Paella is one of Spain’s most popular dishes. And on Mallorca, it’s been fully embraced, often with a Mediterranean twist. Think just-caught seafood, farm-raised chicken, smoky sobrassada, or even squid ink. Originally, paella was a rather simple meal, though. Made with whatever meat or vegetables were on hand and simmered slowly over fire with rice, olive oil, and saffron. Today, there’s also fideuá. The cousin of paella made with short vermicelli noodles instead of rice, and just as satisfying. Beyond the ingredients, it’s the setting that makes each paella or fideuà memorable. Here are some of the best restaurants to enjoy paella on Mallorca:
Es Canyis: A Sóller Classic
Es Canyís has been around for more than seventy years. Its terrace and dining room offer a tranquil setting against the backdrop of Port de Sóller where the sea and the Tramuntana mountains meet. The house favorite is the paella ciega, all the flavor, none of the shells.
Es Turo: Mountain Flavors
Located in the picturesque village of Fornalutx, Es Turo offers a more rustic take on the Spanish rice dish. Here, paella is infused with the scent of rosemary and slow-cooked meats. It’s a hearty, soul-warming version, best enjoyed under the terrace vines, surrounded by the Tramuntana mountains.
Es Vergeret: Hidden Cove
Tucked above the secluded cove of Cala Tuent, Es Vergeret is a popular destination for hikers. Its terrace, shaded by pine trees, offers sweeping views over the pebble beach and sparkling turquoise sea. The paella here leans traditional and arrives sizzling and infused with the scent of the sea.
Can Gavella: Toes in the Sand
Can Gavella is the kind of place you dream of when you picture a beachside lunch. Barefoot in the sand, sea breeze, and a pan of steaming paella. Located just steps from the water in Playa de Muro, this casual spot specializes in classic seafood paella and fideuà. Rich in flavor and perfectly in sync with the laid-back vibe.
Son Terrassa: Mallorcan Countryside
In the quiet countryside, Son Terrassa offers a different kind of paella experience. Expect hearty meat paellas and flavorful vegetable options, slow, honest, and deeply rooted in local tradition. The rural finca is overlooking the southern part of the island, and its beautiful terrace is the perfect place to unwind.
Marisol: Even Vegan
Although paella is often made with meat or seafood, more and more restaurants also offer vegetarian or even vegan options. Marisol at the laidback promenade of Colònia de Sant Jordi prepares one with a rich mixture of vegetables. Full of flavors and with a nice view of beachlife.
Cafè Palmanova: Family and Friends
Cafè Palmanova is popular with families and groups of friends, anyway. So it comes at no surprise that there is always a choice of paella on the menu. Including a veggie paella that is as juicy as it is tasty. One more reason to dine at Cafè Palmanova or Cafè Es Pes de Sa Palla is the inclusive concept of Esment.
Barlovento: Port d’Andratx Traditional
The menu of Barlovento celebrates local flavors. And the highlight is undoubtedly the arroz. From rich seafood paellas to hearty black rice with cuttlefish. Although the signature dish is the arroz de notari, the family-run restaurant remains refreshingly grounded in a town known for luxury and yachts.
Can Costa: Old Oil Mill
Can Costa is particularly popular with families who like to celebrate birthdays or weddings with giant pans of paella. The rice dishes here are generous and full of rustic flavor, whether you go for the classic chicken and rabbit combo or a seafood-laced version. And you can choose between a beautiful terrace and the authentic guest room.
Mediterranean Togetherness
From breezy beach spots to hidden mountain gems, each restaurant offers a distinct take on the iconic dish. Some even use the special Bombeta rice that has been grown near Sa Pobla for centuries.
Paella on Mallorca symbolizes Mediterranean togetherness. Bear in mind that most restaurants require at least two servings, perfect for couples, friends, or family. Meant for sharing and enjoyed over a good conversation.
Just as cappuccino in Italy is only drunk in the morning, paella is a typical lunch dish. However, a cheerful lunch of paella on Mallorca can easily stretch into the evening. Bon profit. 
Title image courtesy of Esment.
