If you’re visiting Tenerife, don’t leave without trying a Barraquito — a local alcoholic coffee that has become a true symbol of Canarian culture. It’s more than just a drink: it’s a layered experience of flavour, tradition, and island charm. Whether you’re in a bustling city café or a quiet seaside bar, you’ll likely find barraquito on the menu — and it’s almost always made well.
At Sunwhere Tenerife, we always recommend tasting a barraquito as part of your travel experience. It’s one of the unmissable local specialties that make your trip truly authentic.
What is Barraquito?
Barraquito is a layered coffee drink from Tenerife, typically made with:
- Condensed milk
- Espresso
- Milk foam
- Licor 43 (a Spanish herbal liqueur)
- Lemon or lime zest
While it does contain alcohol, it’s not a strong drink — it’s about harmony. The sweet, citrusy, and creamy flavours blend into something completely unique. The trick lies in the preparation: carefully layering each component to create a beautiful presentation. Traditionally, it’s served in a clear glass, showcasing its colourful layers.

A Short History of Barraquito
Legend has it that the drink originated in Santa Cruz de Tenerife, where a man named Sebastián Rubio regularly ordered this special coffee at Bar Imperial. Known by the nickname “Barraco,” his drink became popular among other customers — and soon enough, the Barraquito was born.
Although widely enjoyed across the Canary Islands, you won’t typically find it on menus in mainland Spain. That’s one of the reasons it’s such a special part of your Tenerife holiday.
What is Licor 43?
A key ingredient in barraquito is Licor 43, a Spanish liqueur made with 43 natural ingredients including fruits, citrus, vanilla, herbs, and spices. Its roots trace back to Cartago Nova, where a similar golden elixir was banned by the Romans and produced in secret. In modern times, it became Spain’s best-selling liqueur and is now exported to over 80 countries worldwide.
The sweet, aromatic profile of Licor 43 is what gives the barraquito its signature warmth — a perfect match for the sunny atmosphere of Tenerife.

How to Make Barraquito at Home
Want to recreate the experience at home? Here’s how:
- Add a tablespoon of condensed milk to a glass.
- Slowly pour in a small shot of Licor 43.
- Add a shot of espresso over the back of a spoon.
- Top it with milk foam.
- Finish with a bit of lemon or lime zest.
- Stir before drinking for full flavour, or admire the layers first!
Pro tip: You can try alternative liqueurs like Baileys, but Licor 43 is the traditional choice.
Why We Love It at Sunwhere Tenerife
Even if you’re not a big coffee drinker, a barraquito is worth trying — it’s not just a drink, it’s a vibe. Personally, I (Pite) hadn’t touched coffee in over 30 years, but now we enjoy a barraquito regularly, especially during sunrise or sunset. It’s like bottling up a little bit of Tenerife sunshine in a glass.
Make sure to include a barraquito stop in your trip — and if you’re using the Sunwhere Tenerife Travel Kit, we’ll tell you exactly where to find the best one!


