The fabled White Isle of Ibiza has long been a favourite among those seeking to escape the more mundane trappings of life in favour of the gentle, laid-back air of the Mediterranean. Beyond the obvious charms of the sun, sea and jaw-droppingly beautiful natural scenery, Ibiza's cuisine also gives cause for celebration, showcasing the finest in simple seafood dishes prepared with a delicate hand and centuries of know-how.
And what better way to taste these superb culinary concoctions than perched on the seafront, away from the hustle and bustle of the towns? We explore some of our favourite traditional beach restaurants of Ibiza.
Hidden among a cluster of pines on a whisp of a beach near Es Cubells, the wonderful, secluded venue of Ses Boques is an invitation to enjoy a hearty menu in a gorgeously rustic setting while basking in the gentle charm of the white isle. A favourite among locals, the restaurant blends delightfully into the natural surroundings, while the the menu celebrates the simplicity of the cuisine of Ibiza. It's with its focus on local ingredients and the promise of the freshest seafood that the restaurant scores best, with the roasted fish in salt crust a treat not to be missed.
When on vacation in Ibiza, you may wish to try more modern cuisine, which is where the Cotton Beach Club restaurant comes in. Located in Cala Tarida, the beachfront restaurant offers dishes with a wide variety of flavours and influences. With a preference for locally sourced ingredients, fish and seafood are naturally the stars, cooked in the traditional way. Other less traditional dishes, such as meat dishes and pasta, are also to be tried. But while the food is of a high standard, what sets the Cotton Beach Club apart is its breathtaking view overlooking the deep azure of the surrounding waters. Sat atop a cliff looking out over a beautiful white sandy bay, not only is Cotton Beach Club one of the best beach restaurants in Ibiza, but also the beneficiary of a truly spectacular view.
For 50 years, Ibiza's Port of Sant Miquel has been blessed with this delightfully traditional beachfront restaurant. Part of the charm of the family-run Port Balansat is the elegant simplicity of the enterprise - there is nothing flashy in the decor to catch your attention, the restaurant instead opting to let the mouthwatering traditional cuisine and spectacular view do the talking. Naturally, the menu leans heavily towards seafood and arroces (paella and other rice dishes), with the seafood stew a firm favourite. Book a table at Port Balansat and revel in the relaxed Ibicenco atmosphere.
At once chic and casual, the charming restaurant of Es Torrent is perfect for those in search of a peaceful setting. And if during the day, this fantastic establishment takes on something of the appearance of a beach restaurant, upon nightfall, the restaurant eases itself into a wonderfully pleasant, romantic atmosphere. The restaurant is located on a secluded beach of the same name, the charmingly picturesque surroundings featuring a small strip of sand trying to distinguish itself from the surrounding shingle. Es Torrent is ideal for those who wish to try its famous fish in perfect tranquillity.
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Perhaps not the most traditional of the restaurants featured but deserving of a special mention. What makes the difference with this restaurant is not only the quality of the cuisine, which is extraordinary, but its exceptional setting. Indeed, you can enjoy an unrestricted view of the azure water from a charming wooden terrace. The icing on the cake is most definitely the impeccable quality of service. You will have the chance to taste traditional dishes in one of the most chic and trendy restaurants in Ibiza. The little plus of this location: if you come in the morning, you can enjoy yoga classes accompanied by breakfast beside the water...a perfect moment of relaxation!