Tenerife, Spain (February 25, 2025) – Tenerife, the largest of Spain’s Canary Islands, is a culinary paradise where tradition meets innovation. The island’s unique climate, fertile terrain, and commitment to “zero-kilometer” seasonal production give rise to exceptional raw materials, from renowned Canary Islands bananas and fresh seafood to traditional gofio and flavorful cheeses. Positioned at the crossroads of Europe, Africa, and America, Tenerife’s cuisine is a vibrant expression of diversity, blending culinary traditions and flavors from these rich cultural influences.
“Our gastronomy reflects the island’s rich cultural heritage and the innovative spirit that drives our chefs to reinterpret tradition. Tenerife offers a culinary experience like no other, highlighting the unique products grown in our fertile soil and showcasing the creativity that continues to shape our food scene,” said Dimple Melwani, CEO of Turismo de Tenerife.
Here are 7 Must-Try Canarian Dishes:
Papas Arrugadas (Wrinkled Potatoes) – A Canary Island Classic
No visit to Tenerife is complete without tasting papas arrugadas – small, wrinkled potatoes served with mojo sauces. These salty, boiled potatoes are a true gastronomic delicacy, made with Papas Antiguas de Canarias, a unique variety with a Protected Designation of Origin (D.O.P.). Traditionally served with two types of mojo—mojo rojo (red, made with red peppers) and mojo verde (green, made with coriander and parsley)—this dish is an essential part of Canarian cuisine. Visitors can savor this delicacy at any traditional Canarian restaurant across the island, making it a must-try experience exclusive to the Canary Islands.
Fresh Seafood – A Taste of the Atlantic Ocean
Tenerife’s coastal location ensures an abundance of fresh, locally caught seafood. Must-try varieties include vieja (parrotfish), sama (sea bream), and mero (grouper). Grilled or prepared “a la espalda” (split and grilled), the fresh flavors of the fish are perfectly complemented by local sauces. One of the best places to sample this fresh catch is Restaurante El Ancla, known for its exceptional seafood dishes that showcase the island’s maritime heritage.
Gofio – A Tradition That Dates Back to the Guanches
For a true taste of Tenerife’s history, visitors can indulge in gofio, a flour made from roasted grains such as wheat or maize. This ancient food, dating back to the island’s indigenous Guanche people, is used in a variety of dishes, from hearty stews to sweet desserts like gofio mousse. One of the most traditional ways to enjoy it is escaldón de gofio, a rich, flavorful dish often prepared with fish or meat broth. For an authentic experience, travelers can visit Molino de Gofio El Hoyo, located in the north of Tenerife, where they can taste this iconic ingredient and learn about its cultural significance.
Conejo al Salmorejo (Rabbit Stew) – A Taste of Tradition
Another signature dish of Tenerife is conejo en salmorejo (rabbit in salmorejo sauce). This flavorful dish features tender rabbit marinated in a rich sauce made with garlic, vinegar, wine, and various spices, then slow cooked to perfection. A variation of this dish, Condumio de Conejo, is a traditional specialty of Icod de los Vinos, a town also known for the iconic Drago Milenario, one of Tenerife’s most famous landmarks. Visitors can enjoy this authentic dish at La Parada – Casa de Comidas, a local favorite renowned for its traditional Canarian cuisine.
Ropa Vieja Canaria – A Hearty Canary Island Stew
For those seeking a hearty and flavorful dish, ropa vieja canaria is a comforting choice. This rich stew, made with chickpeas, beef, chicken, and a variety of vegetables, reflects Tenerife’s fusion of Spanish and African culinary influences. It is a staple of traditional Canarian cuisine and can be enjoyed in many restaurants specializing in local dishes across the north and south of the island, particularly in regions like Anaga and Teno, where authentic Canarian gastronomy thrives.
Queso de Cabra (Goat Cheese) – A Delicacy of the Island
Tenerife’s goat cheese is renowned for its distinctive flavor and high quality, making it a staple of the island’s gastronomy. While fresh cheese is widely consumed, one of the most traditional and sought-after dishes is grilled goat cheese with mojo sauces, a true Canarian delicacy. For an immersive experience, visitors can explore Quesos Montesdeoca, an award-winning cheese producer, where they can enjoy a cheese tasting and discover why Tenerife’s cheeses receive international recognition.
Wines of Tenerife – A Taste of Volcanic Terroir
Tenerife’s volcanic soil and unique climate create the perfect conditions for growing native grape varieties such as Listán Blanco and Listán Negro, which are exclusive to the Canary Islands. The island also boasts one-of-a-kind cultivation methods, like the Cordón Trenzado, a distinctive vine-training system found in La Orotava. For those looking to explore the island’s rich winemaking tradition, a visit to La Casa del Vino de Tenerife is highly recommended. Here, visitors can sample wines from all six Denominations of Origin while enjoying breathtaking views of Mount Teide. Other notable wineries to explore include Bodega El Lomo and Bodegas Monje, both offering immersive wine experiences that highlight Tenerife’s exceptional viticulture.
In every meal, Tenerife’s gastronomy captures the essence of the island—its culture, creativity, and natural beauty—offering visitors an unparalleled culinary experience. For more information, please visit https://www.webtenerife.co.uk/blog/
