Does the Ibizan outpost of the party set’s favorite hotel, Standard Ibiza, live up to the hype?
The Standard Ibiza is a beautiful addition to one of the island’s busiest areas – offering a laid-back vibe and great food. The location (there are no beaches within walking distance) means it feels more like a hole in the town than a beach destination, but that’s not a bad thing. If you’re on the town in the evening, Pacha is a short walk away and room service is available 24 hours a day. Berocco is ready…
Where is it?
On the main square – Vara de Rey – Ibiza Town’s location couldn’t be more central – surrounded by shops (from super luxury to high street chains such as Zara), bars, gelaterias and a short 15-minute walk away. to the world’s most famous superclub, Pacha.
The Standard brand was known for its party ethos, but sensing stiff competition from an island like Ushuaia, they positioned this outpost as a quieter and more grown-up alternative for those in the know.
Despite the hotel’s busy, central location, the inside feels like an oasis of calm, so it’s a good place to check in if you’re looking to kick back when the evening heats up outside.
Focusing on the historic walled Old Town (Dalt Vila), a UNESCO World Heritage Site, you may even be inspired to escape the hustle and bustle and connect with the cultural parts of the island.
Style
Smooth, California cool — with pops of color and texture here and there. Interior designer Lázaro Rosa-Violan opted for a fresh, fresh and contemporary look, rather than neon or super-bougie (again, this is Ibiza, so if that’s your bag, that aesthetic is widely available).
Each room is laid-back and minimalist—think white walls and rugs with the odd colorful pillow, but not much else. It feels more utilitarian than high glamour, but has everything you need to relax – and given the roof terrace, you won’t be spending most of your waking hours in the room anyway.
Objects
There is no spa and only a small gym, but the main attraction is the roof terrace – a first for Ibiza Town. Overlooking the beautiful Dalta Vila, it’s the perfect place to spend a lazy Balearic day—perfect sunbeds and attentive butlers are on hand to keep you well fed and watered. During the day, the music is pleasant and minimal, but picks up a bit as the sun goes down to get the crowd ready for the club.
The hotel also has its own private villa, Casa Privada, ideal for large groups, a short walk from the main site, with its own bar, pool and space for many friends.
Food and drink
This is where the Standard Ibiza shines. Of course, there is no shortage of parties in Ibiza, so any hotel has a tough competition for showing people a good time, but an amazing dinner (in my humble opinion) is completely worth giving up. While the White Isle has plenty of restaurants for those looking to try, it doesn’t have much to offer those looking for really good food, so The Standard is a plus.
Dining is separated by the downstairs restaurant – Jara, and the rooftop (above). Most of the dishes are smooth, fresh and Mediterranean. Breakfast is highly recommended (and huge) – a plate of fruit, fresh eggs (or waffles – crispy, chewy and sweet, i.e. perfect), excellent coffee and freshly squeezed orange juice.
If you can’t afford to go to the restaurant, book it in your room, but Vara de Rey has a terrace that makes for a great start to the day.
During the day, the rooftop restaurant UP has an elaborate menu of small Mexican dishes (tacos, Mexican-style patatas bravas, crispy shrimp, etc. are uniformly excellent). Try the guac and blue corn tortilla chips – the best I’ve ever had. Stay until the sun goes down and sink into a few spicy margaritas.
For dinner, Jara has a full menu and great vibes (a DJ will get you in the party mood). My personal favorite was the juicy, smoky chicken asado, which came with fennel chimichurri. Tip: Dine at the bar and the very attentive staff will act as personal sommeliers, serving wines from the hotel’s excellent selection. If you decide you just can’t leave the tent, dinner at UP is great – I’d recommend the short rib barbacoa. It serves two people and comes with sweet, fresh apple slaw, corn tortillas and salsas. A perfect pre-wedding meal.
Outside the classroom
This being Ibiza, nightlife is obviously a big draw. Known as the clubbing capital of the world, there are plenty of venues to choose from. Even with Pacha so close by, it’s the obvious choice. It’s also known as one of the best clubs in the world – regularly attracting a lineup of superstar DJs (and a steady stream of celebrity clubbers).
Detail
Double rooms at The Standard Ibiza start from €225 (£194) in low season and €550 (£474) in high season. Breakfast included; standardhotels.com