The Taste of the Canary Islands: 9 Best Restaurants and Local Food in Gran Canaria
June 11, 2025
Gran Canaria, the pearl of the Canary Islands, is not only a paradise for sun and beach lovers, but also a true feast for the palate. The island offers an extraordinary wealth of flavors, combining traditional Canarian recipes with modern culinary trends. In this article, we'll take you on a journey through 9 of Gran Canaria's best restaurants, where you can sample authentic local dishes and enjoy an unforgettable dining experience. From picturesque harbor eateries to elegant restaurants overlooking the ocean, each of these places has its own unique atmosphere and menu that will delight even the most discerning foodies. Get ready for an explosion of flavors, aromas and colors that define Canarian cuisine. Discover with us why Gran Canaria is a paradise not only for beachgoers, but also for true lovers of good food.
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The best restaurants in Gran Canaria's port towns
Start our culinary journey from Gran Canaria's charming port towns, where tradition meets seafood freshness.
I Love Mogán is a gem tucked away in picturesque Puerto de Mogán. This small restaurant impresses not only with its taste, but also with its location. Guests praise the fresh seafood, purchased directly from local fishermen. The specialty of the establishment is dishes prepared with extreme care for every detail. Although the prices are quite high, they are adequate to the quality of the dishes served. It is worth noting the fantastic service, which makes guests feel at home.
Let's now move to the island's capital, where we find Restaurante La Quilla, located on the famous Las Canteras beach. This place is famous for its delicious paella, which many guests describe as one of the best they've eaten. The restaurant offers not only seafood, but also meat dishes such as excellent steaks. Prices are moderate and portions are generous. Particularly recommended are the seafood paella and the shrimp in oil and garlic as a starter.
Another spot on our map is Restaurante Balcon Canario in Mogán. This is a place that attracts visitors not only for its taste, but also for its view. The restaurant offers large portions at affordable prices. Guests especially praise the soups - fish and spinach with chickpeas. Traditional meat and fish dishes are also worth trying here. Although some guests point out the uneven quality of some dishes (such as fries), the overall impression is very positive.
The three restaurants have a few things in common: they all offer fresh, local ingredients, with a special focus on seafood. However, they differ in atmosphere and prices. I Love Mogán is a more upscale, intimate place with higher prices, while La Quilla and Balcon Canario offer more affordable prices and larger portions. Each of these restaurants has its own unique character, reflecting Gran Canaria's culinary diversity.
When going to these places, it is worth remembering to make reservations, especially during high season. All three restaurants are popular with tourists and locals alike, a testament to their high quality and the authenticity of the dishes they serve. Whether you're looking for a romantic dinner overlooking the harbor or a family paella dinner, these restaurants are sure to meet your expectations and introduce you to the true flavors of Gran Canaria.
Traditional flavors in a modern way
In this part of our culinary journey, we will focus on restaurants that combine the traditional flavors of Gran Canaria with a modern approach to cuisine. These places show how the richness of local ingredients can be interpreted in innovative ways.
Let's start with Restaurante Deliciosa Marta, which impresses guests with its unique approach to Canarian cuisine. The restaurant is known for its excellent service and creative dishes. Guests especially praise the gnocchi with truffles and parmesan cheese and the bread baked on site. A unique dish to try here is the specially prepared suckling pig with a crispy crust. Prices are moderate, and the value for money is rated as very good. The atmosphere of the restaurant is elegant, making it an ideal place for a special dinner.
Another spot on our map is Restaurante Qué leche!, which attracts guests not only with its taste, but also with its unusual decor. The restaurant offers exquisite dishes at affordable prices. Guests especially praise the octopus sofrito and the potato purée with roast beef. Note the creative desserts, which are a real feast for the palate. The downside may be the sometimes slower service, but the quality of the food more than makes up for it.
