Where to Enjoy Arrós Brut in Mallorca
Literally, "arrós brut" means dirty rice and is one of the most typical dishes of Mallorcan winter. Typically served as a first course, hot, it earns its name from the dark broth resulting from the addition of typical spices such as cinnamon, saffron, pepper, or paprika.
This dish was traditionally created to make use of leftovers from previous days, including meat, vegetables, and greens, using whatever was available: local Bomba rice, chicken, rabbit, duck, pork ribs... It's worth noting that in the past, it was common to include pigeon, though nowadays thrush or quail is often used, along with snails.
The vegetables and greens are seasonal: peas, green beans, assorted mushrooms, spring onions, tomato, artichokes, and everything should rest for at least two or three minutes before starting to savor it.
The traditional Mallorcan leftover dish, once common among the island's farmers, has gradually turned into a tradition that no one wants to miss. The island's gastronomy is rich in flavors and ingredients, and when it comes to Arrós Brut, there are places where it has gained much acclaim.
Where to Taste the Best Arrós Brut Dishes in Mallorca
It's challenging to name just a few restaurants where you can enjoy authentic Mallorcan Arrós Brut. Each of them has its tricks and recommendations, but if you love hearty dishes and adore rice, you shouldn't miss these places.
- -Ca'l Dimoni: This is one of those places you can't miss when visiting Mallorca. Located near Algaida, it is one of the most traditional restaurants on the island. One of its specialties is Arrós Brut, and it's so popular that you need to reserve a table in advance as it's usually crowded. The interior is rustic and very pleasant, but be careful; if any child misbehaves, Dimoni might appear at noon to distribute spankings left and right. If he's in a good mood, he might allow the daring little ones to take a photo with him.
- -La Fonda de Lluc: Situated within the Sanctuary of Lluc located in the Tramuntana mountain range, it's worth eating here, if only to visit the sanctuary, its botanical gardens, and the excursions that can be done from here. The Arrós Brut at La Fonda is spectacular, and it's highly recommended to have it in the heart of winter when the mountain is colder than any other part of Mallorca.
- -Can Tronca: A venue located in the village of Sant Joan, very close to Palma. It's not a restaurant like the others, as Arrós Brut is just one dish in an entirely Mallorcan menu that includes the best of the island's gastronomy: a small starter, the famous soupy rice, and one of the house specialties, oven-roasted suckling pig with salad and potatoes. For dessert, fruit is served along with a delicious almond ice cream with ensaïmada. A palate luxury.
- -Celler Cas Padrí Toni: In María de la Salut, it offers a unique Arrós Brut that does not include vegetables. Nevertheless, the broth is delicious and includes various types of meat, as well as esclatasangs (saffron milk caps) when in season. It is advisable to reserve a table, and if you go with time, parking is easily available on one of the nearby streets. You will find it in the town of Maria de la Salud , just 35 minutes from Palma by car.
