Canary Islands Hotel Schools Offer Public Taste of Pope’s Official Visit Menu
The Canary Islands Hotel Schools are now offering the public a chance to dine on the same menu prepared for Pope Leo XIV during his visit to the region last June.
The menu served to Pope Leo XIV during his visit to the Canary Islands last June is now available to the public. The Canary Islands Hotel Schools (Hecansa) are offering diners at their Gran Canaria and Tenerife locations the chance to experience the same dishes enjoyed by the pontiff, turning a high-profile diplomatic event into a showcase for local cuisine.
The menu was the result of six months of careful planning. Led by head chef Borja Fleitas of the Hotel Escuela Santa Brígida, the team followed strict Vatican guidelines, which included a preference for chocolate and no specific dietary restrictions. The final selection highlighted island ingredients, such as gofio from Hermigua, black pork, local cheeses, and regional wines. Before the papal visit, the menu underwent a rigorous review by representatives of the Bishopric of the Canary Islands and the Holy See.
A team of twelve professionals, including staff and students, served the Pope and his entourage at the Episcopal Palace of Vegueta. The meals were tailored to the time of day: lunch featured scarlet shrimp salads and citrus pastries, while dinner included regional charcuterie, watercress cream soup, and sea bass with rice. Breakfast was more modest, focusing on goat dairy and cold cuts.
Chef Fleitas, who has previously cooked for the Spanish Royal Family and NBA players, received a commemorative medal from the Pope for his service. While Hecansa is currently considering whether to make this menu a permanent fixture, the public can now experience it for 25 euros. This initiative offers a unique look at a visit that, due to its official nature, was previously restricted to those within the Pope’s inner circle.