The Only Food Guide You’ll Need for Tenerife

From fresh Atlantic seafood to award-winning wines to iconic papas arrugadas, Tenerife boasts a vibrant gastronomy scene. But with such a rich culinary culture, where and what to try on your Tenerife trip can be overwhelming. Here are seven must-try Canarian dishes and where to find them on the island:

Gofio

A tradition dating back to the Guanches, the island’s indigenous people, gofio is a flour made from roasted grains like wheat or maize. Gofio is used in a variety of dishes, from sweet desserts to hearty stews. The most traditional way to enjoy it is escaldón de gofio, a flavorful dish often prepared with fish or meat broth. For an authentic experience, head to Molino de Gofio El Hoyo, in north Tenerife.

Ropa Vieja Canaria

This Canary Island stew is comprised of chickpeas, beef, chicken and a variety of vegetables, reflecting Tenerife’s fusion of Spanish and African culinary influences. This staple can be found in many restaurants across Tenerife, particularly in regions like Teno and Anaga.

© Turismo de Tenerife

Papas Arrugadas

You can’t visit Tenerife without trying papas arrugadas — small, wrinkled potatoes served with mojo sauces. Made with Papas Antiguas de Canarias, a unique potato variety with a Protected Designation of Origin, this dish is usually served with two types of sauces: mojo red (made with red peppers) and mojo verde (made with coriander and parsley). You’ll find this dish at any traditional Canarian restaurant in Tenerife.

Conejo al Salmorejo

Another signature, this flavorful dish is like a rabbit stew, made with tender rabbit marinated in a rich sauce of garlic, vinegar, wine and various spices. One variation of this dish, condumio de conejo, is a specialty of Icod de los Vinos, a town also known for the iconic Drago Milenario, one of Tenerife’s most famous landmarks. Enjoy this tasty meal at La Parada – Casa de Comidas, a local favorite.

© Turismo de Tenerife

Fresh Seafood

Tenerife’s coastal location means endless fresh, locally caught seafood. Local varieties include parrotfish, sea bream and grouper. These fishes are usually grilled or prepared “a la espalda,” meaning split and grilled. Fish is complemented by local sauces, too. Restaurante El Ancla is one of the best spots to sample a fresh catch.

Queso de Cabra

Known for its distinctive flavor and high quality, Tenerife’s goat cheese is a staple on the island, often served grilled alongside mojo sauces. For an immersive experience, explore Quesos Montesdeoca, an award-winning cheese producer offering tastings.

Tenerife Wines

Of course, you can’t forget about the wine! The island’s volcanic soil and unique climate make for some tasty grape varieties like Listán Blanco and Listán Negro, exclusive to the Canary Islands. Explore the island’s rich winemaking traditions at spots like La Casa del Vino, where you can sample wines from all six Denominations of Origin. Other great wineries include Bodega El Lomo and Bodegas Monje.