Why Are Tapas So Popular?
Eating authentic Spanish tapas is probably on everyone’s bucket list. But why is that so?
Well, tapas are popular because they’ve been a part of Spain’s culinary setting since the 13th century.
So it’s safe to say that tasting tapas lets you discover a special part of the country’s traditional cuisine.
Luckily, Lanzarote got a great selection of tapas places you can check out!
And today, I will share with you the bars, restaurants, and cafes that offer the best tapas on the island:
- La Tapita
- Punto Sabroso
- La Carmencita del Puerto
- Plaza Churreria
- Dolmen Restaurant
- Casa Tere
- Casa Mila
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What Exactly Is Tapas?
Tapas is an appetizer-like dish originally served to social drinkers.
Many restaurants in Spain used to serve tapas for free to entice diners to order more food from their menus.
Today, you’ll be amazed by how many tapas variations there are.
Tapas might be some type of curated meat, stuffed seafood, sauteed veggie, mini sandwich, skewed olives, etc., in small servings.
Because of their portion size, ordering tapas allows you to sample multiple dishes in one meal without feeling overly full.
It’s the ultimate food for sharing, too!
1. La Tapita | Playa Blanca
La Tapita is among the best affordable cafeterias in Playa Blanca.
This tapas bar is often crowded by both holidaymakers and locals because of its fantastic homemade tapas at non-tourist prices.
We ordered some mussels in spicy sauce, bread loaves, and paella — everything tastes wonderful!
The friendly staff and pleasant atmosphere are a big plus, too.
2. Punto Sabroso | Arrecife
We found this cozy local restaurant in the backstreets of Arrecife.
They specialize in Columbian dishes but also got a great and cheap tapas menu.
Their Bandeja Paisa (a special platter consisting of rice, beans, eggs, meatloaf, chorizo, avocado, and crispy fried pork) is something everyone should try.
We also ordered their papas rellenas, pastel de yuca, and tapa de morcilla — every dish tastes so good!
→ See Punto Sabroso’s location
3. La Carmencita del Puerto | Puerto del Carmen
This charming restaurant in Puerto del Carmen is well-known for two things — high-quality tapas and local wines.
There, you’ll find carefully prepared and flavorful tapas that are not usually offered in other bars.
Due to the volume of diners, I advise you to book in advance since walk-ins are rarely entertained.
→ See La Carmencita del Puerto’s location
4. Plaza Churreria | Playa Blanca
While Plaza Churreria is famous for its massive churros, you shouldn’t forget to try their homemade tapas.
Their garbanzo smoked meat and potato omelet are flavorful comfort food you can get at cheap prices.
The staff doesn’t speak English, but their friendliness and the place’s quiet relaxing location will make you feel more than welcome.
→ See Plaza Churreria’s location
5. Dolmen Restaurant | Costa Teguise
Dolmen is often praised for its excellent service and of course, one-of-a-kind tapas.
This fabulous restaurant in Costa Teguise is perfect if you’re particularly looking for some vegetarian tapas and seafood dishes.
→ See Dolmen Restaurant’s location
6. Restaurante Grill Casa Tere | Playa Honda
I cannot get over Casa Tere’s lovely ocean view and big tapas portions.
We already ordered the ½ portion of the dishes, but they’re still pretty big and ideal for sharing.
Their menu is full of mouthwatering meals!
We tried the patatas pobres (egg, peppers, sliced potatoes, chorizo, and blood sausage), goat cheese + jam + onion marmalade, Russian salad, and fried cheese with blueberry jam.
→ See Restaurante Grill Casa Tere’s location
7. Casa Mila | Playa Blanca
I highly recommend you visit this gem of a cafe near the Hyperdino supermarket in Playa Blanca.
They offer six authentic homemade Spanish tapas for only 23 euros and believe me — it’s truly worth the money.
The set is good for two people, and each dish is incredibly delicious.
Papas Canarias (Canarian potatoes), Gambas al Ajillo (shrimp in garlic oil), croquetas caseras (homemade croquettes), pescado rebosado (breaded fish), queso frito con arándano (grilled cow cheese) and bread with three sauces are the ones we ate.
The chalkboard displayed on the storefront’s wall lets you instantly see what’s their menu of the day.
Final Thoughts
Tapas is a consistent food in the Spanish culinary scene.
Tasting local Canarian tapas in Lanzarote is a must-try experience for every foodie.
So if you’re passionate about global cuisine, I hope you found this list handy for your next food adventure.
Follow me on Pinterest for more travel inspiration and ideas. Safe travels, and enjoy!