Restaurants

El Carpintero Guachinche

A 22-seat kitchen run by Eleni & Yassine, serving the dishes their grandmothers argued about on Tuesday nights in Kreuzberg.

Calle el Carretón, Nº 57, 38550 Arafo, Santa Cruz de Tenerife, Spain €10–20
4.4
1,370 notes from regulars
01 The story, in three paragraphs

Why everyone keeps coming back.

El Carpintero Guachinche is a charming culinary gem nestled in the heart of Arafo, Santa Cruz de Tenerife, offering an authentic taste of Canarian cuisine that will delight both locals and travelers alike. This traditional guachinche—an informal, family-run eatery unique to Tenerife—specializes in serving generous portions of rich, rustic dishes crafted from fresh, local ingredients. Visitors consistently rave about the unforgettable flavors that bring the island’s heritage straight to the plate.

From the moment you step inside El Carpintero Guachinche, you’re enveloped in a warm Canarian atmosphere that feels both inviting and unpretentious. The friendly staff enhance this experience, making guests feel truly welcomed even when language poses a slight barrier. The ambiance is casual, perfect for sharing a hearty meal with friends or family while soaking in the authenticity of the setting just minutes from the TF1 highway.

One cannot speak of El Carpintero without mentioning the standout dishes that keep guests coming back time and again. The secreto ibérico—a succulent, marbled pork cut grilled to perfection—is repeatedly hailed as the best on the island, boasting juices and flavors that melt effortlessly on the palate. Beyond that, the menu offers a bounty of traditional Canarian specialties, each plate delivering bold, earthy tastes complemented by seasonal local produce.

Guests often describe their dining experiences here as "fantastic" and "absolutely amazing," highlighting not only the rich flavors but also the generous portion sizes that make every visit worthwhile. Whether savoring the smoky undertones of the grilled meats or sharing a variety of dishes among a large group, you can feel the pride and care infused in every offering.

El Carpintero Guachinche is more than just a meal—it’s a celebration of Canarian culture through food, hospitality, and conviviality. For those journeying through Tenerife or locals craving a genuine island dining experience, this restaurant is a must-visit haven that promises satisfaction long after the last bite.

Contact: Calle el Carretón, Nº 57, 38550 Arafo, Santa Cruz de Tenerife, Spain | Phone: +34 822 71 24 17

03 Notes from regulars

1,370 notes — the real pulse of the room.

4.4
Based on 1,370 verified notes
5 920
4 310
3 94
2 37
1 88
All Cachopo Goat Meat Croquettes Guachinche Huevos Rotos Stuffed Mushrooms Escaldón Pistachio Tempura Green Beans Octopus
Mavis Beresford.
2 month ago
A Guachinche tucked just off the TF1 leaving Santa Cruz. Husband found on Internet and we were not disappointed. Loved the food, staff and Canarian atmosphere.
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Mariann Polereczky.
3 month ago
Absolutely amazing food. Best secreto iberico in the island.
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Алена Королесова.
4 month ago
I love this place! The best food on the island. We always stop in this restaurant on the way to Santa Cruz and always happy with our lunch. Very tasty food big portions and good service. We will be back again and again!!!
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Sandris Bačkins.
5 month ago
This was fantastic place, with tasty local food. We were 9 of as and it take a while until we get table. But it was worth it. Everyone was polite, even if some of staff didn't speak in English. We share all food, we took 13 dishes and some 4 soft drinks and payed 140 EUR.
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Bryan Little.
5 month ago
Very helpful staff even with the language barrier, really made us feel welcome. Food was absolutely fantastic would definitely recommend
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Angi Seserman.
5 month ago
We had Timbal de patatas con bacalao and Carne Cabra plus deserts and they were all very good. We were asked if we wanted bread and butter, which we usually don’t eat before the meal anyway, so it was nice to have the option.
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Kacper Kwiatkowski.
5 month ago
A unique place with great food, friendly staff and lovely family atmosphere. I'm a beef guy and this place gave me one of the best steak experiences in my life.
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Titha Photography.
6 month ago
Is my preferred guanchinche, very good food and nice waitress. Very close from my house and we come with pleasure!
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04 When to visit & how to find us

Hours & the door on Bergmannstraße.

Opening hours
Monday (today) 12:30 PM - 05:00 PM
Tuesday 12:30 PM - 05:00 PM
Wednesday 12:30 PM - 08:00 PM
Thursday 12:30 PM - 08:00 PM
Friday 01:00 PM - 11:00 PM
Saturday 01:00 PM - 11:00 PM
Sunday 12:30 PM - 05:00 PM
Finding the door

Calle el Carretón, Nº 57, 38550 Arafo, Santa Cruz de Tenerife, Spain

05 What makes this place friendly

The details you usually have to call and ask.

Service options
  • Outdoor seating
  • Takeout
  • Dine-in
  • No Delivery
Highlights
  • Great beer selection
  • Great coffee
  • Great dessert
  • Great wine list
Popular for
  • Lunch
  • Dinner
  • Solo dining
Accessibility
  • Wheelchair accessible entrance
  • Wheelchair accessible parking lot
  • Wheelchair accessible seating
Offerings
  • Alcohol
  • Beer
  • Coffee
  • Hard liquor
  • Healthy options
  • Private dining room
  • Quick bite
  • Small plates
  • Wine
Dining options
  • Lunch
  • Dinner
  • Dessert
  • Seating
  • Table service
Amenities
  • Bar onsite
  • Restroom
Atmosphere
  • Casual
  • Cozy
  • Quiet
  • Trendy
Crowd
  • Family-friendly
  • Groups
  • LGBTQ+ friendly
  • Tourists
  • Transgender safespace
Planning
  • Lunch reservations recommended
  • Dinner reservations recommended
  • Accepts reservations
Payments
  • Credit cards
  • Debit cards
  • NFC mobile payments
Children
  • Good for kids
  • High chairs
Parking
  • Free parking lot
  • Free street parking
  • Parking
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