I actually found it quite difficult to be vegetarian in Gran Canaria, as with many other places in Spain because seafood is easily available but sadly vegetables are not. This being said, I was still able to find some delicious restaurants in various places around the island. It’s no secret that I spend a lot of time eating, or at least thinking about what I will eat next. I found many of these places with very little research as I unfortunately ended up staying in a different resort to my initial plans.
Maspalomas
Bamboo Garden
This restaurant was recommended to me by one of my German neighbours in the bungalow complex. Normally, I wouldn’t gravitate towards Asian food whilst travelling through Spain but the restaurant’s location was just to convenient to say no. I really enjoyed the food here, it was simple no frills Asian food. In true adventursaurus fashion, I ordered several dishes because I couldn’t decide what to eat.
The vegetable spring rolls, chow mein, a chicken hot plate (for the carnivores I was eating with), curried vegetables, fried rice and won tons. I may have over ordered but all of the food was delicious and less expensive than some of the surrounding restaurants. Don’t be put off by the unappealing entrance, the food and atmosphere are great.
Pepenero Ristorante
This small, unassuming Italian restaurant is hidden away from the main beach area of Maspalomas, but it was a 5 minute walk from my bungalow. Stupidly, I thought this restaurant was closed for the first three days (even though I walked past many times). Though the service was slow the food more than made up for the wait. I have never been so happy to see a pizza and a salad (This lunch followed my misadventure in Las Palmas). Whether it was because I was hangry or not I will never know but this is still one of the best lunches I have ever had.
Maybe it was the dessert (I had two and I am not ashamed to admit this). I still dream of the cannoli, having not bothered to try one in Italy, I finally decided it was time to see what all of the fuss as about. My photographer and I are definitely going to return to Italy to try more of the desserts in the future.
Meloneras
Maximilian’s Café
A stones throw from Maspalomas Lighthouse is Boulevard el Faro shopping centre which is surrounded by multiple eateries. The complex is really busy so expect to queue for a table, especially in the high season. I was very lucky and managed to find a table pretty quickly. The café has a beautiful setting overlooking the park and ocean but this comes at a cost as everything is slightly more expensive. I had a cappuccino and a vegetable sandwich, followed by a huge slice of cheesecake. The food was really good but I do find it weird that crusts are always cut off the bread in Spain.
I really enjoyed sitting here people watching with a coffee whilst my photographer wandered around the shops. The location of the bar makes it perfect for watching the sunset with a cocktail, but arrive early because it is a very popular spot. The area has a great vibe and is the perfect spot to escape the heat of the sun.
Las Palmas de Gran Canaria
Restaurante El Patio de Enmedio
If there is anything better than people watching with a coffee, I am yet to find it. This is the perfect spot for people watching as the restaurant has in street seating around the corner from the Catedral de Santa Ana de Canarias. The cappuccino was only €2.10, far cheaper than anywhere else I visited on the island. The menu and cake fridge have a wide range of options for lunch and this includes vegan and gluten free! One thing to beware of is people coming to your table asking for money (I know it happens everywhere but it seemed to be a bit more blasé here).
For a moment to escape the city, the restaurant has a beautiful courtyard to sit in, looking back I would have sat in here but I didn’t find it until I was on the hunt for a bathroom. The courtyard has a really relaxed feel and it is the perfect spot to have a break from exploring the historical side of Las Palmas.
Puerto de Mogán
Bar Marina Dennehy’s
Sitting on a table overlooking a marina, surrounded by beautiful whitewashed houses is what comes to mind when I think of Spain. Puerto de Mogán has an abundance of eateries catering to a whole host of dietary requirements. However, I was limited to where I could eat because I’m a veggiesaurus and Puerto de Mogán is a fishing village. Bar Marina Dennehy’s is a very popular spot and I was very lucky to get the last table when I visited.
The menu has a combination of fresh seafood, tapas, Italian and Asian flavours, all merged together in cleverly crafted dishes. Even the salads were inspired versions of classic dishes. My photographer opted for a Burrata Italiana Salad, which to this day is still the best salad I have helped my photographer to eat. The best part of this restaurant is the prices, the food and drinks are all reasonable, unlike some areas where you would pay a premium for Marina side dining.
Home Bakery
Homemade cake and coffee is one of life’s greatest pleasures, you all know my photographer and I absolutely love this German tradition and have even planned trips around visiting cafes (Vienna). Both my photographer and I were surprised to find this bakery hidden in plain sight along a small path between the beautiful white houses. Seating is limited but a takeaway option is available, though I really recommend sitting in if possible. The lead artwork opposite is intricately carved into the wall and provides a beautiful backdrop for a moment of calm.
Home Bakery is slightly more expensive than other coffee spots but you are in a great location. Many of the locals come to sit here as there is a partial view of the marina and enjoy escaping the heat of the sun. My only regret is not buying a giant cookie to take home in my backpack (FYI – my backpack was too small).
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