Sustainable gastronomy in Ibiza

Did you know that Ibiza has been known for its sustainability for decades? Since the hippy-style 70s and the free spirits who moved to the island, this has become more evident, but Ibiza has been committed to caring for the planet and embracing sustainability as an integral part of its lifestyle as far back as we can track.

This makes a lot of sense, as the fame of the “Mediterranean Jewel” directly depends on the nature here. Its landscapes, clear skies and rolling hills are iconic and attract return visitors who are enamoured with much more than the nightlife.

Many elements contribute to the sustainable practices in Ibiza, but one of our favourite topics to talk about is local gastronomy – for obvious reasons! The government, locals, and tourism sector in Ibiza strongly advocate for zero-kilometre products on menus from local agricultors, an ecological nod to Mother Nature.

Where sustainable gastronomy in Ibiza is most evident

Sustainable gastronomy in Ibiza is a journey through local flavours that combine the island's rich culinary tradition with environmentally friendly practices. That’s right – Ibiza, known for its dreamy beaches and nightlife, is also host to a unique culinary scene that is becoming increasingly aware of the importance of sustainability.

How are restaurants keeping the gastronomy in Ibiza eco-friendly? Chefs in Ibiza are reinterpreting traditional dishes with a modern and sustainable approach. This involves using innovative cooking techniques to highlight the natural flavours of locally sourced ingredients, as well as minimising food waste by maximising the use of every part of the product, not to mention composting.

Environmental awareness is growing every day. Restaurants in Ibiza are taking steps to reduce their environmental impact by minimising the use of disposable plastics, reusing, promoting the composting of organic waste, and opting for more sustainable transportation options for food distribution – starting with local ingredient sourcing.

Ibiza’s Zero-kilometre products, Saluting the planet

Zero-kilometre products in Ibiza are those produced right on the island or in the nearby areas. This is a direct approach to reducing the carbon footprint associated with the food industry – minimising transportation. This is hardly a one-way deal, locally sourced ingredients are fresher, seasonal, and usually sustainably grown. Here’s all the info on the win-win story of zero-kilometre ingredients in Ibiza!

Fruits and vegetables 

Ibiza boasts a wide variety of local agricultural products including tomatoes, cucumbers, peppers, zucchinis, eggplants, apricots, figs, and citrus fruits. Many of these are grown on small traditional farms and family orchards – idyllic.

Fish and seafood 

Naturally, the location in the Mediterranean means Ibiza offers an abundance of fresh fish and seafood. Local species such as sea bream, sea bass, prawns, squid, and octopus, are especially prized in the regional cuisine and chefs love integrating them into signature dishes.

Herbs and spices 

While it’s a more recently known benefit, Ibiza has always been growing aromatic herbs such as thyme, rosemary, basil, and sage on the island. Many actually grow wild here and are used to season local dishes that are reminiscent of century-old recipes.

Olive oil 

Olive oil is a staple in Mediterranean cuisine, everyone knows and loves it. Extremely high-quality local varieties of olive oil are produced right here in Ibiza, then pressed in mills that provide employment on the island. 

Cheeses and dairy 

Although dairy production in Ibiza is limited, there are small farms that produce Zero-kilometre products such as goat and sheep cheese, as well as yoghurts and other dairy products. Naturally, restaurants queue up to source these for their clientele.

Bakery and pastries

Many local bakers make fresh bread and pastries using zero-kilometre flour, butter, herbs, and other ingredients from the area.

These are just a few examples of the zero-kilometre ingredients that you can sample in Ibiza. Feel free to ask any Ibizan restaurant about its zero-kilometre product sourcing on booking; the best chefs encourage this information to be shared with potential diners, it’s a matter of pride and quality. 

Moreover, by opting for local ingredients, chefs and consumers are supporting the local economy, reducing carbon emissions associated with food transportation, and promoting sustainability in other areas of life. Read on to discover some of the proudest, most sustainable restaurants on the island.

Guide to Ibizan restaurants committed to the planet

A clear example of everyone on the island rowing in the same direction towards sustainability is the Sabors d'Eivissa project. This is a collective effort involving the Island Council, agricultural producers, fishermen, farm owners, and restaurateurs to promote Ibiza's gastronomy. Where everything starts is how chefs uphold traditional cuisine – an essential pillar that holds up sustainable innovation.

Sabors d'Eivissa has a network of restaurants committed to sustainability. They implement work policies to protect the environment and optimise resources. Here’s the official list for 2024, by locality:

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  Ibiza Town: Reart, Ca n'Alfredo, Sa Nansa, La Gaia, 180º Ibiza Gastrobar, Tierra de Ibiza, Ibiza Yacht Club, Dnou.

  
  


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  Santa Eulalia del Río: Es Terral, Ca Na Ribes, Celler Can Pere, Cas Pagès, Fonda Pou Des Lleó.

  
  


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  Sant Antoni de Portmany: Es Ventall, Es Tragón, Es Nautic, Ample 32, Es Gerret, Can Lluc.

  
  


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  Sant Josep de Sa Talaia: S'Espartar, Sa Caleta, Cala Carbó, Es Romaní, Rascolobos.

  
  


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  Sant Joan de Labritja: Port Balansat, Can Gat, Restaurant 2000.

  
  

At Invisa Hotels, we hopped on the sustainability bandwagon long ago through personal conviction. We continue our special commitment to sustainability today. In our restaurants, we encourage the use of local ingredients, offer seasonal menus, and carry out extensive waste reduction initiatives. 

You’ll find a wide range of sustainable gastronomic offerings in our hotels’ restaurants: Cala Verde, Cala Blanca, La Cala, Es Pla, and Ereso. Taste the freshest and most delicious products, while taking care of the environment, and without even having to leave the resort!

Commitment to Mother Nature is part of local culture. The wide variety of culinary events that promote sustainable gastronomy – from organic food festivals to farmers' markets, as well as pop-up dinners with renowned chefs focusing on using local ingredients and environmentally friendly cooking techniques. 

So enjoy Ibiza, leave nothing but footprints and take nothing but delicious memories of the island’s gastronomy!