Today, we want to take you on a culinary journey through the paradisiacal Balearic Islands. These islands are home to some of the most exquisite restaurants in Spain. And, of course, what better way to measure culinary excellence than through the prestigious Michelin stars?
In the latest 2023 listing, the Balearics added two new Michelin stars, one for Etxeko in Ibiza, a project by Martín Berasategui, this time with the assistance in the kitchen of chef Paco Budía, and another with Fusion 19 by Javier Hoebeeck in the Majorcan village of Muro.
The best restaurants in the Balearic Islands according to the prestigious Michelin Guide are:
Etxeko, Ibiza
Recently awarded its first star, Etxeko, which means “at home” in Basque, is the culinary embassy of the renowned chef Martín Berasategui at BLESS Hotel Ibiza. Following Berasategui’s guidelines, the restaurant offers cuisine with fine textures and impeccable presentations. They have a comprehensive menu and a tasting menu called “The Journey of Martín”, which fuses Berasategui’s fabulous cuisine with local island products, retaining some elements from the north of the peninsula. A perfect blend of his Basque roots and the freshness of the Mediterranean.
Fusion 19, Muro
A pleasant surprise in Muro, Mallorca. As its name suggests, this place is a melting pot of flavors and cultures. Chef Javier Hoebeeck presents a unique and comprehensive tasting menu that merges Majorcan and Mediterranean cuisine with Asian and Latin American, highlighting the island’s local products. This restaurant reflects the passion of a young chef who has returned to his native island after gaining experience in prestigious places. If you are looking for innovation in every bite, Fusion 19 is your stop!
Voro, Canyamel
Located in a standalone building of the Cap Vermell Grand Hotel in Mallorca and named after a Latin term meaning “devour”, Voro has raised the bar with its two stars. In its beautiful dining rooms with high ceilings, chef Álvaro Salazar follows a culinary philosophy focused on creating a “gastronomy without ties, committed to the environment and Mediterranean roots.” It offers two modern-creative tasting menus called “Voro” and “Devoro”, known for their attention to detail and narrative in each dish.
La Gaia, Ibiza
In the heart of the Ibiza Gran Hotel, this restaurant proposes a journey between the Mediterranean and Japan. Chef Óscar Molina presents what he calls “Mediterranean-kaiseki cuisine”, highlighting the use of the best local product from Ibiza and merging it with influences from Peru and, especially, Japan. The proposal focuses on two tasting menus: “Tanit” (10 steps), in honor of the goddess revered in Carthaginian and Ibizan mythology, and “Posidonia” (14 steps), which explores the seasonality of local products on a culinary journey full of contrasts and environmental responsibility. It’s an experience to travel with your taste buds.
Zaranda, Palma
Zaranda, under the direction of Fernando Pérez Arellano, is a must-stop in Palma. Located in the old town of Palma, inside the Es Princep hotel, it incorporates the history of the place, built on the remains of an old leather tannery, into its intriguing tasting menus called “Hypodermis,” “Dermis,” and “Epidermis.” These menus offer creative pickles inspired by Arab history and the tanks where the skins were treated, which are partially visible through a glass floor.
Béns d’Avall, Sóller
It’s not just the food, but also the stunning sea views that make this place special. A blend of tradition and modernity in the heart of Sóller, Mallorca. It is run by Benet and Jaume Vicens, father and son, who seek to modernize Majorcan cuisine without losing its essence. The terrace is a luxury, as you can enjoy a spectacular sunset.
DINS Santi Taura, Palma de Mallorca
DINS, located in the center of Palma, offers a contemporary reinterpretation of Majorcan gastronomy. Chef Santi Taura uses high-quality local ingredients and emphasizes authentic flavors in his cuisine. His tasting menu “Origens” consists of 11 dishes, with the option to add three additional dishes, and changes with the seasons. This menu takes us on a culinary journey around the island, exploring its traditions and products through the chef’s creativity.
Es Tragón, Sant Antony de Portmany
This restaurant in a quiet villa surrounded by pines on the bustling island of Ibiza offers a Mediterranean culinary experience centered on collaboration and sustainability. Chef Álvaro Sanz creates thematic dishes with organic local ingredients and contributions from experts in history and biology. The tasting menu is a journey through Mediterranean history.
Adrián Quetglas, Palma de Mallorca
With his tasting menu, Adrián Quetglas takes us on a journey of flavors, reflecting his global experiences with a Majorcan touch. This city-center restaurant, next to the Torrent de Sa Riera, offers an experience that combines influences from Buenos Aires, Mediterranean flavors, and international experiences in London, Paris, and Moscow.
Andreu Genestra, Capdepera
Located inside the luxurious and stately Zoëtry Mallorca hotel, which is set in the countryside within the historic Sa Torre estate with a windmill and even its own church. Their team offers fresh, seasonal products, meats, and fish, as well as a new tasting menu.
Marc Fosh, Palma
Located in a little alley in the historic center of Palma, it is part of the Convent de la Missió hotel, which has renovated a 17th-century seminary. Chef Marc Fosh presents cuisine that combines flavor, technique, and creativity, highlighting seasonal Mediterranean products. A place where history and modernity meet.
Es Fum, Palmanova
Located in the luxurious St. Regis Mardavall hotel in Mallorca and led by chef Miguel Navarro, it offers a harmonious culinary proposal. Diners can enjoy tasting menus inspired by his recent travels through South America, Jamaica, and the southeastern United States. It has a terrace with stunning sea views.
Maca de Castro, Port d’Alcudia
Sustainability and respect for the product are the bases of this restaurant. Maca de Castro invites us to enjoy the island of Mallorca in its fullness, from its land to its sea. The restaurant has a Green Michelin Star, recognition for restaurants or chefs particularly committed to defending the environment. The restaurant uses the best seasonal products from the Majorcan pantry, including fish from nearby auctions and ingredients from local producers and their garden in Sa Pobla.
Travelers, I hope this culinary tour has whetted your appetite. The Balearic Islands not only offer dreamy landscapes and beaches but also top-notch gastronomic experiences. If you decide to indulge in any of these places, don’t forget to book in advance.
