When we moved to Mallorca in 2004, the previous owners of our finca left us a helpful list of their favourite eateries in the area. Most of these have since closed, but Estragon in Felanitx became one of our go-to places.

Estragon

After Anna and her chef husband sold Estragon, a German couple briefly took over the place. Since November 2023, Felix Passow and his wife Vivien, have owned it, after moving from Berlin to take over the restaurant. Despite coming from the luxury car sector, Felix has thrown himself enthusiastically – and successfully – into the hospitality industry.

Open for dinner only, Estragon has some tables on the front terrace. The building has always reminded me of typical French village bistros, although the attractive interior is now contemporary in style. The bar area is noteworthy, with its display of wine bottles. Delicious Mediterranean food and friendly service.

Bonus points for:

• Delicious sourdough bread from La Rotî bakery in Campos.
• Free street parking in the vicinity.
• A good wine list with labels from Felanitx, and an alcohol-free rosado.

PAX Gastrobar

Taking its name from the peaceful square in Felanitx where it’s located, PAX Gastrobar brought a whole new style of dining to the town, both in terms of the cuisine and the stylish interior, decorated with local artworks. Opened only in mid-February this year, PAX quickly became one of those places for which you need an advance reservation.

Business partners, sommelier Sebastian and Max (Massimiliano), are welcoming and efficient. They’re also very friendly and Max is a lively character with a ready hug for regular diners. Visitors to East 26 in Santanyi may remember him from when he worked there; I don’t think he’s a person you’d forget.

The Mediterranean and Spanish cuisine is ideal for sharing. The main course dishes are in two sizes. Chef Jerome has international experience, having worked in Oslo, Prague, St Petersburg, and Sydney, before he rocked up in Mallorca initially at Cala d’Or. As well as the menu dishes, there are always additional ‘specials’, and these are worth trying.

I’ve become hooked on PAX’s golden shrimp cigars with sweet and sour pineapple. Do give them a try if they’re still on the menu. Portions here are generous, but save some space for a dessert, even if it’s only one to share.

Bonus points for:

• Occasional live music.
• Great wine list, with helpful tasting notes shown.
• Al fresco dining and drinking now available on the courtyard and front terraces.

Batec

Batec opened in April this year and is under the same ownership as Parc Café in the park adjacent to Estragon. It’s located on Plaça Espanya, with a few tables on the pavement for drinks. As well as the cosy dining room, there’s a rear courtyard for al fresco dining.

Batec prides itself on Mallorcan gastronomy with modern touches. Chef Juan Ballester uses high-quality local and seasonal produce in his kitchen. He was previously the chef at Salicornia in Colònia de Sant Jordi. Expect cocas, the rice dishes cooked in a flat tin and known as ‘llaunes’, good croquettes, and more.

Bonus points for:

• The bread and ice creams made on the premises.
• Offering skate among the fish dishes – I haven’t often seen it on menus in Mallorca
• Wines from Felanitx.

So, these are my three recommended restaurants in Felanitx. Do you have any other recommendations in the town?

Jan Edwards ©2025