Hey lovely readers, Summer here!

If you’ve ever wondered what all the hype is about when it comes to tapas, tapas, tapas—allow me to share the delicious details! Spain's culinary scene is a feast for the senses, and no visit would be complete without indulging in the local flavors. From trying out mouthwatering tapas to sipping on creative cocktails, and, of course, hunting down the best pastries in town, our journey through Barcelona and Mallorca was as much about the food as it was about the sights. Whether you're a foodie at heart or just love a good meal, Spain's dining scene has something to tantalize every taste bud.

During our travels, we discovered some unforgettable spots that you absolutely need to try on your visit. Picture this: a cozy restaurant with breathtaking mountain views, an impromptu stop at a circus-inspired cocktail lounge, and a Swedish bakery in the heart of Palma with the freshest pastries you'll ever taste. These places weren’t just about the food—they were experiences that made our trip even more memorable.

Here are a few of our favorite culinary gems that you won’t want to miss:

La Posada, Valldemossa Mallorca

Nestled in the picturesque village of Valldemossa, La Posada is more than just a restaurant—it’s a journey back in time. Set in a historic residence built by King James II in 1309, the restaurant offers a dining experience that is as rich in history as it is in flavor. The breathtaking views of the Serra de Tramuntana mountains, an enchanting atmosphere, and a celebration of Mallorcan cuisine, featuring dishes that highlight the region's freshest ingredients- You want to save time for a dinner here and a walk around town.

Chez Junior, Soller Mallorca

If you’re looking for a place that embodies the charm and warmth of Sóller, look no further than Chez Junior. Located in the heart of the city center, this gem of a restaurant quickly became one of our favorites. The restaurant’s design is delightful, blending traditional Mallorcan elements with a modern, artistic flair that gives the place a unique and cozy vibe. But it’s the food that truly steals the show. Each dish is artfully crafted, showcasing the best of local ingredients with a creative twist. We were lucky enough to celebrate my 40th birthday here, and the team at Chez Junior made it unforgettable, a moment I’ll always cherish.

Arlequine, Palma Barcelona

Sometimes, the best experiences are the ones you stumble upon by accident, and that was exactly the case with Arelquine. After a long day of exploring Palma, we were in need of a little refreshment and decided to duck into this quirky, circus-inspired cocktail lounge and eatery. What a find! Bold colors, whimsical art, and fun, vintage vibe alongside a cocktail menu featuring concoctions that were as intriguing as they were delicious. The popcorn chicken is a must!

Fika Farina, Palma Barcelona

For those with a sweet tooth, Fika Farina is a charming Swedish bakery, tucked away in the heart of Palma. From buttery croissants to delicate cakes, every item we tried was a testament to the skill and passion of the bakers. If the weather’s nice, I highly recommend grabbing a cappuccino and taking a seat in the center plaza just outside. It’s the perfect place to indulge in some people-watching while savoring a sweet treat. Trust me, you’ll want to come back again and again.

La Romaguera, Soller Mallorca

Tucked alongside a small, unassuming road in the beautiful town of Sóller, La Romaguera is one of those places that you might miss if you’re not looking for it—but once you find it, you’ll be so glad you did. This fantastic spot offered us some of the best food and service we experienced during our entire trip. We decided to go all out and order a large variety of tapas and the family-style steak dish to share between the four of us, and it was nothing short of spectacular. This is a must-visit!

Sonmo, Valldemossa Mallorca

Last but certainly not least, we visited Sonmo, a unique retail space that offers much more than just a shopping experience. Located in Valldemossa, this charming spot showcases products from their own 500-year-old estate, Son Moragues, including olive oil, gin, and ceramics. A delightful way to get hands-on and taste some of theirofferingss to take home as a memento of your trip. My personal favorites: Son Moragues Gin, Organic Red Onion Jam and Organic Tomato and Basil Jam - so delicious!

Calipso, Portocolom Mallorca

A beautifully designed Italian, seafood, and Mediterranean restaurant. As a former interior designer, I appreciated the organic textural details that made the space feel casual yet refined. The food was excellent! Head here for dinner then dance the night away next door. The carpaccio, flatbread, and pizza were our favorites!

Closing Thoughts:

With so many incredible food and beverage options, I highly recommend making reservations for those must-see dinner spots—especially during the busy season. A little research before your trip can save you from the “Where should we eat?” dilemma and ensure you get to experience the best of what Spain has to offer. And don’t forget to check out your hotel’s in-room dining or restaurant menu for added convenience. Happy eating, and enjoy every delicious moment of your Spanish culinary adventure!