There has been extensive discussion and debate surrounding the guachinches of Tenerife and their regulation, resulting in a complex issue with differing opinions. The Canary Islands Government, the Island Council of Tenerife, and the Town Councils have struggled to reach a consensus or provide a clear response to the traditional guachinches of Tenerife, which present a unique commercial and gastronomic challenge.
Traditional locals are becoming increasingly scarce on the island of Tenerife. Over time, the term “Guachinche” has been used as a marketing tool by many restaurants, eateries, bodegones, and tascas, often referring to them as modern ones.
In reality, the influence of large wineries and certain gastronomic business groups in Tenerife has played a role in regulating traditional eateries, leading to their gradual disappearance. However, the hotel and catering sector has capitalized on the Guachinche name, using it to brand their modern establishments.
The traditional guachinches in Tenerife
Traditional guachinches have a rich history dating back to the late 1960s, with one of the early examples being the establishment in Valle de Guerra. Later, “Manolo El del Pasito,” located on El Pasito street, became another notable guachinche, known for its garbanzas, octopus stew, goat meat in sauce, chicharros, and fried sardines, all enjoyed with local wine.
These eating houses, which evolved into guachinches, inspired a deep appreciation for these establishments and the people behind them. The economic crisis of the 1960s contributed to the emergence of guachinches, and their tradition has endured over time.
The mention of “GUACHINCHE” invokes the aroma of thyme, laurel, and fresh rosemary, along with the warmth of barbecue embers cooking pork, tomato stews, and other delightful dishes. It’s also associated with locally produced red wine and the welcoming family atmosphere that prevails when visitors from various Canary Islands come together.
Canary Islanders are known for their love of festivities, seeking comfort and camaraderie in their social interactions. They enjoy simple, hearty meals and extravagant feasts when the occasion demands it. Music plays a crucial role, with timple and guitar melodies filling the air, especially during rural celebrations in honor of BACO, KING OF WINE.
Making friends at guachinches is not uncommon; it’s practically mandatory. If you’re offered a “cuarta” of wine, you return the gesture with heartfelt gratitude, as Canary Islanders are known for their hospitality.
Guachinches are enchanting places that evoke tears of nostalgia and laughter shared among friends. They serve as a sanctuary from life’s problems, providing moments of immense happiness.
While guachinches exist on several Canary Islands, the authentic ones are in Tenerife. Unfortunately, traditional guachinches have been replaced by so-called MODERN GUACHINCHES in recent years, nearly causing the extinction of the traditional ones.
Here are the top ten traditional guachinches on the island:
- Guachinche Chiqui (Tamaide-La Corujera)
- Guachinche Las Galanas (Los Realejos)
- Guachinche Perico el del 5 Valle (La Orotava)
- Guachinche Casa Estela (La Perdoma-La Orotava)
- Guachinche La Chaotera (La Orotava)
- Guachinche El Molinero (La Perdoma)
- Guachinche Finca El Pino (La Orotava)
- Guachinche Alicia (La Matanza)
- Guachinche José El Rinconero (Santa Úrsula)
- Guachinche Los Gómez (La Orotava)
The traditional gastronomic culture of guachinches in Tenerife has nearly vanished. The political and commercial influence of the hospitality industry and major wineries has prevailed over a culture originally fostered by rural farmers known as Guachinches. Traditional homemade wine is seldom found in these so-called modern Guachinches, which offer extensive menus, white tablecloth settings, soft drinks, and a variety of desserts.
Many visitors, especially those from other islands or regions, have been surprised to discover that they entered a modern Guachinche, often charged exorbitant prices. Consequently, misleading advertising now prevails on the island, giving rise to false expectations of what a traditional guachinche represents.
