Walking into Ca n'Ela Vegan Restaurant, I carried a skepticism born from personal dietary restrictions and a general avoidance of vegan cuisine. However, what unfolded during a lunchtime catch-up with a dear friend (an “ethical” vegan) at this quaint establishment in Palma, Mallorca, was nothing short of jaw-dropping.
From the outset, Ca n'Ela distinguished itself by accommodating us before service hours to address my dietary concerns. Their assurance that the menu was safe for me not only surprised but also deeply impressed me, paving the way for an unexpected culinary adventure.
The restaurant itself is a cozy two-story haven, where warmth and welcome are served as generously as the food. Our greeting, in fluent English, made us feel at home in an instant, setting the stage for a meal that would defy my expectations of vegan cuisine.
The set menu was a journey through flavors, textures, and culinary creativity: A cous-cous salad with a dressing so remarkable, it immediately set a high bar.
The soups—watercress and spinach for myself, and ginger and mushroom for my friend—hats off to the kitchen’s ability to elevate simple ingredients into something extraordinary.
The main courses, my stuffed zucchini and my companion’s pasta bolognese, showcased the versatility and depth of vegan cooking.
A brownie with ‘cream’ (faultless) for dessert concluded the meal on a note of sweet perfection.
Accompanied by a bottle of vegan red wine, the meal was shockingly good.
Beyond the impeccable food, the price was a pleasant surprise, offering great value for such quality. Since my visit, I've become an unexpected ambassador for Ca n'Ela, urging both vegans and non-vegans alike to discover its delights!
Ca n'Ela Vegan Restaurant has done more than just serve a great meal; it has shifted my perspective on vegan dining entirely. For anyone seeking a memorable dining experience, regardless of dietary preference, Ca n'Ela is a must-visit. Its charm, quality, and affordability make it a standout in Palma, Mallorca. In a single meal, Ca n'Ela has transformed my apprehension into admiration, earning my wholehearted...
Read moreUninspired and flavourless food at an establishment dedicated to poor customer service.
We had high hopes for Ca n'Ela after reading the other reviews and seeing recommendations in blogs. Unfortunately, our experience here was a let down.
The starters we tried (Heura chicken & cauliflower, and aubergine tartar with crackers) lacked any real culinary expertise, and (together with the other starter options) appeared to just be an assortment of homogeneous, paste-like, flavourless blobs.
We went for the safe burger option and the less safe carbonara. The burger was okay, although again it had little flavour and the accompanying wedges were overly potatoe-y. Sadly, and unspirisingly, they weren't redeemed by the completely flavourless, mayo-like sauce the Spanish seem to love dousing over vegan dishes.
On first taste, the carbonara was appalling. On second, that suspicion was confirmed. It was overly vegan-cheesy to the extreme and this is a statement coming from an 8 year long vegan who enjoys cheese replacements. We sent the meal back and were shocked to find it had not been taken off the bill. This came with no apology, and upon arguing for the basic rights for restaurant-goers to not have to pay for unsatisfactory food that they haven't eaten, the statement that this is how things are done in Mallorca and the suggestion that our preferences were the problem rather than the food. This was especially absurd with the knowledge that the customer beside us had also returned the same dish with the same reasons and the same outcome!
If you are somehow still considering this venue, I should also mention the food is overpriced for the effort and customer...
Read moreWhat a fantastic restaurant! Me and my non-vegan friend had a wonderful dining experience and the food was amazing.
We were visiting Palma and didn’t book but arrived not long after it opened for the evening and was so happy they could fit us in. It’s a cute little restaurant with a great atmosphere.
I couldn’t decide what to have because the menu all sounded fantastic, so we had the tasting menu (I love it when a variety of food is brought to the table and don’t have to question if it is all vegan!).
We were amazed the tasting menu we were served with four starters (small but mighty portions it was hard to choose a favourite), served one after the other with a nice gap of time, no rush. Then a main, I had seitan and my friend had tomato to basil cheese salad. Then a trio of desserts. All washed down by Mallorcan white wine. It was busy but the waitress was attentive and explained each course.
It was an experience because we were there for 2.5 hours and felt like we’d been on a culinary journey! My non-vegan friend enjoyed it all and couldn’t fault it at all.
1000% recommended this place for everyone (but cute for couples or small groups). It might be the best vegan food I’ve had for a while. It was also a very reasonable price too.
I will be returning when back on this wonderful island.
(Forgot to take all photos because we were having such a...
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