Palomino: A Dining Experience Rooted in Nature & Refined Taste
$$$, Contemporary/Seafood
Tucked within the serene gardens of the boutique
Royal Palms Hotel in Pembroke, Bermuda, Palomino is a modern culinary destination that marries rustic authenticity with artful design. From its material finishings to its ingredient choices, the restaurant aims to offer "pure dining, as nature intended", an experience of elevated simplicity, with strong attention to detail and a dedication to seasonality.
Ambience & Design Style
The interior design of Palomino is a blend of organic, rustic textures (natural woods, woven fabrics, warm stone tones) with sleek modern accents: think sharp lighting, polished surfaces, large glass windows, and subtle art-installations, some drawing from themes like equestrian inspiration (the "golden-hued beauty" of the Palomino horse).
The space feels both intimate and grand: high ceilings, substantial windows that open to the garden or pool area, folding glass doors that allow indoor-outdoor flow, letting light and air in.
Lighting is deliberately mood-sensitive: softer and warm in the evenings, brighter in the day, with reflections from the pool or through foliage adding to the sense of place.
For gatherings and private functions, Palomino offers several spaces: the main dining room (which accommodates larger groups), the wine room (“Ascot’s Room”) more intimate and moody, and outdoor or garden-facing areas (Sun Deck, Sunroom, etc.) that capture Bermuda’s outdoors while retaining comfort.
Food, Drinks & Signature Offerings
Cuisine Philosophy
Palomino’s kitchen emphasizes fresh, locally sourced ingredients, with a menu that shifts as the seasons change. The philosophy is “wholesome, clean food with creativity and passion.” Ingredients are allowed to shine, often simply dressed rather than heavily modified. Seafood, fresh herbs, seasonal vegetables, and thoughtful protein dishes are recurring anchors.
Popular & Signature Dishes
While the menu rotates, there are a few offerings often called out in reviews and by the restaurant:
Seasonal Ceviche - freshly prepared, tapping into local catch, herbs, citrus, and often spicy or herbal notes. Always praised for being light but flavorful.
Hand-crafted Bites & Seafood - things like fish or shellfish dishes, maybe with island-touch sauces or sides. Also, vegetable-forward plates for those preferring lighter fare.
Tartare or raw selections and salads that show off produce and texture contrast.
Elegant mains such as well-prepared steaks or locally caught fish, with accompaniments that balance richness: seasonal vegetables, possibly tubers, lighter grain or rice sides. (Because of their "global influences with bold island spirit" descriptor)
Drinks & Bar Offerings
The cocktail menu at Palomino includes cocktails crafted with Bermudian or locally relevant ingredients wherever possible. Also classic cocktails elevated by fresh garnishes or house made infusions.
Full bar service: wines are a feature, with a curated wine list. Canters Bar & Lounge (adjacent) plays a role in lighter drinking and socializing moments.
The wine cellar associated with Royal Palms has been recognized by publications, so wine pairing is likely a highlight.
Service & Experience
Customers consistently note excellent service: attentive, warm, and helping guide through the menu (especially regarding local or seasonal items; many guests appreciate explanations or suggestions).
The ambiance - quiet elegance with a relaxed demeanor is often remarked upon: suitable for special occasions, romantic dinners, or elevated dining. Not so casual that it feels ordinary; not so formal that it feels stiff.
Food presentation is polished; portion size seen as generous for the style. Many appreciate the balance between flavor, plating, and the pace of courses.
Other amenities
Private event spaces (for up to ~14 in the wine room) and larger parties up to ~50 in the main dining room.
Outdoor seating and garden views or pool views in many parts of the dining / lounge area.
Dress code: Smart casual is encouraged. No outside food/drinks unless pre-approved, especially for special events or private rooms.
Special Tips & What to Know Before You Go
Reservations are strongly encouraged, particularly for dinner and on weekends. The place is popular, and having a table ensures you get desired seating (pool-side view, garden side, etc.).
