Food & Nightlife

Gran Canaria's cuisine shares the basics with the other Canary Islands — Papas arrugadas, Mojo sauces, Gofio — but also has its own specialties that you should definitely try.

Typical Dishes of Gran Canaria:

• Ropa vieja canaria — The Canarian chickpea stew with beef, chicken, and vegetables is particularly popular on Gran Canaria and is served in practically every traditional bodega. Portion: 8–12 €.
• Sancocho canario — The island's festive dish: salted fish (Cherne, Sama), cooked with sweet potatoes, potatoes, and Gofio, served with Mojo. Only in traditional restaurants, 12–18 €.
• Chorizo de Teror — The soft, spreadable paprika sausage from the mountain village of Teror is a unique feature of the Canary Islands. Best on fresh bread (Pan de puño). Available at the Sunday market in Teror or in supermarkets (approx. 4 €/piece).
• Queso de flor de Guía — Semi-hard cheese made from sheep's milk, coagulated with artichoke thistle extract (instead of animal rennet). Protected designation of origin, slightly floral taste. From 12 €/kg at markets.
• Bienmesabe — Dessert made from ground almonds, sugar, egg yolk, lemon, and cinnamon. Sinfully sweet and a Canarian tradition since the 16th century.
• Ron Miel — Honey rum, the national drink of the Canary Islands. As a digestif after a meal or on ice. A bottle of Arehucas Ron Miel costs about 8 € in the supermarket.

Restaurant Tips:

• Mercado del Puerto (Las Palmas) — The converted market hall is the best food court in the Canary Islands: over 30 stands with Japanese, Peruvian, Canarian, Italian cuisine. Tapas from 4 €, cocktails from 6 €. Live DJs on Friday and Saturday evenings.
• Restaurante El Herreño (Las Palmas, Vegueta) — Since 1960, a traditional restaurant with excellent Canarian cuisine. Sancocho and Ropa vieja in perfection. Main courses: 10–15 €.
• La Aquarela (Playa del Hombre) — Michelin recommendation, creative fusion cuisine with Atlantic panorama. Tasting menu: 65 €.
• Restaurante Grill La Cumbre (San Mateo) — Mountain restaurant with grilled meat and panoramic views. Costillas (ribs): 9 €. Reserve on Sundays!

Nightlife:

• Las Palmas (Vegueta/Triana) — The streets around Plaza de Santo Domingo and Calle Pelota are full of bars and clubs on weekends. Craft beer, cocktails, live music. Beer: 2.50–3.50 €.
• Las Palmas (Mesa y López) — More modern nightlife district with rooftop bars and lounges.
• Playa del Inglés (Yumbo Centrum) — Over 200 bars, clubs, and restaurants on several floors. International crowd, LGBTQ+-friendly, partying until 6 a.m.
• Maspalomas (Meloneras) — More upscale nightlife with cocktail bars on the promenade. Quieter than Playa del Inglés.