A new dining spot, Kura, has opened in Las Palmas de Gran Canaria, offering a genuine homage to Japanese cuisine. The name, which means “storehouse” or “hidden,” reflects the establishment’s focus on simplicity and quality.
The venture is led by Grace and Charles, a Filipino couple who bring a multicultural background and Canarian roots. After gaining experience in various restaurants, they returned home to create an intimate space where culinary magic unfolds.
Kura is located at 22 Padre Claret Street, tucked away in a traditional house. The interiors are minimalist, featuring just a single bar where diners gather each evening to witness Grace expertly preparing dishes, while Charles ensures the drinks and pairings are flawless.
The dining experience centres around an omakase menu that transports guests to the heart of traditional Japanese cooking. The meal begins with a rich edamame soup and progresses through a series of exquisite dishes, including a nori tempura served with scallop tartare.
The selection showcases local fish, such as Aquanaria sea bass and chutoro tuna, complemented by freshly grated wasabi and a refreshing salad of cucumber and seaweed. A standout is the salmon tartare, accompanied by one of the best rice dishes found in Gran Canaria.
As the menu unfolds, diners enjoy a variety of nigiri, featuring top-quality local fish and a unique chargrilled height fula piece. Grace explained, “I want to use local fish with Japanese techniques to highlight Canarian products and honour Japanese cuisine.”
The menu also includes a comforting miso soup and concludes with a classic Japanese omelette and a mango mochi dessert.
Dining at Kura is not just about the food; it’s also about the atmosphere. Grace’s passion is evident in her craft, and Charles adds just the right touch of warmth to the experience.
At €80, Kura’s omakase is a bargain compared to similar offerings in Madrid or Barcelona, which typically cost between €175 to €200. With seating for just 8 to 10 diners per night, Kura is quickly gaining a reputation. During our visit, a couple of tourists found a last-minute spot after searching for good omakase options. It’s clear that the culinary community in Gran Canaria is buzzing about this new addition.
Kura joins the ranks of other notable Japanese eateries in the city, such as Hikari and Amaki, while also standing apart from cheaper, subpar buffets. Don’t miss the chance to experience this delightful restaurant—demand is likely to rise sharply in the near future.
