Madeira Island, especially in the city of Funchal, offers a wide variety of restaurants that reflect the rich local cuisine, as well as international options. Here are some suggestions of the types of restaurants and typical dishes you can find in the region:
- Traditional Madeiran Food Restaurants: Try dishes such as espetada (seasoned beef grilled on laurel skewers), bolo do caco (a typical Madeira bread), black scabbard fish, grilled limpets (molluscs) and tomato and onion soup. Popular places include “O Tasco” and “A Muralha”.
- Seafood Restaurants: The island is famous for its excellent variety of fresh seafood. Try dishes such as fresh tuna, grilled octopus, and the local shellfish called “lapas”.
- Gourmet and International Cuisine Restaurants: There are a number of high-quality restaurants with international culinary influences, many of them located in hotels. These places offer a mix of gourmet dishes and international cuisine.
- Madeira Wine Houses: In addition to the restaurants, be sure to visit the Madeira wine houses, where you can taste and learn about the different types of Madeira wine produced in the region.
Some renowned restaurants in the Funchal region include “Il Gallo d’Oro” (a Michelin-starred restaurant), “Restaurante do Forte” (overlooking the sea) and “Restaurante Armazém do Sal”.
When visiting Madeira, it is recommended to book in advance, especially in more popular restaurants or during high season, to guarantee a table. And remember to explore the local flavors and unique gastronomic options that the island has to offer!
