Madeira is known for its incredible food, and while you can eat well almost anywhere, there’s something special about dining where the locals go. We’ve handpicked the best traditional restaurants—from cozy mountain taverns serving espetada over open flames to seaside spots with the freshest seafood.
These places aren’t just about food; they’re about culture, hospitality, and authentic Madeiran flavors. Whether you’re craving bolo do caco, tender meat skewers, or a dish cooked in wood-fired ovens, this guide will take you straight to the island’s culinary gems.
O Polar
This simple and welcoming restaurant in Câmara de Lobos specializes in just two dishes: grilled chicken and espetada. The portions are generous, perfect for sharing, and come with traditional sides like fried corn, potatoes, and bolo do caco. The homemade desserts, particularly the passion fruit pudding, are a highlight. Though a bit outside Funchal, it’s extremely popular, and reservations are recommended.
Restaurante Santo António
Located in Estreito de Câmara de Lobos, this restaurant is famous for its traditional espetada grilled on a bay leaf skewer. The menu is simple and focused, offering Madeiran specialties such as grilled chicken, roasted codfish, and beef chops. With a cozy and recently renovated setting, it has been family-run since 1966 and is renowned across the island for its high-quality food and friendly service.
Cantinho da Serra
This family-run restaurant in Santana offers a warm and inviting atmosphere, perfect for savoring traditional Madeiran cuisine. Specializing in mountain-style dishes, it incorporates aromatic herbs and Madeira wine into its recipes, creating rich flavors that complement the rustic setting. The cozy ambiance is enhanced by a large fireplace, ideal for colder days, and features homemade desserts that are a highlight of the meal.
Traditional dishes like Madeiran stew and carne de vinha d’alhos are must-try options. The stew is a hearty blend of local ingredients, while the carne de vinha d’alhos, marinated pork cooked in white wine and spices, is a classic Madeiran specialty often served during festive occasions. The restaurant’s commitment to using local products ensures that every meal is a genuine taste of Santana’s culinary heritage.
Abrigo do Pastor
Situated in Camacha, this restaurant originated as a small shelter for shepherds and hunters. It specializes in grilled meats, particularly game, with dishes like espetada, Iberian pork plumas, wild boar escalope, stewed goat, roasted suckling pig, and braised rabbit. The rustic decor preserves its original charm, offering a unique and authentic dining experience.
Sabores do Curral
Visiting Curral das Freiras without trying the local restaurants means missing out on an essential part of the experience. Sabores do Curral is highly recommended, but if you’re looking for something specific, like chestnut-based dishes, there are other options that highlight the region’s culinary culture.
Curral das Freiras is famous for its delicious chestnut recipes, which are a local tradition. Dishes like chestnut soup and pork loin with chestnuts are true specialties of the region. The atmosphere of the restaurants reflects the mountainous Madeiran culture, offering visitors an authentic taste of local cuisine. Don’t miss the chance to immerse yourself in the rich gastronomic heritage of Curral das Freiras.
O Londres
Don’t be fooled by this restaurant’s modest appearance – it’s one of those classic Madeiran gems that locals treasure. This unassuming spot in the heart of Funchal offers authentic dining at wallet-friendly prices.
The lively, canteen-like atmosphere buzzes with regulars enjoying Madeira’s beloved dishes without pretense. Try the bifes de atum com milho frito (tuna steaks with fried corn), bacalhau à Brás (shredded cod with eggs and potatoes), or classic espetada (beef skewers with bay leaves and garlic).
While you might spot salmon on the menu, follow the locals’ lead and choose the island’s prized fresh tuna or black scabbard fish. Paired with an ice-cold Coral beer, this unpretentious eatery delivers authentic Madeiran flavors that won’t break the bank.
As Vides
Located in Estreito de Câmara de Lobos, this restaurant is famous for its traditional espetada, served with fried corn and potatoes. It holds a special place in Madeira’s culinary history, as it was the first restaurant to introduce espetada to the island’s restaurant scene. Around 1950, Francisco da Silva Freitas, the founder, began preparing espetadas for friends, and the overwhelming success turned his small bar into a restaurant. Today, As Vides remains a reference for those looking to try authentic Madeiran espetada in a lively, traditional setting. Popular among both locals and visitors, it continues to uphold the quality and tradition that made it famous.
As Fontes do Horácio
Nestled in Calheta, this family-run restaurant offers a peaceful setting with panoramic views. Specializing in espetada and other regional dishes, it stays true to Madeiran culinary traditions. Known for its relaxing atmosphere and high-quality food, it provides an authentic dining experience in a stunning natural setting.
O Beer Garden
This Funchal restaurant is best known for its picado, a classic Madeiran dish. It has a casual and laid-back atmosphere, making it a great spot for relaxed meals with friends or family. In addition to picado, the menu includes a variety of traditional dishes and a good selection of beers, creating a friendly and welcoming space to enjoy local flavors.
A Bica
Specializing in fresh black scabbardfish, this simple yet traditional restaurant in Funchal is a favorite among seafood lovers. The focus is on quality and freshness, with a no-frills approach to authentic Madeiran cuisine. Alongside scabbardfish, it serves other fish and seafood dishes, offering a genuine taste of Madeira’s maritime gastronomy.
A Pipa
A Pipa is a culinary gem nestled in Porto da Cruz, offering some of Madeira’s finest seafood in a warm, traditional setting. This popular restaurant serves freshly caught fish and seafood prepared with authentic Madeiran flair. Must-try dishes include their perfectly seared tuna steaks, grilled sardines, octopus, and the island’s famous limpets (lapas). Their homemade poncha is considered among the best on the island.
Despite its modest “Snack Bar” name, A Pipa delivers a full restaurant experience with generous portions at reasonable prices. The restaurant doesn’t take reservations, so arriving early (around noon) is recommended to avoid the inevitable queue – a testament to its popularity among both locals and tourists. Closed Sundays and Mondays, A Pipa offers a genuine taste of Madeiran cuisine that makes it worth the trip to Porto da Cruz.
Talho do Caniço
The Talho do Caniço is a true local gem, well-known among Madeirans. The experience is simple yet unique: you buy your meat from the butcher on one side, then head over to the other side where you can grill it yourself. There are no tables to sit down, keeping the atmosphere casual and relaxed—just like the locals love it. The only sides? Fresh bread and the famous Madeiran sangria, made with dry wine and Laranjada, two of the island’s traditional drinks. If you’re looking for an authentic, no-frills place to enjoy high-quality meat and experience Madeira like a local, this is the spot.
Vila do Peixe
This restaurant specializes in fresh fish and seafood dishes. It offers a mix of traditional and modern preparations, highlighting the rich flavors of Madeiran seafood. With a welcoming yet elegant setting, it provides a refined dining experience for those who appreciate high-quality fish and seafood.
O Viola
Known for its espetadas and dry-aged meats, this restaurant offers a premium dining experience. The meats are carefully selected and aged, resulting in top-quality flavors and textures. The ambiance is warm and sophisticated, making it ideal for special occasions. In addition to traditional espetada, the restaurant stands out for its aging process, which enhances the depth of flavor in its cuts.
Click on the icon
to show map details
© 2025 Beyond Madeira
