With just six tables, La Hormiga in La Laguna has quietly become one of Tenerife’s best-kept culinary secrets, winning over diners with its imaginative take on traditional Canarian cuisine.
The cosy tasca combines local flavours with modern creativity, offering familiar dishes with unexpected twists while maintaining the warmth and authenticity of a neighbourhood restaurant.
Recently visited by Tenerife food creators @guachinchesmodernos, the restaurant received glowing reviews for both its atmosphere and its inventive menu.
“The dishes are different, and the place is really cosy,” they said after their visit.
A Creative Spin on Canarian Classics
The meal began with freshly baked bread served alongside homemade lemon, garlic and parsley butter, a simple touch that immediately impressed the visitors.
Among the starters they sampled were:
- Herreño cheese served with traditional mojo sauces and quince vinaigrette.
- Crispy Iberian ham béchamel with artichokes.
- Black pig empanadillas accompanied by a coconut and curry sauce.
The standout dish, however, was the restaurant’s duck ropa vieja, an original interpretation of one of the Canary Islands’ most iconic recipes.
Rather than following the traditional beef-based version, La Hormiga has created a lighter, more refined variation using duck, while preserving the rich flavours that make the dish a local favourite.
The food creators praised the restaurant for reimagining classic recipes without losing their essence.
“I love places that give traditional dishes a new twist while staying true to their roots.”
Homemade Desserts Complete the Experience
To round off the meal, they opted for the homemade tiramisu after being told the rice pudding and custard were still finishing in the kitchen.
The intimate dining room, with space for only six tables, is part of the restaurant’s charm, although it also means reservations are strongly recommended, particularly at weekends.
Now celebrating eight years since opening, La Hormiga has established itself as one of La Laguna’s favourite spots for contemporary Canarian cuisine.
Where to Find It
La Hormiga is located at Calle Anchieta, 7, in the historic centre of San Cristóbal de La Laguna.
The restaurant holds an impressive 4.7-star rating on Google, with diners regularly praising both the quality of the food and the friendly service.
Opening hours are:
- Wednesday to Saturday: 1:00pm to 4:30pm and 8:00pm to 11:00pm.
- Sunday: Lunch service only.
- Monday and Tuesday: Closed.
For anyone looking to experience Canarian cuisine with a fresh, creative twist, La Hormiga offers a memorable dining experience in one of Tenerife’s most charming historic towns.