Ibiza is about to discover what is its best aioli. The municipality of Sant Antoni de Portmany will host the first Popular Aioli Contest, one of the great novelties of the XVI edition of the gastronomic contest Restaurat Sant Antoni 2025, which will be held from November 3 to December 8.
The event promises to bring together chefs, locals and visitors in a day that will combine flavor, tradition and creativity, consolidating Sant Antoni as a benchmark in the promotion of Ibizan gastronomy. This new contest is born with the purpose of vindicating the local cuisine and highlighting one of the most emblematic sauces of the Mediterranean, a symbol of identity and meeting point on the island.
Beyond the competition, Restaurat Sant Antoni seeks to promote coexistence and enjoyment around the flavors of Ibiza, inviting both residents and tourists to discover the culinary essence of Ibiza through a dish as simple as it is representative.
Two categories to taste tradition and innovation
The contest will have two modalities: the Traditional Alioli, made only by hand with a mortar and pestle and without the aid of electric utensils, and the Creative Alioli, which will allow the incorporation of modern techniques or additional ingredients, as long as the essence of garlic and oil is maintained.
In both cases, participants must prepare their aioli from scratch, using only garlic and olive or vegetable oil. No industrial bases or commercial mayonnaise will be allowed, in order to guarantee that each preparation is authentic and handmade. Contestants will have 45 minutes to prepare their recipe and must bring their own utensils and ingredients.
Registration is free and will be open until November 27, 2025 through www.restaurat.es or through the direct link https://acortar.link/zCoYgp. People 16 years of age and older may participate, and minors must be accompanied by an adult.
Awards, jury and the taste of a living tradition
A jury made up of experts in local gastronomy and Ibizan traditions will evaluate the elaborations according to four criteria: flavor and balance -the most important aspect-, texture, presentation and authenticity of the method used.
The same prizes will be awarded in both categories: First prize, trophy and 500 euros; second prize, diploma; and third prize, diploma.
The contest is part of Restaurat Sant Antoni 2025, which this year has the participation of 12 restaurants in the municipality. Each one offers a special menu for 25 euros inspired by aioli, with proposals that combine traditional cuisine with contemporary touches.
For more than a month, Sant Antoni becomes an authentic gastronomic stage, where residents and visitors can enjoy new flavors without losing the essence of the island. The contest will not only crown the best aioli of Ibiza, but will also serve as a tribute to the local cuisine, its history and those who keep this tradition alive generation after generation.
