Lobster stew (caldereta de langosta) is Menorca’s most famous dish, and Fornells, a fishing village in the north, is the place most associated with it. It is expensive —usually over €60 per person, with a price that changes with the fishing season—, so it is worth booking and making the most of the trip with a stroll round the harbour or a morning kayaking in the bay.
What caldereta is
A lobster stew served in an earthenware pot. In Fornells several harbour restaurants make it, and some also serve lobster grilled, baked or with rice.
If you are on a tighter budget, ask about those other ways of cooking it or about the catch of the day.
What it costs
It usually costs more than €60 per person, and the price changes with the fishing season. Ask when you book to avoid surprises.
More prices on the island, from tickets to buses, in Menorca prices.
Where to have it in Fornells
Es Cranc is one of the best-known restaurants for caldereta (phone bookings only; closed in December, January and February); Sa Llagosta, on the harbour, serves it several ways; and Es Pla has views of the bay.
Recommended itinerary
2 days
Food and local markets
Flavours of Menorca
Two days of markets, gin, Mahón-Menorca cheese and lobster stew in Fornells.
When to go and when to book
Book ahead in summer, especially in July and August. In winter several restaurants close: from December to February, call before you go.
Park for free at the entrance to the village. More on Fornells.
What to do in Fornells before or after
Walk to the late 18th-century British defence tower, go kayaking or paddle boarding in the bay, or head up Monte Toro or to Cavalleria lighthouse, in the same northern part of the island.
Monte Toro and Cavalleria lighthouse fit into the same day as lunch in Fornells.
Recommended itinerary
3 days
Charming places
Lighthouses and villages of Menorca
Three days, three coasts: Favàritx and Es Grau, Monte Toro and Cavalleria, Ciutadella and Punta Nati.
Take it organised
Itineraries with the order of each day, how to get there and where to eat, ready on your phone.
2 days
Food and local markets
Flavours of Menorca
Two days of markets, gin, Mahón-Menorca cheese and lobster stew in Fornells.
3 days
Charming places
Lighthouses and villages of Menorca
Three days, three coasts: Favàritx and Es Grau, Monte Toro and Cavalleria, Ciutadella and Punta Nati.
