Guachinches – Tenerife
If you’re looking for a taste of authentic Canarian culture, you’ve got to check out the guachinches! These local eateries are where you’ll find some of the best homemade food, paired with delicious wines from the region. It’s all about that casual vibe—just grab a seat, dig into some traditional dishes, and soak up the atmosphere. Don’t miss out on the chance to chat with locals and make some new friends while you enjoy your meal. Trust us, it’s an experience you won’t forget!
Guachinches: Tenerife and the typical flavors of the Canary Islands; These wonderful and popular “restaurants” are meeting spots for tourists and anyone nostalgic for the tastes and flavors of the past.
Guachinches are true hideaways located in the homes of anyone wanting to share the flavors of Tenerife and meet the requirements to do so, like having their own local wine. Often found in wineries, garages, caves, or terraces, guachinches are an awesome way to experience Canarian cuisine at an affordable price. Just because they’re in private homes doesn’t make them any less welcoming or “functional.” It’s not unusual to find guachinches that can host a few dozen people!
The name itself doesn’t really mean anything, and there are actually different theories about where it comes from. The most popular one says it’s a twist on the English phrase “I’m watching you.” So, it’s like saying, I’m keeping an eye on you. Another commonly mentioned idea is that it comes from “water and bugs,” thanks to the term becoming more and more popular.
The dishes served here are homemade, but the real star is the wine. These spots revolve around everything related to wine production and enjoyment. Many guachinches only stay open throughout the year if they still have their own wine to serve. At that point, it’s all about waiting for the next harvest. Plus, due to legal reasons, these places can only stay open for a maximum of 4 months each year.
Guachinches – How to find them?
These restaurants often have little signs saying “vino aquí” or “guachinche,” but since they’re not real restaurants, they can be tricky to find; if that’s the case, just ask any local and they’ll definitely point you to at least one. The oldest and most traditional ones are found in small mountain towns, especially around Tacoronte and La Orotava. Now let’s talk money: guachinches are incredibly cheap: you usually spend less than 10 € per person (wine included!). Plus, when cooking at home, the portions are huge and the dishes are super tasty.
Each restaurant can whip up a maximum of 3 different dishes, but you’ll often find meals made with pork, potatoes, and chickpeas.
Tenerife Restaurants – Exploring the “Gastronomic Routes”
Gastronomic routes are a delicious way for foodies to explore the island of Tenerife. There aren’t any strict rules for creating your own gastronomic journey—it’s actually pretty common to go with the flow. But if you prefer a little guidance, some organizations offer tours and guides that can be a great option for those who want to take it easy.
In Tenerife, you can savor every step of the agricultural market, tasting local Canarian goodies like potatoes, bananas, mojo sauce, and tropical fruits, all the way to a restaurant. Of course, you can’t miss out on tapas, guachinches, and a frozen Dorada! The hidden flavors of Tenerife are waiting for you, and to truly experience them, you’ll need to seek them out and enjoy them in a natural spot in the hills.
A day trip is all it takes, so why not swing by one of our Nests Hostels and join in on one of our culinary activities? We can’t wait to see you!
Here you can check out the list of all the guachinches sorted by city or south/northGuachinches Tenerife
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