PAELLA FEST III

22.03.25

Despite the rain on Saturday, March 22nd, Art & Design District Palma transformed into a lively epicenter of culture, gastronomy, and creativity, hosting the much-anticipated third edition of Paella Fest. This unique event once again proved to be more than just a culinary gathering—it was a multisensory experience that united residents, visitors, and creatives.

At the heart of Paella Fest was, of course, the food. The streets were filled with the tantalizing aromas of saffron, seafood, and expertly crafted rice dishes, as renowned chefs prepared their signature interpretations of this beloved Mediterranean staple. This year’s lineup featured an extraordinary selection of culinary talents who elevated traditional flavors to new artistic heights.

Leading the gastronomic spectacle was Michelin-starred chef Sancha Lenz, who introduced his innovative Mallorquín Arancini Variation 2.0—a reimagined take on rice-based delicacies, offering three exquisite variations: sobrasada, honey, and truffle; red carabinero; and dried tomatoes with espelette peppers. His creations were not only a nod to Mallorca’s deep-rooted culinary traditions but also a bold fusion of technique and flavor.

Adding to the feast was Chef Mahrez, known for his cooking show on La Soledad Radio. His Cod & Lemon Risotto with Caviar was a refined take on seafood-infused rice, delighting festivalgoers with its delicate balance of acidity and depth. Meanwhile, Diego Manero paid homage to the island’s soulful culinary heritage with a masterfully prepared Arròs Brut, a dish brimming with rich, comforting flavors that encapsulated the spirit of Mallorquín home cooking.

To conclude the feast on a sweet note, Rym Benaissa curated a dessert selection that catered to all palates, blending classic flavors with modern artistry. From delicate pastries to bold, inventive confections, her creations were the perfect ending to a day of indulgence.

But Paella Fest wasn’t just about food—it was a dynamic convergence of the arts. The air was electric with the rhythms of ALMA GYPSY’s live Flamenco performance, filling Carrer de Siquier with an intoxicating blend of raw passion and musical mastery. The group’s fiery energy captivated the crowd, transforming the district into a spontaneous dance floor where movement and melody intertwined.

One of the standout moments of the festival was the unveiling of Gary Hill’s Loop Through exhibition. The internationally acclaimed Seattle-born artist presented one of his latest works, Walk of Shame (2023-25), a mesmerizing projection displayed on the industrial walls of the Art & Design District Studios. This immersive visual experience invited viewers into Hill’s introspective world, where the boundaries between digital media and human perception blurred in a hypnotic interplay of light and shadow.

With each passing edition, Paella Fest cements itself as a defining event within the Art & Design District, seamlessly blending gastronomy, music, contemporary art, and community spirit. Beyond the flavors and artistic displays, the festival embodies the essence of La Soledad—a place where creativity thrives, traditions are reimagined, and people come together to share unforgettable moments.

As the rain-soaked streets pulsed with energy and laughter, this year’s Paella Fest proved that not even the weather could dampen the passion of those who gathered to celebrate. Looking ahead, the festival continues to evolve, promising to return with even more surprises, flavors, and artistic wonders in its next edition.