Tenerife is a food lover’s paradise, with a diverse range of delicious local cuisine and specialties to discover. From traditional Canarian dishes to international flavors, there’s something for everyone to enjoy. In this guide, we’ll take a look at some of the best restaurants, bars, and cafes in Tenerife where you can sample the island’s delicious local cuisine and specialties.
Local Cuisine
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Tenerife’s local cuisine is heavily influenced by its history and location. Historically, the island’s residents have had to make do with limited ingredients, leading to the development of dishes that make the most of what’s available. This includes traditional Canarian dishes such as “papas arrugadas con mojo” (wrinkled potatoes with a spicy sauce) and “sancocho canario” (a meat and vegetable stew).
Seafood is also a big part of Tenerife’s local cuisine, with dishes such as “pescaíto frito” (deep-fried fish) and “calamares a la romana” (deep-fried squid) being particularly popular.
Specialties
Tenerife is also known for its local specialties, which are unique to the island. One of the most famous is “bienmesabe,” a sweet dessert made from honey, almonds, and egg yolks. Another is “gofio,” a traditional Canarian flour made from roasted grains and used in a variety of dishes.
Wine is also a specialty of Tenerife. The island has a long history of wine production, with its wines being highly sought after. The most famous wines from Tenerife include “Malvasia” and “Listan negro.”
Where to Find the Best Local Cuisine and Specialties
If you’re looking to sample Tenerife’s delicious local cuisine and specialties, there are plenty of great restaurants, bars, and cafes to choose from. In Santa Cruz de Tenerife, the historic district of “El Arenal” is known for its traditional Canarian restaurants, while in the south of the island, towns such as Los Cristianos and Playa de las Americas have a wide range of international and local options.
One of the best places to try Tenerife’s local cuisine is in the traditional fishing villages. A few examples are “Puerto de la Cruz” and “La Caleta” which have a wide range of seafood restaurants.
If you’re looking for something a little more upmarket, there are also several high-end restaurants on the island that serve local specialties with a modern twist.
