Sa Sal Restaurant is tucked away in the back streets of Porto Cristo, a charming small fishing village on the east coast of Mallorca with a laid-back vibe, it's just 10 minutes drive from Manacor, famed for its artificial pearl industry. Set in a traditional Mallorcan house, this German owned and run restaurant is located between two side streets, Carrer de la Tramuntana and it's rear entrance through the garden is on the neighbouring street.

The traditional interiors feature wooden beams on the ceiling, beautifully decorated flooring tiles, walls decorated with interesting artwork and fashionable urban lighting over tables laid with crisp linen. In winter there is a cosy log-burning fire and in summer the candle-lit garden is a lovely and romantic place to dine al fresco.

Chef/patron is Mario Stephan Hekke, who presents a varied Mediterranean menu with international influences using fresh local seasonal ingredients. Showcasing an a la carte menu alongside a tasting menu, dishes are artfully displayed. As a curtain raiser order veal tartar served with onion bread before a main course of braised beef cheek with celery cream and vegetables. Fish also gets a good airing with pan-fried hake, potato salad, dried tomatoes, black olives and tomato foam or the seafood pot catch of the day with Beluga lentils and mange tout. Close the show with a refreshing fruit plate or maybe the vanilla parfait with red fruit jellies.

Mario has an extensive wine list to accompany the food and there are good offers if you would like to buy a bottle to take home.

Rate this Restaurant

Mediterranean / International

Mario Stephan Hekke

Dinner: 6.30 - 11.30pm Wed-Sun

Visa, Master Card

• Alfresco dining