Discover the culinary jewels of Menorca. From cheeses to traditional sweets and unique liqueurs, through oil, honey and handmade sausages. Ideal for those who really want to taste the island.
🧀 Mahón-Menorca cheese
With Protected Designation of Origin, Mahón-Menorca cheese is one of the most representative gastronomic symbols of the island. It is produced with cow's milk from local breeds and can be found in soft, semi-cured and cured versions, with an orange rind that it acquires thanks to paprika and olive oil. Among the most renowned cheese factories is the Binigarba Cheese Factory, famous for its artisanal production.
For cheese lovers, visiting the Fira del Queso de Menorca is an unmissable experience where you can taste multiple varieties.
🥓 Artisanal sausages
Menorcan sobrasada, made with pork and spices, stands out for its smooth and creamy texture. Other traditional sausages such as carn i xulla and cuixot are also highly appreciated. These products are usually handmade in small family-run bakeries.
It is recommended to try these sausages in local markets or in restaurants that promote traditional Menorcan cuisine.
🥥 Lobster stew
This iconic dish is a stew based on fresh lobster cooked with a sauce of tomato, garlic, parsley and a touch of brandy. The best way to enjoy it is in the port of Fornells, where numerous specialized restaurants, such as Es Cranc, offer this delicacy accompanied by homemade toast.
It is advisable to book in advance in high season to ensure a place.
🍯 Menorcan honey
Menorcan honey is recognized for its quality and variety, produced by bees that pollinate thyme, rosemary, heather and blackberry flowers. It has the Protected Geographical Indication "Miel de Menorca".
An interesting visit is to the Dol¢amar beehives, where you can learn about local beekeeping and purchase artisanal products.
🥖 Oliaigua
This country soup is made with fresh vegetables, extra virgin olive oil and stale bread, which is soaked to add texture. It is refreshing and is consumed especially in summer. It is traditionally prepared at home but can also be found in some restaurants.
🍩 Traditional pastries
Menorca offers a wide variety of handmade pastries that deserve to be discovered:
- Ensaimadas: Soft, lightly flaky spirals, often filled with angel hair, cream or sobrasada for a sweet-salty touch.
- Pastissets: Pastries filled with angel hair or cream, a classic at festivities and celebrations.
- Coca Bamba: Spongy sweet traditionally served at breakfast or snacks.
- Carquinyols and Crespiells: Small cookies or typical cookies to accompany coffee or tea.
To taste these delicacies, La Pasteleria Can Pons in Es Mercadal is a must, renowned for its authentic Menorcan pastries.
🥃 Gin Xoriguer and Pomade
The local gin of Mahón, with Protected Geographical Indication, is usually enjoyed in the form of pomada, a refreshing mixture with lemonade granizada. It is an essential drink in Menorca and in its popular festivals.
🌿 Olive oil, salt and wines
The local extra virgin olive oil offers mild aromas and authentic Mediterranean flavors. Sea salt from Es Fornells is used in traditional cooking to enhance flavors. In addition, small artisanal wineries produce wines with unique character, influenced by the island's climate and soil.
🐄 Menorcan breed meat
The Vermella de Menorca is a native breed of cattle known for its tender meat and intense flavor. The meat can be tasted in restaurants that are committed to local and sustainable products.
📝 Tips for the gourmet traveler
- Visit local markets such as those in Ciutadella or Maó to buy fresh and artisanal products directly from the producers.
- Participate in gastronomic fairs and events such as the Fira Arrels, where you can taste typical products and learn from culinary workshops.
- Visit cheese dairies, oil mills and beehives to understand the production and purchase authentic products.
- Choose restaurants that work with km0 products for a more authentic and sustainable culinary experience.
