A combination of African, Spanish and Latin-American dishes appear in Gran Canarias' gastronomy, with original creations like Polvitos Uruguayos (a light cheesecake with dulce de leche), chipirones con mojo verde (grilled squid in a herby sauce) and the popular bienmesabe (a dense pastry made of almonds). And don't miss the ultra-fresh tropical fruits during your Canary Island cruise.

The local cuisine of Gran Canaria is a flavorful reflection of the island’s diverse heritage, blending Spanish, African, and Latin American influences into a unique and deeply rooted culinary tradition. With an abundance of fresh ingredients from both land and sea, Gran Canaria offers a gastronomic journey that’s as authentic as it is satisfying — where every dish tells a story of culture, history, and island life.

One of the most iconic local specialties is “papas arrugadas”, or wrinkled potatoes, boiled in sea salt and served with the famous mojo sauces — either the spicy red mojo picón or the herby green mojo verde. These small but mighty potatoes are a staple at any Canarian table. Alongside them, local cheeses, particularly the award-winning goat and flower cheeses, are a must-try, offering rich textures and flavors shaped by the island’s volcanic soil and traditional farming methods.

On the coast, fresh fish is king — species like vieja, cherne, or sama are grilled or featured in dishes like sancocho canario, a salted fish stew served with sweet potato, gofio (toasted cereal flour), and, of course, mojo. Gofio, in fact, is a central ingredient in Canarian cuisine, dating back to the island’s aboriginal Guanche people, and is still used today in soups, desserts, and even breakfast.

To end on a sweet note, try local desserts like bienmesabe, a rich almond and honey cream, or suspiros de Moya, crisp meringues from the island’s north. Paired with a glass of Canarian wine or a shot of honey rum, the flavors of Gran Canaria are not only delicious — they’re a warm, welcoming expression of the island’s soul.