Lost in Mallorca
A Long Weekend in Palma de Mallorca:
Sun, Flavour & a Train to Soller
Mallorca in spring-summer 2025? Yes, please. This long weekend in and around the sun-kissed city of Palma was the perfect balance of celebration and restoration—think fresh sea air, flavour-packed vegan and vegetarian cuisine, and a little bit of adventure. From backstreet brunch spots to sunset cocktails and a nostalgic train ride to Soller, here’s how we spent a few unforgettable days soaking up the best the island has to offer.
Urban Calm and Organic Culinary Surprises in Palma
Palma is a city that knows how to feed you—mind, body, and soul. We based ourselves near the historic centre, where palm-fringed streets hum with life and every corner reveals a new discovery. One such gem? Son Braho, tucked away in an industrial-luxe venue on an unassuming side street. This hot and cold salad-box and beyond lunch spot is a little out of the way, still in city, but absolutely worth the meander. Creative, colourful, and satisfying, it’s the kind of place that reminds you nutritious food done with love leaves with a glow inside and out, wonderful turmeric late, and food from their farms.
Dinner that evening was at Can Ela, a modern and intimate vegan haven just off one of Palma’s main streets. Friendly staff, a warm intimate atmosphere, and dishes that delighted from start to finish. The standout? Raw beet tortelloni with cashew cream—a dish that felt both indulgent and nourishing, though we didn’t sample it, the tasting menu looked one to return for, and it’s lively area to stroll, through amongst the tapas bars, boutique hotel entrances and shops.
Brunch, Tapas & Sunset Views
No trip is complete without a busy city style, sunny brunch spot, and Matcha & Coffee delivered. A beautifully curated menu of nutritious, plant-forward options set us up for the day ahead. Think smoothie bowls, and plates that tasted as good as they looked.
For drinks with a view, we couldn’t resist a classic Mallorca moment—sunset cocktails overlooking the sea, with incredible arts and sculpture. Service may not have been the efficient, but we were in no rush and the spicy margaritas and mixed bowls of local olives more than made up for it at the Mar I Luz on the Museum of Contemporary Art grounds, they also serve food but, sadly not on the days we visited, which I think means we need to return!
Later, on the vibrant Carrer de la Fàbrica, we dined at Rikito, a spot buzzing with evening energy. The starters were particularly impressive—light but bursting with flavour. The zucchini carpaccio and slow cooked peppers with ricotta were a standout, ideal for those who want something delicate yet satisfying. Meanwhile, the heartier pasta and pizza, and large bowls of tiramisu dishes made the male diners very happy, service here was exceptional and considerate.
Hidden Gems and Harbour Views
Our mornings often started with a walk to find pastries and caffeine, and Fika Farina, near the historic centre, delivered some of the best coffee and baked goods we’ve had—anywhere. Seriously, don’t miss it, it’s a worthy Instagram sensation and well worth the steps, every day.
Casual lunch at Mouna, located on the charming Plaça de la Drassana just by the marina, was a sun-drenched delight. It’s a small but perfect people-watching spot with a relaxed but chic interior and terrace and vegetarian Mediterranean dishes that celebrate seasonal produce, with their home made Kombucha Sangria and divine branding, go with a few Spanish phrases to assist your waiters.
A Vintage Train Ride to Soller
Taking the old wooden train from Palma to Soller felt like stepping into a postcard, and on the list of many. The journey winds through olive and orange groves and mountains before arriving in a picture-perfect village where we savoured handmade pasta and a delicate tuna tartare at Luna 36. Of course, no trip to Soller is complete without a visit to the iconic and retro Gelat Soller original ice cream parlour—yes, the one with the famous orange ice cream (two types, naturally), among dozens of other artisan flavours, there also a little competition in town with Can Pau.
Beach Bliss and Sea Views
Just outside the city, Playa des Illetes is a sheltered cove perfect for beachside relaxation. Think fresh juices, cava from breakfast till bed, a little beach boutique for shopping, and even a massage on the with views of the seas. A dreamy, swim-filled afternoon.
For a grand finale, and if you want your heart and mind blown at the incredible workmanship and reworking or a former barracks, and especially if its an extra special occasion then book dinner at the exclusive Cap Rocat Sea Club—arriving just before sunset. Looking back across the sea toward Palma, the views are breathtaking, almost as much as the building itself. The soft-shell crab is not to be missed, and the whole experience will feel like the cherry on top of a perfect trip.
Whether you're vegan, vegetarian, or simply a food lover, Palma’s culinary scene in 2025 is thriving. This trip gave us space to indulge, reset, and explore—with enough sunshine, flavour, and charm to carry us home feeling fully recharged.
Mallorca—we’ll be back.