The Ritz-Carlton, St. Thomas Introduces Two New Culinary Offerings

Enjoy Classic Italian at Essenza, or Locally Brewed Coffee at Zest


MIAMI, FL--(Marketwired - Dec 16, 2014) - The Ritz-Carlton, St. Thomas proudly introduces two new culinary offerings, just in time for travelers heading to the United States Virgin Islands this holiday season. Celebrating their debut this week are Italian inspired "Essenza," along with the fun, casual "Zest" coffee house.

"We are thrilled to present two exciting new additions to our resort's dining collection," said Bernd Kuhlen, general manager of the hotel. "We are confident that guests and locals alike will love the culinary experiences that we have created, whether enjoying classically prepared Osso Bucco at Essenza, or grabbing a freshly made smoothie with friends at Zest."

The Ritz-Carlton, St. Thomas hopes to create lasting memories with the newly opened Essenza, inspired by the "essence" of what makes Italian cuisine so extraordinary: delicious, rustic fare served against a beautiful backdrop. The new menu is grounded in hearty Italian favorites including Osso Bucco, Saltimboccas, Truffle Risotto, Lasagna especially prepared in a cast iron pan, antipasti, pizzas and specialty pasta dishes featuring freshly caught local fish. The luxury hotel's culinary team will present their home-made creations in the St. Thomas restaurant's bread and oil presentation, including warm rustic flavors and fresh herbal accompaniments. Served family style in a casual environment, the menu is created with a focus on simple ingredients and robust flavor. 

"Zest" is poised to be the island's hottest new destination for coffee and frozen treats. Zest offers a true coffee house experience, featuring renowned local coffee from Virgin Islands Coffee Roasters, as well as smoothies and frozen yogurt. 

The Ritz-Carlton, St. Thomas is perfectly situated on a 30-acre secluded estate overlooking Great Bay on the eastern tip of the island. The award winning resort features 180 newly enhanced guest rooms, including 55 Club rooms, 19 suites and four Presidential suites. Travelers may enjoy an array of unique dining experiences including Bleuwater, Essenza, Coconut Cove and Sails. The Ritz-Carlton Spa features eleven luxurious treatment rooms, indigenous offerings and an infinity pool. For entertainment and activities, travelers may enjoy a sunset cruise on the resort's famed luxury catamaran, the Lady Lynsey, or participate in an eco-adventure with the St. Thomas resort's Ambassadors of the Environment program, curated by Jean-Michel Cousteau.

The Ritz-Carlton, St. Thomas is one gem within the renowned portfolio Ritz-Carlton Hotels in the Caribbean & Mexico, representing the largest collection of luxury resorts in the region. In addition to St. Thomas, the portfolio also includes world-class experiences in San Juan, Grand Cayman, Aruba, Cancun and Dorado Beach (Puerto Rico). To book a stay this season or for a full complement of culinary or festive activities happening at each hotel, please visit www.ritzcarlton.com for further details.

Share your culinary memories with The Ritz-Carlton by using #RCMemories on Twitter and Facebook and for more at-home recipes, tips, and trends, explore The Ritz-Carlton Pinterest boards for inspiration.

About The Ritz-Carlton Hotel Company, LLC
The Ritz-Carlton Hotel Company, L.L.C., of Chevy Chase, Md., currently operates 87 hotels in the Americas, Europe, Asia, the Middle East, Africa, and the Caribbean. More than 30 hotel and residential projects are under development around the globe. For more information, or reservations visit the company web site at www.ritzcarlton.com and for the latest company updates, visit news.ritzcarlton.com. The Ritz-Carlton Hotel Company, L.L.C. is a wholly-owned subsidiary of Marriott International, Inc. (NASDAQ: MAR).

Contact Information:

Contact:
Catherine Leitner
Area Director of Public Relations, Caribbean & Mexico

St. Thomas restaurants