When you think of Menorca, the first images that come to mind are its turquoise coves, charming villages, and tranquil lifestyle. But the island has another treasure often overlooked by visitors: its authentic gastronomy. Beyond the tourist restaurants, Menorca offers hidden food routes where you can taste local products directly from farmers, artisans, and small family businesses.
If you are looking for a different way to explore Menorca, following the trail of its flavors is one of the most rewarding experiences you can have.
Mahón Cheese: The Icon of the Island
No gastronomic journey through Menorca is complete without tasting Mahón-Menorca cheese. Produced from local cow’s milk and cured with sea salt and olive oil, this cheese has a distinctive flavor profile—creamy, slightly tangy, and aromatic.
Many small farms open their doors to visitors, allowing you to see the production process and taste varieties ranging from soft and fresh to aged and intense. A recommended stop is Subaida, one of the best-known cheese farms on the island.
Sobrasada and Local Cured Meats
While sobrasada is often associated with Mallorca, Menorca has its own tradition of producing this spreadable cured sausage, seasoned with paprika. Visiting a local butcher or farmer’s market is the perfect way to taste sobrasada, along with other cured meats such as camot (a Menorcan-style salami) and carn i xulla (pork with bacon).
For an authentic experience, stop by weekly markets in towns like Es Mercadal or Ferreries, where you’ll find local producers selling directly.
Menorcan Wines: A Hidden Gem
Menorca’s wine scene is small but growing, with boutique vineyards producing high-quality wines that reflect the island’s terroir. White wines made from Malvasía grapes are particularly popular, offering crisp and mineral flavors that pair perfectly with seafood.
Some wineries, such as Binifadet, offer guided tours and tastings, where you can enjoy wine surrounded by picturesque vineyards.
Honey, Olive Oil, and Other Artisan Products
Beyond cheese, meat, and wine, Menorca is home to a wide variety of artisan products. Local honey, olive oil, and handmade sweets like ensaimadas and carquinyols (almond biscuits) are just a few examples.
Exploring small villages gives you the chance to meet artisans and purchase products that you won’t find in large supermarkets.
Suggested Gastronomic Route
For those who want to combine flavors and landscapes, here is a sample one-day itinerary:
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Morning: Visit a cheese farm near Alaior and enjoy a guided tasting.
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Midday: Stop at Es Mercadal market to try sobrasada and fresh bread.
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Afternoon: Head to Binifadet winery for a tour and wine tasting.
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Evening: End the day in Ciutadella with a dinner featuring fresh local seafood.
This route offers a mix of tradition, authenticity, and a true taste of Menorca.