A guide to the best restaurants in Formentera

Try the town's first Michelin star at Can Dani

While Ibiza may have the monopoly on the Balearic’s best clubs, it was Formentera’s Can Dani that got the first Michelin star. From the outset, this quiet restaurant doesn’t look like anything special. Once you’re browsing through the menu, you’ll quickly realise what a treat you’re in for. The talented chefs serve up traditional dishes with a contemporary twist, and everything’s made from locally sourced ingredients. The beachy herbs and flavour explosions will leave you savouring every mouthful. As you eat, you’ll be surrounded by sweet-smelling fruit trees and flowers, and the restaurant’s courtyard is a pretty place to spend a few hours. To make things easier, you can choose from one of several tasting menus giving you an opportunity to try the best dishes.

Eat on the sand at Beso Beach

Formentera beach restaurants don’t get much better than Beso Beach. It’s the perfect place to sit back, enjoy a few drinks and eat traditional food. A Catalan chef runs the kitchen, so you can guarantee the menu is always top-notch. The paella is a must-try too. It’s one of the most popular restaurants in Formentera thanks to the seamless move from evening meals into night-long partying. As it’s set right on the beach, you can watch the sun set with a drink in hand after you’ve finished eating.

Dine in glamour at Juan Y Andrea

Nestled into the dunes of Ses Illetes Beach is Juan Y Andrea. It’s one of the best restaurants Formentera has on offer, so make sure you book a table in advance. Back in 1971, a local fisherman set up the restaurant, and it’s been a staple of the community ever since. It’s still family-run but it’s changed from a small beach shack to a much larger restaurant! The seafood specialities are the best dishes on the menu. Try the prawns or the lobster paella. The wine list is also incredible, and well matched to the menus.

Try the sensational starters at Can Carlos

In Sant Francesc is the charming restaurant of Can Carlos. Instantly recognisable thanks to its outdoor terrace, beautiful gardens and twinkling fairy lights, Can Carlos is the place to go for a romantic, atmospheric evening. It does get busy, so make sure you book a table in advance so you can sit outside. The food has a heavily Mediterranean influence with touches of Italian cuisine. Favourites include the squid and tuna carpaccio – both made from locally-sourced ingredients. Plus, many of the vegetables comes from the grounds.

Enjoy the romantic Aigua

Set in La Savina Marina, the terrace at Aigua calls for couples to spend romantic evenings there. You’ll find a menu packed with delicious seafood dishes as well as Italian cuisine. There’s even a few sushi and sashimi options! Aigua isn’t the cheapest restaurant in Formentera but it’s worth splashing out for a special occasion. Book ahead for a table on the terrace. You can watch the sun set over the marina and its yachts while you dine.

Visit the family-friendly Es Molí de Sal

With a beachside bar and restaurant, you get the best of both worlds at Es Molí de Sal. It’s family-friendly, so you can enjoy both lunch and dinner with your little ones. You’ll want to visit the restaurant for its location alone. Set in an old windmill on the edge of the sea, you can enjoy the colourful sunset as you sip drinks before dinner. The traditional Spanish dishes are easily the best on the menu, and the seafood specials should be tried too. Don’t forget to leave room at the end of your meal – Es Molí de Sal’s homemade ice cream is delicious!

Savour the sights of A Mi Manera

Head away from the busy towns and towards Cala Saona where you’ll find the pretty A Mi Manera. It’s quite possibly the most romantic setting on the whole of the Balearics, so if you’re holidaying with a special someone, make sure you book an evening meal here. You can wander through the secret gardens, surrounded by softly lit hanging lanterns, flickering candles and comfy outdoor furniture. As you go inside, you’ll feel as though you’ve been transported to Morocco, thanks to the bright colours and vintage decorations. The menu is filled with traditional dishes, all expertly made using ingredients grown on the premises.^This Balearic island might be small but it makes up for size with its range of restaurants and delicious dishes. You’ll find healthy, organic ingredients that are locally grown and sourced, as well as experienced, talented chefs. Whether you want to enjoy drinks on the beach or have a romantic evening off the beaten track, you’ll be overwhelmed by the choice on offer. However, as many of the restaurants in Formentera are small and popular, it’s best to book ahead – especially if you want a prime table.