Ibiza is widely known for its sun-soaked beaches and vibrant nightlife, but the island’s culinary traditions are just as captivating. From hearty stews to fresh seafood and sweet desserts, Ibizan cuisine offers a taste of the island’s history and local culture. In this guide, we explore 10 traditional Ibiza dishes you shouldn’t miss, perfect for food lovers eager to experience authentic flavors while visiting the island.
In addition to discovering these iconic dishes, we’ll also share tips on where to enjoy them, helping you make the most of your culinary journey across Ibiza.
Traditional Starters You’ll Love
1. Breads and alioli:
The name of alioli means “garlic and oil” in Catalan which is exactly what it is. Made from oil, garlic, and egg, served with bread spread.
2. Ensalada Payesa:
Made from potatoes, roasted peppers and boiled eggs and combined with sliced onions, fresh tomatoes and olives. In addition, it is perfect for the warm Ibiza climate and highlights the freshness of local produce.
3. Sobrasada:
The main pickings from the slaughter of the pig, sobrasada is made from the lean meat of the pig and some belly pork, all minced and mixed with paprika, salt and spices. Moreover, it can be served on bread or crackers and is an essential part of Ibizan culinary tradition.
Main Courses That Define the Island
4. Bullit de peix:
It is served into two parts; broiled fish with potatoes covered in a light sauce made up of garlic mayonnaise (alioli) as the first course, and as the main course, rice cooked with fish broth.
5. Arroz de matanzas:
Every family has their own recipe. It’s typically made with a combination of rice, pork, chorizo, and spices such as nutmeg, saffron, etc.
6. Frita de pulpo:
Typical Ibiza tapa and it´s really usual to find it in every bar or restaurant. It combines octopus with potatoes, green and red pepper, onion and garlic. Furthermore, it showcases the island’s maritime heritage and is best enjoyed in a seaside bar.
7. Sofrit Pagés:
A delicious dish using lamb, chicken, pork, sobrasada and potatoes prepared in a large skillet with spices and garlic.
8. Paella de Marisco:
Directly translated means “seafood paella”. Each region in Spain have their own version of paella, and the seafood ingredients of this paella come fresh from the sea surrounding the island of Ibiza.
Sweet Treats & Ibizan Desserts
9. Flaó:
The traditional Ibiza cheesecake dessert with its distinctive flavour and soft texture made with eggs, fresh cheese and slightly aromatized with aniseed and mint leaves. Definetely an ideal ending to any meal.
10. Greixonera:
It is made with ensaimadas from the day before, milk, eggs, sugar, cinnamon and lemon.
Tips for Sampling Traditional Ibizan Food
- Visit local family-run restaurants instead of tourist spots
- Try seafood dishes near the coast and hearty stews inland
- Finish your meals with local hierbas ibicencas for an authentic experience.
- Moreover, ask the locals for their favourite dishes – they often know hidden gems off the beaten path.
Where to Try These Dishes in Ibiza
- El Carmen (Cala D’hort)
- El Bigotes (Cala Mastella)
- Cas Pagés (San Carlos)
- Es Pins (San Lorenzo)
- Ses Arcades (San Joan)
Additionally, exploring markets like Mercat Vell and Mercat Nou in Ibiza Town allows you to taste fresh local products and observe the culinary culture firsthand.