Tasca El Guanche

Tasca El Guanche is a traditional Canarian tasca — a small, unpretentious eating house — in the heart of Puerto de la Cruz, one of Tenerife's oldest and most historically layered resort towns on the northern coast of the island in the Canary Islands. Puerto de la Cruz was the first major resort town of Tenerife, attracting northern European visitors from the 19th century, and retains an older, more characterful atmosphere than the southern resorts. Tasca El Guanche sits on Calle Blanco in the historic centre, a short walk from the famous black lava pools of Lago Martiánez and the traditional fishing quarter of La Ranilla. The name references the Guanche, the indigenous Berber-descended people of the Canary Islands, and the kitchen honours that heritage through a menu of simple, honest Canarian cooking at very affordable prices. Potaje canario — a thick vegetable and legume stew — is the daily anchor of the menu, varying slightly according to what has arrived from the suppliers that morning. Papas arrugadas are prepared with mineral-tasting local potatoes and the house mojo rojo and verde are made from scratch. Gofio amasado — the roasted grain dough that has been a Guanche staple for millennia — appears as a side or starter. Fresh fish is available grilled, typically accompanied by Canarian sauces. The atmosphere is quiet and neighbourhood-oriented, frequented by local workers at lunch and residents in the early evening. Prices are low: mains average €11 and a full meal rarely exceeds €20 per person. Closed on Sundays.