Mallorca is blessed with many small rural hotels that are gems for those who love tranquillity and immersing themselves in the beauty of nature. Today’s post is about a restaurant at one of them – Restaurante 5’S (five senses) is at Son Penya Petit Hotel, just outside Sant Llorenç on the east side of Mallorca. This hotel is too close to our home to justify an overnight stay – but I’ve had the pleasure of eating in 5’S. If you’re looking to escape the busier resorts and towns this summer season, 5’S is worth a visit for dinner.

Chef Gabriel Nebot in the Kitchen

I imagine there aren’t too many hotels in Mallorca that have had the same chef for 16 years*, but that’s how long Gabriel Nebot has been at Son Penya Petit Hotel. He must be happy in his work to have stayed there so long – and it shows in his cuisine.

Gabriel (Biel) Nebot’s cuisine is Mediterranean with some Asian touches. It’s based on seasonal local produce. You eat indoors or, in fine weather on the terrace, looking over the gardens and nature.

I went for dinner and tried the menú degustación (tasting menu); you have two options: 5 plates for 55€ and 7 plates for 70€. The optional wine pairing from sommelier Manuel (recommended if you’re not driving) is 25€.

If you’re not into tasting menus, choose from the à la carte menu of starters, pasta and rice dishes, fish, meat, and desserts. Do leave space for a pud as these are pretty special here. Here are a few of the dishes I ate.

Son Penya Petit Hotel

I can’t tell you what it’s like to stay in this hotel as it’s too close to home to justify the expense of an overnight stay. However, I was able to see a couple of the rooms, and it appears to be a place where it wouldn’t be difficult to relax. It’s an adults-only hotel and that helps too.

The hotel is a totally renovated old finca mallorquina surrounded by unspoiled countryside, so it’s a peaceful place and has an authentic and unpretentious Mallorcan feel. Son Penya Petit Hotel has been open for 20 years and has 21 rooms/suites – nine of which have a small private pool. It has an underground Spa & Wellness area and a large outdoor swimming pool. There’s a summer terrace for BBQ and jazz nights. And, of course, Restaurante 5’S.

*Regarding the length of time in the same place of work, Guillermo Méndez, the executive chef at La Residencia – A Belmond Hotel in Deià, has been at that hotel for 32 years!

Son Penya Petit Hotel and its restaurant 5’S opened for the 2024 season on March 8th.

Jan Edwards © 2024 Updated March 2024