If you’re dreaming of sun-soaked beaches and crystal-clear waters, the Balearic Islands are probably already on your radar. But let me tell you, the real treasure here isn’t just the stunning views—it’s the food. The cuisine of the Balearic Islands is a vibrant tapestry of fresh ingredients, traditional recipes, and a dash of Mediterranean magic. Ready to dive in? Let’s explore the flavours that make this archipelago a food lover’s paradise. What Makes Balearic Islands Cuisin

ES ALOCS RESTAURANTE Set at the back of the excellent family beach of Es Figueral in the Northeast of the island, this is an authentic local restaurant, managed and owned by true Ibicencos from nearby Sant Carles de Peralta. A glimpse of what the island was like before the influx of high-end tourists wiped out many of the traditional bars and restaurants.  They serve simple local cuisine; you shouldn’t expect too much, but the prices are reasonable. They are open for breakfas

CHIRINGUITO MANACA Drive past the Hotel Indalo on the road from Mojácar to Carboneras, go straight inland, and take a left at the third roundabout onto Playa Macenas, where you will see the Castillo de Macenas just before the Macenas golf course goes inland. From here, drive past Chiringuito Macenas (you can stop here for a drink or tapas) and onto an elementary dirt road, which is not in excellent condition and initially runs along a precarious cliff edge, overlooking the se

CALÓ DE S'ALGA KIOSKO SIESTA The Caló de s’Alga Beach Bar in Siesta is a delightful find. Nestled below the Grand Hotel Palladium, it’s an insider tip for anyone staying nearby or on holiday in Santa Eulària. If you’re looking for a spot to relax, this is it! Picture this: a wooden shack, white plastic chairs and tables, and the bustling Siesta behind you. In front, the stunning view of the bay of Santa Eulària and the sparkling turquoise sea awaits. It’s a perfect setting fo

SAN CARLOS BAR RESTAURANTE During our mid-March trip to Ibiza, we ventured up to the northeast of the Island and popped into Bar Ca n'Anneta, where I purchased a bottle of their famous homemade Herbes de Ca n'Anneta. The bar was pretty full for March. We then had a short drive to our first visit to San Carlos Bar Restaurante. This Uruguayan-style meat Restaurant has a relaxed atmosphere, ideal for groups and couples. It serves the finest cuts of grilled Uruguayan Angus meat,

RESTAURANTE CABO NORTE This excellent little restaurant is hidden up a side street off the main promenade in Mojácar Playa, near the Europcar car rental. Upon entering, you arrive in the bar and restaurant area. When the weather is excellent, you can eat outside in the lovely enclosed garden area. On this pleasant summer evening, we had Mini gazpachos. Carpaccio de presa Ibérica (presa is a cut of meat from the shoulder of the Iberico pig). Carpaccio de atún (tuna). Pimient

LA CUCHARA DE SAN TELMO We returned to a favourite pintxo bar in San Sebastián's old town. It is down a side alley off 31 de Agosto Kalea at the back of the old city. It is well worth seeking out, and do not be shy about walking in, even if it is busy. Thankfully, we were now free of COVID-19 restrictions, and things were back to normal. The list of pintxos looked very inviting indeed. The small kitchen staff were hard at work, as usual. We headed for the bar and dived into

CASA MARCAL Three Michelin Stars (New 2025) The drive to the restaurant, situated in the heart of the mountains, is via a narrow road through the beautiful Asturian countryside, and the views are amazing. Beware of the narrow winding roads where you must be careful of grazing cows and sheep. The restaurant's modest façade contrasts with its elegant stone interior, which features exposed wooden beams and a few contemporary decorative details. There is an attractive bar are

RESTAURANTE ALMA DE MIGUEL We eat at this restaurant quite often; it is predominantly a fish restaurant, located in the pedestrian centre of Estepona's old town.  There is plenty of seating outside for the warmer months, and in the winter, you will find plenty of indoor seating, with a large gazebo attached to the restaurant. The restaurant is run by Miquel & his sister, who oversee all the staff & they are exceptional hosts. The food is always good, with a variety of fresh f

KIOSKO CALA LLENYA UPDATE JULY 2025 - THE BEACH BAR HAS REOPENED We were asked recently about the status of the chiringuito in Cala Llenya. In previous reports on social media, it was claimed that CBBC had taken it over. Fortunately, there was nothing in that, after the Ayuntamiento de Santa Eulària des Riu and CBBC itself confirmed. So, the authenticity of this beautiful family beach on the east side of the island remains preserved for this season, at least, and the chirin