22/12/2017 When popular eating-and-drinking venue Wellies closed down in 2015, it left a hole in the heart of Mallorca’s luxurious Puerto Portals marina. But Wellies is now back, with new owners and a fresh stylish look.
The well-known Cappuccino Group has brought Wellies back to life. The familiar dog-and-wellie-boot logo and iconic spirit of the original business remain, but the décor and concept bear the Mallorcan hospitality group’s distinctive hallmarks.
Following an ambitious renovation and expansion project, the new-look Wellies can accommodate more than 400 customers. The two-storey building’s interior is lighter and more spacious, and designer Axel Vorvoordt added his creative talents to the redesign.
The décor features contemporary paintings and fashion photos by Cecil Beaton; on the ground floor, a montage of arty colour images of Mallorca dominates one wall. The renowned Cappuccino music is now the soundtrack to a visit here.
Outside, the new owners have weather-proofed the restaurant’s three popular terraces, allowing customers to enjoy the waterfront views any time of year.
The most impressive part of Wellies’ restoration is the new courtyard garden at the rear of the premises, which is surprisingly large but intimate. Diners eat at white-linen-clad tables, to the sound of a fountain playing. When we visited, agapanthus flowers were in bloom, adding to the garden’s charm. It’s hard to believe this elegant space was once used to receive deliveries.
Indoors, customers can look through a large window into the modern new kitchen. Here, head chef Emmanuel Clement and his team create the dishes on the new bistro-style menu. In a nod to the Puerto Portals restaurant’s past, the menu includes the Wellies Famous Burger.
As in other Cappuccino establishments, the smartly dressed staff are attractive and attentive. The former manager of Gran Café Cappuccino in Palma’s C/ de Sant Miquel is now in charge here in Puerto Portals.
Welcome back, Wellies – albeit with Cappuccino prices …
Wellies is open daily from 08:30-03:00h.
