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Filling The Gap

Published:Thursday | June 27, 2013 | 12:00 AM
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Beautiful Hydrangea grown on the property.
The dynamic duo, Michelle McKay (left) and Gloria Palomino.
An amazing view of the full moon from the bistro.
Signature seafood stew, served with garlic toast, perfect at the mountain hideaway.
Pumpkin bisque, warm and delicious in the chilly mountains.
Steamed fish with bammy, to be enjoyed at The Gap.
Chicken breast stuffed with callaloo and cheese accompanied by a tasty sauce. Serve with rice and peas and steamed vegetables.
Oxtail with broad beans, served with rice and peas and vegetables. - PHOTOS BY Winston Sill
The curried goat at The Gap Café is second to none.
Delectable chocolate cake for dessert.
Rum cake.
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Krysta Anderson, Gleaner Writer

Nestled in the cool Blue Mountains, just outside the gates of Holywell recreational park, is the cozy bed and breakfast - The Gap Café. Last Friday, specially invited guests journeyed into the Blue Mountains, under a glorious full moon, for The Gap's relaunch.

With a very rich history, The Gap Café is no stranger to the world of fine dining. But with all the natural disasters which have impacted the island, it has undergone some renovations while remaining open to its loyal customers.

Restoration was finally completed in April, and the management thought it fitting to relaunch the café as a prelude to its first moonlight event (on Saturday)- a must-see from The Gap. This new event will be featured at the presence of every new full moon.

As the night wore on, the temperature fell. A few scampered to their personal comfort zones, with the choice of seating both indoor and out, and the fireplace provided a glorious reprieve for many.

The beauty of the outdoors of the Blue Mountains was brought inside in the form of gorgeous hydrangeas, which are grown on the property, were placed on each table inside. Outside, some sat under the moonlight while others inhaled the cool, clean air, captivated by the breathtaking view overlooking the city of Kingston, while enjoying delectable hors d'oeuvres, before sitting to indulge in the main course.

HOME AWAY FROM HOME

Proprietor Gloria Palomino began the proceedings by welcoming all to her home away from home. She told guests that they wanted to reinvent themselves.

The establishment is staffed by members of the surrounding community, with the addition of her business partner and manager, Michelle McKay.

With her youthful exuberance, McKay noted that she wanted to keep Palomino's vision of The Gap alive and kicking, while giving the place a huge facelift. A mountain girl and nature lover who lives close by, McKay's vibrant personality shines right through.

The new thrust of the café was to also change the menu, making it family-oriented and kid-friendly. The mouth-watering offerings included an option of pumpkin bisque, garden salad with feta cheese and seafood stew for starters. Entrées comprised a choice of chicken breast stuffed with callaloo and cheese, oxtail with broad beans, real Jamaican curried goat and steamed fish with bammy - all served with traditional rice and peas.

For dessert, guests enjoyed the sweet and scrumptious choice of rum cake and chocolate, and what's a café without hot beverages? The choice of Blue Mountain Estate Coffee and Jamaican hot chocolate brought a satisfying end to the chilly night.

krysta.anderson@gleanerjm.com