Situated in Deià’s Tramuntana mountains (a fact you’ll be made all too aware of following the hairpin turns of the drive out from Palma) is La Residencia, A Belmond Hotel.
Embracing Deià’s artistic leanings, the hotel is a haven of creativity. Nowhere is that creative flair more prevalent than at La Residencia’s fine-dining restaurant, El Olivo.
The Lowdown
A culinary voyage, with dynamic chef Guillermo Méndez at the helm, El Olivo is perhaps best known for its wowing tasting menus.
In the height of summer, maximise on your surrounds and dine out on the terrace, decorated with flickering candelabras and fringed by olive trees. When the weather is a little less balmy, head to the indoor dining room, which boasts sky-high ceilings, supported with large wooden beams, exposed stone walls, and terracotta tiles – all of which combine to create a warm and intimate atmosphere. And whilst surrounds and design details are superlative, all pales in comparison to the food…
What To Order
Choose from a five- or seven-course tasting menu, or alternatively make your selections from the a la carte menu. We opted for the latter and tucked into a selection of cold and warm starters, including a beautifully presented yellowtail tuna tartare, complete with cucumber pearls, avocado cream, dates, and a crunchy trellis topping, as well as prawns cooked in salt and samphire with La Residencia olive oil. The creamy ‘bomba’ rice with lobster covered with a belly pork veil is another standout.
Offering diners a true taste of Mallorca, Executive Chef Guillermo Méndez’s seasonal menu is well-balanced and inventive. Choose from a selection of fish and meat dishes, as well as vegan and vegetarian options. Some favourites: the stuffed red mullet with vegetable ‘a la Mallorquian’ and the Angus beef Rossini. For vegetarians, we’d recommend the roasted and caramelised aubergines with balsamic vinegar, chickpea puree, and seasonal vegetables. To further elevate your meal, have the sommelier pair your choices with wines from a collection that’s earned – year on year – the Award of Excellence from prestigious Wine Spectator.
Do leave room for dessert, as those plated up at El Olivo are rather inventive. If you can wait 15 minutes for your pud, the Grand Marnier crepes with ice cream and orange flavours will make you sing. Alternatively, order ‘Mallorcan memories’ for a combination of flavours – orange, carob, palo liquer, lemon, and virgin olive oil – which provide a fresh and perfectly indulgent finisher (we were particularly taken by the delicate pudding masquerading as a mandarin). End with tea, coffee, and petit fours of raspberry-infused carob and a beautifully presented, light-as-air XL wafer filled with cardamom.
Who To Bring
El Olivo is utterly romantic – note the three booth tables with open/shut linens flanking either side. Whilst a broad variety of diners will enjoying the delectable offerings of the restaurant, it’s our SO we most want to dine opposite at this swoon-worthy spot.
The Dress Code
Smart casual. For a picture-perfect look, don neutral shades – an ecru Blaze Milano jacket and simple cigarette pants, finished off with a pair of sparkling white Castaners is a winning ensemble.
Any Questions or Tips to add?