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Indulging in local Madeira food is a highlight of any trip to this tropical island in Portugal. Uniquely different from mainland Portuguese fare, the cuisine on Madeira Island is fresh, local and absolutely delicious!
During our stay, we enjoyed an array of traditional Madeiran foods and sought out some of the best restaurants in Funchal that are known for serving local dishes.
Therefore, we are not only detailing what to eat in Madeira, but we are sharing where to find the best food in Funchal. For each of the recommended Madeiran foods that we suggest, we share a restaurant in Funchal where you will find that particular item on the menu.
Madeira Food FAQs
Before we get to our list of the best Madeira foods, we want to answer a few of the commonly asked questions about the local cuisine in Funchal.
What Food is Madeira Famous For?
Although Madeira is small and isolated, the island is well known for quite a few different kinds of food. The most popular Madeira dishes are seafood specialties, hearty meats and sweet treats. Madeira is also known for making a few unique beverages – including island wine, rum punch and sparkling fruit juices.
On our list of things to eat in Madeira, we detail the most iconic dishes, bakery treats and local drinks.
Need tips on things to do beyond eating and drinking? Use our detailed list of Things To Do in Funchal, which outlines the best sights and attractions!
Is There a Madeira National Dish?
Madeira is a Portuguese island sitting an astounding 600 miles from the mainland. Since the island is not a nation, there is not a ‘National Dish’ of Madeira, per se.
That said, Bacalhau – a dried and salted cod fish – is the national dish of Portugal and it’s a Madeira typical food, too. We took a liking to Bacalhau when visiting Porto and feature it in our Must-Eat Porto Food list.
While you will find it on Funchal menus, it’s not a dish that we consider a must-eat in Madeira – as there isn’t a special island recipe…and there are just so many unique Madeira foods to eat! That said, travelers who are only visiting Madeira – and not the Portuguese mainland – should try Bacalhau while visiting Madeira.
Is There Madeira Vegetarian Food?
Traditional Madeiran cuisine typically features meat, fish and eggs – and vegans and vegetarians might struggle to find meatless meals in Funchal. That said, there is vegetarian food in Madeira – it just takes a little bit of effort to seek it out.
Before ordering any dish, inquire with the waitstaff, as even vegetable side dishes and soups are sometimes enhanced with a meaty garnish.
Later in the article, we feature some of the top-rated Funchal vegetarian restaurants that are dedicated to meat-free Madeira foods.
What is the Cost of Eating Out in Funchal, Madeira?
Madeira food prices tend to be quite affordable – but the cost of eating in Funchal restaurants depends on where you dine.
At tourist restaurants, the Madeira food and drink prices are much higher than at local, family-run establishments. For example, Funchal restaurant prices at eateries along the popular Rua de Santa Maria tend to be much higher than at local restaurants in Santa Luzia, north of the Funchal Old Town.
As budget-conscious travelers, we made an effort to dine at places that offered the best value and a local experience – and our personal list of Funchal Best Restaurants reflects that.
Can I Join a Funchal Food Tour?
Yes! A Madeira food tour is an excellent way to get a taste of the local cuisine and a fun activity to include on your Madeira Itinerary. There are several Funchal food tours to choose from – and we are highlighting two that consistently get high ratings from fellow travelers.
Culture and Food Tour Madeira
One of the most popular Madeira food tours, the engaging, 4-hour walking tour includes 7 stops for specialty food tastings and local drinks. Read the rave reviews and book your space!
Funchal Food and Wine Tour
A spectacular Madeira foodie tour, participants get to taste 11 different foods and 6 drinks – plus it includes a guided visit to the Funchal Food Market. Get more details and reserve your spot!
BEST FOOD MADEIRA: 21 PLACES TO EAT AND DRINK
Now that we have covered the basics, it’s time to get to our list of Best Madeira Food and Drink – plus a recommended restaurant for where you can order the typical food in Funchal.
Save, Pin or Bookmark this Madeira Food Guide to plan your trip to Portugal!
#1 Espetada: Must-Try Food in Madeira
Hailed by many travelers (including us!) as the best food in Funchal, Espetada is a must-try dish during your trip to Madeira. Espetada is a meal of skewered beef that is cooked over coals and then served – still skewered – hanging from a hook.
Popular throughout Portugal and Brazil (where it is called Espetinho), Espetada is believed to have originated on the Island of Madeira in Camara de Lobos (just west of Funchal) and features a special Madeira recipe.
