mÁxime
Portocolom, Spain
Insider Compass
An expert assessment built on data, context and gastronomic judgement.
About mÁxime
Perched on the Vall d'Or Golf course with sweeping views toward the Mediterranean, mÁxime brings a refreshing fusion sensibility to Portocolom's dining scene. Chef Máxime Deymier, whose culinary journey took him through the kitchens of London, Paris, San Sebastián, and St. Martin, weaves Mediterranean foundations with Asian accents into a menu that feels both familiar and adventurous. The setting—a stone terrace overlooking manicured greens—draws golfers and non-golfers alike, especially on Friday nights when live music and a BBQ buffet transform the space into a convivial gathering spot. It's the kind of place where you can linger over a well-priced menú del día at lunch or settle in for a proper dinner under the stars.
Good to know
Book ahead, especially for Friday night's BBQ buffet (May to October)—it's a local favorite and fills up fast.
The chef
Máxime Deymier
Máxime Deymier honed his craft across some of Europe's most dynamic culinary capitals—London, Paris, and San Sebastián—before spending time in St. Martin, absorbing techniques and flavor profiles that inform his fusion-forward approach today. Growing up in a hospitality family (his father owns Port Petit in Cala d'Or), Deymier developed an early appreciation for sourcing and the Mediterranean pantry, but his travels introduced him to Asian ingredients and balancing principles he now layers into his cooking. At mÁxime, he's built a kitchen that respects Mallorcan tradition while pushing gently toward cross-cultural conversation—whether that's sushi on the buffet or a familiar fish finished with unexpected spice. His philosophy centers on fresh, seasonal ingredients prepared with clarity and just enough invention to keep regulars curious.
The Insider Compass
Four dimensions, each assessed independently against the same criteria everywhere we rate.
Plate
Deymier's fusion approach shows up in thoughtful details—sushi alongside roasted quiches on the buffet, familiar proteins finished with unexpected spice blends or citrus notes. The menú del día consistently delivers solid technique and fresh ingredients at exceptional value, though some dishes can lean toward oversalting when the kitchen gets rushed. Desserts, particularly the Maxim's cup, showcase a lighter, more refined hand.
Vibe
LivelyThe terrace radiates a relaxed country club elegance, with live Spanish guitar or flamenco on select evenings lending an intimate, celebratory feel. Breezes sweep across the open space, cooling things down as the sun sets over the golf course. It's a peaceful, welcoming atmosphere that suits romantic dinners, family celebrations, and even well-behaved children, without feeling overly formal.
Service
The team, led by Nadia and her front-of-house crew, generally strikes a warm, accommodating tone, going out of their way for special occasions and making regulars feel at home. Consistency can be an issue—some visits feel seamless, others less polished, particularly when the terrace fills up. On balance, the hospitality leans more toward friendly professionalism than buttoned-up country club formality.
Setting
The white stone terrace frames views of the Vall d'Or golf course and distant glimpses of the sea, creating a sense of openness and calm. Tables are well-spaced, allowing for intimate conversation even when live music fills the air. At night, the terrace becomes especially atmospheric as the moon rises over the fairways, adding a touch of romance to the already scenic backdrop.
These four dimensions are a handful of the attributes we review. The Insider Rating also draws on research the compass does not display — among them the wine programme, the size and quality of the cellar, the location, and how long the house has operated. It is not an average of the scores above.
Go for
- Mediterranean-Asian fusion dishes with thoughtful technique and fresh ingredients
- The Friday night BBQ buffet with live music and sweeping terrace views
- Exceptional value on the menú del día—three courses that punch above their price point
Don't go for
- Cutting-edge avant-garde dining or molecular technique
- A hushed, intimate date night if you're going on a Friday evening with live music and crowds
Details
Carretera Cala d'Or, km7,7, 07669 Portocolom, Illes Balears, Spain
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