Mallorca, Spain
On a busy Thursday afternoon at Delicatessen, I got a text from a friend asking, “What do you know about Mallorca?” Little did I know that message would lead to one of the most memorable trips I’ve taken. Thirty days later, at the Palma de Mallorca Airport, I found myself picking up an obnoxious teal-green convertible MINI Cooper and couldn’t have been happier. This trip would end just two days before I was scheduled to give the commencement speech at my alma mater, the Culinary Institute of America, in Hyde Park, New York. Needless to say, I was a little nervous about a last-minute trip right before delivering the most important speech of my career. Thankfully, it all worked out even with some flight hiccups. Looking back, I’m happy I decided to follow my gut and live life a bit on the edge—always makes for a better story!
The trip came together through a twist of luck: a good friend’s father had swapped houses with a friend in Mallorca, then couldn’t make the dates. None of us realized how fortunate we were until we pulled up to a sleek, ultra-modern seven-bedroom villa with an infinity pool overlooking the mountains.
Our first night was low-key. Jet-lagged, we lounged on the patio with beers before rallying for dinner at the Mallorca Marina. Mallorca was described to me as a calmer Ibiza—gorgeous, lively, but less wild. Something I learned quickly: a car is essential, since little is centralized. Thankfully, that teal MINI was perfect for the job.
Like many Mediterranean ports, the marina was full of superyachts, designer shops, and overpriced restaurants. The food was good, but not quite on par with Barcelona, San Sebastián, or Madrid. I’d recommend just one or two meals there before seeking out more authentic, affordable spots inland.
Each morning, I had the same ritual: top down on the MINI, drive to a café for an espresso, then shop the local market for breakfast supplies. These markets brimmed with produce, cheeses, and charcuterie—where locals actually shopped. Whenever I’m cooking for a group with a hangover, my go-to move is a frittata, and Mallorca’s ingredients made for some of the best.
The only rainy day of the trip turned into one of the most memorable. We spent it at Nikki Beach Mallorca, less rowdy than its sister locations thanks to the weather, but still full of energy. Later, I picked up beautiful Spanish beef, and we spent the night at the villa with wine, food, and laughter.
With a big group, everyone wanted something different—swimming, cliff diving, sightseeing—so we compromised with a private boat and captain. He knew the island’s best spots, anchoring us at Cala Varques. From there we swam to the rocky cliffs and, against my instincts, joined the group in leaping from 20 feet up. I wasn’t thrilled at first, but looking back, it’s a highlight I’d recommend to anyone.
We only booked a half-day boat trip, which was perfect since the marina was nearby. After docking at Port Adriano, we had lunch at Restaurante Bruno. I started cautiously with croquettes—they turned out to be among the top five I’ve ever had. That set off a feast of pan con tomate, octopus, more croquettes, pitchers of sangria, and a blur of laughter.
On my final day, post-frittata of course, we drove to Cap de Formentor. The winding mountain roads revealed breathtaking 360° views at every turn. Stop at the viewpoints along the way—they’re worth it. At the top, we split into two groups: some explored the old town, while the MINI Cooper crew wisely chose the beach. Between swims, we wandered up to the Formentor, a Royal Hideaway Hotel for cocktails, then returned to the water to swap stories as the sun set.
That night, I took the group to Bodega Can Ferra, an old-school spot serving excellent paella, fresh fish, and reasonably priced Spanish wine. A perfect ending.
Though only four days, the trip felt full and unforgettable. Mallorca is more than worth including when exploring the Balearic Islands.
Shout out to the Mallorca crew—thanks for making it a trip to remember.
