A Family Dream Born in the Canary Islands
Bambi Gourmet is the life project of Rodica and Daniel Gurau, a Romanian couple who left their homeland — where winter brought over a metre and a half of snow — to visit family in Puerto de la Cruz. The mild Canarian climate and the warmth of the island convinced them to start a new chapter. After years of hard work serving breakfast, lunch and dinner at the Apartamentos Bambi — from which the restaurant takes its name — they opened their own restaurant in 2002 on Calle Enrique Talg, in the heart of the historic quarter.
Rodica & Daniel: Two Roles, One Vision
Rodica, who trained at a culinary school in Romania, leads the kitchen with the precision and creativity that define Bambi Gourmet's identity. Daniel, an economist by training, manages the dining room and has dedicated years to building a carefully curated wine selection that includes Canary Island wines alongside the finest Spanish Denominations of Origin. Together, they have created a space where every detail — from the plate to the glass — reflects their shared passion for hospitality.
Romanian Roots, Mediterranean & Canarian Soul
The cuisine at Bambi Gourmet draws from Romanian culinary tradition and fuses it with Mediterranean techniques and the exceptional local produce of the Canary Islands. Fresh vegetables come from farmers at the Tacoronte market, fish is sourced from the local coastline, and meats are dry-aged in-house in chambers visible from the dining room — a testament to quality and transparency. Signature dishes such as the goulash de bonito (tuna goulash) exemplify this unique fusion that earned the restaurant its award.
Adapting to the Times Without Forgetting Origins
While honouring their Romanian heritage, Rodica and Daniel have continuously evolved their menu to embrace modern dietary needs. Bambi Gourmet offers vegetarian options, gluten-free dishes, and creative adaptations that respect both tradition and contemporary tastes. This ability to evolve while maintaining authenticity is what has earned them a loyal following among locals and international visitors alike.
Why This Award Matters
The Best Foreign Cuisine Award 2018, granted by the prestigious Fundación Diario de Avisos through their Premios de Gastronomía, reinforces Bambi Gourmet's position as one of the most distinctive restaurants in Puerto de la Cruz. It is a recognition not only of culinary quality, but of the perseverance, cultural richness, and genuine hospitality that Rodica and Daniel bring to every service. After more than two decades, Bambi Gourmet continues to be a destination where tradition meets innovation on every plate.