Lunch at Arrels by Marga Coll

Much has been written about dinner, but what of breakfast, the most important nourishment of the day? “First we eat, then we do everything else.” declared MFK Fisher, but sadly, most of us do not take time for this morning ritual. After our experience at Arrels, we are rethinking our priorities.

Beloved chef and restauranteur Marga Coll‘s restaurant, Arrels, in the five-star adults-only Gran Meliá Hotel is famous for its romantic location directly on the sea in Illetes, and excellent Mallorcan dinner menu. However, their sumptuous breakfast is a well-kept secret on the island. Arrels is the local word for ‘roots’ – appropriate here when talking about breakfast.

The setting of Arrels is even more beautiful during the day. The breakfast takes 2.5 hours, and it is a tasting menu, so in order to experience it in full, you have to slow down. Sitting on the beautiful terrace watching the sparkling sea and endless sky, you cannot help but change pace. The modern, elegant décor does not detract from the scenery, and the service is seamless and professional. You can be present and in the moment, here.

The five stages of the menu are an education in local Balearic ingredients, flavour and textures, carefully planned. The first course is a primer of fruit, yogurt, and fresh juices to cleanse your palate and rejuventate your digestive system. Next, a chilled mimosa is served with traditional Mallorcan products; such ascured meats and cheeses, sausages, and breads. After, we go a step further, delving into the flavours of Mallorca with local pastries of empanadas, cocarrois, and coca, served with a glass of red wine. The organic eggs to follow are from a local farm and provide a rich, savoury layer to the gustatory journey. The finale ensaimadas and cremadillos are sweet and light as a feather and served with a dessert wine and herbal infusions.

Arrels offers a seven-course tasting menu for breakfast and dinner, and the Arrels menus are based on what is fresh and in season that day.

The real innovation of this restaurant is the eye-opening concept of a morning meal, taking the time for repose and focus on being here, now.