Tenerife, the most famous island of the Canary Islands, is famous for glistening black-sand beaches, crystal-clear waters, beautifully breaking waves, and insane views of their resident volcano resting high up in the clouds. However, I bet you wouldn’t guess that they’ve also got one of the best vegan Italian restaurants on the planet that is whipping up incredible vegan cheeses and fresh made pastas.
I had the chance to work with Samelo Veg while spending the winter in the Canary Islands. I was greeted by owners Diego and Valentina, a rockstar vegan duo that brought their love for Italian cooking to the islands. They’ve got a poppin’ restaurant with an amazing outdoor terrace right in the heart of a tiny little beachside village called Abades. It’s quite the spot.
While at Samelo, my two friends and I got to try their massive sampler plate that included two different types of vegan cheeses, melt-in-your-mouth stuffed potato poppers, spicy chickpea curry, and a melty, cheesy, Italian tomato dip that can only be described as divine. We were in heaven.
Throw in a couple of their famous fresh juices and our taste buds seriously couldn’t believe their luck. All of the food was insanely fresh and you could really tell that Diego and Valentina were master Italian chefs. Hands down the best Italian food that I’ve had in my life.
Oh, and Diego was kind enough to throw a couple slices of their decadent chocolate pie and it shot us straight up to chocolate heaven.
If you’re out in the Canaries, which you totally should be, be sure to swing by Samelo Veg in Abades on the island of Tenerife. They’re blending timeless Italian flavors with new age techniques to create new versions of old classics that are sure to impress.
Want to see some of this cheesy goodness in action? Check out my latest vlog below to see the live action at Samelo Veg!
About the author: James is a full-time traveler and vegan restaurant photographer that offers free photo sponsorships to plant-based restaurants all around the world, helping them spread their cruelty-free crusade to the masses. James is currently on his second year of travel and is making his way through Europe as we speak. You can follow his adventures on Facebook and Instagram @theveganveggiebond.