To prepare this Madeiran food, the beef is cut into large cubes and is liberally seasoned with salt, pepper, garlic and bay leaf. The cubes are then speared onto skewers (local bay laural wood branches are traditionally used, as it adds flavor to the meat as it cooks). The meat is then grilled over hot coals.
Once cooked, the skewer is hung from a hook – and sometimes a pat of butter is added to the top so that it drizzles down the meat. To eat it, just remove the lowest hanging piece of beef from the skewer by hand – and eat it with your fingers!
The traditional way to make Madeiran Espetada is with beef, however, some restaurants now make the dish with chicken, squid, shrimp and fish – as well as other accompaniments, such as Portuguese sausage and bell peppers.
Best Restaurants in Funchal for Espetada
Several Funchal, Madeira restaurants feature menus with Espetada – so it doesn’t take a lot of effort to find the local specialty.
We truly enjoyed eating Espetada at Infinito Wine Bar, one of the fun and unique restaurants in Funchal. Rather than offering a standard menu, the owner displays the meat and fish he has available for the day and chats with you about what you prefer. The Espetada we ate at Infinito Wine Bar was on point and came at an affordable price.
The said, Restaurante Santo Antonio in Camara de Lobos specializes in Espetada. It is regularly ranked as one of the best restaurants in Madeira – and Espetada is the star of the menu.
#2 Bolo do Caco: Staple of Madeira Food
The French have the baguette, the Italians have focaccia and Madeira has Bolo do Caco. The flat, round bread is, perhaps, the most traditional food in Madeira and a staple of the local cuisine.
The history of Bolo do Caco can be traced to the 15th century when wheat was sparse on the island. To compensate for the lack of flour, bakers started adding sweet potato to their bread recipes, which gives it a dense and chewy texture – and it is how Bolo do Caco is still made today.
Traditionally, this famous Madeiran bread is baked on a hot stone over burning embers, but in modern times a cast iron skillet on the stovetop is often used.
Bolo do Caco is served with most meals, often as a starter and sometimes as a side dish. The round loaf is cut lengthwise, slathered with garlic butter, sprinkled with parsley and then toasted like a sandwich. Next, it is cut into triangles and served warm. And, it’s heavenly!
Best Restaurants Funchal Old Town serving Bolo do Caco
To be perfectly honest, we would be hard pressed to find Bolo do Caco that we didn’t like – from the grocery store to the best local haunts. Of the bread that we consumed in Funchal (and we ate more than our fair share), it was all delicious.
We highly recommend ordering it with every meal – and as a meal in the form of a sandwich (which we get to next on our list).
That said, two Old Town establishments are regularly touted as the Best Bolo do Caco Restaurants Funchal, Madeira – Casa do Bolo do Caco and Bolo do Caco Gelados – and we whole-heartedly agree.
Both restaurants serve fresh baked Bolo do Caco with a butter spread or as a sandwich.
#3 Prego Especial: Classic Madeira Cuisine
Whether you are looking for comfort cuisine, quick Madeira street food or budget eats, the Prego Especial will surely satisfy. The not-so-little sandwich punches above its weight as a delectable any-time-of-day meal.
The first time we tasted a Prego sandwich was in Porto – and it was love at first bite. So, it was with great anticipation that we tried the Madeira Especial version…and it didn’t disappoint!
The classic Madeira sandwich starts, naturally, with the Bolo do Caco bread. The inside is smeared with the signature garlic butter spread, then topped with thinly sliced steak, lettuce, tomato, cheese, ham and bacon – and a fried egg can be added, for good measure.
Best of all, a Prego Especial is incredibly inexpensive – which is why it has earned praise by many as the Best Food Madeira.
Note that there are a few different versions of the Madeiran Prego sandwich – the loaded Especial just happens to be our favorite. The Prego Normal, for example, is just steak and bread, while others omit the egg or the extra meats.
Funchal Best Restaurants for Prego Especial
Nearly every snack bar and café in Funchal makes Bolo do Caco Prego sandwiches – and there are definitely a few that excel at it.
Our top pick for an exceptional Especial is Casa do Bolo do Caco Funchal Restaurant. Located on the jovial Rua Dr. Fernao de Ornelas Street, the small restaurant cranks out Prego sandwiches at a steady pace for hungry patrons.
For a more local Prego Especial experience, however, head to Bela 5 Snack Bar. It can get crowded and hot, but every bite is worth it!
