The Reefs has officially opened Solaris, its brand-new restaurant offering a fresh take on island-inspired continental cuisine with sweeping ocean views. Located on the site of the former Aqua Terra, Solaris is a complete reimagining of the dining experience at The Reefs—from menu to mood to interior design.
Solaris delivers elevated yet approachable cuisine using fresh, locally sourced ingredients wherever possible. Under the direction of newly arrived Executive Chef Carlos Meléndez, guests can expect a dynamic menu that reflects both his international experience and passion for island flavours.
Chef Meléndez, originally from Costa Rica, brings more than two decades of culinary experience, having previously led acclaimed kitchens at The Abaco Club in The Bahamas, Pine Cay, Relais & Châteaux, Turks and Caicos, and The Meridian Club, as well as at Relais & Châteaux properties in Costa Rica.
“With Solaris, I wanted to create a menu that celebrates the spirit of the island, while also bringing refined techniques and creativity to the plate,” said Executive Chef Carlos Meléndez. “Guests can expect dishes that feel both familiar and elevated—crafted with care and full of flavour.”
Signature dishes at Solaris include Wild Fennel Salad, Cold-Smoked Wahoo Toast, and Confit Rockfish with Almond Ajo Blanco, Farro, and Pickled Grapes. Guests can also enjoy Grilled Veal Chop with Nduja-roasted Pepper Butter, and Grilled Octopus with Papas Cravas and Smoked Paprika Greens. Dessert offerings feature Rose Water Pavlova with Pistachio Praline Crémeux and Vanilla Basil Strawberry Ice Cream, alongside a decadent Chocolate Ganache Tart with Sea Salt Caramel Gelato.
The transformation of the former Aqua Terra space into Solaris includes a complete renovation of the dining room, an expansive new covered terrace, and a new lounge area featuring the resort’s original cedar bar. Each space was designed to maximize the restaurant’s dramatic ocean views, creating a warm and inviting atmosphere for breakfast, dinner, or Sunday brunch.
“With the arrival of Chef Carlos and a completely new menu, Solaris marks an innovative chapter for dining at The Reefs,” said David Dodwell Jr, General Manager of The Reefs. “We’ve reimagined the entire space to match the bold, fresh flavours coming out of the kitchen—making Solaris an exciting new dining experience for locals and visitors. We can’t wait to welcome everyone and see our guests discover everything Solaris has to offer.”
To complement the dining experience, Solaris will feature live entertainment throughout the summer season in the Solaris Lounge, including music by Wayne Davis [Fridays 7–10pm], Rewind [Saturdays 7–10pm], and Randy Lambert [Sundays 5:30–8:30pm].
Solaris is now open for breakfast, dinner, and Sunday brunch year-round. Reservations can be booked via Open Table or by calling the resort directly at 238-0222. For more information, visit thereefs.com/bermuda-dining/solaris.
