What to Eat in Tenerife: The Best Local Food and Where to Find It

Tenerife

Everyone talks about Tenerife’s landscapes, Mount Teide, and the black sand beaches... but what about the food? The Canarian banana is the big icon of the islands, but get ready, because what you’re really going to love are the authentic dishes and the hard work behind the local produce. Although Tenerife shares many roots with mainland Spain, its recipes have a personality of their own and flavours that are going to surprise you.

At DoYouSpain , we want your trip to be the full experience, and there is no better way to get to know the island than through its food. That’s why we’ve put together this guide with the must-try dishes and those local spots that only the residents know about.

Authentic Tenerife Dishes: From Papas Arrugadas to Ropa Vieja

Eating in Tenerife is, above all, about tasting what the land provides. People in Tenerife cook with what they have at hand, putting the focus firmly on local produce. Potatoes are the best example: there are over 50 varieties grown on the island, each used in its own unique way.

• Papas arrugadas: The island's most famous dish. These are small potatoes boiled in plenty of salt until they dry out and 'wrinkle.' They are usually served with mojo, the traditional Canarian sauce, made from oil, garlic, and peppers.
• Ropa Vieja: A very hearty dish that combines chickpeas, shredded meat, and cubed fried potatoes. The secret is the aromatic hint of cinnamon or cloves.

Carne de Fiesta, Gofio Escaldon and Queso sado

The smell of these dishes is what defines the atmosphere of a tenderete (a local Tenerife fiesta). The island has a long-standing tradition of artisanal cheeses and meat dishes that are usually the main attraction at these events:

• Queso asado: Grilled cheese served with both types of mojo, or palm honey if you have a bit of a sweet tooth.
• Gofio Escaldón: A smooth paste made by mixing toasted grain flour with hot broth. It is usually served with red onion wedges, a bit of mojo, and sometimes fried garlic.
• Carne de fiesta: Cubes of pork marinated in garlic, oregano, paprika, and white wine. They are fried and always served with a side of diced potatoes.

Canarian Sancocho: The Best Local Fish Dish

Thanks to its location, the seafood in Tenerife is incredible. One unique thing about the restaurants here is that you can choose the fresh fish of the day directly from the display (like vieja or abae) to have it grilled or fried. However, if you’re looking for tradition, Sancocho is the top choice. Although it’s a classic Easter dish, it’s now enjoyed all year round: it’s prepared with salted grouper, boiled with potatoes and sweet potatoes, and served with a side of gofio.

Typical Desserts: Quesillo and the Barraquito Coffee

No meal in Tenerife should end without a good dessert or, at the very least, the special coffee that locals love to enjoy during the sobremesa (after-meal conversation).

• Quesillo: A dense flan made with condensed milk and lemon zest. Despite the name, it doesn’t actually contain cheese. It's the kind of dessert that wins you over, even when you say you’re full.
• Barraquito: A layered coffee made with condensed milk, Licor 43, frothed milk, cinnamon, and lemon. You really can’t miss it!

Where to Eat in Tenerife: The Best Guachinches and Cofradías

To eat like a local, you have to head out of the main tourist areas and explore the villages. The most authentic experience you can find are the Guachinches : old garages or courtyards where residents open their doors to offer their own wine and traditional dishes in a very homely atmosphere. To reach the best ones, the ideal thing to do is hire a car, as many are tucked away in the hills where public transport doesn't usually go.

Although part of the magic is discovering them along the way among   Tenerife’s most beautiful villages, here are three of our favourites that never let us down:

• Guachinche El Cubano (La Orotava): Perfect for trying carne de fiesta in a very authentic setting.
• Mi Guachinche Casa Pedro (Los Realejos): A spot in the north that’s ideal for generous, home-cooked portions.
• Guachinche Don Trino (Santa Úrsula): Proper Canarian food, no frills, and exactly the kind of flavour you expect to find on the island.

If you prefer fresh fish, look for the Cofradías de Pescadores (Fishermen’s Guilds) at the harbours or in villages like San Miguel de Tajao and Los Abrigos; these are restaurants run by the fishermen themselves with produce straight from the boat.

Eating in La Laguna and the Midland Villages

Exploring La Laguna (a UNESCO World Heritage site) is the best way to immerse yourself in the island’s atmosphere; its historic streets are the ideal place to enjoy local tapas in a unique setting. It is, without a doubt, one of the most vibrant spots for food and culture in Tenerife.

But if you are looking for something more traditional, heading up to the midlands is the way to go. These mountain areas are home to the best grill houses and iconic dishes like conejo en salmorejo (marinated rabbit) or potaje de berros (watercress stew), perfect for recharging your batteries after visiting Mount Teide or Anaga. If you are planning your route, at DoYouSpain, we help you explore Tenerife entirely at your own pace.

Why You Need a Hire Car to Explore Tenerife

To really get a taste of the island, the most practical thing to do is hire a car in Tenerife.

At DoYouSpain, we help you find the option that suits you best, comparing prices instantly so you can save up to 75% off on your booking. It’s the easiest way to ensure nothing stops you from exploring the midlands or finding that hidden restaurant you've been looking forward to visiting.

If you have any questions, our team is available 24 hours a day through the Customer Service Area, our Virtual Assistant, or on +34 964 830 995. Book in advance and get ready for an unforgettable experience.