The island of Formentera, renowned for its crystal-clear waters and its incurable hippy soul, is one of the most beloved tourist destinations in the Mediterranean. Thanks to its temperate climate that allows visits from April to October, this jewel of the Balearic Islands also stands out for its noteworthy gastronomic offerings. And we’re not talking about the usual restaurants serving the classic Valencian paella or pizzerias offering a taste of home.
If you’re curious and want to try more than one dish, we suggest opting for Formentera’s tapas bars.

But what exactly are tapas? This quintessentially Spanish tradition involves sampling small plates of various dishes. The exact origin is a bit of a mystery, but one popular story claims it started accidentally when an innkeeper in the 19th century placed a slice of ham over his glass of wine to keep out flies. In Spanish, ‘tapar’ means to cover, and that’s where the word ‘tapas’ is thought to have come from.
Another legend speaks of a social necessity, instituted in the 16th century by King Philip III of Spain: he obliged restaurateurs to offer small portions of food to anyone who ordered a drink; at the time, in fact, problems arising from alcohol abuse were commonplace.

Regardless of its controversial origin, the island of Formentera boasts numerous restaurants offering tapas, with options for all tastes and budgets. In some establishments, you’ll also find pinchos (pintxos in Basque), a variation of appetizers that, etymologically speaking, accurately describes the dish: a slice of bread garnished with various ingredients, secured by a toothpick. The Spanish word ‘pinchear’ means to pinch, referring to the toothpick you’ll find on each small portion.

Where to eat tapas in Es Pujols

Pinatapas

Pinatapas is perhaps one of the longest-standing tapas bars in Formentera, located in the lively area of Es Pujols. It’s situated right next to the Pinatar restaurant (which specializes in seafood and paella). The outdoor area is characterized by wine barrels used as tables and high stools for seating. With an informal style and service, it offers a variety of very interesting tapas.

You’ll find both classic traditional dishes like the delicious patatas bravas, as well as fish and vegetarian tapas. A must-try are the oriental tapas: tuna tataki and cod omelette will leave you speechless! The affordable prices are another strong point of this historic place. For those staying in an apartment in Es Pujols, this is definitely a restaurant not to be missed.

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Capritxos

Just a short walk away, still in the heart of Es Pujols, you’ll find Capritxos, an establishment that opened just a few years ago but has quickly become known for its delicious gourmet tapas and pintxos.

Among all the dishes, we highly recommend the exceptionally well-cooked and tender artichoke heart, broken eggs with tuna and prawns (a classic of Spanish cuisine), and the cod in tempura with squid ink. If you love to experiment, this is the right place for you: despite being recently opened, Caprixtos is one of the most popular tapas restaurants in Formentera. The high quality of the ingredients and the fast, friendly service will make your dinner unforgettable.

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Casa Carmen

A historic establishment in Es Pujols, Casa Carmen is an institution in Formentera. Its relaxed and familiar atmosphere, combined with a simple menu and competitive prices, make this restaurant one of the most popular on the island. Its fame is due to its paella, offered at a fixed price of 45 euros (22.50 per person) and accompanied by a liter of sangria; however, tapas are also available to share and enjoy with friends.

You’ll find both the classic Iberian ham croquettes and those with a strong cuttlefish flavor; the patatas bravas and fried fish are also must-tries. Frequented by both families and groups of young people, it’s the perfect place for those seeking quality at a fair price.

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Where to eat tapas in Sant Francesc

La Pezqueria

Located in Sant Francesc, this uniquely styled restaurant stands out not only for its urban-chic decor but also for its innovative menu that’s just waiting to be explored. Among the tapas, we recommend the pinchos de anchoa del Cantabrico (anchovies) with stracciatella cheese and cherry tomatoes, the patatas bravas infused with bottarga, and the fried calamari served with a delicious lime mayonnaise.

On the menu, you’ll also find small sandwiches, perfect for sharing and all with exceptional flavors: the sicilian and the “gamba over” will literally blow your mind. The winning formula of the La Pezqueria restaurant definitely lies in the bold combinations proposed by the chef and the attentive and prepared service. In high season, booking a few days in advance is recommended.

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Mama Carmen

Just a short walk from Piazza Sant Francesc, you’ll find Mama Carmen, a young and vibrant establishment offering high-quality cuisine. Open from morning for breakfast, you can enjoy tapas here for both lunch and dinner.

