A unique concept like no other in Puerto de la Cruz, La Vinoteca is the hidden gem that offers amazing wine and handcrafted beers, perfectly paired with delicious local dishes. Served in a laid-back atmosphere where friends and family can gather around the table, experiencing the extraordinary flavours of the region and enjoying a chilled-out evening on the cosy patio.
This week, we're visiting La Vinoteca – a hidden gem in the coastal town of Puerto De La Cruz in Tenerife – just as the sun is setting after a warm and sunny day. As we arrive, relaxing covers of old favourites are playing in the background and Nico, the owner is lighting candles on the cosy patio. Inside, the walls are decorated with shelves displaying their impressive wine selection and the bar is adorned with photos of friends and customers having a great time at La Vinoteca. We sit down at an old wine barrel that has been refinished and transformed into a beautiful, charming table to discuss the restaurant's history and all that it has to offer.
A local hangout spot
Nestled on a small street in the town of Puerto de la Cruz, the charming establishment La Vinoteca is located. Run by the locally-born Nico since 2011, La Vinoteca has established itself as a cosy spot where locals and tourists can enjoy Spanish and Canary Island cuisine and beverages in a relaxed and welcoming atmosphere.
“it’s not just a restaurant or a wine bar, it’s a chill out spot where locals and tourists alike can enjoy local Spanish and Canary Island cuisine and beverages in a Laid-back environment. The goal has always been to create a space where everyone feels welcome and can enjoy a relaxed night out whit friends and family” Nico passionately explains.
With a career dedicated to the service and culinary industry, including experience in buying and selling cheeses, wine, and beer, Nico brings a wealth of knowledge and expertise to La Vinoteca. Eleven years ago, he decided to start a new chapter in his career by opening La Vinoteca and has been delighting guests with his culinary knowledge and great service ever since.
La Vinoteca
Puerto de la Cruz is a popular tourist destination for visitors from Germany, Britain, the Netherlands, Switzerland, and Austria. As a result, the city is filled with restaurants that offer the specific local cuisines of these countries, catering to the preferences of these tourists.
Being born and raised in La Orotava located just outside Puerto de la Cruz, Nico recognized that the city was missing a place where locals and tourists could come together to enjoy the rich flavours of Spanish and Tenerife cuisine and wine. As a result, he decided to open a chill-out place in Puerto de la Cruz for people to experience the best of local food and drink in a cosy and relaxed setting.
“11 years ago, this town did not have any proper places offering local food or drinks. It was missing a place where locals as well as tourist could chill out and enjoy Spanish and Canary Island cuisine.” Nico tells us.
Today about 80 percent of their customers are locals and returning customers, due to the secluded location on a small street, which makes it harder to stumble upon. But it is not just a place for locals, tourists are equally welcomed with excellent service and a warming smile.
Mouth-watering local food and drinks
La Vinoteca offers a unique experience, featuring small plates of locally-sourced cheeses, hams, sausages, and other delicacies, expertly paired with a selection of regional wines and beverages.
As a Tenerife native, Nico takes great pride in showcasing his culinary heritage by offering a diverse selection of wines, drinks, beer and dishes.
The menu features a wide range of delicious local dishes from Tenerife and the Canary Islands, as well as from the Spanish mainland. On the menu we find tempting charcuterie such as Canario cured cheeses, Iberico sausages and ham. As well as a great selection of handcraft beers and Spanish and Canarian wines.
One wine is not enough
Just having one favourite wine is not an option for Nico. When asked to pick his favourite wine, Nico smiled and said it wasn’t possible to choose just one wine.
"It's tough to choose a favourite wine because it really depends on the day and my mood. On a warm, sunny day, I might prefer a refreshing white wine, while a robust red wine could be perfect for dinner. Of course, I like all good wines and to have a varied selection of wines to choose from – otherwise I wouldn’t be in this line business” Nico tells us with a laugh while he pours us a glass of wine.
Today, we are sampling a local wine from Nico's hometown of La Orotava. This wine is produced from the rich, volcanic soils on the northern slopes of Mount Teide. Arutava is a red wine with notes of anise and vanilla. It is a versatile wine that is enjoyable on its own and also pairs well with local cuisine. It is an excellent choice for an evening of socializing and drinking.
Visit La Vinoteca
If you're looking for a one-of-a-kind dining experience in Puerto de la Cruz, La Vinoteca is the place for you. Sample a unique local wine in a laid-back atmosphere, and savour the extraordinary flavours of the region on the cosy patio. Whether you're looking for a relaxed evening or trying something new, La Vinoteca has something for everyone.
If you want to check out La Vinoteca for yourself, the restaurant is open from Wednesday to Sunday from 17.00 to 23.00.
La Vinoteca is located on Marques de Villanueva del Prado, 33, Puerto de la Cruz, Spain, 38400.
You can contact them by phone at +34658456547 to make a reservation in advance or check them out on Facebook, Instagram and Trip Advisor.
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