From Sobrassada to Ensaimada: A Guide to Palma’s Must-Try Local Delights
Right, Palma. Sun, sea, and… well, let’s be honest, the food. It’s a proper treat for the tastebuds, and there’s far more to it than just your standard holiday fare. We’re talking about delving into the heart of Mallorcan cuisine, from the spicy kick of sobrassada to the sweet, flaky delight of ensaimada.
Forget the tourist traps; we’re diving into the authentic flavours of Mallorca. From the bustling markets to the hidden taverns, there’s a gastronomic adventure waiting around every corner.
Sobrassada: A Spicy Start
Let’s kick things off with sobrassada, a cured sausage that’s a staple of Mallorcan cuisine. It’s made with ground pork, paprika, and other spices, giving it a distinctive reddish colour and a spicy, smoky flavour. You’ll find it served in various ways, from being spread on crusty bread to being used as an ingredient in stews and other dishes.
For a proper taste, head to Mercat de l’Olivar. This bustling market is a feast for the senses, with stalls overflowing with local produce and delicacies. Find a stall selling sobrassada, and ask for a sample. The vendors are usually happy to oblige. You might also find it served as a tapa in many of Palma’s bars. Bar España, a classic tapas bar in the old town, often features sobrassada on its menu. It’s best enjoyed with a glass of local red wine.
Pa amb Oli: Simple Perfection
Next up, pa amb oli, a simple but incredibly satisfying dish. It consists of crusty bread rubbed with tomato and drizzled with olive oil, often served with local cheese, ham, or olives. It’s a staple of Mallorcan breakfasts and snacks, and it’s a testament to the quality of the island’s ingredients.
For an authentic experience, find a local bakery or cafe. Forn Fondo, a historic bakery in the old town, is a great choice. They use traditional methods and high-quality ingredients. Or, for a laid-back experience, try Cafe Rialto, a cafe known for it’s excellent local produce. It’s located in the heart of the old town, and they pride themselves on using fresh, seasonal ingredients. They’ve got a great selection of “pa amb oli” variations, and they also do fantastic pastries and cakes. It’s a proper local spot, and you’ll find a mix of tourists and Mallorcans enjoying a leisurely breakfast or lunch. Plus, they have a lovely outdoor terrace, perfect for people-watching.
Ensaimada: A Sweet Ending
No culinary tour of Palma is complete without trying ensaimada, a spiral-shaped pastry that’s a symbol of Mallorca. It’s made with flour, sugar, eggs, and lard, giving it a light, flaky texture and a sweet, buttery flavour. It’s often enjoyed for breakfast or as a mid-afternoon treat, and it’s perfect with a cup of coffee or hot chocolate.
You’ll find ensaimada in almost every bakery and cafe in Palma. But for a truly special experience, visit Forn des Teatre. This traditional bakery has been making ensaimadas for generations, and they’re considered some of the best on the island. The aroma of freshly baked ensaimadas wafts through the air, creating a truly irresistible atmosphere.
PALMA’S FLAVOURS ARE A TASTE OF MALLORCA’S SOUL. EACH DISH TELLS A STORY.
Seafood Sensations: From Gambas to Calamar
Being an island, Mallorca is blessed with an abundance of fresh seafood. From succulent gambas to tender calamar, there’s a seafood dish to suit every taste. Many restaurants in Palma specialise in seafood, offering a range of options from simple grilled fish to elaborate seafood paellas.
For a memorable seafood experience, head to the Santa Catalina district. This lively area is home to numerous seafood restaurants, including La Parada del Mar, known for its fresh fish and vibrant atmosphere. Or, for a more casual experience, try one of the seafood stalls at Mercat de Santa Catalina. You can pick your own fish and have it grilled on the spot. If you want to explore Palma on a budget, and find more places to try the local food, have a look at my article Palma on a Budget: Sun, Sea, and Savings in Mallorca’s Capital.
Tumbet: A Vegetable Delight
For a taste of Mallorcan vegetarian cuisine, try tumbet, a layered vegetable dish made with aubergines, potatoes, peppers, and tomatoes. It’s a hearty and flavourful dish that’s perfect for a light lunch or dinner.
Many restaurants in Palma offer tumbet as a side dish or as a vegetarian main course. Look for restaurants that specialise in traditional Mallorcan cuisine, such as Celler Sa Premsa, a historic restaurant in the old town.
A Culinary Journey Through Palma
Palma’s culinary scene is a reflection of the island’s rich history and culture. From the spicy kick of sobrassada to the sweet delight of ensaimada, there’s a flavour to suit every palate.
Exploring Palma’s culinary delights is an essential part of any visit to the island. It’s a chance to connect with the local culture, to savour the flavours of the Mediterranean, and to create lasting memories.
