ROQUETA continues to champion the independent privately owned retailers.
Last month we focused on Ciutadella, this month is Mahon.
We have only just seen the tip of the iceberg, as I am sure you will have your own favourites – Let us know.
Jade
Carrer Nou, 33
Tel. 971 35 75 75
www.jademenorca.com
Jade is another of Menorca’s class-act retailers. Nestled very subtly amongst the hustle and bustle of the main high street at no. 33 Carrer Nou. My favourite number. So typically lucky for me that this is the best little Asian homewares boutique in Menorca. In fact I’d extend that to about the best anywhere.
Their Japanese bowls are just so desirably perfect for any household. Always a very welcome off-list wedding present for family and friends alike.
Ana Natta and her husband Joan Vives travel every year to both Japan and China in order to keep the shop stocked with many unique pieces of both ceramic tableware and furniture. Their tastes are both discerning and commercial because their price-ranges are surprisingly reasonable.
Sense Nom
Moll de Llevant, 327. Port Mahon
Tel. 639 682 967
www.sensenomonline.com
Sense Nom (without name) is a glorious little beach-bag shop – but it’s actually much more than that. But look again and experience the sheer simplicity of clever shop keeping. It’s very hard not to buy something here from the ever present Michèle Servolle.
The owners source all the handmade materials from artisans in Madagascar and once landed on Menorca the bags, hats and other accessories are hand built and sewn here on the Island. So big respect and hats off to this gem of a shop.
Boba’s
Carrer de l’Angel, 7
Tel. 647 587 456
www.bobasmenorca.com
Don’t you just love an old shop that does ONE thing well ? I can’t understand why the world isn’t returning to specialist shops in a more dramatic movement ?
There was a time when a big brand like Nike made just one product – running shoes – now they want to sell us a thousand different products which is why it is so refreshing to find that Boba’s specialises in the simple espadrille – like a Candy Store. This year they’re nearly all delicious.
Platero
Plaza del Princep, 16
Tel. 971 36 24 47
www.platerodecoracion.com
This is Mahon’s more discerning furnishings emporium – for grown-ups.
This grand townhouse was the home of owner Maite’s great-grandfather so you get that sense of trust and continuity. This is why it’s definitely the right thing to do to let them take care of many of the more difficult home interior refurbishments – especially curtain making, floor coverings and reupholster needs.
Their interior design skills and service is built into the price so you’re always going to get your choices right first time.
Princep11
Plaza del Princep, 11
Tel. 971 36 90 39
This small menswear shop has been open since 1994. It is owned and run by Alberto Pons who is one of the most genuine and engaging menswear shop owners in the whole of Spain.
Yes, the prices seem expensive but the cost per wear will beat Zara and Mango every time. Their Belstaff biker jackets are always so reliably cool; the Paul Smith suit or shirt a must-have for any discerning professional. Take a look inside and discover the latest in men’s fashion.
Congratulations, Alberto, on so consistently curating such a focused and well-edited menswear offer. Respect.
Sa Barca
Moll de Llevant, 221. Port Mahon
Tel. 971 09 10 12
Sa Barca, is owned and passionately run by Amaia and is always brimming with understated, but very on trend, summer-wear perfect for this Island’s lower key social scene – more slower life sailing than faster life power boating. This season’s favourites are anything with the Breton stripe, silver glitter espadrilles, white cotton and linen dresses, all Pou Nou 2016 ranges (their 30th year). Also for the sofa at home or even better the poolside day-bed their large cotton throws are fantastic.