El Cine Restaurant Los Cristianos - a review

El Cine Restaurant Los Cristianos

They Deserve an Oscar For the Food by John Riddle

If you are looking for somewhere in Los Cristianos to enjoy simple food prepared in a Canarian bar/cafe could I suggest Bar El Cine.

Bar El Cine is located near the port in Los Cristianos. Just ask any of the PRs trying to tempt you into their restaurant and they will give you directions. Don't be fooled by the lack of table linen, menus or the plastic table and chairs, El Cine is renowned throughout Europe for its excellent food served in what some have described as frugal conditions. But it is the food we are here to sample.

You may have to join a small queue. I suggest you avoid Sunday as this is very popular with the Canarians, but Carlos the larger than life owner will soon have your table prepared.

The salad consists of tomatoes and onion - very simple with a dressing of olive oil and vinaigrette. I always prefer the chicken wings, marinated and deep fried. Wonderful. Or if you are more adventurous why not try the octopus, sardines cooked on the grill or even gambas (prawns)? They may also have tuna or hake depending on the success or otherwise of the local fishermen of Los Cristianos. Canarian potatoes are my favourite but Carlos does cater for the Brits who prefer chips. Two mojo sauces, red, consisting of garlic and chilli and green - coriander and garlic - are served with the meal.

He does have a good house red and white which will not break the bank or you can enjoy a glass of Canarian beer.

El Cine is small and simple but its reputation is well known throughout south Tenerife. As the Galloping Gourmet once said "They deserve an Oscar for their food".

I hope you enjoy your visit to Tenerife and if possible pop in to el Cine and see Carlos. He will be delighted to see you.

John Riddle is a freelance journalist who has worked for various newspapers in Tenerife.

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