Restaurante Los 5 Sentidos is a place that, as the name suggests, seeks to stimulate all the senses of its guests. The restaurant is famous for its excellent steaks and fresh fish. Guests especially recommend a dish called 'Secret of Iberian Pork'. The atmosphere here is more casual than in the previous two restaurants, and the prices are moderate. This is an ideal place for those who appreciate high quality meat and fish.
The three restaurants share an innovative approach to traditional Canarian cuisine. Each offers a unique dining experience, using local ingredients in creative ways. However, they differ in atmosphere and type of cuisine. Deliciosa Marta focuses on elegance and sophistication, Qué leche! for creativity and unusual flavor combinations, and Los 5 Sentidos focuses on perfectly prepared meats and fish.
Prices at these restaurants are similar - all are in the moderate to higher range. However, it's worth remembering that you're not just paying for the food here, but also for the overall dining experience.
When going to any of these restaurants, it's a good idea to book a table in advance, especially during high season. Each offers a unique tasting menu that allows you to experience a wide range of flavors in one meal. This is an ideal option for those who want to fully experience the creativity of the chefs.
These restaurants show that Canarian cuisine is not only about traditional dishes, but also a place for culinary innovation. By combining local ingredients with modern culinary techniques, they create unforgettable taste experiences that linger in guests' memories.
Authentic flavors of Gran Canaria in a rustic way
In the final part of our culinary journey in Gran Canaria, we will focus on restaurants that offer the most authentic and rustic culinary experiences. These places allow guests to immerse themselves in the true flavors of the island, often in unique locations.
Let's start with Restaurante Las Cañadas, located in the picturesque scenery of Gran Canaria's mountains. This place is famous for its grilled dishes, including the local specialty - goat meat. Guests praise not only the food, but also the amazing atmosphere and views. The restaurant also offers options for children, making it an ideal place for a family dinner. Prices are affordable and portions are generous. Of note is the mango cheesecake, which is a real hit among desserts.
Another spot on our map is Viejo Rincón, a hidden gem in Santa Lucía de Tirajana. This atmospheric restaurant offers delicious regional dishes at affordable prices. Guests especially praise the octopus, which is soft and flavorful, and the traditional papas arrugadas (wrinkled potatoes). The soup of the day and local cheeses are also worth trying. The restaurant has a reputation for being a place you want to return to, a testament to the high quality of the dishes on offer.
Finally, visit Restaurante Vega (Guayadeque), located in the fascinating Guayadeque Gorge. This place combines stunning views with authentic Canarian cuisine. The restaurant is partially carved into the rock, which adds to its unique character. Guests praise the traditional dishes, such as Ropa Vieja (a type of stew) and fresh fish. Note the local wine, which pairs perfectly with the food served.
What these three restaurants have in common is authenticity and a commitment to traditional Canarian cuisine. Each offers a unique culinary experience, often in an unusual setting. However, they differ in location and specialties. Las Cañadas is famous for its grilled meats, Viejo Rincón for seafood, and Vega for traditional Canarian dishes.
Prices at all three restaurants are affordable, which, combined with the high quality of the food and unique locations, makes them very attractive to visitors. However, it is worth remembering that due to their location outside of the main tourist centers, getting to them may require renting a car or using local transportation.
When going to any of these restaurants, it's a good idea to reserve a table, especially on weekends and in high season. They are popular with tourists and locals alike, a testament to their authenticity and high quality.
These restaurants offer more than just a meal - they are a true cultural experience. They allow guests to immerse themselves in the authentic flavors of Gran Canaria, often surrounded by breathtaking landscapes. They are the ideal choice for those who want to experience the true face of Canarian cuisine and the hospitality of the island's inhabitants.
To sum up our culinary journey in Gran Canaria, we can say that the island offers an incredibly diverse gastronomic experience. From elegant restaurants in seaside resorts, to innovative establishments combining tradition with modernity, to rustic taverns in mountain villages, there is something for everyone. Whether you're looking for fresh seafood, traditional meat dishes or creative interpretations of local cuisine, Gran Canaria is sure to satisfy your appetite and leave you with unforgettable culinary memories.
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