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Bolivia’s atmospheric Jardín de Asia features cozy cocoons made of natural materials

Jardín de Asia is a luxury restaurant in Bolivia's Santa Cruz de la Sierra that marries the flavors and materials of Asia and the Amazon.

Located at the five star Hotel Los Tajivos, the restaurant's grand entrance winds past a pond and through a natural tunnel made from indigenous plants. Renowned architect Juan Carlos Menacho incorporates stunning cocoons ('Ajakai') into the core of the design, mimicking drops of water and encouraging intimate conversation while dining.

The stunning Jardín de Asia is part of Los Tajibos Hotel, Santa Cruz de la Sierra‘s most luxurious accomodation. Envisioned by local architect Juan Carlos Menacho, it features a grand tunnel-like entrance crafted from biodegradable ‘chuchío‘ and ‘jatata‘ plants. The eatery’s concept fuses Asian and Bolivian flavors and traditions, which are expressed in both their exquisite cuisine and interiors.

The restaurant’s Oriental signature celebrates the four elements: fire, air, earth and water. The eatery’s greatest homage to water comes in the shape of three giant ‘drops’ in the center of the dining area. These beautiful cocoon-like pods shelter intimate round tables, creating a private atmosphere.

Called ‘Ajakai’ or water baskets, these huge cocoons represent indigenous shelters, making guests feel like they’re eating inside a traditional Amazonian village. The transluscent enclosures were crafted from a fast-growing plant called ‘chuchío’ or Bolivian bamboo and collected from the shore of nearby Guenda River. They are said to add extra energy and purity to the food eaten inside, prepared by famous chef Jaime Enrique Barbas García.

The pseudo village sits beneath a dark concave ceiling with twinkling LED lights that represent the firmament. But if clients prefer to see the real sky, they can go outside and sit at one of the sunken tables and order a fusion cocktail from the bar while listening to music. Local Bolivian vegetation also flourishes in this area, including bushes and palms.

Whether you are having a night out with friends, or a romantic encounter with a special someone, Jardín de Asia is the place to go in Bolivia’s Santa Cruz.

But if clients opt to see the real sky, they can sit outside at one of the sunken tables.

Details

  • Bolivia
  • Juan Carlos Menacho