Guachinches Tenerife

Discover the guachinches of Tenerife! From the most iconic to the most hidden gems, we provide you with the most accurate information about the best places to eat. Immerse yourself in the island's culinary richness and experience an unforgettable gastronomic adventure. Welcome and enjoy!

21 Best Guachinches in Tenerife 2024

Note: In this list, we have selected the 21 Guachinches and Restaurants of Tenerife based on: searches on this portal, Google searches, and the most reviews on Google Maps.

They are not sponsored, nor are they a list of our favorites. The reason we did it this way is because we believe this is the most accurate representation of reality, as if many search for them and many leave reviews, we understand they are popular.

In this list, we only show 21 out of nearly 400 Guachinches and Canary Restaurants registered in this search engine (we still have more to add), but we encourage you to discover more, as some are new or not as heavily sponsored on social media (these tend to be the authentic ones).

Distinctive V Plate of Guachinche
Distinctive V Plate of Guachinche

You will identify the authentic Guachinches because they have a distinctive plate with a V on the door or on the profile page of this website.

There are few left, which is why we also include Canary Restaurants and Guachinches that do not have the distinctive plate, but still maintain the essence.

Guachinches Tenerife open today

If you're a food lover and looking for a unique experience in Tenerife, you can't miss visiting the guachinches, authentic culinary temples where you can try typical Canary dishes and local homemade wines.

Guachinches are typical taverns of the island that emerged as a solution for local farmers to sell their products and homemade wine. Today, they are a true institution in Tenerife, and tourists who visit them are fascinated by their authentic and welcoming atmosphere.

Most guachinches are located in the north of the island, especially in La Orotava and La Matanza de Acentejo. However, not all of them are open every day of the year, so it's important to check which ones are open today before visiting.

If you're looking for guachinches in Tenerife open today, we recommend trying the following municipalities in Tenerife:

Cheap Guachinches in Tenerife: Savor authentic Canary cuisine without spending much money

If you're looking for an affordable way to try authentic Canary cuisine in Tenerife, you can't miss visiting cheap guachinches, where you can enjoy delicious homemade dishes and high-quality local wines without spending too much.

Most of the cheap guachinches in Tenerife are located in the northern part of the island and in La Laguna. Some of the most notable and affordable guachinches are:

  • Guachinche el Fogon:

    This establishment offers multiple advantages that make it an excellent choice for customers. First of all, its location near the Tenerife North airport makes it an ideal option for those looking for a quick stop before or after their flight. Additionally, it provides parking for its customers, which ensures great convenience and accessibility.

    As for the food, this place stands out for offering a delicious selection of homemade dishes at very affordable prices. Customers can enjoy tasty and budget-friendly meals in a cozy and friendly atmosphere. The employees are extremely kind and attentive to customer service, making the experience even more enjoyable.

    In summary, this establishment offers a convenient location, parking for customers, and an excellent selection of homemade food at affordable prices, along with exceptionally friendly and attentive customer service. What more could you ask for?

  • Guachinche La Casona:

    La Casona is located on a rural estate in La Orotava, accessed through a narrow road that gives it an air of exclusivity and tranquility. The restaurant has parking for its customers, making it very convenient and accessible.

    Additionally, its spacious dining area offers spectacular panoramic views, creating a relaxed and pleasant environment to enjoy a meal with friends or family. With numerous tables available, you won’t have any trouble finding a place to sit.

    In summary, La Casona is a restaurant that offers a peaceful location with beautiful views, along with ample parking and a large dining area, ensuring a pleasant and comfortable dining experience. Don't hesitate to visit!

  • Guachinche La Cueva de Casiano:

    This restaurant is located near Santa Cruz de Tenerife, although getting there requires a car. One of the drawbacks is the lack of parking space in the surrounding area. It’s also worth noting that the establishment is not very large, so it’s recommended to book in advance if visiting during peak hours or busy days.

