Sugar Ridge, the highly-anticipated multi-million dollar luxury boutique hotel in Antigua and Barbuda, recently opened to rave reviews. Sugar Club, the nightclub and restaurant located at the heart of the property, saw hundreds of guests take in the myriad sights and sounds during its official opening night where they were greeted by friendly staff and complimentary hors' d'oeuvres and drinks.

Interiors were richly created by noted design guru, Antigua’s own Charmaine Benjamin-Werth of d-studio. Benjamin-Werth saturated the space with a colour palette that is a variation on chocolate and beige, furnished with earthy solid wood tables and chairs, and a shock of orange for accent. One of the chairs appeared to be carved from a massive tree stump, while the 16ft+ harvest table in the adjacent restaurant might have been carved from the rest.

The Sugar Club is rather spacious, but for those seeking more intimate environs, there is plenty of comfortable seating on the verandahs that flank both sides, with the added treat of exceptional views. On the eastern face, a soaring water jet arcs into the centre of the main pool, while the lower pool has the effect of a small meandering stream with several mini-waterfalls to boot.

Restaurant Manager Roquelle kept everything running smoothly, as hostesses effortlessly negotiated around the many guests. The bar was hopping, no doubt due to the breakout drink of the evening – the "minty-minty". Similar to the Cuban mojito, fresh muddled mint leaves figures prominently in the minty-minty - a careful blend of vodka, lime juice, and pineapple juice. I was reliably informed that it was created by one of the young barstaff, Sherwin, and if so, I suggest he trademark this drink toute suite. The music was in high gear and Constantin of Event Studios set up the lighting system complete with disco ball just in case anyone needed another reason to get up and dance. Guest DJ Woody took over the evening's musical entertainment with a masterful selection of house tunes, and I am told a live DJ will appear at the club every Thursday, with live bands on deck over the weekend.

The Sugar Club is a welcomed addition to a part of the island that has limited dining and nightlife options, and is perfect for those for who St. John’s is just a little too far north, and English Harbour just a little too far south. The location, with an artful mix of bar, restaurant and nightclub effectively showcased its ability to be an event destination, easily hosting a wedding reception, launch party or corporate gala event.

Sugar Ridge hotel invites Antigua and Barbuda its first ever seasonal celebrations with a traditional Christmas Day lunch served at it’s fine dining restaurant Carmichael’s, and live music and a festive dinner on offer at Sugar Club. Why not ring in New Year’s Eve at the Sugar Club where “It’s the Place to Be” with Monkey Tli, DJ Tanny and fireworks when the clock strikes 12. To find out more about these events and to enjoy both restaurants at any time of the year, call 268.562.7700 or visit the website at www.sugarridgeantigua.com.

Check out the photo gallery from the evening.