Check menus in advance: Because of the seasonal and changing-item nature of the kitchen, some favorites may rotate out. If there’s something you particularly want (seafood, for instance), check whether it’s on the menu that week.
Best time for ambience: Evening just after sunset tends to provide a magical glow - pool lighting, gentle garden lights, soft interior lighting. If you want quieter service, earlier dinner mid-week is better. Weekend nights are livelier.
Dress smart casual: It suits the tone. Dress-up a bit helps enhance the experience, especially if dining in the dimly lit rooms or private settings.
Private events or special occasions: Utilize Palomino’s private dining room (Ascot Room), Sun Deck, Sunroom depending on the tone of the event; for weddings, birthdays, romantic dinners this allows for elevated setting. Booking in advance helps secure the best room.
Allergies or dietary preferences: Given that many dishes are locally-sourced and may include nuts, seafood, etc., let staff know ahead. The kitchen seems accommodating.
Timing with bar and cocktails: If you plan to enjoy cocktails or the lounge (Canters Bar), arriving before peak dinner time gives a better chance to relax, see the space, enjoy lighter bites without rush.
Opening / Dining Hours
Lunch: Monday through Saturday, from about 11:30 AM to 3:00 PM
Royal Palms Hotel 2024
Bar menu (light / drinks) around midday-to-evening (roughly 2:30 PM-7:00 PM)
Dinner: Monday-Thursday 5:30 PM-9:30 PM; Fridays & Saturdays extended to ~10 PM; Sundays are sometimes reserved for registered hotel guests.
Full operating hours for bar / restaurant vary; lunch & dinner both served, bar open late on some nights.
Location & Contacts
Address: Palomino Restaurant, Royal Palms Hotel, 24 Rosemont Avenue, HM 06, Pembroke, Bermuda. Phone: +1 (441) 295-9644
Road Map
Why Palomino Is Special
Integration of nature & architecture: The way the design draws from the gardens, pool, and outdoors gives not just pretty views but a feeling of breathing space.
Conscious dining: Emphasis on seasonal produce, local sourcing, healthful yet sophisticated food - not gimmicky wellness but thoughtful flavours.
Versatility: Great for romantic dinners, special events, private gatherings - but also approachable for a nicer lunch or evening drinks. The presence of Canters Bar and garden-adjacent seating gives options for different dining moods.
Outstanding value for high end: For Bermuda, many visitors find that the food, service, and setting at Palomino place it among the top modern dining choices, particularly in the smart-casual / elevated realm.
Potential Drawbacks (so visitors say)
Noise level can rise on weekend nights or when the restaurant is full. Large tables or close seating might make whispering difficult - if that is important, midweek is better.
Because menu items rotate, some signature or popular dishes may not be available daily. If you go hoping for a specific dish (e.g. ceviche, shellfish entrée), check ahead.
Price point is moderate-to-premium; expect prices to reflect freshness, sourcing, and setting. Not inexpensive but seen by many reviewers as worth the cost.
Final Thoughts
Palomino at Royal Palms stands out as more than just a hotel restaurant: it’s a thoughtful dining destination. Whether you’re seeking a romantic evening, a special celebration, or simply want to taste Bermuda reimagined through seasonal produce and polished presentation in a beautiful setting, Palomino delivers.
It strikes a fine balance between elegance and relaxation, tradition and innovation. For listings on travel guides, dining directories, or visitor resources, this combination of design, food quality, service, and setting makes it one of Bermuda’s premier offerings for elevated cuisine in a garden escape.
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 By Raj Bhattacharya
Raj, a seasoned travel writer and Bermuda destination expert, has extensive global travel experience. This website reflects his profound insights, garnered over nearly two decades of dedicated findings and research on the island. Raj has assisted countless Bermuda-bound visitors by providing direct, personalized responses to their queries and imparting his wealth of knowledge through this platform. This site serves as an indispensable guide for those seeking informed and reliable insights into Bermuda's treasures.
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