#4 Grilled Limpets: Top Madeira Seafood
A local delicacy of Madeira, Grilled Limpets are a favorite seafood appetizer or afternoon snack to eat alongside a glass of wine.
Limpets – also called Lapas – are mollusks that live in cone-shaped shells and cling to rocks under the sea. They are found in abundance in the North Atlantic Ocean waters that surround Madeira Island, so it is not surprising that they are part of the local cuisine.
Grilled Limpets are seasoned with butter, garlic, lemon and paprika. They are served in their shells, piping hot, usually with bread. The tasty little morsels can be eaten with a fork – but it was recommended to us to simply slurp them from their shells in order to savor all of the juices.
Funchal Best Restaurants for Grilled Limpets
While one might think it is necessary to go to a Madeira seafood restaurant for flavorful Grilled Limpets, that isn’t necessary. Most traditional Madeiran restaurants offer savory Limpets on their menus.
Personally, we most enjoyed Grilled Limpets at Tas’ca Principal. The garden-slash-alley restaurant is one of the best places to eat in Funchal – especially for visitors who want to get a taste of different local flavors. We recommend ordering multiple dishes for sharing and the fantastic staff is eager to help you choose.
Restaurante Taberna Ruel, located on Rua de Santa Maria, is another typical Madeiran restaurant that gets high ratings for their Grilled Limpets.
#5 Espada: Best Madeira Fish Dishes
It is difficult to believe that a fish as frighteningly ugly as the Black Scabbard Fish (Espada) could be lauded as the best food in Funchal, Madeira, yet it is an absolute fact.
The long, black fish with sharp, pointed teeth and buggy eyes swims in the deep ocean off the shores of Madeira. It is locally caught, so there is always fresh Espada in Funchal.
Espada can be served multiple ways – with or without bones and with or without local fruit enhancements – but it is almost always fried. The fish is usually seasoned with lemon, garlic, salt and pepper – and the meat is light and flaky.
The most common way to eat Espada is as a lightly battered-and-fried boneless filet topped with banana or passionfruit (called maracuja). Locals, however, typically eat Rolo de Espada, which is Black Scabbard with the bones and no fruit topping. It can also be served as a Madeiran street food sandwich.
Espada Restaurants in Funchal, Madeira
As Kris is fussy about fish – I was on my own to judge the best Espada in Funchal. Of all the places I sampled the local fish, I preferred the taste of the Rolo de Espada (despite the pesky bones) that I ate at A Tendinha, an unpretentious local hangout hidden down a quiet lane. The hours (and the seating) is extremely limited at A Tendinha, but the food is authentic and the waitstaff friendly.
A Bica, another restaurant frequented by both locals and tourists, is also known to serve fine Espada com Banana.
#6 Octopus, Tuna and Seafood: Typical Madeira Food
While Espada and Limpets are the best-known Madeiran seafood, octopus and tuna are also very popular.
Octopus – called Polvo – is often found in Portuguese cuisine. Polvo de Escabeche is a Madeiran octopus salad that features a vinaigrette marinade and is served cold. However, you will find Polvo listed on many menus in a variety of ways – from octopus on a bed of greens to a main dish of octopus and rice.
Tuna – or Atum – is common seafood in Madeira and is usually prepared as a main dish in the form of a Tuna Steak, called Bife de Atum. The fish is lightly seasoned with garlic and salt, then grilled and served with a starchy side dish, like Milho Frito, rice or boiled potatoes.
Best Funchal Seafood Restaurants
Some seafood – especially Atum and Polvo – are served in almost all of the restaurants in Funchal Old Town. However, visitors who want to eat at a dedicated Funchal fish restaurant should dine at Peixaria no Mercado.
Offering fresh-caught fish at very reasonable prices, guests can opt for a main meal – or partake in the shareable small plates to get a little taste of several different types of local fish dishes.
#7 Carne de Vinha d’Alhos: Traditional Madeiran Food
Carne de Vinha d’Alhos directly translates to Meat of Wine with Garlic – and it’s a superb Madeiran food specialty. Traditionally, the dish is eaten at Christmas, but now it is found on menus year-round.
The succulent meal is made with pork loin, cut into small cubes. The meat is then marinated in a blend of wine, vinegar, garlic and savory spices (like bay leaves, cloves, thyme and paprika) for several days. Once properly soaked, it is cooked until tender. The result is a zesty explosion of flavor.
The pork cubes can be eaten as an appetizer (usually with a toothpick), inside a crusty roll (or Bolo do Caco) or as a main dish, alongside potatoes or rice.
