The island of La Palma, surrounded by the purest Atlantic, serves up a delicious selection of simple yet flavorful fish dishes. Enjoying fresh fish on La Palma isn’t just a meal, it’s an experience rooted in the sea, tradition, and island identity.
Quick Guide: Fish on La Palma
| Fish | Preparation | Flavor & Texture | Traditional Sides |
|---|---|---|---|
| Vieja | Grilled or roasted | Tender, white, juicy | Wrinkled potatoes, mojo verde |
| Sama | Grilled or roasted | Firm, flavorful, mildly sweet | Salad, potatoes, lemon |
| Cherne | Grilled or roasted | Firm, intense, slightly salty | Gofio mash, potatoes, mojo |
| Medregal | Grilled or as cubes, sautéed | Dense, bold flavor | Moj o rojo, sweet potatoes, salad |
| Mackerel (Caballa) | Fried or grilled | Strong, juicy | Stewed potatoes, cilantro mojo |
| Bluefin Tuna | Grilled, tartar, braised, or marinated | Bold flavor, firm, juicy | Mojo rojo, salad, wrinkled potatoes |
| Peto | Grilled or breaded cubes | Mild, firm, white flesh | Potatoes, sautéed veggies |
| Sea Bass (Lubina) | Baked or grilled | Delicate taste, tender flesh | Wrinkled potatoes, roasted vegetables |
| Alfonsiño | Grilled or baked | Delicate, slightly sweet flavor | Potatoes, mojo verde or lemon |
| Moray (Morena) | Fried | Rich taste, crispy skin, juicy meat | Potatoes, mojo rojo or aioli |
| Limpets (Lapas) | Grilled with mojo verde | Marine flavor, chewy but tender | Bread, mojo verde, lemon |
| Squid/Calamari | Grilled, fried, or in its ink | Tender, mildly sweet | Fries or fresh salad |
| Prawns | Grilled or garlic-sautéed | Sweet, oceanic flavor, firm texture | Bread, garlic, parsley, olive oil |
Island Favorites: Vieja & Alfonsiño
- Vieja (Sparisoma cretense), the Canary Islands’ Star
Known as the parrotfish, Vieja is a beloved white-fleshed fish endemic to the northeastern Atlantic. On La Palma, it’s commonly found along the coastlines. Its meat is white, tender, and juicy, with a subtle seafood flavor from its crab-rich diet.
Typical preparation: Usually grilled and served with wrinkled potatoes and mojo verde, embodying simple island tradition.
Pro tip: Ask for “vieja del día”, in areas like Tazacorte or Fuencaliente, it’s often caught fresh off small local boats.
- Alfonsiño (Beryx splendens), the Red Atlantic Gem
With its bright red color and large eyes, alfonsiño is a deep-sea fish found in the tropical and temperate waters of all three oceans. On La Palma, it’s especially prized for its firm white flesh and refined flavor.
How to enjoy it: grilled or baked with herbs and lemon, simple yet flavorful. This unique fish is ideal for adventurous eaters looking to explore beyond the usual favorites.
Perfect Pairings: Wines of La Palma
Want to elevate your fish experience? Pair your dish with a Denomination of Origin wine from La Palma, renowned for its balanced acidity, fresh aromas, and volcanic terroir.
- Níspero (Albillo Blanco): Light and fresh with apple, pear, and citrus, ideal for mild white fish.
- Vega Norte Blanco (Listán Blanco & Albillo Criollo): Tropical notes like mango, pineapple, and melon, great with mojo-spiced dishes or ceviche.
- Vega Norte Rosado (Negramoll): Dry and elegant, perfect with fried fish, limpets, or seafood rice.
- Malvasía Seco Victoria Torres: Rich white wine with floral tones, delicious with baked fish, grilled calamari, or seafood platters.
Local tip: Many restaurants offer local wine selections, ask for island-grown wine to support producers and enhance your culinary journey.
Where to Enjoy Fresh Fish
- Beachfront restaurants in Tazacorte Beach, Puerto Naos, and Los Cancajos: sea views & fresh catch.
- Street-side terraces in Santa Cruz, San Andrés and Sauces: traditional charm meets ocean breeze.
- Local markets and fishermen’s cooperatives (e.g., Santa Cruz’s “La Recova” or Tazacorte harbor: buy fresh fish or request cooking right on the spot.
Tips for Fish Lovers
- Always ask for the “fish of the day”, freshness guaranteed.
- Grilled fish delivers the purest ocean flavor.
- Pair with local classics: mojo, wrinkled potatoes, and island wine for the full experience.
