The joy of Palma’s burgeoning restaurant scene is the sensational choice and diversity on offer. Jogging alongside traditional and quirky bars serving tapas and pinchos are feted Michelin-starred establishments and edgy sushi and Asian food joints. And let’s not forget vermuterias, snazzy vegetarian bistros and classy international dining emporiums.Inspired and innovative menús del día (lunchtime set menus), accompanied by superb local and Spanish wines, abound, providing exceptional value, even from Palma’s leading gastronomic maestros. This may be a bijou capital but it packs a punch when it comes to food, effortlessly holding its own on the world’s culinary stage.
With so much to taste and discover in Palma, making it a worthy weekend excursion, it’s important to find the best accommodation to make your experience perfect. Look at these 5 star hotels in Mallorca on www.hotels-of-mallorca.com or these hotels in Palma de Mallorca at tophotels.com to choose from top rated hotels.
For further inspiration, see our guide to spending the weekend in Palma, plus the best hotels, nightlife and things to do in the city.
An atmospheric historic building, with impressive ancient stone arches and light-filled atrium, serves as the gastronomic home of Michelin-starred local chef, Andreu Genestra. Contemporary wood furniture, original stone floors and mellow lighting create a relaxing ambience, and the creative three-course menú del día (lunchtime set menu) offers plenty of choice with winning combinations such as glazed beef fideuà with clams. By night the candlelit romantic space offers a tasting menu of exquisite variety and delicacy. The likes of pea and avocado tartare or pig’s cheeks with caramelised pepper tartine prove refreshingly light and moreish dishes.
Contact:aromatarestaurant.com
Reservations: Recommended
Prices: ££
Best table: Choose the central zone for views of the spectacular arched ceiling and historic staircase
Nestled squarely within Palma de Mallorca's fierce gastronomic competition, Aromata enjoys an esteemed reputation, helmed by the region's Michelin-starred prodigy, Andreu Genestra's Tast Club.
Mysteriously tucked away in Carrer de Sant Jaume, the Tast Club accrues the distinction of being a clandestine culinary treasure. Its elusive doorway might evade the untrained eye, revealing itself only through the welcoming whisper of the cobblestone courtyard. A step inside reveals an confluence of sophistication and homely allure, echoing the ambience of a traditional English club - the delicate interplay of leather upholstery, wooden furnishings and delicately hanging chandeliers exuding a quiet grace. The professional staff, well-equipped with their glossy repertoire, skilfully dance through an array of rooms balancing platters gleaming with savoury jamón Ibérico, creative tapas, authentic tortillas, zesty ceviches and tantalizingly thin cristal bread. Complimentary to their menu is their selection of fine wines, reflecting the region's best.
Further Information: tast.com
Booking: Imperative
Price Range: Moderate to High
The Ideal Spot: The satisfaction of obtaining a table outshines preference in this coveted locale
Nestled in the heart of Mallorca, the sophisticated and cozy Tast Club personifies the allure of an antiquated English club, resulting in a unique atmosphere. Not far away, Fera, another top-notch restaurant, discreetly resides within the city’s most fashionable district.
Upon arrival, guests are greeted with grand archways, an inviting patio, and lush gardens. This restaurant offers an unmatched culinary journey, blending Mediterranean and Asian flavors, led by renowned chef Simon Petutschnig. He is best known for crafting extraordinary lunchtime and evening tasting menus that constantly exceed visitor's expectations. The ambiance is enhanced by the impeccable service, while the accompanying breads baked in-house and fine quality oil alone are a gastronomical delight. Among the variety of exciting culinary creations are the healthy, subtly flavored sea bream ceviche with pomegranate tiger milk and shiso, or the tantalizing crab roll in salsa verde. To top it off, the dessert options are irresistibly seductive, with unique combinations of sweet, sour, and aromatic ingredients, featuring favorites like chocolate yuzu, dulche de leche and kumquat.
For further details, visit their website: ferapalma.com
Please remember, making reservations is crucial to avoid disappointment.
