The Heart of Ajuy: María del Pino and Jaula de Oro
A Surprise Recognition
María del Pino Alonso Brito, the proud owner of the renowned restaurant Jaula de Oro in Ajuy, recently received an unexpected yet delightful phone call informing her that she had been awarded a Distinguished Tourism Award for 2025 in the individual category. “This recognition is a tribute to the entire team that works in the restaurant,” she emphasizes, joy palpable in her voice. “Nine families rely on this business; we support each other and find happiness here,” she adds, highlighting the community spirit that fuels her establishment.
A Legacy Built on Family
María del Pino has been at the helm of Jaula de Oro for 26 years, but she dedicates this award posthumously to her uncle, Julián Brito Cabrera, the restaurant’s founder back in the 1970s. “My uncle first opened a shop selling oil and vinegar in Ajuy, but the income was scarce with the credit sales. That’s when he decided to launch the first bar closer to the caves,” María del Pino reminisces, recounting the family’s entrepreneurial journey. “It was in the 1970s that they moved to the current location and renamed it Jaula de Oro,” she remembers.
Julián’s Vision
Julián was a visionary who offered simple refreshments, such as Majorero tomato and olives, to tourists and locals alike. At that time, the beaches were just starting to attract visitors. “He never studied formally, but he had a deep love for reading and connecting with people, and that equipped him with endless stories about Fuerteventura,” shares María del Pino.
One significant episode that neighbors still recall fondly is his discovery of mercury on the island. “He was fascinated by stones and marble, often exploring the Presa de las Peñitas and the Ajuy Natural Monument. When he announced that the island had mercury concentrations, scientists flocked to his restaurant to hear about his findings,” adds María del Pino, her pride evident as she recounts her uncle’s legacy.
A Cautionary Tale
Currently, Ajuy faces environmental challenges, including an attempt to probe the area for rare earth elements, which María del Pino strongly opposes, fearing it would lead to “an environmental catastrophe.” The protest garnered a significant turnout in Ajuy, with locals rallying to protect their heritage. “We need to preserve our natural patrimony and maintain this tranquil, untouched environment,” she insists.
The Name with a Meaning
Julián was also passionate about music, especially playing the guitar and singing Mexican corridos and rancheras. This love of music influences the name of the bar, Jaula de Oro, which is inspired by a famous song by the Mexican band Tigres del Norte. The lyrics poignantly illustrate the paradox of wealth and imprisonment, resonating deeply with the values Julián held dear.
A Community Connection
As a local expert, Julián often became the face of Ajuy to the media. “Journalists, television, and radio from all over the Canary Islands would come to interview him, as he loved sharing stories about our town,” María del Pino recalls warmly.
A Culinary Journey
María del Pino began her culinary journey at a bar called Las Nasas in Ajuy, where she assisted her uncle. “In 1999, he encouraged me to take over the business as he was feeling weary. He would sit on the terrace, wearing his straw hat,” she fondly remembers. After Julián’s passing in 2002, María del Pino took full ownership and began transforming Jaula de Oro into a beloved dining destination.
Initially, the kitchen was equipped with only a small grill, but over the years, she has worked tirelessly to expand the menu. “We started with simple options like fried fish and calamari, gradually adding more items until we reached our current offerings of various meats and the traditional chuletón,” she explains.
A Hub for Locals and Tourists
Jaula de Oro has seen a steady stream of customers throughout the years. “Tourists come in private cars, by hotel shuttles, and even cruise passengers from Puerto del Rosario to visit the caves and enjoy a meal,” she states. María del Pino has become an ambassador for Majorero cuisine as well as for the breathtaking landscape of Ajuy. “We guide visitors on where to explore, ensuring they leave with memories of our beautiful land just as I appreciate when other places share their culture with me.”
The Next Generation
There’s a sense of continuity within the family, as María del Pino’s daughter, Zaida Delgado, has taken a proactive role in managing Jaula de Oro. “Although my daughter is trained as a hairdresser, she decided to join us in the restaurant, and her dedication has been a true blessing for the business,” says María del Pino. Meanwhile, her son, a doctor, lives elsewhere but maintains a loving connection with the family. “At 61, I’m excited to enjoy time with my grandson, look forward to retirement, and travel,” she smiles.
A Call for Action
Having recently received the Distinguished Tourism Award, María del Pino urges the local government to invest in the upkeep of the area, particularly the pathway leading to the caves. “The wooden railings are rotting, and we need improvements to protect our village. Our landscape is a privilege that requires attention,” she emphasizes. “Ambulances frequently arrive to assist people who’ve fallen or sustained injuries. We need improved signage and maintenance to ensure visitors’ safety,” she warns, reiterating her commitment to both the community and the environment.
Through her journey, María del Pino has woven the rich tapestry of family history, culinary heritage, and community responsibility into the fabric of Jaula de Oro. Her story serves as a vibrant reminder of the importance of passion, dedication, and the bonds that tie a community together.
