The story behind the best cheesecake in the Canary Islands isn’t that of a renowned restaurant or a famous chef, but rather of a young radio presenter and cheesecake enthusiast, Rayco Vargas. Until this summer, the increasingly popular “Varguita” cheesecake could only be purchased via Instagram and the website.
However, Rayco Vargas has taken a bold step in expanding his unique business by opening the first shop dedicated to this cheesecake in San Isidro, Granadilla de Abona, Tenerife. The early response has been highly promising, with more than 4,000 cakes sold in August alone, and partnerships established with hotels, restaurants, and events like weddings.
Rayco Vargas, who began experimenting with cheesecake recipes during the first months of the pandemic lockdown, managed to discover the perfect balance in his dessert. His brand, Varguita Cheesecake, has since 2021 become synonymous with cheesecakes that truly taste like cheese. “Our secret lies in the inspiration behind every recipe and the essence of Canarian cheeses,” he explains.
Most of the cheeses come from Gran Canaria, but they also source from local cheese dairies in Guía de Isora and Teno, emphasizing their commitment to using local ingredients.
Varguita cheesecakes are entirely handmade. “Our success has been built on word-of-mouth from our customers,” Vargas notes, pointing out that they now have over 11,000 followers on Instagram. “Our customers are our priority,” he adds, mentioning plans to expand the team soon, a challenge that hasn’t been easy, to extend opening hours or even operate every day of the week — currently, the shop is closed on Sundays.
Catering especially to cheese lovers, Varguita’s cheesecake is known for its irresistible creaminess. “It is a baked cheesecake, made from a blend of Canarian cheeses that define its flavour: toasted on the outside, with a creamy centre and a texture that no one can resist,” explains Vargas.
