While Ibiza may be celebrated as the world’s most dazzling party playground, it’s flaunting a new facelift – one that’s green and enticing! Now, with sustainable tourism in its crosshairs, Ibiza is shaking up its image and putting the brakes on free-flowing booze at resorts since 2020.
Photo credit: Luisa Brimble on Unsplash
But that’s not all – it’s cheerleading for homegrown gastronomy, urging visitors to uncork the flavors of local Balearic cuisine. As per the island’s Tourism Minister, Iago Negueruela, step off the beaten track and explore a culture-rich, gastronomic wonderland, especially outside the high season. Ready for a refreshed, responsible Ibiza experience? Here’s your ultimate guide to sustainable dining on the party island.
The island of Ibiza has something to offer every kind of traveler. For instance, those who want to escape from the bustling beach life can take refuge in a cliffside hotel for a relaxing getaway. Meanwhile, if you want to see and be seen, head to the hottest restaurant on the White Isle– the Aiyanna Ibiza. Apart from being recognized as the trendiest dining spot on the island, it’s also the most sustainable since it was granted the Biosphere Certification by the Responsible Tourism Institute in 2022, and this certification is endorsed by UNESCO.
Laid-back and luxurious, this restaurant is a must-visit for anyone who wants to dine on sustainable fare while surrounded by gorgeous views of the Mediterranean Sea. Aiyanna uses organic produce grown in the establishment’s own organic garden. They also make it a point to serve fresh, seasonal meals that will have you raving about the variety of textures and flavors.
For starters, try their Andalucian Salad with Cod, which has Ibizencan potatoes, fennel, orange, and a special sea urchin dressing. In the mood for something familiar? Try their twist on the classic hamburger, which is made with 100% Galician beef, Mahon cheese, and caramelized onions. Aiyanna is lauded as the place to be by everyone who’s updated on Ibiza trends, so it’s recommended to call ahead and make a reservation before you go.
Right in the heart of the village of Santa Gertrudis is a dining establishment that’s known for its delicious vegan food. Wild Beets, which prides itself on its plant-based menu, has made it their mission to create nutritious, locally sourced, and delectable dishes. Each item on their menu is made to ensure maximum nutrient density, so health buffs should definitely make a beeline to this restaurant that’s all about good, wholesome food, minus the gimmicks and fads.
For a satisfying starter, try their Beetroot Ravioli, made with pistachio pesto, cashew cheese filling, and dressed with an orange and beetroot vinaigrette. Meanwhile, their Shiitake Meatballs, made with shiitake mushrooms, sunflower seeds, and a tangy tomato-based sauce will surely satisfy your cravings for meat. Need something sweet? Go for their Pineapple Carpaccio, a mouth-watering dessert made with burnt pineapple, local spices, passionfruit, and banana ice cream. If you need another reason to drop by, note that everything on their menu is gluten-free, so those with sensitivities to gluten can indulge without worries.
For those craving for fresh, homemade food, look no further than La Paloma Cafe and Restaurant. This unassuming, family-run establishment has been around for 19 years. It’s known to be a place where everyone, from couples to families with children, can have a good time while enjoying great food.
The La Paloma Restaurant changes their main courses and starters every week, but you can always expect to choose from around nine starters, two types of pasta, one fish dish, and one vegan dish. Meanwhile, the cafe offers Mediterranean food with Asian, North African, and Middle Eastern ingredients, so if you have an adventurous palate, it’s definitely worth checking out for filling and sustainable comfort food.
If you want to have an authentic farm-to-table dining experience, head to Sant Miquel de Balansat and look for Aubergine by Atzaro. This famous restaurant is a favorite among residents and island visitors, and it’s known for its cozy dining rooms and delicious, hearty food made with fresh produce. The high quality of food at Aubergine is undeniable– in fact the restaurant has been featured in several top-rated media outlets, including Vogue, Conde Nast Traveller, Grazia, and L’Officiel.
Plan on having lunch here and start your meal with their Avocado Ceviche with papaya, mango, palm hearts, and cherry tomatoes. Next, feast on Calamari with Potatoes with garlic, fried peppers, and paprika flakes. If you’re on holiday with kids, don’t fret. Aubergine has a children’s menu, so little ones can have a vegan hamburger, pasta with homemade tomato sauce, or free-range chicken breast with homemade crisps.
Ibiza is more than just a place for beach and party enthusiasts, it’s also where you can have healthy and delicious food. Visit any of these restaurants for a sustainable dining experience that you’ll never forget!
