The Festival of Sant Joan, held on 23rd and 24th June, is undoubtedly one of Menorca’s most emblematic celebrations. For a week, Ciutadella becomes the epicentre of the festivities taking place throughout the Balearic Islands and a place of pilgrimage for many of the island’s residents. It’s a June event no one wants to miss. But beyond the famous festivities, horses and bonfires, there is one aspect that cannot go unnoticed: the traditional cuisine served during the week. At Garden Hotels, we immerse ourselves in local traditions and love to share them with you. That’s why today we are inviting you to try out the flavours that accompany this truly magical festival. If you are staying at our Marinda Garden Aparthotel during these dates, you really must try.
The typical drink: Gin amb Llimonada
In Menorca, and especially during the festival of Sant Joan, you can’t miss the typical drink: Gin amb Llimonada, or gin with lemonade. This refreshing blend of Menorcan gin and natural lemonade is the perfect accompaniment to the warm nights of celebration. While in other parts of the islands it is known as pomada, in Ciutadella it has its own style and name: ginet. This drink is an essential part of the festive experience, bringing an authentic flavour to every toast.
The traditional sweet/dessert: La coca de Sant Joan
Also known as coca bamba or ensaimada de Sant Joan, it is one of the culinary stars of the festival. This delicious cake is traditionally accompanied by a thick hot chocolate and is the typical breakfast in these parts. Soft, spongy and slightly sweet, the coca bamba is a pleasure that will not be forgotten in Ciutadella homesteads during these celebrations. It is also served along with the drinks held by the caixers (peasants), the main participants in the festival.
Other dishes to try in Menorca
During the Sant Joan celebrations, Menorcan gastronomy comes to the forefront with a variety of traditional dishes that capture the essence of the island and which are the perfect excuse for friends and family to gather around the table:
- Panets de Viena with sobrassada: These little breads filled with sobrassada are perfect refreshments during the festive season.
- Savoury coques (cakes): Coques with tomato, peppers or sofrito are common, as are those with apricots and cherries, adding a sweet touch.
- Pilotes (meatballs) with sauce: Meatballs with hazelnut, almond, or the slightly more contemporary tomato sauce, are one of the traditional dishes.
- Menjar blanc: A dessert made with milk, sugar and flour, accompanied by crespellets or sweet biscuits that are especially enjoyed on the Diumenge des Be (the Sunday before Sant Joan’s Day).
- Almond cake: This classic almond cake is a delight at any Menorcan table.
- Cream bunyols: Little cream-filled delicacies that are irresistible.
The festival of Sant Joan in Menorca is the ideal time to enjoy the island’s most traditional gastronomy. At Garden Hotels, we share with you these gastronomic gems that make this holiday an experience to remember. Are you ready to enjoy the authentic Menorcan gastronomy? Then we look forward to celebrating together!
