Interview with Camilla Holdsworth
10 questions with Camilla Holdsworth, Founder of Millies Pantry
We interview inspiring Mallorcan creators every week in our newsletter. We ask the same 10 questions to each guest and learn about their business and other fun tips about Mallorca. Make sure to subscribe to stay in the loop and receive our new interviews.
Tell us a bit about yourself and what you do?
I'm Millie from Millie's Pantry, providing Private Chef services, Cookery Workshops & Bespoke Catering. My absolute bread and butter is working with the seasons, and using beautiful local produce from the markets in my dishes. If it's a casual intimate dinner or a big beautiful feast with friends, I'm your girl. Hiring a private chef doesn't always need to be either a luxury or super formal. The Balearic Islands have quite a magic in the air that a more rustic farm-to-table experience has a level of chicness to it.
Instagram worth following?
@millies_pantry_ - of course!
Favourite place to swim?
Cala San Vicente. I've been coming here since I was 5, the water is utterly breathtaking when it's calm, dramatic cliff backdrop and sometimes when it's rough it's an amazing spot to watch the waves. There's a tiny little paella restaurant just before you get to the beach that is also worth a visit.
Cala Banyalbufar is also unreal. The walk down to the water is seriously special and it's got a real hot hazy summer vibe about it.
Favourite restaurant?
Molico in Sencelles. By far one of my favourite places on the whole island. Gorgeous twinkly outdoor garden, with beautiful tapas, my favourites being their beef tacos, lamb with babaganoush, pistachios and pomegranates, and their chicken shawarma with Israeli cous cous is to die for. And absolute MUST VISIT.
Absolute hidden gem in Can Picafort is Salitre by the Rapha Bros. Med-Asian fusion, beautiful flavours, excellent presentation with the sea a literal stones throw from your table. Also an epic selection of local Mallorquian wines.
Gra in Santanyi is also amazing. It's completely transformed my approach to eating vegan food (which before going here was non-existent). They do vegan 'takes' on quite meaty classics and the flavours are sublime, and it's got almost an cosy pub feel to it, which being English I was immediately sold!
Favourite bar, cafe or bakery?
Cafe - El Perrito in Santa Catalina. The staff are excellent, portion sizes are GENEROUS and good value for money, and the music is always on point.
Who is making a product we should know about?
It's not necessarily a product, but Heidi's Herbs is a total must if you're a keen home cook or a chef. She grows all her micro herbs and edible flowers in her garden, all grown organically - which are the perfect flavoursome addition to any dish, not to mention they look beautiful!
Best month of the year on Mallorca?
October. The temperature has usually dropped slightly so it's warm, balmy and not unbearable, and as it's less touristy the island feels a little more relaxed, and you can visit your favourite beaches without feeling like you're squeezed into a tin of sardines.
What is your favourite town in Mallorca?
I have to say I love Port de Soller. Even when it's high season, it never seems to feel saturated or overrun with tourists, and if you park yourself at one of the quaint cafes along the seafront with a large glass of wine it's the ultimate people-watching spot.
What is your favourite hotel on the island?
Ten Mallorca in Sineu. It's a perfect cross between super duper high-end and feeling like you've been invited into someone's family home. The service is exquisite from start to finish, it's a peaceful oasis to relax and chill, and the food is utterly superb.
What is one other secret/great tip about Mallorca that you'd like to share with our readers?
Instead of going to the same restaurants in the same places, spend some time researching what agroturismos are around the island. Great way to explore places you haven't been and some of the menu del dias are amazing!