What to eat in the Balearics: specialities to try, island by island

In the Balearics, every island has its own signature on the plate. In Mallorca, the ensaimada and the sobrassada, both protected by a geographical indication; in Menorca, the spiny lobster caldereta from Fornells; in Ibiza and Formentera, the flao, a tart made with fresh sheep's cheese and mint. Here is what to try, island by island, without getting it wrong.

What to try in Mallorca?

Two icons. The ensaimada, a spiral-rolled brioche made with lard (the "saim" that gives it its name), holds a protected geographical indication; it comes plain, cream-filled, or filled with sobrassada for a sweet-savoury contrast. The sobrassada, meanwhile, is a soft, spreadable pork sausage seasoned with paprika, eaten on bread. For dessert, look for robiols and crespells, small filled or star-shaped pastries.

And in Menorca?

The star is the caldereta de langosta (spiny lobster stew), born in the fishing village of Fornells: fresh spiny lobster, a tomato and pepper sofrito, and a sauce bound with the coral of the lobster. A celebration dish, served with a local white wine. Menorca is also known for carquinyols almond biscuits and a recognised cheese and food tradition (the island is classed a gastronomic region).

Ibiza and Formentera: sweet and herbal

In Ibiza, try the flao, a tart of fresh sheep's cheese flavoured with mint, and the greixonera, similar to French toast, which recycles the previous day's ensaimadas. You will also find hierbas ibicencas, a local herb liqueur. Formentera shares this simple, sea-driven island cuisine, best enjoyed with your feet in the sand.

Frequently asked questions about food in the Balearics

What is the best-known speciality in the Balearics?
Mallorca's ensaimada, a spiral brioche made with lard, protected by a geographical indication.

Where can you eat a genuine caldereta de langosta?
In Menorca, especially in Fornells, its home village. It is an expensive dish, kept for special occasions.

What is flao?
A tart from Ibiza and Formentera made with fresh sheep's cheese and mint, usually served as a dessert.

Prices and availability change; check with official sources before you travel. Information verified in August 2026. The Daily Baleares is an AI-assisted publication with human review.