Many would make the assumption that Palma has sunshine year-round. When we arrived for a weekend here in late March the weather was uncharacteristically wet, and suddenly our plans had to be altered.
Luckily there is plenty to do even if the climate disappoints, including gastronomic culinary experiences and thought-provoking art exhibitions. When the sun came out for our second day on the island we could enjoy the more traditional things to do in Palma, al fresco aperitifs and long walks round the picturesque old town.
To Eat
Marc Fosh – Marc Fosh is without a doubt the most famous chef on the island, and he has several restaurants in Palma to cater for every occasion. ‘Marc Fosh Restaurant’ is the most upmarket with the recognition of a Michelin-star, but despite its accolades is still affordable and welcoming. The light lunch menu features simple and stylish dishes that focus on the seasons. My spiced cauliflower main course was particularly memorable, a celebration of the vegetable with an impressive range of tastes and textures on the plate.
Tast – For casual and tasty tapas, Tast is a great place to stop for lunch. There are now a couple of restaurants both serving adventurous and inventive small dishes such as octopus with bacon or grilled asparagus served on a hot plate.
Es Raco des Teix – For a special lunch with spectacular views head out of town to the small town of Deia. Here you will find Es Raco des Teix, a traditional restaurant run by a husband and wife team. Chef Josef Sauerschell serves up hearty but elaborate recipes with a focus on meat. Sit on the terrace and enjoy the panoramic views while enjoying a delicious lunch and a glass of Mallorcan wine.
Can Joan de S’Aigo – Don’t leave Mallorca without trying the traditional pastries, ensaimadas have been made on the island since 1700 and are best with an espresso from Can Joan de S’Aigo.
To Drink
La Molienda – The only speciality coffee shop worth hunting down in Palma. La Molienda serves high quality speciality coffee roasted by Barcelona-based Right Side Coffee, alongside other guest roasters. Head in for weekend brunch and a perfectly poured flat white.
Cappuccino Sant Miquel – This renowned coffee chain has branches all over the city but the Sant Miquel site is easily the prettiest. Sit beneath the grand arches in the cobbled courtyard and sip a coffee or cocktail.
To Do
Fundacio Pilar i Joan Miro – Found on the outskirts of town Fundacio Pilar i Joan Miro is a must for art lovers. This is where the artist and his wife lived and worked from 1956 until he died in 1983. There is a big collection of Miro works on display as well as an approximation of the Miro studio set-up.
Med Winds – This Mallorcan brand designs and sells stylish clothes and accessories. The garments are made from luxurious materials in bright hues which suit the sunny island life.
We stayed 30 minutes outside of Palma at the idyllic Castell Son Claret, read more about the hotel and 2 Michelin star restaurant here.