    The restaurant is named after a cave, and indeed, part of its structure is built within one. This detail gives the place an interesting and unique atmosphere.

    But without a doubt, the best thing about this restaurant is the quality of the service provided by its staff. The employees are kind and friendly, making the customer experience even more enjoyable.

    In conclusion, although this restaurant is located on the outskirts of Santa Cruz de Tenerife and requires a car to reach, it’s worth a visit. Besides the uniqueness of being partly built within a cave, it offers exceptional service and a memorable culinary experience.

In conclusion, if you're looking for cheap guachinches in Tenerife, these establishments are an excellent option to enjoy authentic Canary cuisine without having to spend too much money. Visit them and savor the flavors of the island!

Guachinche Categories

Modern Guachinches

Modern Guachinches

The best modern Guachinches in Tenerife, offering traditional homemade Canarian food prepared in a modern way.

Traditional Guachinches

Traditional Guachinches

The best traditional Guachinches in Tenerife, serving homemade Canarian food accompanied by locally produced wine.

Charming Guachinches

Charming Guachinches

Tenerife's charming Guachinches with quality food where you can taste some of the best wines and enjoy Canarian gastronomy.

Guachinches with Terrace

Guachinches with Terrace

The best Guachinches in Tenerife with terraces, offering homemade Canarian food accompanied by locally produced wine.

Guachinches with a View

Guachinches with a View

The best Guachinches in Tenerife with scenic views, serving traditional homemade Canarian food in stunning locations.

Fish Guachinches

Fish Guachinches

Guachinches known for menus focused almost entirely on fish, usually featuring fresh fish of the day from the Canary coasts.

Canarian Cuisine

Discover the unique flavors of authentic Canarian cuisine!

Visit our Canarian gastronomy section and let yourself be captivated by its unique and traditional culinary flavors that will awaken your senses.

Pleasure is just one click away!

What to See in Tenerife

Explore the hidden treasures of Tenerife and let yourself be enchanted!

Dive into our exclusive «What to See in Tenerife» section and marvel at its breathtaking landscapes, paradisiacal beaches, and unparalleled places of interest.

Start exploring now and be amazed!

 What is a Guachinche?

If you're on vacation in Tenerife or live here, you’ll know that to enjoy typical Canarian food, you must visit Tenerife's Guachinches.

But do you know what Guachinche means and what it is?

A Guachinche is a traditional Canarian restaurant that stands out for selling locally produced wine and traditional Canarian food. Until a few years ago, Guachinches were usually private homes where wine was sold and meals were served, most of them located in the north of Tenerife.

Distinctive V Plate of Guachinche
Distinctive V Plate of Guachinche

Years ago, authentic Guachinches were not regulated and didn’t have restaurant licenses because they were private homes that offered tastings of their homegrown wine. Over time, Tenerife’s Guachinches became famous for their homemade and typical Canarian food.

Many bars and restaurants started using the name Guachinche to attract customers, which led to regulations allowing only those cultivating their own wines to be considered authentic Guachinches. Besides offering homegrown wine and traditional food, Guachinches are characterized by their lack of elaborate decorations.

They are simple, unpretentious places, many of which resemble private homes, giving them authenticity and charm. However, over time, some modern or fusion Guachinches have also emerged.

Typically, Guachinches are open for as long as their wine harvest lasts, but many remain open year-round by purchasing wine from other growers. They are particularly common in the north of Tenerife.

There Are Two Types of Guachinches

The concept of guachinche has changed significantly throughout the 20th and early 21st centuries. There are not many traditional guachinches left. In other words, there was a before and an after.

  • The first type is the traditional version, rooted in Tenerife’s culture, specifically that of the Canarian countryside.
  • Secondly, there is what is called a modern or avant-garde guachinche, which has no specific connection to any particular place.

