Santa Cruz is a paradise for food lovers, offering a culinary experience that combines traditional Canarian flavors with modern influences. The local cuisine revolves around fresh, local ingredients, with seafood playing a prominent role in many dishes. Popular dishes include papas arrugadas (wrinkled potatoes) served with mojo sauce, grilled fish, and gofio, a type of flour made from roasted grains that is a staple in Canarian diets.
Seafood lovers will find plenty to savor, from fresh tuna and octopus to the famous vieja fish, which is typically served grilled with Canarian herbs. For meat eaters, roasted meats such as cabrito (goat) and conejo (rabbit) are traditional favorites. Pair these dishes with local wines from the nearby vineyards, which are known for their unique volcanic terroir.
Santa Cruz’s lively food markets, such as the Mercado Central, are ideal places to explore local produce and enjoy street food. The city is also home to a variety of restaurants, ranging from traditional guachinches (small, family-run eateries) to upscale establishments offering gourmet interpretations of Canarian cuisine.