Last Updated on February 8, 2023 by Maria Kennedy
Besides the wonderful weather, the sensational scenery and the lovely locals, there’s one key ingredient that keeps people visiting Ibiza year after year, one of the greatest Spanish assets and a phenomenal way to get to know the island a little better – yes, you guessed it, it’s the amazing traditional food in Ibiza!
Spain is known for its amazing food, and Ibiza is certainly no different. Sample some of the best food in Ibiza and you’ll be eating some of the best food in the world. Period.
With a diet rich in fresh fish, Mediterranean vegetables plus lots of tasty fresh fruit, nuts, cereals, grains and unsaturated fats, like olive oil, the Mediterranean diet you’ll get to experience here on the Ibiza food scene is well-known throughout the world for its links with good health, including a healthier heart. So traditional food and drink in Ibiza is more than just something nice to enjoy while you’re here on the island, it should inspire you to eat well for the rest of your life, and you’ll see how delicious a good diet can be!
If you’re getting ready for your next trip to Ibiza and want to get excited about all those amazing meals you’re about to enjoy, allow us to salivate your taste buds right here. Your hotel’s in Ibiza restaurant will serve up an amazing range of local Ibiza food
for you to try when you’re there, with a range of seasonal produce to satisfy even the most demanding of palates. The staff will be able to help with any questions you have, and even make suggestions on the best ways to complement your meal or help with any particular dietary requirements.
Traditional Food in Ibiza all visitors should know about
1. Croquettes
Some of our top picks for our Ibiza food guide would have to include Croquettes, a typically Spanish treat you’ll find in practically every restaurant across the Iberian peninsular and the islands beyond. The recipe calls for cured ham or Atlantic cod, depending on the restaurant, to be coated in a béchamel sauce before being breaded and fried. The results are one of the most delicious flavor combinations and a smooth, nourishing snack, from the most traditional food in Ibiza you can try.
2. Tortilla Espanola
No Ibiza food guide worth its salt would be complete without a healthy dose of Tortilla Espanola, that famous Spanish omelette that makes an amazing addition to any breakfast, lunch or dinner, or snack or, well… any meal, for that matter! A simple dish consisting of just caramelised onion and potato in olive oil, plus a hefty dose of beaten eggs to give the dish its structure, this is a staple of Ibiza food and you’ll find a version in all the best restaurants in Ibiza bar none.
3. Paella
Another of the traditional dishes of Ibiza everyone has to try, just to appreciate the authenticity and rich flavors, is Paella. Because Ibiza is an island community, surrounded by the deep blue waters of the fertile Mediterranean, seafood paella is a classic dish here and very popular with locals and tourists alike, but you’ll also find a huge range of other meats served in the dish, including chicken and duck, as well as plenty of vegetarian options. Most seafood paella will include the likes of calamari, mussels, clams, prawns or scampi, all plucked fresh from the ocean and onto your plate in no time at all as part of this favorite rice dish, often served with peppers and other local vegetables. The best food in Ibiza doesn’t get much fresher (or tastier!) than this.
4. Arroz de Matanzas
One of the most traditional dishes of Ibiza, Arroz de Matanzas is a rice dish cooked alongside a variety of local meats, saffron and mushrooms, creating a delicacy fit for a king or queen. All the best restaurants in Ibiza will serve up their own take on this highly-local and much-loved main meal, and the best part is, the recipe doesn’t specify which kind of meat should be used, so you’re guaranteed the freshest, seasonal produce of whatever happens to be on the menu that day – the perfect way to try something new and some of the best food in Ibiza.
5. Bullit de Peix
Bullit de Peix is a traditional fish stew from the island of Ibiza. It is made by cooking a variety of seafood, including fish, squid, and sometimes crab or lobster, in a flavorful broth made from fish stock, tomatoes, and local spices. The dish is typically served with crusty bread, which is used to soak up the flavorful broth. Bullit de Peix is a staple of Ibizan cuisine and is often served at local taverns and restaurants. It is a hearty and satisfying dish that is perfect for a cold winter evening. The combination of fresh seafood and aromatic spices creates a dish that is both delicious and comforting. Whether enjoyed on its own or as part of a larger spread, Bullit de Peix is a must-try for anyone visiting the island of Ibiza.
6. Sobrassada
Sobrassada is a type of cured sausage originating from the Balearic Islands. It is made from minced pork that is seasoned with paprika, salt, and other spices, and then stuffed into a natural casing. The sausages are then dried and cured, giving them a distinct flavor and texture. Sobrassada is typically served as a tapa, or small dish, and can be eaten on its own or used as a ingredient in a variety of recipes. It is a staple of Ibizan cuisine and can be found in markets, shops, and restaurants throughout the island. The rich and savory flavor of Sobrassada makes it a popular choice for locals and visitors alike. Whether enjoyed as a snack or as part of a larger meal, Sobrassada is a delicious and satisfying food that should not be missed when visiting Ibiza.
7. Arroz Brut
Arroz Brut is a traditional rice dish from Ibiza that is made with seafood and vegetables. It typically consists of a mixture of rice, seafood such as shrimp, squid, and mussels, and vegetables such as onions, peppers, and tomatoes. The dish is flavored with a variety of herbs and spices, including saffron, and is cooked until the rice is tender and the flavors are well combined. Arroz Brut is a staple of Ibizan cuisine and is often served at local restaurants and taverns. It is a hearty and filling dish that is perfect for a summer day on the island. The combination of fresh seafood and aromatic spices creates a dish that is both delicious and satisfying. Whether enjoyed on its own or as part of a larger spread, Arroz Brut is a must-try for anyone visiting Ibiza.
