Easter Week on Tenerife is filled with a diverse array of cultural, leisure, and gastronomic activities, alongside the traditional religious ceremonies that take place in nearly every municipality across the island.
While many seize the public holidays, such as Maundy Thursday and Good Friday, as an opportunity to indulge in a sumptuous meal at a local guachinche or restaurant, there are those who adhere to the Christian practice of abstaining from meat on Fridays, starting from Ash Wednesday (14 February) through to 29 March, marking the 40-day period of Lent. This tradition, however, doesn’t hinder the enjoyment of Tenerife’s premier spots for fish dining, as recommended by Tripadvisor.
Nestled in Calle Herradores in the vibrant heart of San Cristóbal de La Laguna lies Marisquería Isleño Delgado, celebrated for its delectable mussel and prawn croquettes, grilled scallops, and various rice dishes among other specialties. It’s advisable to check their opening hours during Maundy Thursday and Good Friday in advance.
Another top-rated destination for fish cuisine on Tenerife is found on Avenida Cabildo Insular, in San Miguel de Tajao. Delicias del Mar is renowned for its fresh seafood display and specializes in seafood dishes, rice, and wrinkled potatoes, earning high praise from Tripadvisor users.
In Arona, La Piazzeta del Mar on La Paloma street enjoys widespread acclaim. This Italian eatery, boasting a simple, nautical theme, serves up Neapolitan pizzas, pasta, and traditional dishes, without pretense.
Also in Arona, Avenida los Playeros is home to Restaurante Agua Marina, another favorite among Tripadvisor’s community for fish meals, offering a selection of fresh fish and seafood dishes that come highly recommended.
El Rinconcito de Hilario, located in Calle El Pilon, Las Zocas, rounds out the top five fish restaurants on the island as per online reviews. Its focus on fish and seafood dishes offers diners a “broad range” of marine flavors.
Easter in Tenerife: Why Abstain from Meat on Good Friday?
The tradition of not eating meat on Good Friday stems from the Catholic Church’s practice, intended to honor Jesus’ sacrifice. While not explicitly stated in the Bible, abstaining from meat has become a form of homage to Jesus’ 40 days of desert fasting and his subsequent crucifixion.
Lent, the 40-day period leading up to Easter, mirrors Jesus’ time of fasting in the desert and his preparation for Easter. The practice of abstaining from red meat on Fridays during Lent, especially on Good Friday, symbolizes sacrifice and penance, reminiscent of Christ’s ultimate sacrifice.
The Catholic Church marks the Fridays of Lent, including Good Friday, as days of penance to commemorate Jesus’ death. Abstaining from meat or other designated foods as an act of personal sacrifice is encouraged. While fasting and abstinence practices may vary based on individual health and age, their purpose is to prompt reflection on Jesus’ Passion, his sacrifice for mankind, and the salvation offered through the Cross.
This observance underscores joining Christ in his suffering and contemplating love and sacrifice as faith’s cornerstones during this holy season. Holy Week, particularly Good Friday, is a time to deepen one’s faith and to contemplate the profound implications of Jesus’ death and resurrection for believers.