The culture of these establishments is not created by politicians, writers, or journalists — it’s created by winemakers and locals. This satisfies the need to sell surplus wine alongside rich dishes that once fed many hungry stomachs, such as escaldón, garbanzas, carne fiesta, ribs with potatoes and corn, rancho canario, tollos, octopus, and limpets with green mojo, among others.

What is a Traditional Guachinche Like?

The traditional guachinche of yesteryear was a small structure where humble winemakers stored their essential farming tools: wooden wine barrels and even the old, sturdy plow.

A dirt-floored room with almost no furniture was the setting where winemakers sold their wines, along with tomatoes seasoned with dried oregano and oil, goat’s white cheese, and garbanzas.

The traditional guachinche, with its characteristics and aesthetic, was improvised: a calendar from the 1960s; sayings, poetry, and an image of the city’s first tram. Mismatched chairs and repurposed cable spools as tables transformed these places into makeshift dining rooms for locals.

Families of winemakers showcased their creativity by decorating the guachinches with objects that reflected their culture, providing an aesthetic appeal for visitors wanting to sit down and enjoy a glass of wine. A timple (small Canarian guitar) and a guitar were also must-haves on their walls.

That’s how guachinches were in those days, a past that is now long gone. What is modern and avant-garde has little to do with the way things used to be.

Tenerife’s Rich History Is Tied to Wine, Land, and the Countryside

The climate here is always perfect, as are the people and the places. And then there are the guachinches, which serve the best food in Tenerife.

Today, government regulations require that wines be registered in the Agricultural Industry Registry and the Wine Packaging Registry. They must also meet minimum health requirements and aesthetic standards.

Certainly, some food establishments use the term «guachinche» as a marketing ploy to highlight affordability. While it may be a commercial hook, it also allows them to pay fewer taxes and sell more.

There are many restaurants, especially in the north of Tenerife. There’s something for everyone — it all depends on the quality of food and wine you’re looking for.

It is known that a guachinche should only serve three dishes, but most don’t comply with this rule, and modern guachinches often have extensive menus.

For this reason, guachinches are becoming increasingly popular, even among people from other Canary Islands who travel to Tenerife for weeks to experience its wines and food. Many also take wine back to their islands. What joy it brings to see so many shops selling Tenerife wine and visitors sampling it!

What Does the Word 'Guachinche' Mean?

Although it is difficult to explain the exact definition of ‘guachinche’, I’ll try: It’s a simple restaurant that serves traditional dishes and has limited seating.

I had thought that the word ‘guachinche’ might somehow be related to the Guanches, the original inhabitants of the Canary Islands and an indigenous culture. A better explanation might be the one found on Wikipedia: Guachinche Wikipedia.

Wary and eager for the best local products, English merchants would warn the locals, saying: ‘I’m watching you!’ This was transcribed by the locals as ‘Hay un guanchinche.’

This explanation may be an exaggeration. In any case, for today’s visitors to Tenerife, the word ‘guachinche’ should be understood as shorthand for 'excellent and affordable local cuisine.'

Where Is the Word 'Guachinche' Used?

The word 'bochinche’ and its variant 'guachinche’ refer to a cozy place where you can buy traditional Canarian food and wine.

According to the dictionary, the word comes from western peninsular or American Spanish *buche* (derived from *bochinche*), which means 'poor tavern.'

This is widely known. Etymologically, the word 'bochinche’ originates from clever wordplay. It’s no surprise, then, to see the word written in its familiar form throughout generations.

History of the Guachinches

Guachinches began to emerge when many farmers wanted to sell their homegrown wine without middlemen by setting up 'tenderetes' (stalls) in their properties or living rooms.

They invited people from the town and neighbors, cooked a typical Canarian dish, served their own wine, and set up their own 'tenderete' party.

Musicians with traditional Canarian instruments would also join, and dances were organized. These gatherings became the go-to place for meeting a romantic partner.

The word ‘Guachinche’ comes from the English expression 'I’m watching you!’ – ‘¡Te estoy vigilando!’

