Lucas Maes - one of Tenerife's best restaurants

This superb restaurant is owned by and named after master chef Lucas Maes. Born in Belgium, he grew up in Tenerife, where, on completing his education (at Yeoward School, no less) he embarked on a culinary career.

Initially, to learn his craft, he returned to his country of birth, working in several prestigious Michelin star restaurants.

By 1998, he had returned to Tenerife, opening his own restaurant in La Matanza. But, it wasn't until 2003 that he obtained the property that was to become Restaurante Lucas Maes.

The traditional old house, dating from the late 19th century, is an ideal place to partake of a memorable dining experience - and it has been very tastefully appointed.

There are four dining areas within the building, all with different colour schemes and character. From the original floor tiles, to the stained glass windows, to the abstract paintings on the walls, the effect is stunning.

As if that wasn't enough, there is a spacious outside terrace, affording breathtaking views of the La Orotava valley, the banana plantations, plus the city of Puerto de La Cruz.

Lucas's intention, with all his dishes, is to present them as works of art. The impressive presentation he achieves doesn't detract from the quality of the food, however, and his innovative combination of flavours always makes for an unforgettable experience.

Every single thing offered on the menu is freshly made by Lucas - and that includes such things as the bread!

He works from an open kitchen, so you can watch him hard at work on his creations.

To give you some idea of his culinary delights, the menu features such staters as carpaccio of tuna with chutney, tomato on a bed of cream cheese, topped with crispy noodles, or an omelette of duck foie, smoked eel, fig ice cream and apple.

For mains, expect such things as steamed lobster with rosemary, served with poached potatoes and green bean juice with barnacles - or seared scallops on a bed of yoghurt, drizzled with curry sauce and sprinkled with shavings of black olive and beet leaves.

As you can see from these examples, you're in the presence of a chef with true imagination.

If that wasn't enough, Lucas changes his menu frequently, to reflect the availability of his fresh ingredients.

As far as choices of wine goes, the fact that the restaurant won the Best Wine List in the Canaries award, in 2009, should give you some idea!

At Restaurante Lucas Maes, expect only the best, friendliest and most professional service. Many Tenerife chefs go there to eat on their nights off - and you can't get more of a recommendation than that!

For reservations, telephone: (+34) 922 321159

How To Find It

This restaurant is situated right next to the TF-5 motorway - in fact, its gateway is halfway along one of the slip roads!

You need to exit the motorway at junction 32. Follow the sign for the TF-31 (Puerto Cruz/Martianez/El Rincon). As you finally get onto the main road, you'll see the restaurant, which is an imposing building, on the left, back from and above the road.

Unfotunately, its entrance is via the other slip road that takes you back onto the motorway! You're travelling the wrong way, so, at some point, you'll have to do a u-turn, taking the ramp to the motorway (signed Los Realejos/Icod). The entrance to Lucas Maes is there, on the right.

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