Santa Cruz de la Palma is known for its delicious and diverse Canarian cuisine, which combines traditional Spanish flavors with African and Latin American influences. One of the most famous dishes from the Canary Islands is “Papas arrugadas,” small, wrinkled potatoes boiled in seawater and served with a spicy sauce called “mojo.” The dish is simple yet flavorful and is a staple at most local restaurants.
Seafood is abundant in Santa Cruz, and visitors can enjoy a variety of fresh fish and shellfish dishes. “Sancocho,” a salted fish stew, is one of the region’s signature meals, often served with “gofio,” a type of flour made from roasted grains. Another local favorite is “ropa vieja,” a dish made from slow-cooked beef or chicken with chickpeas, peppers, and spices.
The city also boasts numerous small cafés and bakeries where visitors can sample traditional pastries, such as “bienmesabe,” a sweet almond dessert. Local wines and rum, produced on the island, complement any meal, offering a true taste of La Palma’s culinary heritage.