The English would tell the Canarians, 'I’m watching you!’ to let them know they wanted to taste and buy wine. The Canarians understood this as '¿Hay un guachinche?'

It’s also said that the word Guachinche comes from Bochinche, a synonym for uproar, which is still used today in Gran Canaria.

How to Find a Guachinche?

When you're a tourist on vacation in Tenerife, it can be tricky to find the best guachinches. To save you from searching “guachinches near me” online, we’ve created this guide featuring guachinches and restaurants in Tenerife, categorized by type and municipality.

If you’re unsure where to start, don’t worry! At Guachinches Tenerife, we provide a guide with all the Guachinches, updated daily!

In the north of Tenerife, they are everywhere, and you won’t have any trouble finding them. They are usually concentrated in areas with high wine production.

However, these days you can find them all over the island, even in South Tenerife and the Metropolitan Area of Santa Cruz de Tenerife.

Discover Tenerife’s Hidden Gems

If you’re looking to uncover the best-kept secrets of Tenerife, don’t miss out on the hidden places found in the south of the island. These secret spots offer a unique and authentic experience that you won’t find anywhere else on the island.

From small mountain villages to cozy hidden coves, there’s a world of wonders to explore in Tenerife’s hidden gems. If you’re a nature lover, you’ll love discovering the lush mountains and winding trails scattered across the island’s hidden corners.

But Tenerife’s hidden gems aren’t just for adventure and nature enthusiasts. You’ll also find plenty of restaurants, bars, and cafés tucked away in the streets of the island, including the famous <strong>guachinches</strong>. These family-run restaurants offer an authentic gastronomic experience with local dishes and homemade wines.

For a truly unique experience in Tenerife, you can’t miss the hidden and secret spots in the south of the island. Discover their charm for yourself and immerse yourself in the local culture!

Looking for a Unique Party Experience in Tenerife?

If so, don’t miss the chance to enjoy a boat party in the south of the island.

These types of parties are becoming increasingly popular in Tenerife, especially in the south, where you’ll find plenty of options to choose from. A boat party in southern Tenerife offers you the chance to enjoy the sun, sea breeze, and music in a fun, lively atmosphere.

Additionally, many of these boat parties include drinks and typical Canarian food, allowing you to enjoy a full day of carefree fun.

If you prefer partying on land, there are also plenty of options in southern Tenerife. You’ll find a variety of bars and clubs in tourist areas like Playa de las Américas or Los Cristianos, where you can enjoy live music and drinks at any time of the day or night.

Don’t miss the chance to experience the true nightlife of southern Tenerife. Come and have fun with a boat party or a night out on land!

Modern Guachinches of Tenerife

Guachinches are a vital part of Tenerife’s culinary culture. These traditional establishments typically serve homemade wine and typical Canarian dishes at affordable prices. However, modern guachinches in Tenerife have evolved to meet the needs of today’s customers.

If you’re looking for guachinches nearby, don’t worry — there are plenty to choose from! And if you’re planning a special celebration, some guachinches even offer private event spaces.

Nowadays, modern guachinches provide a more refined dining experience while maintaining the charm and authenticity of traditional guachinches. You can enjoy a wide variety of local dishes, from grilled meats to fresh fish and salads.

In short, if you’re looking for a unique culinary experience in Tenerife, you can’t miss visiting the guachinches. From traditional establishments to more modern ones, there are options for all tastes and occasions. So, go ahead and discover authentic Canarian cuisine at a guachinche near you!

The 5 Best Guachinches in Tenerife

If you’re looking for the best guachinches in northern Tenerife, here’s a list of five you can’t miss. The best guachinche in Tenerife may be subjective, but these five are undoubtedly among the most recommended on the island.

1. Casa Pedro – The Best Guachinche in Northern Tenerife

If you’re in Los Realejos, you can’t skip Casa Pedro. This guachinche has earned over 130 five-star reviews, making it one of the best guachinches in Tenerife. Guests particularly recommend the sweet potato salad and homemade almogrote.

