Made in China, Palma

2019, Nov. 4th | by Jan Edwards

Mallorca’s best Chinese restaurant is in Palma and, although it’s not on the main tourist route, it’s an insider tip for good value and tasty authentic Cantonese cuisine.

Sandra may not sound like a Chinese name, but it’s how customers of Restaurante Made in China know its owner Weifan Wang. Sandra is from Canton, southern China, but Spain has been her home for some thirty years. She had a restaurant in Madrid before opening Made in China a few years ago.

The restaurant is on a busy road in Palma de Mallorca, but there is some street parking in the vicinity and the underground car park on Passeig Mallorca is within walking distance.

 
The distinctive logo is a traditional antique Chinese chair – the symbol of a good table. The décor at Made in China is a refreshing change from the typical red-and-gold themed interiors of many Chinese restaurants on the island, being elegant in an understated way; black-and-white photographs of places in China decorate the walls. The restaurant has several large round tables, ideal when with family or a group of friends, as well as smaller tables.

 
Made in China has won many fans for its Cantonese food, great value, and cleanliness (you can see into the Chinese-staffed kitchen). On the day we went for lunch, we secured the last table for two. As tables were vacated, staff were swift to clean and re-set for waiting diners. The clientele ranges from young mums to ladies who lunch, and manual workers to smart businesspeople; most appeared to be locals and, judging by the familiar greetings from staff, regulars.

 
The lunchtime menu (Monday to Friday) is super value at 13,50 € for three savoury courses (with good choices) including a soft drink, water, or a glass of wine; to finish, you choose a dessert, or a tea, coffee, or infusion. It’s unbeatable value. Their tasting menu at 23 € is also easy on the bank balance.

 
The à la carte menu (for lunch or dinner) includes rolls, dim sum, soups, rice and pasta dishes, seafood, and meat. Star dish is the Peking duck (whole or a half) – about which I’ve heard rave reviews. Helpfully, chili symbols are shown for spicy dishes and those containing allergens are easily detected.

 
For me, Made in China is the best Chinese restaurant in Mallorca. Making a reservation is recommended, whether for lunch or dinner.

Photos: Jan Edwards / Made in China

Prices correct at time of writing.