Ibiza in Bites – Gastro-escapade, three days discovering the flavours of Ibiza town

The sun caresses my face and I open my eyes lazily. My first sight, the intense blue of the Mediterranean. I would spend the whole morning lazing in this comfortable king size bed with canopy, but it’s a magnificent day to go out in search of the gastronomic treasures hidden in this city.

I am in one of the most charming establishments I have ever had the good fortune to stay in. In its 25 years of history, La Torre del Canónigo has hosted personalities such as Dalí, Úrsula Andress, Pink Floyd or Jean Paul Gaultier. I am told that recently there was a heated dispute between the divas Mariah Carey and Madonna for the best suite. Every corner of the hotel, decorated with exquisite taste, offers the perfect haven in which to forget the outside world, but Ibiza awaits.

I leave this oasis of peace and go for breakfast at Mui Mia Café, where, as soon as I enter, its relaxing aesthetic that combines light woods, handmade ceramics and fresh flowers transmits a powerful sense of wellbeing. A paradise for Instagrammers with a menu based on natural ingredients and plenty of vegetarian and gluten-free options. The variety of sandwiches, pancakes and fresh bowls gives me a hard time, but I decide for their “Avocado Toast Muimia”, with local sourdough bread and black sesame tahini, freshly squeezed juice and an exquisite espresso. The day is promising.

For lunch I go to L’apéro, a cozy French bistro with an intimate atmosphere. A real ode to the French aperitif ritual with its carefully selected wines and vermouth. There I met Giselle, a charming Brazilian, co-founder of the restaurant with her husband, chef Armel, and sommelier Martin. The three of them ran for years one of the most famous restaurants in the city, the French restaurant Pastis (2006-2019), but after a significant increase in rent, they decided to open this more informal but equally delicious proposal, where the cheese boards, cold meats and preserves stand out, ideal for sharing. The onion soup or the duck confit with a good glass of wine is a must. Their first restaurant was the also popular Bliss (1999-2008) and now they have opened Casanis, with delicious bites such as the duck rillette. Giselle, all kindness and sympathy, laughingly tells me that many nights the atmosphere is animated spontaneously, with diners dancing on the tables.

At sunset, I head to enjoy an aperitif in one of the best kept secrets of the city, Petit Vermut. If, like me, you are passionate about vermouth, you will have a great time in this place reminiscent of the classic vermuterías of the most traditional Madrid, with views of the city wall, an excellent selection of handmade vermouths and a very local and authentic public.

A perfect prelude to my dinner at Es Mercat Ibiza, winner of the City of Ibiza Gastronomy Award in the “Tapas Restaurant” category, a place that gives Mediterranean gastronomy an innovative and very creative touch and brings together residents and visitors alike. As its name suggests, its proposal is based on market cuisine, with a menu that is constantly renewed, always betting on local and seasonal produce. A feast to be enjoyed leisurely in its cozy atmosphere, with delicious dishes such as its wild sea bass tartar, scallops with green asparagus and crispy dewlap, its exceptional matured Rubia Gallega steak or croquettes that leave me wondering if they are the best on the island. I love the detail that they organise wine tastings and other special events.

After a great dinner, it’s time to get to know the famous Ibiza nightlife. My first stop is Room Service Ibiza, a sophisticated cocktail bar that looks like something out of the coolest street in a European capital. Its founders, a fashion photographer, a mixologist and an entrepreneur, have achieved the perfect balance between the sophistication of New York, Paris or Los Angeles and the relaxed spirit of the island. An effervescent and very lively atmosphere, with a very chic clientele populated by designers, musicians, artists and foodies in this speakeasy with an impressive cocktail bar. Difficult to choose, but I try a Dad Lore, with mezcal, vermouth, campari and spices and the Underdog, with mezcal, shiso, beet and lime. And on the ice, printed their slogan “Do disturb”. Surprising! The bar also offers very original snacks, from tuna tartar tacos or lobster roll to pizzas with a different touch.

The next day I head to the new part of town for breakfast and discover Maison Savannah, an original café that oozes fashion, art, and design and, once again, is incredibly Instagrammable. I’m tempted by their appetising toasts with burrata, but finally I try one of their incredible oriental-inspired sweets with pistachio, sublime start for this day. Across the street is the Mercat Nou, beating gastronomic heart of the city, with its stalls full of local delicacies, and I sit and contemplate the bustle of the market in Sa Nova Plaça, with a glass of Formentera wine and a gilda.

For lunch I booked a table at Il Dek Bistrot, a romantic Italian restaurant at the foot of Dalt Vila’s walls, with a menu full of homemade pastas, homemade pizzas, meats, fish and a variety of sushi. I decide on homemade gnocchi with Formentera prawns and their famous bistecca a la Fiorentina, impossible to go wrong. While I wait for my order I can’t resist trying one of their cocktails while I watch the incessant stream of tourists in front of the Old Market.

The day has been a real feast of colours, sensations and flavours tasted without haste. My stomach is satisfied, but the idea of dinner is already starting to swirl around in my head. It has to be something special. Not just good, but truly unforgettable. Three places are on my mind, each with a special magnetism.

