we clinked glasses, the crisp, clean taste of the wine felt like a perfect toast to our time together. We sat there, sipping our drinks, watching the last colours of the sunset fade and the first stars begin to appear. It was a moment of pure bliss, a quiet conversation over a delicious drink in the most beautiful setting.
A Feast from the Sea: Our Dinner Selection
The menu at Cafe One Love is a testament to culinary diversity, offering a mix of authentic regional dishes, Italian favourites, and classic comforts. It was a pleasant puzzle to decide what to order. We wanted something special, something that would live up to the romance of the evening.
After much deliberation, we couldn't resist going all-in on the seafood, given our prime beachfront location. Our eyes landed on the magnificent Seafood Platter. The menu promised a "Grilled Lobster, Garlic Butter Prawns, Morning catch of the day's baked fish, baby squid with garlic mayo and lemon butter sauce". It was a feast fit for royalty, and the anticipation of waiting the 45 minutes for it to be prepared only heightened our excitement. The waiter assured us that it was a dish made with love and fresh ingredients, and we were more than happy to wait.
While we waited, we talked and laughed, and I couldn't help but notice the other wonderful food being served around us. The Mediterranean Mezze Platter with its mix of fresh vegetable sticks, falafel, olives, feta cheese, and beetroot dip also looked incredible. It’s the perfect option for those looking for something lighter and vegetarian-friendly, especially with the warm bread slices that came with it.
When our Seafood Platter finally arrived, it was even more impressive than we had imagined. It was a stunning display of fresh seafood, beautifully arranged on a platter, with a variety of dips and sauces. The aroma of garlic and lemon butter filled the air, and we couldn't wait to dig in. The lobster was perfectly grilled, the prawns were juicy and tender, and the baked fish was flaky and delicious. Every bite was absolutely incredible, and the food was so good we found ourselves lingering over every mouthful, not wanting the experience to end.
The Service
The food and the atmosphere are what drew us in, but it’s the people who made our evening. Our waiter was friendly and incredibly attentive, always checking in on us with a smile. I saw the staff interacting with other tables, laughing and sharing a joke. You can tell they take pride in what they do, and their genuine hospitality makes the whole experience feel so special. It's the kind of place where you truly feel like a valued guest, not just another customer.
A Dinner Memory Made
Our dinner by the beach at Cafe One Love was an experience that truly stood out. The combination of the beautiful setting, the delicious food, the creative drinks, and the warm, genuine service created a night we won't soon forget. It's a place that perfectly captures the spirit of Arugam Bay – relaxed, vibrant, and full of flavour. So, if you're ever looking for an unforgettable evening, do yourself a favour and get lost in the magic of Cafe One Love. It’s a destination in itself, and I promise you’ll leave with a full belly, a happy heart, and memories that will last a lifetime.