Restaurante Mayte
An old-timer on a strip that rebuilds itself every decade.
Paella and the day's catch, on the same site since 1979
Mayte has been working the waterfront at Playa de las Américas since the late 1970s, which on a coast rebuilt several times over makes it close to an institutio…Mayte has been working the waterfront at Playa de las Américas since the late 1970s, which on a coast rebuilt several times over makes it close to an institution. The kitchen is built around fish and around arroces, the Spanish family of rice dishes cooked in a wide flat pan, of which there are many more than the one everybody knows.
Features
Type
Seafood
Price
$$ Mid-range
Seating
Waterfront
Payment
Cards accepted
FAQ
What is the difference between paella and arroz?
Paella is one member of a much larger Spanish family of rice dishes. Others are wetter, or made with different stocks and shellfish. A kitchen that says arroces rather than paella is signalling that it cooks more than the famous one.
How long has Mayte been open?
Since 1979, which makes it older than most of the buildings around it. Playa de las Américas has been rebuilt repeatedly in that time, so a restaurant lasting four decades in the same spot is unusual.
Is it on the seafront?
Yes, on the waterfront at Playa de las Américas with a view of the water. That is the reason to book towards sunset rather than turning up and hoping.
Are the portions large?
They have a name for being generous, which is worth knowing before ordering a starter each. Rice dishes here are normally cooked for two people minimum in any case.
What fish will be on the menu?
Whatever the boats have landed. The southern coast produces vieja, cherne, sama and tuna among others, and a fish-led kitchen changes its list rather than working from a fixed card.
Do I need to book?
In the evening, yes, particularly through the winter season. A waterfront table at sunset in Playa de las Américas is not something to leave to chance.
