← All restaurants in Vega De San Mateo
As of: October 2026 (updated regularly)
Vega de San Mateo, situated in the lush heart of Gran Canaria, far removed from the mass tourism of the coastal areas, is a surprising dining destination. The town’s twelve most highly recommended restaurants cater mainly to locals and large family groups from Las Palmas who head up to the mountains at the weekend, as well as to tourists seeking authentic Canary Islands cuisine. The town’s restaurant scene reflects Gran Canaria’s authentic culinary experience.
Mountain cuisine in Gran Canaria: What to expect
The best time to visit a restaurant is between 2 pm and 4 pm, when the kitchens are operating at full capacity. The ‚menú del día‘ is usually served in these establishments at prices ranging from 10 to 13 euros and comprises three courses including a drink – value for money that is hard to find anywhere else in Gran Canaria. Menus are mainly in Spanish. Smaller establishments often prefer payment in cash. The regional speciality Bienmesabe, a traditional Gran Canarian almond cream, is produced in the mountain region in a particularly authentic form.
Tips for your visit
At an altitude of around 800 metres in the mountains of Gran Canaria, 16 restaurants are clustered in the village centre and along the access roads to Vega de San Mateo. The menus frequently feature regional goat’s cheese from the surrounding farms. The proximity to agriculture and livestock farming is evident in dishes made with fresh vegetables from the fertile surrounding area.
Three Spanish restaurants specialise in Canary Islands classics and meat from the region. At the weekend, the village bustles with activity thanks to the famous farmers‘ market, whose produce often finds its way straight into the kitchens. Two bars in the centre attract locals between their visit to the market and lunch.
Frequently Asked Questions
What’s the best way to get to the restaurants in Vega de San Mateo?
Vega de San Mateo is situated in the interior of Gran Canaria at an altitude of around 800 metres and can be reached from Las Palmas in about 25 minutes via the GC-15 mountain road. Most of the 16 restaurants are concentrated in the town centre around the market, so visitors can reach them on foot. A hire car is recommended, as bus services to the mountainous region are limited.
Are there any restaurants in Vega de San Mateo with outdoor terraces or sea views?
Due to its inland location at 800 metres, Vega de San Mateo does not offer sea views. However, several of the restaurants have outdoor terraces overlooking the surrounding agricultural mountain region. Those who appreciate the fresh mountain air will find suitable outdoor areas there.
Which restaurants in Vega de San Mateo are also popular with locals?
Many of the three Spanish restaurants and other eateries attract locals, particularly at the weekend when the traditional farmers‘ market takes place. Establishments that serve local goat’s cheese and fresh produce from the surrounding area are particularly popular. The two bars and two snack bars also serve as meeting places for the locals.