On the menu, you’ll find croquettes, also offered in a mixed version so you can try different ones on a single plate, nachos with pulled pork, jalapeños, and cheddar sauce, as well as fried potatoes garnished with Parmesan cheese and truffle. A specialty not to be missed are definitely the shrimp tacos. The always smiling staff and moderate prices make this place one of the most appreciated by tourists on vacation.

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Al Quèrto

Venetian spirit and a wealth of experience are the hallmarks of the young Italians who, just a few years ago, opened Al Quèrto, an innovative restaurant in the heart of Sant Francesc. Instead of traditional tapas, the menu features appetizers perfect for sharing, allowing you to savor new flavors and tastes.

The Venetian imprint is immediately recognizable by the presence of creamed cod served with fried polenta and marinated sardines. But there are not only traditional Venetian dishes, in fact, you can eat in one bite the cacio e pepe croquettes and the cuttlefish carbonara, clearly inspired by Roman cuisine. On the menu you will also find two focaccias, one with mortadella and burrata, the other with ham, figs and honey. Ideal for a drink or a dinner with friends, here you will find an alternative culinary proposal. The wine list is extensive and of high quality.

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Ceferino

Ceferino is located in the town of Sant Francesc, just a few kilometers from Es Pujols. With an informal atmosphere, it’s popular with both tourists and locals, a detail not to be underestimated when experiencing a vacation in Formentera. The tapas menu is extensive: steak tartar, pulpo alla gallega (Galician-style octopus), potato tortilla, broken eggs with Iberian ham, spinach and cheese croquettes, and much more. In short, a varied menu that caters to all tastes.

The welcome is always warm and the offer of off-menu dishes (there’s a blackboard where you can see what’s available) reveals a great attention to the fresh ingredients available day by day. Recommended for anyone who wants to immerse themselves in the authentic spirit of the island.

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Where to eat tapas in La Savina

Can Carlitos

Can Carlitos, nestled in the La Savina area, is arguably the most beautiful tapas restaurant in Formentera. Thanks to its stunning beachfront location, you can enjoy breathtaking sunsets. Its founder is Nandu Jubany, one of the most renowned chefs in the Iberian Peninsula. Originally from Catalonia with an impressive resume, he is known for running the Michelin-starred restaurant Can Jubany in Barcelona. In this beach club, he brings all his experience with an innovative and surprising menu. Among the various tapas, you can find the house croquettes, available in four different flavors, as well as tomatoes with seasoned tuna belly.

Don’t miss the tapas of anchovies seasoned with extra virgin olive oil and balsamic vinegar, as well as the coca bread with Majorcan sobrasada (a cured sausage made from raw pork) garnished with delicious honey. For an explosion of flavor, try also the mussels at Can Carlitos style and the codfish fritters. Alternatively, you will also find a tapas tasting menu: for €69 you can taste several courses, accompanied at the end by dessert. The attentive service and the suggestive location make this restaurant one of the most renowned on the island. Prices are slightly higher than average but the gastronomic experience is guaranteed.

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Where to eat tapas in Sant Ferran

Trastienda

With a youthful spirit like all the staff you’ll find welcoming you, Trastienda is located in the small village of Sant Ferran, specifically on the main road leading to the magnificent Migjorn beaches. Among the various tapas offered by this Formentera establishment, a special mention goes to the delicious bocaditos, or small sandwiches filled with special ingredients: from the one with spicy lamb to the one with fried squid and lime sauce. Equally interesting are the tapas inspired by world cuisines: you will find mussels with coconut milk and also excellent dumplings (Chinese ravioli) stuffed in various ways.

Finally, for those who prefer something more traditional, there are always marinated anchovies with lemon or some excellent homemade meatballs on the menu. Depending on the day, you might also find different dishes written on the blackboard: a great way to come back multiple times and always try new tapas. To accompany everything, ask for a recommendation from one of the many bottles of wine on the menu.

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Where to eat tapas in La Mola

Can Toni

Can Toni is undoubtedly one of the least touristy restaurants on the island, where you can immerse yourself in an authentic and no-frills atmosphere. Here too, the tapas on offer may vary depending on the day, but the classic patatas bravas, croquettes filled with Iberian ham, cod, or cheese are always on the menu. The mini bocatas (sandwiches) and the delicious quesadillas, corn tortillas of Mexican origin, are meant to be eaten in almost one bite: the one with sobrasada and cheese is unmissable.

Can Toni, nestled in the charming village of La Mola, is the ideal place to visit after exploring the renowned artisanal market held every Wednesday and Sunday during peak season.

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