There are some places in Tenerife where the food is only half the reason for stopping.
Restaurante El Guanche, in Masca, is one of them. The restaurant has been serving traditional Canarian food for years, combining familiar island dishes with views that are difficult to ignore.
For anyone exploring Masca, it has become a popular stop for a proper taste of Tenerife rather than just another quick coffee and a sandwich.
Traditional Canarian dishes
The menu focuses on the flavours and ingredients associated with the Canary Islands.
Among the dishes available are papas arrugadas with homemade mojo, gofio escaldón, homemade croquettes and sweet potato salad.
There is also fresh battered cheese served with homemade cactus chutney and cinnamon mojo, which is a slightly different take on some familiar local ingredients.
One of the restaurant’s more unusual specialities is the ‘El Guanche’ torta, a traditional dish from Masca made with corn flour, egg, onion and oregano.
There are also vegetarian and vegan options, so you don’t necessarily have to be a committed meat eater to find something worth ordering.
Friendly service and reasonable prices
Food is one thing, but the experience matters too.
Customers regularly mention the friendly and attentive service, with the staff offering a welcoming approach that encourages people to return.
The restaurant is also noted for its value for money, particularly given its location and the views available while eating.
Masca isn’t exactly short of scenery, so having a plate of traditional Canarian food in front of you while looking out across the valley isn’t a bad way to spend an afternoon.
Where to find Restaurante El Guanche
Restaurante El Guanche is located at Calle El Lomito, s/n, in Masca.
The restaurant currently has a 4.8-star rating on Google, reflecting the positive feedback from customers who have visited for its traditional dishes, service and setting.
Opening hours are:
Sunday to Thursday: 12:00 to 16:00
Friday and Saturday: Closed
If you’re heading to Masca, this is one to keep in mind if you fancy sitting down to a proper Canarian lunch rather than simply admiring the view and carrying on.