Last updated: September 2026 (updated regularly)
Every year, Candelaria attracts 2.5 million pilgrims to the Basilica of the Virgen de la Candelaria, yet the town’s cuisine draws its inspiration from the Atlantic Ocean right on its doorstep. Between the fishing harbour and the plaza, the Cofradía La Divina prepares the catch supplied by the Cofradía de Pescadores, whilst the Restaurante La Dársena serves up its dishes on the waterfront promenade. The 12 best restaurants in Candelaria do not offer run-of-the-mill tourist fare. Instead, they serve fresh fish, Canary Islands classics and tables with sea views. La Casona del Vino and Casa D’Ander epitomise this approach.
Seafood restaurants, prices and local mealtimes
Lunchtime reveals the most about dining in Candelaria. The ‚menú del día‘ is served from 2 pm to 4 pm, costs between 10 and 14 euros and comprises three courses including a drink, often featuring fresh catch of the day from the harbour. In the evenings, things are quieter and more expensive. Around Calle Obispo Pérez Cáceres, restaurants do not require bookings, except around 15 August, when pilgrims fill the town. In the small fish restaurants at the harbour, paying by cash remains the more reliable option.
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Tips for your visit
There are 34 restaurants scattered throughout the narrow streets of the pilgrimage town, all around the basilica. On the waterfront promenade, fish from the Atlantic ends up straight on your plate, for example at Restaurante La Dársena. The Cofradía La Divina and the Bar Cofradía de Pescadores cook with the catch from local fishermen. After a stroll to the bronze statues of the nine Guanche kings in the square, guests can enjoy a meal at these tables.
Canarian cuisine dominates the menus, from papas arrugadas to rabbit in salmorejo, which features prominently at Casa D’Ander. Ten cafés are situated between the Plaza and the residential streets, including the Donde mi madre Cafeteria. Two bars within walking distance of the basilica fill up with locals in the evenings. During the major pilgrimages, pilgrims crowd around their counters, and the character of the harbour town comes to the fore at the simple tables overlooking the sea.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the best way to get to the restaurants in Candelaria?
Candelaria is situated on the east coast of Tenerife and is easily accessible via the TF-1 motorway, which has its own exit towards the town centre. A large proportion of the 34 restaurants are concentrated around the basilica and the coastal area. Once parked, guests can reach them easily on foot. Several TITSA bus routes also connect the town with Santa Cruz and the south of the island.
Are there any restaurants in Candelaria with outdoor terraces or sea views?
Thanks to its location right on the Atlantic coast, several of the 34 restaurants have outdoor terraces overlooking the sea or the square with the bronze statues of the nine Guanche kings. Along the seafront promenade and near the basilica, guests will find terrace seating, for example at Restaurante La Dársena. Main courses there often cost between 10 and 18 euros.
Which restaurants in Candelaria are popular with locals?
As a pilgrimage and port town with a permanent population, Candelaria has eateries away from the basilica that are favoured by locals. They serve Canary Islands cuisine and fresh fish, for example at the Cofradía La Divina. Alongside the 34 restaurants, ten cafés and two bars form part of the locals‘ daily life. Fresh fish, papas arrugadas and mojo are very popular with the local clientele.