Social Media Drives Revival of Traditional Canarian Cuisine in Tenerife
Social media influencers are helping preserve Tenerife’s culinary heritage by highlighting authentic, long-standing establishments like Casa Paca that resist the trend of generic, tourist-focused dining.
Preserving traditional food in rural areas of the Canary Islands is gaining popularity, thanks in part to social media accounts like @guachinchesmodernos. These creators highlight how historic establishments, such as Casa Paca in the Caserío de Benijo, are essential to Tenerife’s food culture. They serve as guardians of tradition, standing firm against the rise of generic, tourist-focused dining.
For over 45 years, Casa Paca has been a staple of the Anaga region. Its success comes from keeping its menu simple and authentic, focusing on local ingredients and traditional cooking methods. Signature dishes include stewed octopus, squid in sauce, and rabbit in salmorejo, all served with classic papas arrugadas (wrinkled potatoes). Diners can choose between half or full portions, making it easy to enjoy a full meal that often ends with a traditional quesillo dessert.
Beyond the food, the restaurant is known for its reliability. Located at 8 Caserío de Benijo in Santa Cruz de Tenerife, it is open daily from 10:00 a.m. to 9:00 p.m. This consistency has earned it a 4.5-star rating online, reflecting high praise from visitors looking for an authentic experience. As local food becomes a key part of sustainable tourism, places like Casa Paca remain vital to protecting the island’s culinary heritage.