A guide to food and drink in La Palma
You’re going to find that the treasures of the deep make for plentiful dining options in La Palma, although there’s lots of traditional and rustic food to tuck into too. Restaurants around here lean on the side of home cooked dishes that nourish and motivate, so expect wholesome flavours and a wealth of both farmer’s and fisherman’s fare.
Exploring La Palma's delicacies
Being surrounded by the Atlantic Ocean means that La Palma is seafood heaven and all produce has been caught earlier that day. Local residents mostly eat pork, but meat is usually served grilled, deep fried or in a stew or a paella. The local Canarian dish of Papas Arrugadas – salty jacket potatoes served with a spicy mojo sauce – is hugely popular with locals and tourists alike and is an absolute must-try if visiting La Palma.
If you simply can’t end the evening without some wine, you can be assured that those produced locally are exemplary in body, flavour and flair. Teneguia, El Tendal, La Traviesa and Malvasia are the most popular vineyards and their flavours are often only available to try on the island. On the other hand, if it’s a tall glass of the golden good stuff you’re after, La Palma’s got plenty to keep your thirst abated. The local brewery, Cerveceria Isla Verde, provides beers which are available across the island. The Danza de Diablo beer is a dark stout and the Picara is one of the lighter, blonde options.
Rustic charm at El Pulpo, Los Cancajos
With over 40 years of service this beachside restaurant has become infamous on La Palma for its fresh fish and seafood, paellas, soups and traditional Canarian cuisine. The relaxed vibe and simplicity of the restaurant is part of its charm and having been a go-to destination since 1971, there’s no denying that the place is doing something right. Prices are extremely reasonable too.
The whole package at Restaurant Enriclai, Santa Cruz de la Palma
With friendly owners and staff, ever-changing seasonal dishes, great wine options and an intimate atmosphere, Enriclai really is the whole package. The extraordinary 200-year-old building adds to the charm too. The menu consists of traditional Canarian and international options and is mid-range in price.
Meat-lovers delight at Restaurante Chipi-Chipi, Santa Cruz de la Palma
A bit of a strange name yes, but this restaurant is the perfect option if wanting hearty BBQ and meat dishes usually served with Papas Arrugadas – the local potato dish. The restaurant is set among gorgeous gardens, with courtyard dining areas adding to the already magical aspect of getting great food for such a reasonable price.
Quick and delicious at Tapas y Trekking, El Paso
Located in a picturesque cobbled square next to a beautiful church, this is the perfect option for a quick lunch visit. The range of tapas dishes and platters is extensive, with plenty of options for vegetarians too, but it does get busy in the summer time, so make sure you get there in good time.
Dessert delights at Heladomania, Santa Cruz de la Palma
This wonderful little ice cream parlour with a seated area out the front serves artisan ice cream on the spot. Fresh coffee and other desserts are also available here. It’s a known fact that calories don’t exist whilst you’re on holiday, so make sure you don’t miss this little gem.