First, a question: what exactly are ‚Guachinchen‘? In the past, Canary Islands winegrowers would entertain their major customers from England with regional dishes. It’s easier to negotiate prices in a relaxed atmosphere. Over time, more and more individual customers began to visit. They were, of course, also treated to a meal, especially as a winegrower can naturally command a better price for their wine without going through a middleman. That is how the ‚Guachinchen‘ came into being.
There are strict regulations governing who is allowed to call themselves a ‚guachinche‘. For instance, the guachinche must be situated on the farmer’s own land, and only the farmer’s own wine may be sold. A maximum of three different dishes are permitted, and there are a number of other regulations as well.
A genuine guachinche can be recognised by a red sign with a ‚V‘ at the entrance. Many guachinches operate under false pretences, as indicated by an ‚R‘ sign. They are therefore just a normal restaurant. This often makes no difference to the affordable prices or the quality of the food, and many guests simply don’t mind.
Guachinches on Tenerife – Tips and useful information
The dining areas tend to be rather simple and unpretentious. It may well be a former warehouse with a concrete floor. Some guachinches also have a terrace, but you won’t find any posh, trendy atmosphere here.
Typical dishes from the Canary Islands are served. You really must try ‚Ropa vieja‘. According to tradition, this is a chickpea stew (garbanzas) made with leftovers from Sunday’s roast.
Tenerife’s guachinchen: down-to-earth cuisine at a reasonable price
Goat’s meat (carne cabra) tastes delicious and is more tender than lamb. Grilled meat is always recommended, as is fish. Gofio, roasted flour and a former staple food of the Guanches, is also available here and there. It’s an incredibly filling calorie bomb that you’ll either love or hate.
This is just a small selection of typical Canary Islands dishes. Every guachinche has its own dishes and specialities. The menu is straightforward and is usually written on a blackboard.
As a side dish, there are chips, as always and everywhere. More typical are Papas Arrugadas or croquettes. Not to mention battered mushrooms, which are actually a starter but go perfectly with fried fish.
Guachinches on Tenerife: large portions, small bill
The portions are usually huge. Some guachinches also offer smaller portions on request. This is a good idea if you want to share and try several different dishes. It’s absolutely normal in the Canary Islands to share dishes. What isn’t normal, however, is splitting the bill.
And where can you find Guachinchen? Only in areas where wine is grown. So mainly in the north of Tenerife. Popular apps such as Google Maps can help you choose where to go. As some of the vineyards are in remote locations, you should be prepared to encounter steep and narrow roads if you’re driving there in your own car.
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