Flavours of Madeira – Local Food & Drinks Guide

Madeira Food & Drink Guide

Where Madeira’s flavours tell their story

Must-Try Traditional Food and Dishes

From hearty meat dishes to fresh fish and sweet traditional desserts, Madeiran cuisine is a reflection of the island’s culture, people, and landscape. Every bite tells a story, shaped by centuries of tradition and the bounty of land and sea.

This guide highlights the essential foods and drinks to try during your stay — from espetada and bolo do caco to poncha and Madeira wine. Dive into the island’s flavours with us.

Traditional Restaurants

Fresh ingredients, timeless recipes, and a love for gathering around the table — that’s what defines the island’s culinary soul. From sizzling espetada grilled over open flames to delicate black scabbard fish, every dish carries a piece of tradition.

Add in warm bolo do caco, rich stews, and local wine, and you’ve got a table full of memories. Whether it’s a rustic tavern in the hills or a cozy family-run spot by the sea, these restaurants serve more than food — they share Madeiran hospitality at its finest.

Poncha Bars

No visit to Madeira is complete without trying Poncha, the island’s most famous drink. Made with sugar cane rum, honey and citrus, it’s a refreshing and strong cocktail that locals swear by. Whether you prefer the classic version or a fruit-infused twist, these poncha bars serve some of the best on the island.

Traditional Espetada : 10 Must-Visit Restaurants

Madeira is home to one of Portugal’s most iconic dishes — the espetada. Juicy beef grilled on bay laurel sticks, paired with milho frito and bolo do caco, is more than a meal — it’s a cultural ritual.

In this guide, we share 10 must-visit spots to enjoy authentic espetada, from local favorites to hidden gems where tradition and taste come together beautifully.

Unmissable Seafood Restaurants

Surrounded by the Atlantic, Madeira is a paradise for seafood lovers. From grilled scabbardfish to octopus and mariscadas, the island’s cuisine reflects its deep connection to the sea.

This guide shares a handpicked list of our favourite seafood restaurants — not all, just the ones we truly love. Expect unforgettable flavours, fresh catches, and some of the best ocean views Madeira has to offer.

Romantic Dining

Looking for the perfect place to celebrate a special moment? We’ve handpicked Madeira’s most romantic restaurants — from clifftop terraces to candlelit manor houses. Whether it’s for a honeymoon, anniversary or just a memorable dinner for two, these spots promise great food and unforgettable atmosphere.

Football & Live Sports Bars

Love the game, even on holiday. Whether you’re cheering for your Premier League team or following Champions League drama, Madeira has plenty of bars ready to play your match.

From lively Irish pubs to stylish cafés with massive screens, here’s where to catch live football and international sports while enjoying a cold drink and Madeiran hospitality.