Top Restaurants in Funchal to Taste Carne de Vinha d’Alhos
We didn’t get our first taste of Carne de Vinha d’Alhos until late in our trip – and we wished we hadn’t waited so long! The bite-sized meat is a perfect snack to go with beers, which is exactly how we ate it at Snack Bar California. (Don’t let the name throw you; it’s a local hangout with great food!).
Just be aware that the menu changes daily at Snack Bar California, so Carne de Vinha d’Alhos isn’t always available.
Those who want to be certain they can get a taste of Carne de Vinha d’Alhos, can go to Casa do Bolo do Caco, which we mentioned previously as the best restaurant in Funchal for a Prego Especial sandwich. They serve the dish as a sandwich inside Bolo do Caco bread – and it’s quite tasty!
#8 Milho Frito: Madeira Local Food
Milho Frito is Madeiran Fried Cornmeal, which we admit, doesn’t sound all that appetizing – but is actually quite tasty. Similar to polenta cubes, Milho Frito is both simple and satisfying. The dish pairs well with most Madeira local foods, but it can also be eaten on its own as a snack.
The fried Milho Frito cubes consist of cornmeal, butter, garlic and shredded kale (or collard greens). After the concoction is cooked, it is cooled and solidified. Then, it’s cut into squares and fried in oil. Again, we understand that this might not sound appealing, but it’s a Madeira food you don’t want to miss!
Restaurants in Funchal that Serve Milho Frito
Many of the best places to eat in Madeira serve Milho Frito – but it typically comes as a side dish to a main meal and is not listed separately on the menu.
However, Taberna Madeira is one of the fun Funchal restaurants where you can order Milho Frito – and many other Madeiran favorite foods – a la carte. The restaurant features an entire menu of home cooked petiscos (Portuguese style tapas), allowing guests to order several different small plates of local cuisine.
#9 Soup: Madeira Simple Food
In the heat of the summer, when most tourists visit Madeira, it can be difficult to imagine downing a bowl of hot soup – but we can’t talk about the traditional food of Madeira without mentioning their affection for it.
Soup – or Sopa in Portuguese, is a mainstay of the Madeiran food scene, which is noticeable when eating out in Madeira at local restaurants. Even during our stay, when temperatures were pushing 90 degrees Fahrenheit, we witnessed locals shuffling into their favorite snack bar at midday for a bowl of soup for lunch.
Generally speaking, soup in Madeira is inexpensive. It is made with local ingredients and is usually quite filling. Some of the Madeira soups that can be found on local Funchal menus are Sopa de Trigo (Wheat Soup), Sopa de Tomate e Cebola (Tomato and Onion), Sopa de Peixe (Fish Soup) and Sopa de Castanhas (Chestnut Cream Soup).
Best Places to Eat Soup in Funchal
Soup is most popular in northern Madeira, where it can be much cooler than along the southern shoreline. That said, there is no shortage of places to find a piping hot bowl of soup in Funchal.
Golden Gate Grand Café – one of the fine dining restaurants in Funchal – features local soup on their menu (but at elevated prices).
Another place to find traditional Sopa is at Cantinho dos Amigos, where they offer affordable soup dishes – including a rotating soup of the day.
#10 Fresh Fruit: Local Madeira Island Food
Colorful, exotic fruits are abundant and rank as one of the best things to eat in Madeira. Traveling around the island, visitors will get a glimpse at the assortment of fruits that grow locally – like bananas, passion fruit, mangos, custard apples and avocados.
Many Madeiran fruits are eaten on their own, but they are also used in juice blends, jams, ice creams and salads – as well as an enhancement to savory dishes (like Espada).
The most iconic Madeira fruit is the Purple Passion Fruit, called Maracuja, but there are several varieties, such as Banana Passion Fruit, Pineapple Passion Fruit and Lemon Passion Fruit. Madeira Maracuja is most commonly served as a dessert pudding or mousse, called Pudim de Maracuja.
Local Fruit: Where to Eat in Madeira
A good place to get a look at the exotic fruit of Madeira is at the Funchal Farmer’s Market, called Mercado dos Lavradores. Sellers at the Funchal Market Hall appealing display the bright fruits and offer free tastes, too. However, the fruit prices at the market are notoriously high and some sellers are known to scam unsuspecting tourists. That said, it is still worth a look…as is the adjoining Funchal Fish Market, which displays the day’s fresh catch.