Average costs: £££
Embark on an unprecedented gastronomic adventure combining Asiatic sensibilities with Mediterranean inspirites at Fera, aptly paired with high-class ambiance akin to Mercat Marc Fosh.
In a modern, relaxed setting, the shining jewel of the establishment is Britain's Michelin-starred culinary artist, Marc Fosh. Bathed in minimalist splendor, this haven of gastronomy is a temple dedicated to the culinary arts. Lunch and dinner tasting menus reveal a riot of flavors that are quintessentially Mediterranean, all realized through locally obtained ingredients. They are masterfully crafted into works of art worthy to be served on the most untarnished pieces of tableware. Indulge in their Marc Menu, a masterpiece that offers a culinary canvas featuring savory meals like Bombeta rice combined with venison loin, complemented by Jerusalem artichoke, fresh quince, and a drizzle of lovage emulsion. A well-known fact is Marc's excellent dessert offerings, where his dark chocolate and olive oil 'cremoso', accompanied by red pepper and raspberry sorbet, serves as your one-way ticket to gastronomic paradise.
Contact: marcfosh.com
Reservations: Imperative
Prices: £££
Best Table: Choose a spot near the indoor courtyard festooned with a flourishing green wall, tranquil water structure, and graceful palm trees.
Nestled within the svelte simplicity of its interior, March Fosh paves the way for a purely culinary pleasure, La Lonja-Borne Café La Lonja.
An enduring treasure situated in the lively Plaça de la Lonja, this eatery radiates charm through its Art Nouveau style and retro luminary accents. The eatery lures the local crowd with an inviting atmosphere created by its polished mahogany furnishings, marble-topped tables, and distinctively tiled floors designed in a checkerboard pattern. The café is particularly renowned for its garrotines, slender baguettes stuffed with an assortment of fillings and baked in a traditional wood oven. In addition to these, the menu boasts incredibly good-value tapas and robust dishes like chorizo sausage served with eggs. It is the ideal getaway for those seeking an affordable yet delicious midday plate paired with a glass of house wine, or for those planning an eventful evening of tapas and cocktails.
Reach them at: cafelalonja.com
Estimated Costs: £
Prime Seating: Enjoy the vibrant terrace
Café La Lonja sets the tone for an affordable gastronomical journey with its sensational tapas and invigorating cocktails in the evening, not forgetting an entirely reasonable lunch plate.
Nestled within the stylish confines of Calle San Feliu, the much-loved Bistro 13% delights in serving up a cornucopia of healthy and organic produce. Adorned with cream and fiery-red vermillion walls, this inviting venue also showcases modern artwork under the soft glow of rustic wooden tables. Earth-toned cushions lend an additional layer of warmth to the informal setting. Patrons can indulge in an array of inventive, pocket-friendly dishes such as Moroccan couscous teamed with organic beef or, perhaps, a cod drenched in sage butter and honey, which are a frequent favourite among the regulars. The well-versed staff are always ready to guide you through their extensive wine list. The combination of exquisite cheese and meat platters perfectly paired with a hearty island red wine is an experience worth indulging.
Contact: 13porciento.com
Prices: £
Among Palma de Mallorca's culinary hot spots is Bistro 13%—a casual dining establishment lauded for its unwavering commitment to sourcing organic ingredients. Another standout is Bon Aires Clandestí Taller Gastronòmic, famously known for its gastronomic excellence.
One noteworthy way to satiate your adventurous palate is a visit to Clandesti. This unique eatery is the brainchild of the visionary chefs Pau Navarro and Ariadna Salvador. This duo works their culinary magic in a chic, repurposed garage nestled in the vibrant neighborhood of Bon Aires. The space caters to a small crowd; just twelve patrons can experience the intimate and engaging show kitchen. Here, Navarro and Salvador meticulously assemble tasting platters and engage in lively conversations with the dinners. Expect unexpected yet sensational offerings like a pasty featuring sobrassada—a local sausage—with carob and fig or perhaps mountain rabbit balanced with lampuga—a popular Mediterranean fish—and monkfish liver. The element of surprise is part of this restaurant’s charm; hence, a traditional menu is nonexistent. Don’t forget to appreciate the intriguingly adorned wooden barrel that greets you at the entrance—it's part of the experience!
