A strange sound echoes across the small Plaza Concejil in Puerto de la Cruz. It clatters brightly through the streets in a rapid rhythm. Then the sound falls silent, only to return a little later. If you follow the clatter, you’ll find a restaurant. Tapas Arcon is the name of the little place, tucked away at the back of the lovingly maintained and flower-adorned square.
Tapas Arcon’s house speciality is undoubtedly the mojo. Every family has its own recipe for this popular sauce from the Canary Islands. Alvaro Bazo’s is one of the best – and that strange sound is closely linked to his mojo.
There are two sauces on the menu. A green mojo (2.50 euros), as served in Tenerife, and a pale one that, at first glance, is somewhat reminiscent of mayonnaise. Once you’ve ordered this pale sauce – the Mojo Colorado (3 euros) – the mystery of the sound is revealed. This is because the sauce consists mainly of almonds, which makes the dip very mild. So – at the suggestion of the very friendly staff – a little chilli is stirred in, accompanied by the characteristic clattering of the fork on the plate.
The mojos taste very fresh and delicious. They’re best ordered with the traditional papas arrugadas (2.20 euros). But Arcon has plenty more to offer. The tuna („Atún Gomero“ – small portion: 7 euros, large portion: 12 euros) and the slow-cooked beef with thyme („Estofado de Carne Adobada“ – 6.75/10.50 euros) are particularly good. These go down a treat with a freshly tapped beer or one of the wines, which aren’t cheap but are well worth the price.
Our recommendation: Most dishes are available as tapas or raciones. It’s best to order the smaller portion and try several different dishes instead. The dishes will then be served one by one, so you can try everything at your leisure. And if you do order the tuna, be sure to leave a bit of the complimentary bread. You’ll love the sauce and want to mop it up with the bread!
Opening hours at Arcon Tapas in Puerto de la Cruz
The Arcon restaurant is located at Plaza Concejil 2a in Puerto de la Cruz. It is open from Wednesday to Monday between 12 noon and 11 pm. It is closed on Tuesdays.
You can find more tips for restaurants, cafés and bars in Puerto de la Cruz here. We also have our Puerto de la Cruz travel guide available for you here.
Here you will find our restaurant database for Tenerife.
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