Gastronomy in Formentera

Amb Molt de Gust

Formentera, April 12, 2025

Gastronomy in Formentera is not only an essential part of the island’s cultural identity but also a strategic commitment to sustainable development. In this context, the project “De Formentera amb molt de gust” was born—an initiative aimed at promoting local and traditional products by connecting producers, restaurateurs, and businesses in a collaborative network.

Driven by the Association of Small and Medium-Sized Enterprises of Formentera (Pimef), the project champions the island’s traditional cuisine and encourages the consumption of locally sourced food, making it more visible in restaurants and local shops.

This initiative not only strengthens the island’s economy but also offers visitors an authentic culinary experience rooted in respect for the land and its traditions.

A local gastronomic network

One of the cornerstones of the project is the active participation of restaurants, which have committed to featuring at least three dishes made with local ingredients on their menus. Of these, at least two must include products certified under the “De Formentera amb molt de gust” label.

Some of the most representative ingredients include sobrasada, xeixa flour, local fish, locally sourced meat, as well as wines, liqueurs, and olive oil produced on the island. Other valued products include artisanal cured meats, seasonal vegetables, peix sec, eggs, honey, and traditional sweets like biscuit.

Participating local shops, in turn, are required to offer traditional Formentera products and display the project’s seal on their premises, ensuring consumers of the product’s authenticity and origin.

In addition to its integration into the local economy, the initiative has sparked a programme of culinary events and activities open to the public. Some past examples include the frita de polp (octopus) competition in Es Pujols and the traditional bread-making workshop using xeixa flour, as well as tastings held at wineries and olive oil farms like Ca na Platera. These events not only enhance Formentera’s tourism offer but also bring visitors closer to the essence of its cuisine and the value of local products.

Towards a gastronomic brand with its own identity

With the aim of consolidating this movement, an official website is currently being developed to provide information on producers, establishments, traditional recipes, and activity calendars. Promotional videos and audiovisual content are also being produced for distribution at tourism fairs and across digital platforms, positioning Formentera’s gastronomy as a unique and high-quality experience.

According to industry representatives, this collaboration between restaurants and producers not only facilitates the marketing of local products but could also encourage more people to engage in agriculture, livestock farming, or fishing—sectors that are increasingly facing challenges. Initially funded with €102,000 from the European Union’s Next Generation funds, the project hopes to receive continued support from the Consell de Formentera to ensure its sustainability beyond 2025.