Arrecife’s culinary scene is heavily influenced by the island’s fishing tradition and the availability of fresh, locally sourced ingredients. Seafood is a staple in most dishes, with octopus, squid, and fish like parrotfish being popular choices. One of the most famous local dishes is sancocho, a salted fish stew typically served with sweet potatoes and a sauce known as mojo, which comes in both red and green varieties.
The city also offers a variety of tapas bars where visitors can enjoy small plates of traditional Canarian dishes such as papas arrugadas (wrinkled potatoes) served with mojo sauce, gofio (a roasted grain flour used in many dishes), and ropa vieja, a hearty meat and chickpea stew.
For wine enthusiasts, the nearby La Geria region, famous for its volcanic vineyards, offers wines that pair perfectly with the local cuisine. Restaurants in Arrecife often highlight these wines, particularly the sweet Malvasía variety.