The 3 Best Seafood Restaurants in Tenerife for Lunch or Dinner: A Food Lover’s Guide

Tenerife, surrounded by the Atlantic Ocean, offers some of the freshest seafood in the Canary Islands. Whether you're after upscale fusion with ocean views, no-frills harbor-side freshness, or authentic fishermen’s fare, the island has excellent choices. Below is a detailed review of three standout seafood restaurants, perfect for lunch (sunlit views and lighter plates) or dinner (romantic ambiance or relaxed evenings). I’ve included their backgrounds, interiors, special features, and what makes each one memorable.

1. Almar Tenerife (Costa Adeje) - Modern Elegance with Ocean Drama

Images credits to Almar Tenerife (Costa Adeje) - Modern Elegance with Ocean Drama

Located in Puerto Colón, Costa Adeje, on the south coast, Almar sits right by the sea with panoramic views over the harbor and horizon. It works beautifully for lunch (bright, breezy daytime views) and dinner (stunning sunsets). Almar is a relatively modern standout that has quickly gained popularity. It focuses on quality and creative fusion rather than long historical roots, blending the island’s fresh produce with global influences. The restaurant has grown into a polished venue, moving beyond basic setups to a more sophisticated yet approachable experience.

The interior is elegant and artistic with sleek lines, tasteful lighting, and a relaxed Mediterranean feel enhanced by modern Japanese touches. The real highlight is the terrace or window seating offering sweeping sea views. It feels upscale yet welcoming, ideal for a romantic dinner, special celebration, or business lunch. Service is attentive and thoughtful, with nice details like handbag stools.

The menu combines Spanish and Italian traditions with Japanese precision, featuring creative seafood dishes that emphasize textures, aromas, and ultra-fresh, seasonal ingredients (many locally sourced or from trusted suppliers). Signature tasting menus, à la carte selections, and excellent wine pairings stand out. You’ll find beautifully presented fish, shellfish, and inventive fusions alongside meat and vegan options. It’s refined without being pretentious. Almar delivers a memorable, elevated seafood experience. Choose dinner for the sunset or lunch for a sophisticated midday treat. It’s a top choice for couples or anyone wanting a wow-factor meal in the south. Reservations are highly recommended, especially in peak season.

2. Restaurante El Cine (Los Cristianos) - Timeless Harbor Freshness

Situated near the harbor in Los Cristianos (south Tenerife), this spot captures the lively yet relaxed energy of a working fishing port. It’s great for lunch (watching boats and people) or casual dinner. Opened in 1987 by Juan Carlos Magdalena (originally from La Gomera), El Cine has been a local favorite for decades. It began as a simple eatery and became a beloved institution known as the “worst-kept secret” for authentic seafood. Consistent quality and long-time staff have kept it thriving for over 35 years.

The décor is straightforward and unpretentious: tables under a canopy in a narrow alley or port-side area, basic but spotlessly clean. It’s cosy and bustling, with the focus on the food and harbor views rather than fancy design. The atmosphere feels genuine and welcoming, attracting locals and savvy visitors alike. The small, focused menu is a strength, specializing in ultra-fresh seafood prepared simply to let the natural flavor shine. Highlights include grilled sardines, hake, tuna, octopus, prawns, cuttlefish, and squid, served with Canarian potatoes (papas arrugadas), mojo sauces, and fresh salads. Portions are generous, prices are fair, and quality remains consistently excellent. This is traditional Canarian seafood at its most honest.

If you want seafood that tastes as if it came straight from the boat, El Cine is hard to beat. Perfect for a relaxed lunch or unpretentious dinner. Don’t expect fine-dining presentation, just outstanding flavor and value. Arrive early or book ahead, as it gets busy quickly.

3. La Cofradía de Pescadores (Puerto de la Cruz) - Authentic Fishermen’s Heritage

Overlooking the historic fishing port in Puerto de la Cruz (north Tenerife), this restaurant offers a true taste of the island’s maritime soul. The terrace is magical for lunch (harbor activity and sea breezes) or dinner (evening lights on the water).

Deeply connected to Tenerife’s fishing traditions, La Cofradía (meaning “fishermen’s guild” or brotherhood) draws inspiration from the old seaside eateries where fishermen cooked their daily catch with simple local ingredients. Housed in a beautifully renovated classical Canary Island manor house by the port, it preserves that humble dockside spirit while providing a more comfortable setting today.

The indoor space is tastefully renovated and comfortable, but the outdoor terrace with direct views of fishing boats, waves, and port life steals the show. The atmosphere is charming and authentic, with a warm maritime heritage feel through the setting and simple elegance. It’s inviting and unpretentious.

The seafood is exceptionally fresh, often straight from the nearby port. Standouts include grilled fish of the day, mixed fish grills, paella or black rice with seafood/lobster, octopus, limpets, clams, calamari, and traditional sides like escaldón de gofio (gofio with fish stock) or Canarian potatoes with mojo. The menu celebrates Atlantic flavors in a straightforward, delicious way. The connection to the sea is unmistakable.

For an authentic, heritage-rich seafood experience, La Cofradía is exceptional. It shines for lunch (soaking in the port energy) and dinner (romantic or family-style under the stars). Ideal if you’re exploring the north or want a genuine taste of Tenerife’s fishing culture.

Final Thoughts: Which One to Choose?

• For a romantic or special occasion → Almar Tenerife (elegant views and creative cuisine).

• For unbeatable fresh value and simplicity → El Cine (harbor classic).

• For authentic atmosphere and tradition → La Cofradía de Pescadores (north coast gem).

All three showcase Tenerife’s incredible seafood, whether grilled simply or prepared with flair. Book ahead, especially for dinner or weekends. Pair your meal with local Canarian wine and savor the island’s ocean bounty. Tenerife’s coast never disappoints!