A charming chalkboard sign proudly boasts “Producte KmO 100%.” In the display window, baskets filled with fluffy lemon tarts, pumpkins, and apples are on show, as well as stunningly beautiful vases and stands for cookies, cakes, and pastries — some adorned with garlands of flowers, others with cherubs. At the Tomeu and Maria José Fornet de la Soca bakery (Plaça de Weyler, 9, Centre, Palma), life bustles from morning till night, and you simply can’t pass by without savoring the plum or fig pastries.

Pros:

– the plum tart (4.5 euro) is made from a delightful, very soft shortcrust pastry and packed to the brim with spiced plum jam. It can be dusted with powdered sugar upon request, and I highly recommend not passing up on this extra pleasure;

– the round “bomb” with figs and sage will (4.50 euro), will instantly immerse you in the noble juices of autumn. A truly surprising effect!

– the labels are often hand-drawn, reminiscent of adorable kids’ drawings. For example, the panada de porc dolça (6.90 euros)—a round pie with slow-cooked sweet pork—features a piglet’s face and a couple of flowers. The rosy piglet figure made from dough on top of the pie is a simple yet delightful decoration and serves as a handy clue. This warm pie has a magnetic, cozy flavor, making you feel as if your beloved grandmother is gently patting you on the head;

–the Pastelo a’ albergini (4.50 euros) is touchingly decorated with a miniature still life of fresh sage leaves and purple pomegranate seeds—very beautiful;

– you absolutely must sneak a peek at the open kitchen—spotless, with marble countertops. You might even catch the process of shaping the round pies, which is sure to whet your appetite;

– the bakery’s walls are generously adorned with certificates, awards, old black-and-white photographs, and copper baking molds, while chandeliers with beaded lampshades hang from the ceiling;

– majorcan sobrassada (35.50 euros/kg) is displayed prominently, and it’s best not to leave without it. This is an organic product with a creamy texture and signature reddish color, and I’m absolutely in love with the spicy version (I add slices of this sobrassada to my vegetable soup, and it’s pure joy!).

Cons:

The local almond milkshake for 4 euros is so sweet that finishing the glass feels impossible, and after a few sips, you might want to run to a dietitian;
Control yourself. In this bakery, you’ll want to buy half the display, but more than one pastry (sweet or savory, it doesn’t matter) is all you’ll likely manage. I sympathize with both myself and you.

Text by Lana Kesoyan