Food with a view: why you must visit these showstopping dining destinations on Lanzarote

There’s just something about the salty island air that makes food taste more delicious; perhaps it’s that feeling of freshness from seafood that landed in on a boat mere hours before making its way to your plate. More than that, the island of Lanzarote has a host of idyllic settings to choose from to make special holiday memories, with gorgeous views providing an impressive backdrop for the tempting gastronomic offering.

Many of the food offerings at artistic and cultural tourist attractions also boast Instagram-worthy settings, due in large part to the legacy of famed Canarian architect César Manrique. His groundbreaking sustainable architecture and urban development philosophies were ahead of his time, but thankfully his fellow islanders supported the vision of their ‘starchitect’ when he returned to Lanzarote in the 1960s and set about transforming the island.

Here are some of our top recommendations to dine out in Lanzarote at the incredible locations the island offers, from sipping a sundowner watching the sun set over the sea to revelling in the incredible architecture of Manrique as you eat.

Bar-Cafeteria Mirador del Río

The Mirador del Río, built in 1973, is forged out of volcanic lava, its windows looking like futuristic sunglasses sitting on a rock face. At an altitude of 474 metres, you can gaze out over some of Lanzarote’s most spectacular panoramic views: the Chinijo Archipelago National Park and the Risco de Famara escarpment. The chic yet rustic domed ceilings and minimalist style create a setting that feels so cinematic you almost wonder if you should be snacking on popcorn rather than paninis and ice-cream as you take it all in.

Lani’s Gourmet Restaurant

If you’re looking for a plush beach club vibe, look no further than Lani’s Gourmet Restaurant, part of the luxury Lani’s Suites hotel, which was voted the No 2 best small hotel in Spain and No 9 in Europe this year. With Mediterranean and international cuisine, it is in an idyllic beachside location boasting magnificent views out across the Atlantic Ocean to the neighbouring island of Fuerteventura.

Bar Cafeteria Jardin de Cactus

If tasting cactus croquettes or a prickly pear burger is on your foodie bucket list, Bar Cafeteria Jardín de Cactus is a must-visit in Lanzarote. They also serve some more standard fare for the less adventurous palate, with a strong vegetarian offering. The restaurant has panoramic views of the garden, which is home to over 500 species of cacti, including one that stands 8 metres tall, guarding the entrance.

La Casa Roja

In Playa Blanca, you can’t miss La Casa Roja: it is, as the name suggests, a red house. However, it’s the side not visible from the street that is really special, with its balcony terraces over the marina serving up sunset viewing along with fine dining. From Chateaubriand to inventive seafood dishes, paired with a great wine selection, this is one for a romantic night out or special occasion.

Restaurante el Diablo

There’s never any trouble starting the barbecue off at Restaurante el Diablo in Timanfaya National Park. No coals or lighter fuel are required as the heat comes from molten lava bubbling away at over 600 degrees Celsius deep below. It’s a must-see after exploring the Montañas del Fuego, thankfully now dormant. The chefs serve up a menu including chicken, pork and steak all cooked over the volcanic heat.

Casa-Museo del Campesino Restaurante

The Casa-Museo del Campesino museum, dedicated to the lives and traditions of Lanzarote’s peasant farmers, is a perfect example of the vibrant contrast between the dark volcanic landscape and the traditional white buildings of Lanzarote, set off with jolts of colour from the azure skies and the emerald green painted tables and chairs on the terrace. With the building and a 15-metre-tall monumental fertility sculpture, Monumento a la Fecundidad, designed by Manrique, it’s an impressive backdrop. Grab a table in the shade outside and enjoy Canarian specialities and tapas or cool off in the restaurant set in an underground volcanic cave.

Sergio

While Sergio fronts onto the main pedestrian street, Calle Limones, in Playa Blanca, the back of the unassuming-looking restaurant benefits from a cute and very romantic terrace overlooking the harbour. However, it’s not just the view that is special here. The cooking is exciting, using the best of fresh local ingredients in a limited menu that focuses on doing less, but better, with myriad influences informing tasty twists on everything from tacos to gyoza.

Now is a wonderful time to plan a break to Lanzarote: A Unique Island. See the Lanzarote Tourism website to find dining inspiration, discover intoxicating wine routes, and to plan a trip.