Rather than buying fruit at the Funchal Mercado, we recommend visiting one of the small fruit shops in the city, like Plaza Frutas e Legumes, where they offer good prices and helpful staff. Alternatively, go to the Pingo Doce Funchal Supermarket for the best prices on in-season fruits.
Want to get a taste of Passion Fruit Pudding? We don’t blame you; the creamy sweet treat is silky smooth and light – the perfect dessert on a tropical island. Visitors can get a taste of Pudim de Maracuja and other desserts made with local Madeira fruit at Regional Flavours, which is located on the pretty Rua da Carreira Street.
#11 Afternoon Tea: Fusion Madeira Food
Afternoon Tea – a midday meal of finger sandwiches, scones, cakes and tea – is not a traditional Portuguese meal…it is unmistakably British (and one of our recommended London Food experiences!). However, the English have had a profound influence on Madeira – and started settling on the island as early as the 16th century. Since that time, the Brits have played a significant role in terms of both trade and tourism.
As such, the tradition of Afternoon Tea has been incorporated into Madeira Food – and there are a few fantastic places to enjoy the blend of the two cultures.
Where To Enjoy Afternoon Tea in Funchal
Without a doubt, the most famous (and most expensive) place to revel in a refined Funchal Afternoon Tea is at the iconic Reid’s Palace Hotel. The historic hotel offers an Afternoon Tea Experience that is elegant and delightful.
For Afternoon Tea that is a little less formal (but still offers exceptional teas and delicious food), try the Loja do Cha Tea House on Praca de Colombo.
Another casual Afternoon Tea in Funchal can be found at the lovely café at Museu da Quinta das Cruzes.
#12 Funchal Burgers: Popular Food in Madeira
While hamburgers are certainly not traditional Madeira food, they are one of the most popular foods in Funchal – as evidenced by the high number of hamburgueria restaurants in the city.
Madeira burgers range in style from fast food sandwiches ordered at snack bars to creative gourmet hamburgers at sit-down restaurants.
Best Hamburgers in Funchal, Madeira
When we were craving burgers we were pointed in the direction of Hamburgueria 351 Bistro, a burger restaurant tucked back on an unassuming street in the resort area of Funchal. Inside the small space, patrons can create their own burger or choose from a menu of inventive creations. We opted for the Ranch Burger and the signature 351 Burger – both of which were superb!
That said, those who want to eat where locals eat in Madeira should try Hamburgueria do Mercado, Bela 5 Snack Bar (for the much-raved about burger in Bolo do Caco bread) or Rota 23 Hamburgueria.
Pastries and Desserts in Madeira
We already mentioned Passion Fruit Pudding as one of the popular desserts on Madeira Island, but there are a few Funchal pastries, cakes and sweet treats that we also want to highlight.
#13 Queijada: Madeira Food Specialties
Queijadas – slightly sweet, cheese pastries – are famous Portuguese treats. They are most often linked to the town of Sintra near Lisbon, however, Madeiran Queijadas are distinctly different.
The history of Queijadas can be traced to the 18th century, when they were produced by nuns at a local Funchal convent. Today, they are available at every bakery in town. The little handheld pies, which are sometimes referred to as Madeiran cheesecakes, are filled with a creamy mixture of ricotta cheese, eggs and sugar – and they are divine.
Where to Eat Queijadas in Funchal
Queijadas quickly became one of our favorite treats during our Madeira trip and we taste-tested our way around the island in search of the best.
Of all the Queijada cheesecakes that we consumed, the best were from Pao e Companhia in Funchal. The filling is light and fluffy and the pastry is absolute perfection. (It probably helped they were on the ground floor of our apartment building!)
Second runner-up was A Confeitaria. They have two Funchal locations; one in the market and another in the resort area along Av. do Infante.
#14 Bolo de Mel: Madeira Traditional Cake
Bolo de Mel (or sometimes Bolo De Mel de Cana) has a long history on the Island of Madeira. Produced since the 15th century, the honey cake was created by the nuns at the Convent of Santa Clara. The dark, dense cake is spiced with cloves, cinnamon, anise and pepper – and often includes nuts and fruits, as well as Madeira wine.
The cake was originally made with molasses, but most Madeira recipes now call for honey – and the cake has an incredibly long shelf life of up to one year. Locals consume the cake during the Christmas holidays, but it is sold to tourists all year long.
