For many years, Santi Taura has been one of the best and most creative chefs on the Balearic island. Initially, the Mallorca-native ran his restaurant DINS in Lloseta, it has since moved to the trendy old town district of Calatrava. Here he reinterprets traditional dishes, composed from local products and accompanied by selected wines. For its outstanding creations, the restaurant has been awarded with a Michelin star. In our interview, Taura reveals his best insider tips for Mallorca.

What are the top hotspots in Mallorca this summer?
The Serra de Tramuntana, the city of Palma with its historic center and the sandy beaches in the south of the island.

When and how did you discover your love for cooking?
I basically stumbled upon when I was 14. I just wanted to do something different than everyone around me.

How would you describe your personal cooking style?
I think it's marked by very recognizable flavors, but using techniques that further contribute to the dish. I'm not trying to reinvent the wheel or anything – I want to share our culture and gastronomic customs in a modern way without compromising their original flavor.

Taura values gastronomic craftsmanship. © DINS 

If you take your friends out to eat on the island, where do you go?
To nice places with simple and well prepared food.

How do you relax?
I like to take naps - and I like pottery. I've always felt a strong connection to the earth and nature, and I bring that to the restaurant in many ways. All of the dinnerware we use is hand-made by me – and some of it is created for specific dishes I serve at the restaurant. Sometimes the glaze is embedded in soil and I use twigs from the forest to add different patterns to the clay.

Special features created by hand. © Tarek Serraj

What are the top three hotels in Mallorca you would recommend?
The hotel Llorenç Parc de la Mar and the hotel El Vicenç de la Mar. These two aren't only part of the Santi Taura Group, but they also complement each other perfectly. At each of them, you'll experience a different side of Mallorca without missing out on our style, good gastronomic offer, tranquility, design and comfort. Another place that could complement them would be Can Simoneta, thus creating an almost perfect triangle on the island.

DINS also offers vegetarian tasting menus for plant-based guests. © Tarek Serraj

How does Mallorca taste and what should any visitor try at least once?
Each season tastes different: the flavors of humidity, saltpeter and the pine forests, bread and baked dough, tomatoes caressed by the sun, the strength of our sausages and sofritos...

Where can you get the best ice cream in Mallorca?
I don't know if it's the best, but the ice cream in Cala de Sant Vicenç, made in collaboration with ice cream maker Joanna Valls is definitely worth your while.

What souvenirs should people bring back from their vacation in Mallorca?
Mallorca is home to many artisans and local products, such as ceramics with their typical "siurells" in the area of Marratxí. In Lloseta, Santa María and Pollença, they make the iconic "llengos" fabric. It's a craft that's a real cultural artifact. Another interesting gift are mouth-blown glass jars. They have been handmade on the island since the 14th century. In the glassworks of Lafiore and Gordiola you can not only buy them, but also observe the manufacturing process. 

Relaxing, eating together and having a good time - that's what a visit to DINS is supposed to be like. © Tarek Serrej

If you want to add to your shoe collection, you should take a walk through Inca. The city in the center of the island is an insider tip for Mallorca when it comes to footwear. There are numerous stores that offer good quality shoes and accessories at a fair price. And what can I say about the sausages, oils, liqueurs and wines of the island ... and about all the other things you can discover during a walk in Mallorca. You just have to keep your eyes open.

Continue reading: Click here for the best bars & restaurants in Mallorca