Where the Locals Eat in Ibiza

The island''s best meals rarely happen where the photographs are taken. They happen inland, early, and with a jug of wine on a paper tablecloth.

Village kitchens

Santa Gertrudis, Sant Llorenç and Sant Miquel all keep old-school dining rooms serving grilled lamb, bullit de peix and rice cooked to order for the table. Book by phone, arrive on time, stay late.

Harbour and fisherman shacks

On the coast, look for the small chiringuitos that open at lunch and close when the fish runs out. The rule is simple: fewer items on the board means a better kitchen.

Farm tables

A handful of agroturismos serve their own produce a few nights a week. Numbers are small and the tables go to regulars, so ask your host to call ahead.

At home

The best table on the island is often your own terrace. Our private chefs shop the morning market and cook what is good that day.

Staying somewhere central makes all of this easier; the villas around Santa Gertrudis put you twenty minutes from almost everywhere.