The Art of the Experience: Autentico Beyond the Plate
If you’ve followed my blogs for a while, you must know that I’m not really a drinker.
So, going into this experience, I didn’t think I could contribute much to a proper review, but I went in with an open mind. In the Ritz-Carlton lobby, specifically at Noori Sushi Lounge, an exclusive event took place. An Extraordinary Pour by Luca Cinalli was just one of Autentico’s 2026 Bucket List Experiences. Luca Cinalli is a respected bartender, Master Trainer & Bar Consultant with worldwide recognition. In collaboration with Apotek Speakeasy (an intimate/hidden cocktail bar in Oranjestad), the team created specialty cocktails for this event.
💡 What is an Autentico Bucket List Experience? Autentico Bucket List Experiences are limited-seating experiences designed to delight your taste buds and ignite your culinary curiosity, with local and internationally acclaimed talents leading you on a unique culinary journey. |
First impression
On arrival, I could see the bartenders in action. Noori Sushi Lounge’s bar sits in the center, giving guests a clear view from all angles. On the table: a special menu featuring drinks by Luca Cinalli and Apotek, some olives, and chips. Behind the bar, a very focused Luca made a Liléa with Blanco Tequila, Salted Rhubarb liqueur, lemon juice, and Acacia Honey, topped with fried sweet potatoes, and it looked refreshing… So that one already had my attention.
Exclusive event, specialty cocktails.
Looking at the menu and feeling totally lost, I asked the waitress which drink was the girliest. She recommended the “forbidden chemistry” by Apotek. Vodka, Hypnotiq, Rosemary and Lulo Cordial. I headed to the bar to watch the bartender make my drink and, of course, collect some content for my insta reel. I am a self-proclaimed content creator, after all. My 5 loyal post likers would agree (awkwardly smiles…)
Served in a martini glass, this cocktail was filled to the brim. Without an ounce of alcohol in my system, I already imagined the worst-case scenarios of walking back to my table with this drink… Luckily, the waitress came to the rescue and said she would bring it over. And… I think I may have found my go-to drink… It is light, sweet, and not overwhelming. I think Apotek should put this on the menu permanently and call it “The Xa.” Since they’re going for apothecary vibes, this can be a prescription for social awkwardness, no?
The bites
Between the drinks and conversation, they served 3 canapés. A delicious beef tartare on a crostini with crispy parmesan, a lemon-poached shrimp cocktail, and a watermelon-and-goat-cheese bite. I may have had 1 or 7 of the beef tartare… Can’t remember. Blame the Forbidden Chemistry (The Xa) and Apotek.
At the table, my friends were much more adventurous. I smelled and sipped their drinks (for research purposes, of course), and the Liléa was indeed delightful. Between the smoky flavors of the F&B made with Bourbon, the strong Mezcal, Amaro & Mango, and fruity Longevity Formula, I knew what my heart wanted… Another classic Xa cocktail, “The Xa” (previously known as Forbidden Chemistry), also known as Apotek’s next best seller.
A Little More Than a Pour
This experience, while centered around cocktails and alcohol, felt more like an elegant gathering of friends. We enjoyed each other’s company, explored new flavors, and created new memories. For me, Autentico’s Bucket List Experiences are about discovering Aruba’s culinary secrets. Secrets that are too good to be kept. Aruba offers so much; you just have to know where to look and who to ask. So let’s start with this. Visit Noori at the Ritz, enjoy cocktails with your sushi, and end the night at Apotek, where, hopefully, “The Xa” will also be on the menu.
View my reel recap here. 🎞️
