Best Restaurants in Palma
Brimming with restaurants, there’s so much choice when it comes to places to eat in Palma that it might be a difficult decision. Every cuisine is covered here so you can eat Majorcan one night, Indian the next, then Japanese and so on. Palma’s large bay is home to some great restaurants that make the most of the view, or you could head in to the Old Town for some charmingly intimate places. To help you choose, here is our guide to 10 of the best restaurants in Palma.
Michelin-starred treats at Simply Fosh
One of three stylish restaurants in Palma run by the renowned British chef Marc Fosh, Simply Fosh has a Michelin star for its exceptional food. Set in the modernised refectory of the 17th-century Hotel Convent de la Missio, you need to book ahead to get a table. If dinner seems a little pricey – averaging €70 a head without drinks – try the €28 set lunch menu.
Seafood done simply at Ola del Mar
This Spanish restaurant, specialising in seafood, dishes up massive pans of paella and grilled seafood platters which prove that simple food is often the best. Contemporary yet intimate, there is a terrace beside the marina and cosy indoor seating perfect for a romantic dinner.
Belgian meets Mediterranean at Restaurante Toque
The Belgian father and son team at Toque add some of their country’s cuisine to the Mediterranean menu. On offer are dishes such as pork cheek risotto or turbot in cava sauce. The ‘Speculoos’ ice cream with dessert is a winner, containing spiced Belgian biscuit. You can wash it down with a Belgian beer, some Spanish wine or a rehydrating glass of ice-cold water, depending on how you’re feeling.
Refined seafood dining at Restaurante Peix Vermell
In the midst of the Old Town, Peix Vermell specialises in Mediterranean fish and seafood. You can enjoy Majorcan style monkfish, sea bass in salt crust or a lobster stew in elegant surroundings. The main dining room is simply decorated, letting the curved stone ceiling do the talking and there’s also a VIP room.
Organic curries at Basmati
The dark red and gold interior at Basmati is as rich and inviting as the curries. The set menu changes every day based on the fresh, local produce they have in that day, much of which comes from their own organic vegetable and herb garden. Or you can choose one of your favourites from the menu.
Fish how you like it at La Parada del Mar
A relaxed spot for lunch on the outskirts of Palma, they do things a little differently here. You choose your ultra-fresh fish or seafood from the large ice counter when you arrive and say how you’d like it cooked. Then just pick a table and wait for the chef to whip up the food and call out your order.
The locals' choice at Nimo's
If the huge spread of tapas on the counter doesn’t tempt you, then you can try paella so good that the locals queue up to get take-away pans. On the northern edge of town towards the main road, you’d need to make a special trip to get there, but the food will be worth it.
Flavour sensations at Bunker's
At Bunker’s you’ll get a mix of European flavours, some of which represent chef Luigi’s Roman roots. You can watch him cook up unusual combinations such as fresh pumpkin and amaretti ravioli or a truffle hamburger from the tiny kitchen. Only open for evening meals, the prices are very reasonable – around €14 for pasta.
Modern art and fresh food at Es Baluard Restaurant
In the former military fortress that is now Palma’s contemporary art museum, Es Baluard’s restaurant is equally as modern. The menu is split into sea, land or orchard for vegetarians as well as fresh pastas and rice and they serve a good selection of local wines, too.
Authentic Japanese flavours at Shogun
Delicious sushi, Japanese noodles, salads and Sapporo beer can all be found at this small restaurant. The Menu of the Day is a good option if you’re a Japanese food newbie. Firm favourites include tempura of lobster with shiitake mushrooms and the Shogun special soup with shellfish and vegetables.