The Balearic Islands are no longer just about turquoise coves and ancient olive groves — they’ve emerged as a gourmet destination for those with a discerning palate. In Palma de Mallorca, the island’s capital, a new generation of chefs and restaurateurs are reimagining local flavours with global flair. Whether you’re wandering through the golden alleyways of the Old Town or dipping into the bohemian buzz of Santa Catalina, exceptional dining experiences await. Here are five handpicked restaurants that represent the very best of the island’s culinary soul.
1. Duke Restaurant – Santa Catalina’s global soul
In the eclectic neighbourhood of Santa Catalina, Duke remains a local favourite — and for good reason. This lively, unpretentious spot serves up a global mix of dishes inspired by street food, surf culture, and seasonal Mallorcan produce. It’s bold, unfussy cooking: a melting pot of Thai spices, Caribbean zest, and Mediterranean ease. The vibe is casual but creative, making it ideal for a relaxed evening after a day exploring the markets.
2. La Rosa Vermutería – Tapas and tradition with a twist
No gastronomic tour of Palma is complete without a stop at La Rosa. With one venue in the Old Town and another in Santa Catalina, this bustling vermuteria captures the essence of old-school Palma with a playful twist. Vermouth flows freely from the barrel, and the tapas — think Iberian pork, anchovies, and house-marinated olives — strike the perfect balance between comfort and complexity. It’s a local institution that still manages to surprise. Enjoy La Rosa on our self-guided Wine & Dine Tour in Palma Old Town & Santa Catalina!
3. Breogán – Galician heart, Mallorcan soul
Tucked away in a quiet Palma street, Breogán brings the warmth and generosity of Galicia to the island. Here, fresh Atlantic seafood meets the bounty of Mallorca’s markets, creating dishes that feel both rooted and adventurous. Expect perfectly grilled octopus, silky empanadas, and market-fresh fish prepared with simple mastery. The atmosphere is intimate yet vibrant — the kind of place where the food lingers in your memory as much as the conversations you have around the table.
📍 Palma
4. Xalest – Contemporary elegance at Concepció by Nobis
Set on the ground floor of the stylish Concepció by Nobis hotel in the heart of Palma, Xalest delivers a modern Mediterranean dining experience with an inventive touch from chef Xema Álvarez. The menu is built around sharing — think delicately plated sea bass tiradito, cuttlefish croquettes, tender beef cheek, and perfectly grilled octopus. Flavours are rooted in local tradition but reimagined with a sophisticated edge. The atmosphere is relaxed yet refined, with sleek design, an all-day bar, and a cosy adjoining lounge that invites you to linger long after your last bite.
📍 Palma
5. Villa Vegana – A plant-based escape in the Selva hills
Away from the city, in Mallorca’s serene north, Villa Vegana is a haven for food lovers who appreciate sustainability, creativity, and flavour in equal measure. Set within a traditional finca near Selva, this entirely plant-based restaurant serves imaginative, globally inspired dishes — from jackfruit rendang to raw cakes and homemade kombucha. The surroundings are idyllic, the ethos inspiring. Even meat-eaters will leave satisfied, and perhaps even a little transformed.
Final thoughts: A feast for all senses
Palma’s culinary landscape isn’t just a trend — it’s a reflection of the island’s evolving identity. Whether you’re sipping vermouth in a centuries-old bar or savouring jackfruit tacos in the hills of Selva, Mallorca’s food tours offer a window into its rich and varied flavours. These five venues provide more than just exceptional dishes; they offer a true sense of place — the kind of meals that stay with you long after the last bite.
So next time you’re in the Balearics, skip the usual tourist haunts and explore the island one plate at a time. With the right food tour, Mallorca is sure to surprise you.
