Today we stopped by at our partner El Med Veg, a plant-based restaurant known for its creative vegan cuisine and commitment to sustainability. El Med Veg shows how conscious food choices can support both personal wellbeing and the environment. What started five years ago as a small takeaway project (at a time when there were no vegan restaurants in the area) has evolved into a little gem with strong eco-conscious values.
We tried a delicious focaccia topped with basil pesto, stracchino, and zucchini, alongside a refreshing green gazpacho made with apple, cucumber, and paprika. To drink, we had a ginger frizz which was both unique and incredibly refreshing. Every dish reflects their mission: surprising people with how flavourful, satisfying, and creative vegan food can be.
Sustainable Practices Observed
El Med Veg demonstrates how food experiences can support responsible travel in the Canary Islands. Choosing eco-friendly dining options like this allows travellers to reduce their footprint while still enjoying authentic local experiences.
- SDG 12 – Responsible Consumption and Production:
Seasonal ingredients sourced locally, often from agro markets, supporting a 0-km food philosophy and reducing food miles. - SDG 13 – Climate Action:
Fully plant-based menu helping to lower environmental impact compared to animal-based food systems. - Zero Waste Commitment:
Conscious ingredient use, daily changing plato del día, and efforts to minimise food waste wherever possible.
El Med Veg is also supporting our upcoming Beach Clean-Up in El Médano on 28 February, strengthening their commitment to local environmental action and community engagement. If you’d like to learn more about them, you can also visit their Canary Green directory listing.
Q&A: Planning A Visit
Where is El Med Veg located?
El Med Veg is located in El Médano in the south of Tenerife, a coastal town known for its relaxed atmosphere, water sports, and sustainable lifestyle culture.
How long should you plan for the visit?
Around 45–90 minutes for a relaxed lunch or dinner.
What should you bring?
Appetite for fresh, healthy food
Is this activity suitable for families?
Yes. The menu is accessible, healthy, and suitable for all ages, including families and non-vegans curious about plant-based cuisine.
Eating Well While Doing Good
Visiting El Med Veg reminded us that sustainability doesn’t have to be complicated but sometimes it simply starts with choosing food that is good for both people and the planet. Experiences like this show how eco-friendly activities in Tenerife can be found in everyday moments, from beach walks to conscious dining, all contributing to a more responsible future for the island.
Canary Green’s tips to enjoying sustainable tourism in Canary Islands
Visiting Canary Islands on holiday doesn’t give you free rein to leave your values and principles at home. We encourage travellers to seek out sustainable options and keep up with environmental practices while travelling. Our top tips for a relaxed and wholesome stay include:
- Consider green transport options. Are you able to take a ferry to the island instead of flying? While you are here is a car necessary? Investigate public transport links or choose green options such as electric cars, green-hydrogen cars or e-bikes.
- Choose destinations that value sustainability and choose green alternatives such as solar power, recycling and energy-efficient architecture. This extends to places that value workers’ rights and the impact on the local community.
- Bring your own water bottle with you and refill it instead of buying single-use plastic bottles.
- Make use of the recycling when out and about and don’t just throw your rubbish in the nearest bin.
- Take advantage of local knowledge and immerse yourself in the culture through campaigns such as #Ilovecanarias and #meatfreemondaycanarias.
- Most of all, have fun and enjoy your time in the Canary Islands.
Thank you
Thank you to everyone involved in this Canary Green project where our aim is to help promote sustainable tourism in the Canary Islands.
Do you want us to find you more sustainable choices? Please support us and donate today!
- John Beckley; Founder of Canary Green non profit
- Canary Green non profit:
- Media communication & partnerships coordination: Aurora Bus
- Marine & coastal project manager: Daphne Geißen
- AI consultant: Sebastian Betz
- Media communication & partnerships coordination: Catarina Tuerlings Pires
Sustainable Development Associate: Claudia Scharff
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