Guachinches — Tenerife's Culinary Secret

A Guachinche (pronounced: "Gwa-TSCHIN-tsche") is something that exists only on Tenerife and is a must-experience for any gourmet: a kind of illegal living room restaurant where winemakers serve their own wine along with simple food — in the garage, backyard, or living room.

The history: Canary winemakers are traditionally allowed to sell their own wine directly to guests without needing a full restaurant license. The concept dates back to the 19th century when British sailors asked, "What do you sell?" — which became "Guachinche" in Canary Spanish.

What to expect?

• No sign, no advertising: Guachinches are found through word of mouth (or now via apps like "Buen Guachinche"). A piece of cardboard with an arrow at the street corner is often the only sign
• Simple food: Typical dishes include Carne en Salsa (meat in sauce), Costillas con Piñas (ribs with corn cobs), Papas arrugadas, cheese, Chorizo — homemade, plentiful, extremely cheap
• House wine: The winemaker's wine, from the barrel — sometimes great, sometimes an acquired taste, always authentic. A liter rarely costs more than 3–5 €
• Atmosphere: Plastic chairs, paper napkins, neon light — but a warmth and hospitality that no Michelin-starred restaurant can match
• Only temporarily open: A Guachinche can only open as long as its own wine lasts — then it closes, sometimes for weeks, sometimes for months

The best Guachinches are found in the north of Tenerife — around Tacoronte, La Matanza, La Victoria, and El Sauzal. Go on weekdays at lunchtime when the Canarians themselves eat there.