Bars and restaurants
Mirall Bar, Nobis Hotel, Sant-Jaume
There are two Nobis hotels in Palma but this one, housed in an ancient palace, has a sumptuous cocktail bar on the first floor. Rarely packed, it’s a good spot to start or end the night. Try nearby Bar Nicolás for alfresco seating or Ginbo Bar if you fancy a lively Friday or Saturday evening.
Hotel Araxa, Son Armadams
As a three-star inn, Hotel Araxa might not be the best stay on the island, and the restaurant is not going to change your life either. But it’s brilliant, according to our design-loving editor in chief. The hotel was completed in 1958 by modernist architect Francesc Mitjans and its charm has been maintained to this day. You can come by for a morning coffee by the pool or a cocktail and dinner in the patio garden, often surrounded by locals playing cards.
Bar La Sang, Arxiduc
Natural wine from small-batch producers and simple dishes are at the heart of this bar’s success as well as the efforts of owners Lukas Lundgren and Eritrea Willoughby. The duo is part of a group of Mallorcan food producers and wine makers out to do things differently, raising the bar in every sense.
Bodega Morey, Cort
This tiny bar has been around for decades and is often packed with locals having tapas and a vermut or two. Find it in the city centre near Plaça Cort.
El Camino, Sant Nicolau
Here’s the deal: you get to eat Spanish classics (grilled octopus, jamon croquettes, salt-cod fritters) cooked to perfection while sitting at a dramatically long counter. But you will be given a timed slot and served quickly – and you might need to book weeks in advance. Owner Eddie Hart has opened Caminito, a spin-off restaurant with table service, nearby.
Heladeria Ca’n Miquel, Jaume III
There is no argument that this is the best place for ice cream and sorbet in Palma. Hidden off Avenida Jaime III, the modest-looking Ca’n Miguel makes up individual orders from dozens of flavours, including island specials such as almond, and sells boxes of its treats to take away.
Hotel Hospes Maricel & Spa, Cas Català
This stately five-star hotel occupies an amazing position overlooking a beach and bright blue waters. You don’t have to be a guest to book a table on the grand terrace for a sunny late lunch. It also has a few packages, should you wish to rent a lounger for the day. Come for the view, stay for a siesta.
La Molienda, Arxiduc and Old Town
There are many good coffee shops in the city – Hotto Coffee Lab, Surry Hills, Rosevelvet, Mistral Coffee House, Mama Carmen’s and Nano Coffee Lab, just to name a few. But if we had to pick one to take care of your caffeine needs, our choice would be La Molienda. The team roasts small batches of ethically and sustainably sourced beans, energising customers in its two small cafés.
Palma Sport & Tennis Club, Son Armadams
Looking for healthy food in a stunning setting? This private club has a restaurant that is open to all, from morning coffee to fresh lunches and even end-of-day cervezas. Sit back and watch people play on the clay courts while you dine in a 1960s architectural masterpiece.
Portixol Hotel & Restaurante, Portixol
The former fishing community of Portixol is home to this bright white boutique hotel (credited as being the first of its kind in Palma when it opened in 1999). Head to its small alfresco terrace restaurant for a glass of rosé and some vibrant cuisine. After your meal, consider walking along the coast – it’s what hundreds of locals do after sunset.
