Eat the World in Palma de Mallorca

Santa Catalina has succumbed to the trend for Southern US cuisine that is currently flooding Europe. Nola brings New Orleans' soul to Palma through its Cajun and Creole food, warm lighting, vintage-inspired decor, recreating the inviting, festive atmosphere that New Orleans is famous for. The restaurant’s famed ribs are a must-try—tender, smoky, and packed with flavour, they’re best enjoyed with a cocktail in hand. The cocktail menu doesn’t disappoint, with a variety of options that showcase bourbon as the star ingredient.

Our reporter Jose recommends you try the ribs!

Without leaving the Santa Catalina area, Jonny's Dhaba is a traditional Indian restaurant where you'll be able to get your curry fix. This isn’t your usual commercialised curry house, the owners are originally from Patiala in the Punjab region of Northern India, their mouthwatering Thalis and Tandooris perfectly capture the flavour of the region. This restaurant offers the best in Punjabi hospitality and home style cooking with flavours straight from the kitchens they grew up with. All dishes are prepared specifically to your level of preferred spiciness. Do try their famous Jonny’s Roll for a quick lunchtime snack!

Whilst Mallorca is full of good quality Italian restaurants in the form of pizza and pasta joints, we thought we would focus on a contemporary Italian restaurant in Santa Catalina called Rikito. At Rikito, the menu is a celebration of the seasons, offering heart-warming recipes rooted in classic Italian cuisine. Whether you’re craving the vibrant green of a fresh pesto, the indulgence of creamy truffle Pappardelle, or the simplicity of a perfectly crafted Margherita, Rikito promises to satisfy every palate. What sets Rikito apart is their commitment to fresh, homemade pasta. From the delicate Gnocchi to the wide ribbons of Pappardelle, all pasta is made daily in their dedicated Lab Kitchen. In fact, Luigi, their passionate chef, starts his day at 4 a.m. to ensure each batch is prepared to perfection—bringing a true taste of Italy to every dish.

If top-notch Japanese food is what you are after, then Mar de Nudos is at your service. Not only does it serve up some of the best sushi and Japanese hot plates on the island, but you can’t beat this restaurant’s setting in front of some of Palma’s most spectacular yachts along Moll Vell Marina. Alternatively, if you want to quickly grab and go, Arume Sushi Bar & Dim Sum in Santa Catalina Market has an outstanding reputation.

Bi Bap in Palma's old town offers a vibrant dining experience that brings the flavours of Korea to the island, while blending in modern culinary twists. Specialising in classic Korean fare, the restaurant stays true to traditional recipes, but with a contemporary touch—infusing trendy ingredients that give their dishes a unique and exciting flavour profile. At the core of Bi Bap’s philosophy is a deep commitment to freshness, sustainability, and mindful sourcing. While Korean cuisine is the heart of the menu, and their Bibimbap an iconic favourite, Bi Bap also brings together influences from other Asian culinary traditions, with Vietnamese, Chinese, and Japanese dishes making an appearance.

Rotana's menu showcases an array of specialties, from creamy hummus and smoky moutabal to crispy falafel, along with more than 30 different mezze—small, flavourful starters perfect for sharing. The selection extends to mouthwatering grilled dishes, tender roast lamb infused with subtle spices, and delicate stewed fish, all prepared with the vibrant flavours of the Mediterranean.

El Aquanauta is technically Mexico meets California but definitely leans more toward the south, and we can confidently testify it serves up the best Mexican food on the island. This themed restaurant has a cool surfer vibe thanks to its vibrant décor with timber and real surfboards adorning the walls. Their dishes include ceviche, tacos, quesadillas, nachos, tostadas and guacamole with lots of gluten-free and vegetarian options available. Of course, don't forget to order one of their delicious margaritas, they are simply the best! It’s so popular here we recommend you book in advance to avoid disappointment.

Fusion restaurants have prospered in recent years in Mallorca thanks to the mind-blowing flavours that arise from the combination of Mediterranean and Asian cuisine. De Tokio a Lima ('From Tokyo to Lima') has taken that advantage one step further by adding a third element to the mix: Peruvian cuisine. Located in the elegant Boutique Hotel Can Alomar, the restaurant serves interesting dishes such as 'crunchy Mediterranean squid with hot pepper and coriander dressing' or 'beef sirloin tataki on Mallorcan young potatoes and tartar sauce'.

Right in the heart of Santa Catalina, at Koh you'll discover fresh, authentic cuisine infused with an innovative twist, drawing inspiration from the vibrant and bold flavours of Southeast Asia. The menu is a playful celebration of the region's culinary diversity, combining traditional ingredients with a modern approach, all while staying true to the fun and freshness that define Asian street food culture. The 'slow cooked duck curry', is a favourite! They also have tasting menus and daily specials, just ask your waiter.

We finish our world tour with a wild card. The much-loved Duke Restaurant has become a bit of a treasure in Palma. Its owners have travelled the world and created a unique menu from their favourite dishes. There’s a great selection of international recipes, so your whole party will be satisfied. Ceviches are one of their best-selling specialties but you will find Greek, Indian, Persian, Japanese and Thai fare on the menu.