The Roman Oasis opens its doors to an ancient world of delight

THE Roman Oasis Restaurant in Sabanillas opened its doors for the summer months on Wednesday (July 1), and guests who had eagerly awaited the event slipped on their togas to dine for the event.

Chariots upon chariots flocked to the venue as the mere mortals who had dined at the Roman Oasis before knew there would be no spare seats in the arena unless they had a reservation.

This was a night of magic. In a setting of Roman-style artifacts and decor that had been beautifully employed, the restaurant was transported back to ancient times.

Paul Hickling and his wife Kaat are accustomed to throwing wonderfully extravagant parties, which is probably why The Roman Oasis oozes homeliness without sacrificing style or elegance.

As you drive up the hidden country road immediately leaving the A7 motorway, you become intrigued as to where you are going. However at the first sighting of this hidden jewel you can feel the beckoning ambience.

It’s no wonder that Keith Floyd himself found the Roman Oasis a frequent watering hole, where he would spend many a night at the round table that pays homage to him on the terrace.

The Roman Oasis is not just a restaurant, it is an experience. And once seen, it’s definitely not forgotten!

On arrival, guests were greeted by the resident statue waiter and the soft guitar music of the famed Steve Nelson. A welcome cava was served at their tables and the order of the meal was a self-service barbeque.

Nothing fell short of magnificence here, after all, Paul had told guests to arrive “hungry,” and you could instantly see why! Good value for money was a mere understatement; there was enough food on offer to feed the entire Roman Empire.

The presentation of the extensive buffet was exquisite, there was an abundance of Mediterranean salads that had diners spoiled for choice, and from the carvery server the meat combinations kept flowing the whole night long.

After Steve Nelson had entertained the guests with his flawless renditions of popular tunes, the amazing violin player, Quike Navarro took to the arena.

Even if you were not keen on the strings before then, this guy would have converted you instantly. He brought the incredible sound of the electric violin into the 21^st century with his illuminated talent.

The whole venue was alive and rocking until the small hours.

Many took to the dance floor as the music enticed them to leave their seats to join in.

The Roman Oasis is a restaurant built with love and vision by a man who decades ago wished to create his dream, so that he could invite people to enjoy it with him. And now, Paul and his wife Kaat, have done exactly that!