2. Guachinche El Capitán – Another Must-Visit in Santa Úrsula

El Capitán is another of Tenerife’s top-rated guachinches, even though it doesn’t meet the minimum of 60 reviews we’ve set for this ranking. Nonetheless, it has plenty of positive feedback, especially for its goat meat, octopus, and desserts, as well as its excellent value for money.

3. Guachinche Romance – One of Tenerife’s Best

Located in La Orotava, El Romance is one of Tenerife’s best guachinches, according to over 260 TripAdvisor reviews, with an average rating of four and a half stars. It also has a terrace, which adds to its appeal. Highly recommended dishes include their “amazing croquettes,” excellent meats, and “eggs a la estampida.”

4. La Huerta de Ana y Eva – An Authentic Guachinche

Situated in La Matanza de Acentejo, La Huerta de Ana y Eva is an authentic guachinche that has won the hearts of TripAdvisor users. Highlights include their mushrooms with almogrote, grilled cheese, goat meat, and bichillo. Special mention goes to their ropa vieja.

5. El Talegazo – Grilled Meats and Homemade Wine

With a rating of over four stars, El Talegazo is another of Tenerife’s best guachinches, specializing in grilled meats. Their chickpeas and shredded meat croquettes also stand out. Wine lovers should not miss their homemade wines, both the red and the fruity white.

In conclusion, if you want to enjoy the gastronomy and typical atmosphere of the island, you can’t miss the experience of visiting one of the best guachinches in Tenerife.

How Do You Say 'Guachinche'?

This is a common question for visitors to Tenerife. Guachinches are typical Canarian places where you can enjoy homemade food, wine, and good company.

While its name may be confusing and there are variants like guchinche, guschinche, or wachinche, its origin lies in the term “bochinche,” which means “noise” or “commotion” in Canarian dialect.

Guachinches are a tradition in Tenerife, especially in the north, and every year, the Ruta de los Guachinches is celebrated to discover the island’s best ones.

So if you’re visiting Tenerife and want to experience something authentic, don’t hesitate to go guachincheando to discover the flavors and customs of the Canary Islands.

 What do they eat in a Guachinche?

In the most traditional Guachinches, you can enjoy authentic Canarian food. It’s advisable to ask for the house specialty or try small portions of each dish.

The most typical dishes of the Canary Islands are:

Canarian Grilled Cheese

Grilled Cheese

It is a soft goat cheese from the island, grilled and often served with mojos (Canarian sauces).

Thanks to a variety of native potatoes, we can taste incredibly flavorful potatoes, often served with mojos.

Wrinkled Potatoes

Thanks to a variety of native potatoes, we can taste incredibly flavorful potatoes, often served with mojos.

Canarian Mocha Sauces

The Mocha Sauces

They are typical sauces from the Canary Islands, often served with meats, fish, potatoes... The most popular mojos are mojo picón, mojo rojo, and mojo verde.

Canarian Chickpeas

Chickpeas

It is a traditional Canarian stew made with cooked chickpeas, ribs, pig’s feet, bacon, chorizo, and vegetables. A sofrito (sautéed mix of vegetables) is added and it is cooked slowly.

Gofio Stew

Gofio Stew

A typical Canarian dish for cold days, it consists of adding hot broth to gofio (a toasted cornmeal) and kneading it. The mixture is then seasoned with chopped garlic, spicy paprika, and sweet paprika.

Fiesta Meat

Fiesta Meat

Fiesta meat is perhaps the most well-known typical dish of Tenerife, named for being the regular dish at popular festivals. It is made with marinated pork meat and other seasonings, which are fried in abundant oil.

Canarian Stewed Octopus

Stewed Octopus

Octopus is highly appreciated by the people of Tenerife, consisting of octopus boiled with salt, vinegar, and pepper.

