One of the main motivations for tourists visiting Ibiza is to discover its gastronomy. According to surveys carried out by local gastronomic guides, Bullit de Peix is the typical Ibiza food most recommended by the island’s traditional restaurants, with 35% of locals listing it as their star speciality.
If you visit the island, don’t miss the opportunity to try this delicious fresh fish stew, which combines the flavours of the Mediterranean with local culinary tradition. If you don’t know this dish, get ready to salivate with this article!
Origin and tradition of Bullit de Peix
Bullit de Peix has its roots in the cuisine of Ibizan fishermen. This dish emerged as a way of making the most of freshly caught fish, using the most accessible and simple ingredients: fish, potatoes and aioli.
What began as a simple and humble meal has become one of the most important recipes in Ibiza’s gastronomy, served in many of the island’s best restaurants.
Classic ingredients
- Grouper, megrim, scorpion fish and roe.
- Potatoes and tomatoes
- Saffron
- Aioli and parsley
How is it prepared?
First, a stock is made from fish, saffron and vegetables. The potatoes and fish are then cooked in this stock, taking care not to overcook them so that they retain their juicy texture.
The fish is removed and served on the side, accompanied by aioli, while the remaining stock is used to cook the arroz a banda.
This is a dish that is served in two courses: first the fish and then the rice.
Best restaurants to eat Bullit de Peix in Ibiza
If you are wondering where to eat the authentic Bullit de Peix in Ibiza, here we bring you 5 restaurants whose star dish on their menu is the protagonist of this article.
Es Nautic Restaurant
Located in the port of San Antonio, the Restaurant Es Nautic is one of the best places to enjoy a good Bullit de Peix. The key to the success of Club Nautico’s marshes is that they offer fresh, quality, local produce that is selected by the restaurant’s chef.
In addition, the harbour views offer an ideal setting for a relaxed meal.
- Address: Pg. de la Mar, 07820 Sant Antoni de Portmany, Balearic Islands
El bigotes of Santa Eulalia
El Bigotes, located in the cove of S’Estanyol, is a benchmark on the island for tasting Bullit de Peix. This rustic place, which used to be a fishermen’s refuge, serves the dish with a homemade and traditional touch.
It is so popular that even in low season it is difficult to get a table without a reservation.
- Address: Camino Cala Boix a Cala Mastella, 138T, 07850 Cala Mastella, Illes Balears
Sa Punta des Molí
Would you like to try this typical Ibiza dish but with a modern twist? You can do so in this restaurant located in Sant Antoni de Portmany, at the foot of the sea.
It offers a Bullit de Peix presented differently from other restaurants, but maintaining the traditional way of cooking it.
- Address: Carrer des Molí, 21, 07820 Sant Antoni de Portmany, Illes Balears
Sa Nansa Restaurant
In the city of Ibiza we find this well-known restaurant that focuses on Mediterranean cuisine with local fish and seafood.
The quality of the ingredients and the attention to detail in the preparation have made this restaurant a must for lovers of good food.
It is open all year round. However, it is closed on Mondays in autumn.
- Address: Av. 8 d'Agost, 27, 07800 Eivissa, Illes Balears
S’Espartar Restaurant
In the Sant Josep area, S’Espartar is a restaurant that stands out for its focus on local produce, offering a Bullit de Peix that perfectly captures the authentic flavours of the sea.
- Address: Restaurant sespartar, 07830 Sant Josep de sa Talaia, Balearic Islands
Tips for enjoying this typical Ibizan dish
If you are planning to try Bullit de Peix on your visit to Ibiza, here are some tips to help you make the most of this gastronomic experience.
Best time to try Bullit de Peix
Although Bullit de Peix can be enjoyed at any time of the year, it is during the spring and summer months when the fish is at its best.
Recommended accompaniments and food pairings
Bullit de Peix is a hearty dish, so we recommend accompanying it with a glass of fresh white wine, preferably from the region. Fruity wines with good acidity, such as white wines from the DO Penedés or an Albariño, enhance the flavours of the fish.
How to get a table?
Such is the popularity of this dish in Ibiza that finding a table in one of the most acclaimed restaurants can be an impossible task.
Some restaurants even have a waiting list for some of the dishes on their menu. To make sure you get a table at one of them, plan your visit in advance, call the restaurant to ask for availability and secure a seat.
If you prefer a quieter experience, try to visit outside peak times, such as weekday lunchtimes.
Now you know one of Ibiza’s most traditional dishes. A finger-licking good meal that will make you repeat it more than once during your stay on the island. Enjoy!
