Spain
Pork and lamb are staples for meats. Fresh fish and seafood are plentiful from the island's coastal location. Olives and high-quality local olive oil are central to almost every dish. Almonds and citrus fruits feature prominently.
Common flavorings include garlic, paprika (pimentón), saffron, and aromatic herbs like rosemary, thyme, and oregano. These spices give Majorcan dishes their distinctive warmth and depth. Inland towns like Pollença historically focused more on meat and vegetable dishes, while coastal areas like Port de Pollença feature more seafood.
Typically the main meal of the day, eaten between 1:30 PM and 3:30 PM. A substantial meal, sometimes followed by a short break.
A later affair, usually starting from 8:30 PM onwards, and often extending late into the night, especially in summer.
Tapas are popular for sharing, before a meal or as a lighter meal. It is customary to wait to be seated in restaurants, especially at busy times.
A traditional Majorcan vegetable casserole with layers of potatoes, eggplant, and red bell peppers baked in a rich tomato sauce. Often a side or vegetarian main.
Many traditional Majorcan restaurants offer this dish.
A hearty stir-fry dish. Traditionally uses lamb or pork liver, sometimes chicken or seafood. Combines diced meat/seafood with potatoes, onions, peppers, and fennel, seasoned with paprika.
Found in many local eateries and traditional restaurants.
Literally "dirty rice," a flavorful, soupy rice dish cooked in a rich broth. Typically contains various meats like pork, chicken, and rabbit, plus vegetables and spices.
A comforting, robust dish, popular in cooler months, found in traditional eateries.
The quintessential Majorcan pastry: a distinctive spiral-shaped, light, and airy pastry, often dusted with powdered sugar. Can be plain or filled with cream, chocolate, or angel hair squash jam.
A light, fluffy potato cake, often served warm with hot chocolate, especially during cooler months.
Pollençan offers a diverse range of dining experiences, from upscale establishments to casual market stalls, catering to different preferences and budgets.
Several upscale restaurants in Pollençan Old Town and surrounding agroturismos. Modern Majorcan cuisine often features tasting menus highlighting local ingredients. Reservations are often required.
Abundant in both Pollençan Old Town and Port de Pollença. Offer a mix of traditional Majorcan, Spanish, and international dishes. Many feature outdoor seating in pleasant squares or along the seafront.
Small local cafes and bakeries (forns) provide excellent budget-friendly options for breakfast or a light lunch. They often serve sandwiches, pastries, and coffee.
A must-visit for food lovers, selling fresh produce, local cheeses, cured meats, olives, and baked goods. Located in Plaça Major every Sunday morning.
Excellent for assembling a picnic lunch.
A smaller market held on Wednesday mornings with similar offerings, a convenient option for those in the port area.
Offers local specialties and fresh goods.
Pasta, pizza, and classic Italian dishes.
Pub food and comfort dishes.
Chinese and Indian cuisine.
Various international options catering to diverse tastes.
Tumbet is a naturally vegetarian dish often available. Many salads and vegetable side dishes can be adapted to specific dietary needs.
Look for fresh produce dishes.
Options for Halal and kosher food are limited in Pollença. Travelers with these needs may rely on self-catering from supermarkets.
Consider seafood and vegetarian dishes at restaurants.
Carry a Translation card that lists your specific dietary restrictions for clear communication.
Apps like HappyCow find vegetarian/vegan-friendly establishments. Online forums and travel blogs offer recent recommendations for specific dietary needs in Mallorca.
Many agroturismos offer unique farm-to-table dining. They use ingredients grown directly on their estate or sourced from nearby farms.
Some agroturismos offer meals exclusively for their guests, providing an intimate and high-quality culinary journey.
Others may open their restaurants to the public with advance reservations, offering a taste of their unique culinary approach.
Visit producers like Finca Son Marc to learn about olive oil production and taste fresh products.
Guided tours sometimes available.
Mallorca's wine industry is growing. Many vineyards in the wider Pollençan area offer tours and wine tastings.
Discover local designations like "Pla i Llevant."
Upscale restaurants at Son Brull Rural Sanctuary or Hotel Formentor offer refined settings for special occasions.
Visit the Pollença Sunday Market in the morning to gather fresh produce, cheeses, and cured meats for an excellent picnic.
Enjoy your picnic at scenic spots like Puig de Maria or a secluded cove in Cala Sant Vicenç.
If you prefer to eat dinner earlier than the Spanish custom, look for restaurants that cater more to tourists. Many open around 7:00 PM or 7:30 PM, especially in Port de Pollença.