Rancho Canario

Rancho Canario

One of the most popular and traditional dishes of Canarian cuisine.

 Frequently Asked Questions about Guachinches

The Guachinches of Tenerife were culinary festivals held in Tenerife, Spain. Today, the tradition is maintained but with a more commercial approach.

They are characterized by the typical food of the island, such as wrinkled potatoes with mojo, fried fish, grilled meats, and fresh fish, accompanied by good live music. It’s a unique experience that allows you to enjoy the food and culture of Tenerife in a fun and relaxed way.

In a Guachinche, you can find a variety of typical dishes from the island of Tenerife. Here are some of the most popular dishes you can find in a Guachinche:

  • Wrinkled potatoes with mojo: potatoes cooked in salted water and served with a spicy sauce made from garlic, paprika, and olive oil.
  • Fried fish: fresh fish cut into strips and fried until golden and crispy.
  • Grilled meats: marinated pork or lamb grilled until tender and flavorful.
  • Fresh fish: freshly caught fish prepared in various ways, such as grilled, baked, or fried.

In addition to these typical dishes, you can also find vegetarian options and other traditional foods of the island in Guachinches.

The Guachinches of Tenerife can be found in different locations across the island of Tenerife, Spain. Some Guachinches are permanent establishments, while others are events that take place at different locations on different dates. You can find Guachinches in rural areas and on the outskirts of cities, and they are typically located in bars, restaurants, or farms.

If you're interested in attending a Guachinche, you can look for information in this guide or ask the locals to find one near you. You can also consult tourist guides or travel agencies for information about Guachinches and how to get to them.

In a Guachinche, in addition to enjoying the food, you can also enjoy traditional drinks from Tenerife. Here are some of the most popular drinks you can find in a Guachinche:

  • Tenerife wines: Tenerife is known for its wines, especially its red wines made from local grape varieties such as Listán Negro or Negramoll.
  • Beer: you can find local and national beers in the Guachinches.
  • Honey rum: a sweet and fruity rum produced in Tenerife.
  • Cocktails: some Guachinches offer cocktails made with local products like honey rum or Tenerife wine.

In addition to these drinks, you can also find non-alcoholic options such as soft drinks, water, and natural juices. The important thing is to enjoy the experience and choose the drink you like best.

Yes, in many Guachinches of Tenerife, you can enjoy live music or DJs. Music is an important part of the Guachinche experience and can vary from traditional Canarian music to modern music. Some Guachinches have live music with local bands playing traditional instruments like the timple or the bagpipes, while others have DJs playing electronic or dance music.

Music in a Guachinche is usually an important part of the evening and can help create a lively and fun atmosphere. It’s also common for people to dance and sing along to the music, which makes the experience even more fun and unforgettable.

Distinctive V Plate of Guachinche
Distinctive V Plate of Guachinche

The «V» in Guachinches refers to the traditional «Vendimia» (harvest) festival in Tenerife, which is a popular celebration during the grape harvest season. During this time, Guachinches are places where people gather to celebrate and enjoy food, wine, and music.

During the Vendimia, you can find a wide variety of dishes typical of the season, such as grilled meats, stews, and fresh fish, as well as freshly made wines and beers. It’s also common to find live music, traditional dances, and games.

The Vendimia is an important tradition in Tenerife, and Guachinches are a key part of it, offering a unique and authentic experience for visitors.

It depends on the Guachinche in question. Some Guachinches are events that take place on different dates and locations, in which case it is not necessary to make a reservation. However, for permanent Guachinches, it may be necessary to make a reservation in advance, especially during peak season or on weekends.

If you're interested in visiting a Guachinche in Tenerife, I recommend calling or emailing to confirm whether a reservation is needed. This will ensure you have a guaranteed spot and avoid potential disappointment or unnecessary waiting. Additionally, by making a reservation in advance, you can ensure that the Guachinche will be open and that a table will be available at the date and time you wish to visit.