Last updated: September 2026 (updated regularly)
Puerto de la Cruz has established itself as the gastronomic centre of northern Tenerife. The town’s twelve best restaurants stand out because they are frequented by both locals and visitors alike, setting them apart from their southern rivals. The La Ranilla neighbourhood forms the heart of the town, with its cobbled streets where traditional Canary Islands dishes meet modern twists and authentic tapas bars sit side by side with upmarket taco joints. The town is not a holiday resort, but an organically developed gastronomic destination with its own distinct character.
Canary Islands cuisine between the old town and the seafront promenade
Guests dining at lunchtime benefit from reasonable prices: numerous restaurants offer the ‚menú del día‘ for less than ten euros, which includes a three-course meal with a local drink of your choice. In the evening, prices rise considerably; the fine-dining restaurant Tasca Ihüey charges up to 70 euros per person. An early evening stroll through the alleyways behind the seafront promenade allows you to explore La Ranillas in its entirety. For those arriving by car, a free car park is available between Playa Jardín and the historic harbour, making it easy to find a space.
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Around the Plaza del Charco in the old fishing quarter, tables are packed right up to the edge of the square. A total of 111 restaurants are scattered throughout the old town and the narrow streets leading down to the harbour. Fresh fish caught close to the coast ends up on plates in many restaurants, often served with mojo sauce and papas arrugadas. Wines from the nearby Orotava Valley feature on the menus of Canarian establishments.
In the side streets of the historic old town, there are 70 cafés, whose terraces are filled with locals in the mornings. The 59 bars are clustered closer to the harbour and fill up in the evening. Sixteen pizzerias are interspersed amongst Canarian eateries.
Frequently Asked Questions
When is the best time to visit the restaurants in Puerto de la Cruz?
A visit to the 111 restaurants is particularly worthwhile in the evening, when the Plaza del Charco and the old fishing quarter come to life. Thanks to its location on the north coast, temperatures remain mild all year round, making the winter months suitable too. Fresh fish from the old harbour is served mainly at lunchtime.
When are restaurants in Puerto de la Cruz open?
Many restaurants in Puerto de la Cruz open at lunchtime around 12 noon or 1 pm and in the evening from around 7 pm, often with an afternoon break. Cafés and bars – of which there are 70 and 59 respectively – often open earlier in the morning. Exact opening times vary depending on the establishment and the season.
What’s the best way to get to the restaurants in Puerto de la Cruz?
Most restaurants are concentrated around the Plaza del Charco and the historic old town and are easily accessible on foot. There are TITSA bus services from other parts of Tenerife to the central bus station. If you’re travelling by car, use the public car parks near the centre, as the streets in the old town are narrow.