Contact: clandesti.es
Booking: Mandatory
Prices: £££
Best seat: Worry not, all twelve slots are equally good, right at the heart of the action; the bar
It's essential to book a space at Clandestí Taller Gastronòmic, as only 12 can dine at the sweeping bar Andana
Bustling Andana, housed in an atmospheric 19th century railway building next to the main bus station, is the brainchild of Michelin-starred female chef, Maca de Castro. Booking is advisable as the restaurant is usually heaving and the ambience frenetic. Fresh local produce is used for a modern interpretation of authentic Majorcan fare with dishes such as broken eggs, chips and truffle, proving popular. Grilled squid with garlic potatoes and olive mayonnaise packs a punch and there are plenty of tapas plates served up in the busy open kitchen to keep everyone happy. If you enjoy people watching, opt to dine on the paved terrace.
Contact: andanapalma.es
Reservations: Recommended
Prices: ££
This renowned Michelin-starred chef of Argentinian and Majorcan origin, uses avant-garde techniques in his sought-after cuisine, garnered from his culinary travels in Russia, London and Paris. His colourful, idiosyncratic five or seven course lunch menus, bursting with flavour and theatrical nuances, offer good value. Bullish yet aesthetically pleasing combinations of white asparagus with egg yolk and Iberian ice cream, or beef with cocoa and chili sauce, challenge the taste buds, while signature delights include borsch with ravioli of beetroot jelly, stuffed with crème fraiche. The restaurant overlooks bustling Paseo Mallorca and is home to stylish interiors and a contemporary and unpretentious vibe. There's also a canopied terrace.
Contact: adrianquetglas.es
Reservations: Essential
Prices: ££
Try Adrián Quetglas's colourful, idiosyncratic lunch menu which bursts with colour and flavour La Lonja-Borne De Tokio a Lima
Situated in Boutique Hotel Can Alomar, this smart and exclusive emporium serves fresh and innovative Japanese, Peruvian and Mediterranean fusion fare. Enjoy the balmy terrace overlooking Paseo del Borne, or the understated and sophisticated restaurant inside. The warm and welcoming atmosphere along with punchy wine list and faultless presentation and service has made this a hot ticket. Sharing plates full of colour and panache to excite the palate include Iberian pork tacos with apple and roasted guacamole and expertly grilled scallops with artichokes and sea sauce. The mischievous creamy meringue pie with Soller lemons is a class act.
Contact:canalomarhotel.com
Reservations: Recommended
Prices: £££
Best table: Sit out on the balmy roof terrace
The smart De Tokio a Lima serves innovative Japanese, Peruvian and Mediterranean fusion fare Merchants
Few restaurants in Palma exude as much character and chutzpah as Merchants. Housed on the lower floor of luxurious Hotel Palacio Can Marques in the historic La Lonja district, this buzzing and welcoming den of good taste and exceptional seafood and steaks has an intimate and vibrant ambience. Seasoned chef, Stephen Sullivan, lends menus a British clubby feel with comforting side dishes such as truffle and parmesan fries and grilled cabbage with anchovy mayo. The plethora of steak varieties are prepared to perfection, as are the grilled lobster and the popular prawn and lobster croquettes. Dining inside is a delight but the candlelit garden with towering palms, cherry and fig trees, is a treat not to be missed.
Contact: merchantspalma.com
Reservations: Recommended
Prices: ££
Best table: The candlelit inner courtyard and garden
Merchants exude character and chutzpah Santa Catalina Market Kitchen
This unpretentious and welcoming eatery is located near the bustling market in chic Santa Catalina neighbourhood. Experienced British chef, Rob Kirby, and wife, Amber, run the joint together, offering creative modern British dishes that celebrate stalwart Majorcan ingredients. With its green shutters, wood beams and white walls sporting iconic pop art, the restaurant has a warm and cosy feel. Expect beautifully presented tasty treats such as chorizo and apricot Cumberland sausage rolls served with crispy pig sticks and apple and thyme sauce. Desserts include chocolate, Majorcan orange and hazelnut brownies with homemade apricot ice-cream. Scrumptious cocktails such as Blackberry Gin Bramble are de rigueur.