8. Frito Ibicenco
Frito Ibicenco is a traditional dish from the island of Ibiza, Spain. It is a type of fried dish made with a mixture of meats and vegetables, including pork, rabbit, and potatoes. The ingredients are seasoned with garlic, paprika, and other spices, and then fried until crispy and golden brown. Frito Ibicenco is a staple of Ibizan cuisine and is often served as a main dish or as a tapa, or small dish. It is a hearty and flavorful dish that is perfect for a cold winter evening. The combination of tender meats and crispy vegetables creates a dish that is both delicious and satisfying. Whether enjoyed on its own or as part of a larger spread, Frito Ibicenco is a must-try for anyone visiting Ibiza.
9. Tumbet
Tumbet is a traditional dish from Majorca that is similar to the French dish ratatouille. It is made by layering slices of eggplant, potatoes, and bell peppers in a casserole dish, and then baking them with a tomato sauce. The dish is typically seasoned with garlic, rosemary, and other herbs and spices, and is finished with a drizzle of olive oil. Tumbet is a staple of Ibizan cuisine and is often served as a vegetarian main dish or as a side dish to grilled meats or fish. It is a healthy and flavorful dish that is perfect for a warm summer day on the island. The combination of tender vegetables and aromatic spices creates a dish that is both delicious and satisfying. Whether enjoyed on its own or as part of a larger spread, Tumbet is a must-try for anyone visiting Ibiza.
10. Caldereta
Caldereta is a traditional stew from Ibiza that is made with goat meat and a mixture of vegetables. The goat is slowly cooked in a tomato-based sauce along with potatoes, bell peppers, onions, and garlic, until the meat is tender and the flavors are well combined. The dish is typically seasoned with paprika, cumin, and other spices, and is finished with a drizzle of olive oil. Caldereta is a staple of Ibizan cuisine and is often served as a main dish, especially during the cooler months. It is a hearty and flavorful dish that is perfect for a warm and comforting meal. The combination of tender meat and rich sauce creates a dish that is both delicious and satisfying. Whether enjoyed on its own or as part of a larger spread, Caldereta is a must-try for anyone visiting Ibiza.
11. Ensaïmada
Ensaïmada is a traditional pastry originating from the Balearic Islands, including Ibiza. It is a spiral-shaped pastry that is made from a soft and fluffy dough that is sweetened with sugar and flavored with cinnamon and lemon zest. The dough is then shaped into a spiral, brushed with melted butter, and dusted with sugar before being baked to perfection. Ensaïmada is a staple of Ibizan cuisine and is often served for breakfast or as a dessert. It is a sweet and satisfying treat that is perfect for any time of day. Whether enjoyed on its own or with a cup of coffee, Ensaïmada is a must-try for anyone visiting Ibiza. The combination of soft dough and sweet, aromatic spices creates a pastry that is both delicious and comforting.
12. Pan Payes
Pan Payes is a traditional bread from Ibiza that is made with a mixture of flour, water, yeast, and salt. The bread is shaped into a round loaf, and then left to rise before being baked to perfection. Pan Payes is a staple of Ibizan cuisine and is often served for breakfast or as a snack. It is a simple and delicious bread that is perfect for any time of day. The bread has a soft and tender crumb, with a slightly crisp crust, and a mild and slightly salty flavor. Whether enjoyed on its own or with a spread of butter or cheese, Pan Payes is a must-try for anyone visiting Ibiza. The bread is an important part of the local food culture and can be found in most bakeries and cafes on the island.
13. Flam de Trampo
Flam de Trampo is a traditional dessert from Ibiza that is made with almonds, sugar, and eggs. The ingredients are combined to form a batter that is then spooned onto a hot griddle and cooked until golden brown. Flam de Trampo is then rolled up and served hot, sprinkled with powdered sugar. This dessert is a staple of Ibizan cuisine and is often enjoyed after a meal or as a snack. It is a sweet and satisfying treat that is perfect for any time of day. The combination of crispy exterior and soft, almond-flavored interior creates a dessert that is both delicious and comforting. Whether enjoyed on its own or with a cup of coffee, Flam de Trampo is a must-try for anyone visiting Ibiza.
14. Gató de Almendra
Gató de Almendra is a traditional almond cake from Ibiza that is made with almonds, sugar, eggs, and flour. The ingredients are mixed together to form a batter that is then baked until golden brown. Gató de Almendra is a staple of Ibizan cuisine and is often served for dessert or as a snack. It is a sweet and satisfying treat that is perfect for any time of day. The cake has a soft and tender crumb, with a slightly crunchy top, and a rich almond flavor. Whether enjoyed on its own or with a cup of coffee, Gató de Almendra is a must-try for anyone visiting Ibiza. This dessert is an important part of the local food culture and can be found in most bakeries and cafes on the island.
We hope you like this list of traditional food in Ibiza which includes a variety of local ingredients and culinary traditions. If you are looking to experience the true flavor of Ibiza, be sure to try some of its traditional dishes. And we look forward to hearing about all your favorite treats and foods you enjoyed during your stay in Ibiza.
