An Evening at Ikatza: A Culinary Journey to Basque Country

Ikatza opens its doors for dinner exclusively. While the interior dining room exudes elegance, it's the terrace that steals the show during the balmy summer evenings. The dining area, adorned with classic white-painted wrought iron furniture, white linen-draped tables, and vibrant red seat-pads and water glasses, adds a dash of colour to the serene setting.

As you tear your eyes away from the sweeping waterfront views of Palma, you'll find yourself engrossed in the extensive menu. The restaurant does a commendable job of highlighting its Basque specialities and signature dishes, making it easier for diners to choose.

Our affable waitress served us a traditional appetizer from northern Spain - a Cantabrian anchovy with roasted red pepper and ali oli on a crouton. On her recommendation, we opted for a typical Basque starter: a tasting platter of assorted charcuterie and cheeses, including the nutty-flavoured sheep's milk Idiazabal. Served on a rustic wooden board, it was more than sufficient for two.

While other diners were relishing the visually striking hock of veal (a minimum serving for two), a traditional dish slow-roasted for 20 hours, we decided to go with seafood. Our choices included a tataki of tuna layered over a bed of diced mango with a drizzle of teriyaki sauce, and a cod dish inspired by renowned chef Matías Gorrotxategi - cooked with oil and garlic in a water bath at 62 degrees. The cod was succulent, packed with flavour, and served atop a bed of broad beans with ham and tomato. The dessert selection, all homemade and reasonably priced, is presented tableside on a trolley. Those with a sweet tooth may find it challenging to pick just one! We decided to share a Basque twist on the 'creme catalana', but found it a tad too sweet for our liking.

Ikatza embodies the elegance, classic charm, and attentive service one would anticipate from a hotel as prestigious as the Gran Meliá Victoria Hotel. It's not a restaurant that chases trends, but rather, it prides itself on offering Chef Leo Lovrincevich's masterful cuisine in an unparalleled setting. The Instagrammable views alone are enough to draw many to dine at Ikatza...