Tenerife dazzles with a rich and diverse gastronomy that reflects its history and culture. Discover the typical dishes of Tenerife you cannot miss on your visit.
Traditional Flavours That Define Tenerife’s Cuisine
- Papas arrugadas with mojo: Potatoes boiled with sea salt until wrinkled, served with green mojo (coriander, garlic, oil and vinegar) or red mojo picon (red pepper, garlic, cumin, oil and vinegar). An essential classic.
- Gofio: Toasted grain flour — wheat or corn — used in gofio escaldado (kneaded with fish broth), desserts and ice creams.
- Rabbit in salmorejo: Rabbit marinated in garlic, paprika, white wine and herbs, slow-cooked until tender and juicy.
- Canarian sancocho: Salt fish desalted and cooked with sweet potato, potatoes and mojo.
- Ropa vieja: Slow-cooked stew of beef, chickpeas, potatoes and vegetables.
Traditional Food with Ancestral Roots
Tenerife’s cuisine has deep roots in Guanche aboriginal culture and Spanish and Latin American cooking. Visit the restaurants at Mare Nostrum Resort for a complete gastronomic experience.
Where to Enjoy Tenerife’s Typical Food
Guachinches
Originally private homes selling their own wine with homemade food. Expect carne de fiesta (marinated fried pork), garbanzas compuestas and grilled cheese with mojo at very affordable prices.
Reference Restaurants
Visit the restaurants at Mediterranean Palace with sea views, or the Windsor Gastronomic Place where high cuisine meets local produce.
Tips to Make the Most of Tenerife’s Gastronomy
- Research and plan: Look into typical dishes and find recommended guachinches.
- Ask the locals: They will give you the best recommendations.
- Try Canarian wines: They pair perfectly with traditional food.
- Visit local markets: Great for fresh produce and tapas.
The typical dishes of Tenerife are an expression of the culture, history and identity of the island. Your experience in Tenerife will not be complete without tasting its unique flavour!
