Los Abrigos is a small fishing village lying directly below Tenerife's Southern Airport and is a short taxi ride from the main holiday centres, but, if you have a liking for sea food, it really is worth taking the trouble.

Only a few short years ago the road down to Los Abrigos was a dirt track and the harbour restaurants were each an extension of a family concern where the small, brightly coloured, fishing vessels would be taken to sea by the young men who would land their catch under the harbour wall, whilst the other family members would cook and serve the wonderful fresh seafood.

Things have moved on since then as this (not so) well kept secret has been discovered by more and more discerning diners. Now there is a good road down from the main highway (Chafiras junction) and there is ample parking along the top road (Left at the roundabout).

The harbour itself has had some tasteful improvements made and there are now pretty stone walls protecting the cliff top walkway. Although there has been lots of new development with new residential apartments in the town itself the harbour area has retained its original character and charm. Some of the restaurants have changed hands and are now run by owners who are not involved in the fishing. However, the brightly coloured boats are still bobbing in the harbour and there are still family run gems to be found.

It's  just great to sample them all for yourself but for the sake of this article I am going to focus on the one right at the bottom of the quay as it is my own personal favourite.. The Restaurant Perlas Del Mar  (Pearls of the Sea - Also the name of their fishing boat)

What you can expect here is wonderful fresh food that you can pick from the slab, fabulous flavours from produce prepared and cooked by people who love and understand the sea and its harvest.

What you can't expect is to have a quick meal. Make the occasion one for conversation and admiring the beautiful views while waiting for the courses to arrive. This is a family that cares about is food and have a long association with the sea and as such are not about to be hurried.

Take the whole evening and enjoy, the Restaurant Perlas Del Mar is a must for me every time that I visit the island.