What to expect
When the llampuga is caught off Mallorca's east coast in autumn, Cala Ratjada celebrates it with the Mostra de la Llampuga. The mahi-mahi is a migratory fish that only lands in the local fishermen's nets from late August into November, and it is precisely this short season that makes it a delicacy. The festival at the harbour is one of the island's best-known gastronomic events and takes place on an October weekend around 12 October.
The heart of it all is the cooking stalls along the harbour promenade. Restaurants, bars and hotels from Capdepera and the surrounding area prepare their interpretations of the seasonal fish there, from the classic llampuga amb pebres, fried mahi-mahi with peppers, to creative bites with a modern touch. For small amounts you can taste your way from stall to stall, accompanied by wine and beer from the region. The portions are deliberately kept small so you can sample as many variations as possible.
Around the food, the Mostra offers a supporting programme with show cooking, a craft market, folklore and music. The combination of harbour setting, fresh fish straight from the boats and mild October temperatures makes the weekend a worthwhile trip to the east of the island, even though the swimming season is already over.
Practical tips
- Getting there: From Palma it is about an hour by car via the Ma-15 to Capdepera, then on to Cala Ratjada. Park slightly outside the harbour quarter; it is only a few minutes on foot.
- Crowds: The harbour is busiest at lunchtime and in the early evening. If you want to taste at a relaxed pace, come right when the stalls open.
- Costs: Access is free, you pay for the tasting portions at the stalls individually, usually a few euros per bite.
- Check the date: The exact weekend is set anew each year by the municipality of Capdepera. Check the programme on visitcapdepera.com before travelling.