When Pope Leo XIV arrives in the Canary Islands, the visit will be marked by major public events, meetings focused on migration and historic celebrations across Gran Canaria and Tenerife. Yet among the many details surrounding the Pontiff’s first trip to the archipelago, one question has captured plenty of attention: what will he eat?
The answer is a carefully curated menu showcasing some of the finest products and flavours from across the Canary Islands.
Prepared by Hoteles Escuela de Canarias (Hecansa), the meals will serve as a culinary introduction to Canarian culture, combining traditional ingredients, local produce and the expertise of hospitality professionals and students trained in the islands.
A Showcase of Canarian Gastronomy
The Diocese of the Canary Islands has entrusted Hecansa, the public hospitality training organisation operated by the Canary Islands Government, with preparing and serving the Pope’s meals during his stay.
A team of hospitality professionals and culinary students will oversee the service, turning the occasion into an opportunity to highlight the quality, diversity and authenticity of Canarian cuisine.
Bishop José Mazuelos described the collaboration as a unique chance to present the richness of the islands through food, reflecting the traditions, produce and culinary heritage that define the Canary Islands.
From Volcanic Wines to Black Potatoes
Although the full menu has not been publicly revealed, several standout ingredients have already been confirmed.
Among them are:
• Black Canarian potatoes (papas negras)
• Canarian black pig
• Watercress cream soup
• Gofio
• Artisan cheeses from Fuerteventura and Gran Canaria
• Locally produced olive oils
• Fresh seasonal fruit
• Traditional Canarian desserts
• Pineapple from El Hierro
• Coffee grown in the Canary Islands
The menu will also feature wines from Lanzarote, including the Reserva de Familia 2022 from Bodegas El Grifo, produced from the island’s renowned Malvasía Volcánica grapes.
Lunch from the Land, Dinner from the Sea
The structure of the meals has been designed to showcase both sides of the archipelago’s culinary identity.
Lunch will focus on meat dishes, including products such as Canarian black pig, while dinner will highlight fish and seafood, reflecting the islands’ strong connection to the Atlantic Ocean.
The aim is to offer a balanced gastronomic experience that represents the diversity of the Canary Islands’ landscapes, traditions and produce.
A Sweet Tribute to One of the Pope’s Favourite Flavours
Organisers have also included a personalised touch.
According to those involved in planning the visit, Pope Leo XIV is known to enjoy chocolate. As a result, dessert will include a chocolate-inspired creation alongside some of the islands’ most representative ingredients.
The combination seeks to introduce the Pontiff to authentic Canarian flavours while adding a thoughtful nod to one of his favourite treats.
A Global Showcase for the Canary Islands
Canarian Minister for Tourism and Employment Jéssica de León highlighted the international significance of Hecansa’s involvement in the visit.
She described the occasion as both a historic event and a major responsibility, adding that it offers a unique opportunity to showcase the quality of Canarian products, the talent of local professionals and the high standards achieved by students training within the islands’ hospitality sector.
De León also emphasised the pride of seeing a public Canarian institution play an active role in an event of such international importance, noting that Hecansa embodies the professionalism, hospitality and service excellence that have become hallmarks of the Canary Islands.
A Unique Experience for Future Hospitality Professionals
Hecansa Chief Executive Paola Plasencia described the assignment as a recognition of the work carried out by the organisation and its teams.
She explained that the centres combine specialised training with real-world hospitality experiences, making the Pope’s visit an exceptional opportunity for both students and professionals to demonstrate their skills on an international stage.
For those involved, the event represents not only a professional challenge but also a chance to participate directly in a moment that will become part of Canarian history.
A Visit That Will Make History
The visit of Pope Leo XIV on 11 and 12 June 2026 will be the first ever papal visit to the Canary Islands.
His schedule includes meetings with migrants in Arguineguín, visits to reception centres, official engagements and large religious celebrations in both Gran Canaria and Tenerife.
While thousands of people prepare to welcome him at events across the islands, a dedicated team of chefs, hospitality professionals and students is putting the finishing touches on a menu designed to introduce the Pope to the true flavours of the Canary Islands, from black potatoes and Canarian black pig to artisan cheeses, El Hierro pineapple, gofio and coffee grown on volcanic soil.