Contact:marketkitchenpalma.com
Prices: ££
This svelte urban hangout in voguish Santa Catalina surprises with an eclectic world menu of tantalising and bold dishes that are expertly matched with cocktails and wines. The architectural décor is minimalistic but fun, with brick tiles adorning the walls and an open plan kitchen. Winning Argentinian duo, chef Bernabé Caravotta and sommelier, Sebastián Perez, offer classics that include charcoal black cod marinated in miso or experimental humdingers such as glazed bone marrow with beef tongue and brioche. The 'childhood feelings' wispy cotton candy and popcorn dessert is as light as a feather and guaranteed to elicit a smile.
Contact: vandalpalma.com
Reservations: Recommended
Prices: ££
Vandal is a hip hangout in the Santa Catalina area that has an eclectic world menu KOH
With its colourful Chinese hanging lanterns and wall art, this fun, original and cool culinary den serves up some of the best authentic South-East Asian cuisine in Palma. Sharing platters such as Pad Kra Pao Duck stir-fry, dim sum, cumin lamb ribs and Thai fishcakes can be savoured accompanied by a moreish cocktail. Try a Passionate Monkey, a winning blend of Japanese Bourbon, creme de banane and Maple syrup. There’s a WOK Station section on the menu and tantalising side orders aplenty. A warm and intimate ambience combined with hugely welcoming staff, make this the perfect place for a lively weekend get-together.
Contact:kohpalma.com
Reservations: Recommended
Prices: £££
Cheery and always bristling with life, this roomy, popular and contemporary eatery specialises in Galician style seafood and is packed with locals who covet the excellent tapas. With its jaunty seafaring themed cane ceiling, rope covered pillars and stylish art, it’s perfect for a laid-back fish supper with good Spanish wine. Dishes such as piquant and saucy stuffed mussels, juicy prawns and meatballs with rich tomato sauce are highlighted on blackboards along with various tortilla combinations. Fresh seafood such as squid, shellfish and lobster, and melt-in-the-mouth meats, particularly the entrecote steak, are grilled to perfection.
Contact:casagallegamallorca.com
Reservations: Recommended
Prices: ££
Cheery La Casa Gallega is often packed with locals who covet the excellent tapas Calatrava DINS Santi Taura
Santi Taura, one of Majorca’s most feted local chefs, has set up his gastronomic fiefdom in five-star Hotel El Llorenç in the atmospheric Calatrava district, close to Palma Cathedral and facing the sea. Situated on the ground floor, DINS Santi Taura, offers stylish dining either at a communal counter where you can watch the Michelin chef prepare his masterpieces or at private tables. Taura celebrates the rich culinary heritage of the Balearic Islands, serving contemporary dishes based on ancient Majorcan recipes. The eleven-course Origens tasting menu is a relaxed affair, full of flavour and enterprise and offering plenty of delicious surprises.
Contact: dinssantitaura.com
Reservations: Essential
Prices: £££
Staycatalina Boutique Hotel
HOTEL Palma, Majorca, Spain
Staycatalina Boutique Hotel offers an intimate and charming escape on Catalina Island, providing guests with a cozy and picturesque retreat. With its tastefully decorated rooms and personalized service, it's the perfect destination for those seeking a relaxing and romantic getaway just a short distance from the California coast.
Palacio can Marques
HOTEL Palma, Majorca, Spain
A magnificent former palace, five-star Palacio Can Marqués, is one of the capital’s most captivat... From £ 286 per night Check availability Rates provided by Booking.com
El Llorenç Parc de la Mar
HOTEL Palma, Majorca, Spain
Understated elegance and ingenious design are the hallmarks of this luxurious five-star boutique ... From £ 188 per night Check availability Rates provided by Booking.com
Can Bordoy Grand House & Garden
HOTEL Palma, Majorca, Spain
This majestic 16th-century property has been masterfully renovated to create a deluxe five-star r... From £ 255 per night Check availability Rates provided by Booking.com