1742, located in an 18th century mansion at the top of Dalt Vila, is a gastronomic experience of the highest level, with a tasting menu designed by the Dutch chef Edwin Vinke, with two Michelin stars. The restaurant has received the Ibiza Gastronomic Award for ‘Best Concept Restaurant’. A secret meeting point, private transport and a butler who greets you with champagne open the door to a multi-sensory experience that fuses gastronomy, art and music in an alternative reality. Candlelit corridors and rooms filled with contemporary art lead to a show full of surprises: opera singers, projections on ancient stone walls and dazzling dishes. It’s a dream experience. But perhaps… Too theatrical to go alone?

Then there’s Omakase by Walt, a hidden gem created by Venezuelan sushi chef Walter Sidoravicious that has been the talk of the island’s foodies. Confirmation of its high quality came this year in the form of a Michelin star. Just eight seats at a bar. Intimate and exclusive, a place that respects the most authentic Japanese tradition. A 10. But having already been there once and with such a dazzling memory of the experience, I’d rather go for something new.

Food Studio in Sa Penya, by gastronomic legend Boris Buono, creator of several of the most successful dishes at NOMA in Copenhagen (voted best restaurant in the world on several occasions), offers a profoundly creative proposal in the spirit of a gastronomic laboratory. Honest cuisine, prepared from the heart, but at the same time revolutionary. Something unique. The best organic products of the moment star in an unbeatable 14-course tasting menu for 130 euros. An exceptional experience.

After this festival of flavours and sensations, I’m going for a cocktail at Casa Flow, a place designed to nourish body, mind and soul and where you can rediscover the pleasure of vegan cuisine. With its bohemian atmosphere and friendly staff, Casa Flow is a breath of fresh air in the La Marina neighbourhood, where you can breathe community, sustainability and good vibes. The place encourages friendly chats with other customers, while enjoying the live music. Pure Ibizan magic. Later I head to the nearby Boodiou, in Dalt Vila, a combination of restaurant and cocktail bar. They tell me that they distil their own liqueurs. Within its stone walls and while I register every small and original detail of the decoration, I move to the rhythm of the music, contemplate a cascade of satisfied smiles around me, and enjoy an Anisette Tonic, with tequila, monkey anise, salted rose water and cucumber tonic water. A digestive to help me rest after this bacchanal of flavours.

My last morning in Ibiza begins with a stop for the first coffee at the charming Bar Es Cafetí, a little corner of Dalt Vila decorated with personality and a touch of kitsch, with surprising details and a terrace full of greenery. A unique place. The city awakens and I stroll through its streets perfumed with the aroma of freshly baked bread. As I stroll around the port, admiring the size and elegance of the yachts and that picture-postcard view of Dalt Vila rising above the water, it occurs to me that afterwards I can go for lunch at El Náutico. The restaurant beckons me with its cool terrace overlooking the sea and its authentic Mediterranean cuisine. I book a table to get to know this updated classic while I head for breakfast at Desiderio. Here you’ll find the best homemade Italian focaccia in town and a super friendly atmosphere. But if you’re more of a sweet tooth, you’ll be surprised, like me, by the wide variety of temptations available.

As evening falls, I get a craving for ice cream. But not just any ice cream. I wander through the narrow streets of La Marina, admiring its charming boutiques and with the sun reflecting off the whitewashed walls, I arrive at Vivi’s Creamery, a small artisan ice cream parlour with a young and fun spirit. Their flavours change daily, with creative proposals such as passion fruit cheesecake, chocolate with Ibiza salt or lavender ice cream. They also have a keto range and sugar and lactose-free options, maximum pleasure within everyone’s reach.

After another day full of vibrant sensations, the evening beckons for a dining experience that resonates with the soul of Ibiza. While Sa Cova offers a unique dining experience with views of Dalt Vila, the soul of a Parisian bistro with an Argentinian influence, and a setting that includes a natural cave, I’m more drawn to the intimate charm of Majorelle. Inspired by the garden of the same name in Marrakech, Majorelle is a fusion restaurant with Arabic and Mediterranean touches. Tiles, deep blue, golden details, soft lighting and a delicate, understated atmosphere invite you to leisurely savour its tempting dishes.

My gastronomic journey through this city of wonders comes to an end. And to top it all off, I decide to head to one of its meeting points par excellence: UP, the rooftop of The Standard. From my privileged vantage point, while the DJ’s music plays and I contemplate the majestic illuminated silhouette of Dalt Vila, I hold in my hands an ‘Ibiza Sunset’, a refreshing blend of local gin, citrus and a touch of aromatic herbs that captures the essence of the Mediterranean. Each sip is a tribute to the flavours discovered during these three days of culinary exploration. As the city lights begin to flicker, I reflect on the diversity and authenticity of Ibizan gastronomy. From traditional tapas bars to innovative signature restaurants, the city has proven to be a true culinary paradise.

With the last sip of my cocktail and a satisfied smile, I bid farewell to this gastronomic adventure, knowing that the flavours of Ibiza will remain in my memory long after I have left the island.