Where To Buy Bolo de Mel in Funchal
Most shops in Funchal sell Bolo de Mel, however, we think the best place to buy Honey Cake is at Fabrica Santo Antonio. The bakery was established in 1893 and utilizes hundred-year-old recipes to make their cakes, cookies and candy desserts.
Their products are sold at stores around Madeira, but we recommend visiting the official bakery shop in Funchal. It is located in the original factory building and is full of classic touches.
#15 Madeira Chocolates: Unique Flavors
Chocolate is not a traditional Madeiran dessert, but in modern times visitors can find a few different Funchal chocolates…made with a local twist. In fact, we think indulging in the specialty chocolates in Madeira is one of the fun ways to taste the local flavors.
By far, the most utterly satisfying Madeira chocolate dessert found was a chocolate cake bar coated in a chocolate shell and sprinkled with nuts. Seriously, we couldn’t get enough of it!
That said, the chocolates that are the most fetching and pleasing-to-the-palate are beautiful bonbons. Created with Belgian chocolate and local flavors – like Passion Fruit, Madeira Wine and Poncha – the chocolates look dazzling in the case, but taste even better on the tongue.
Where to Buy Chocolates in Funchal
We regularly scout out chocolate treats at bakeries, but the only place we found the spectacular Chocolate Covered Bars were at Pao e Companhia (the same bakery where they also make our favorite Queijadas…hello, sugar overload!).
The strikingly beautiful bonbons featuring local flavors are made by Uau Cacau – a local chocolatier dedicated to making the most exceptional treats. Uau Cacau has multiple shops in Funchal where guests can pick-and-choose from the gorgeous, locally-flavored bonbons.
#16 Pastel de Nata and Churros: Madeira Sweets
Pastel de Nata is not necessarily a Madeira specialty food – it actually hails from Belem near Lisbon. However, Pastel de Nata is the most famous dessert in Portugal, and it’s prevalent in Madeira, as well. The famous Portuguese custard tarts are creamy and sweet – and can be consumed any time of day (but they go really well with a morning coffee!).
Churros (whose origin are disputed) are another popular Portuguese dessert. Locals and visitors alike buy them up frequently at sweet shops in Madeira.
Where To Find the Best Sweets in Madeira
Bakeries, cake shops and ice creams stores are the best places to find sweet treats in Funchal, Madeira.
Our favorite shop for Pastel de Nata, however, is the dedicated Nata 7 shop (of which there are two locations in Funchal). The best deal is a Pastel de Nata and an espresso for one very low price!
Churros are often sold at ice cream shops – but O Giro Churros and Paninis in Funchal elevates the churro experience. Served in a round coil, the sugary churros are warm and delicious. Better yet, they can be topped with sauce and/or ice cream!
What and Where to Drink in Madeira
We have shared our top picks for the best food in Madeira – and where to eat in Funchal – but there are specialty drinks in Madeira that visitors should try during their trip, as well!
#17 Madeira Wine: A Local Specialty
Fortified, sweet Madeira Wine – or Vinho Madeira – has been produced on the island since the 15th century – and trade boomed through the 1700s. (It is even said that Madeira Wine was used to toast the USA Declaration of Independence by the Founding Fathers).
Although not nearly as popular as it once was, Madeira Wine is still produced annually – and getting a taste of it is a must for many visitors.
The wine is sweet – almost syrupy – like Port Wine. That sweetness is attained during the production process, in which the wine is exposed to high heat while maturing. There are four basic styles of Madeira Wine: Dry (seco), Medium Dry (meio seco), Medium Sweet (meio doce) and sweet (doce).
Where To Drink Madeira Wine in Funchal
The Wine of Madeira is typically consumed before or after a meal (as an aperitif or digestif). It is served in nearly all the restaurants, bars and cafes in Funchal. That said, we think it is best to get a taste of the local wine on Madeira from one of the shops of the local producers.
Blandy’s Wine Lodge
Blandy’s has long been part of the Madeira Wine industry – and their Wine Lodge is a fantastic place to get an introduction. Visitors can go straight to the old-fashioned bar for a wine tasting or join the Blandy’s Madeira Tour, which lasts for about 45 minutes and includes a tasting.
Pereira d’Oliveira in Funchal
Boasting a gorgeous wine cellar shop, Pereira d’Oliveira is a fun and informal place to get a taste of Vinho Madeira. Guests are free to walk in, peruse the shelves and taste a few samples – for free!
H.M. Borges Wine
A fun place to taste wine in a historic setting, the H.M. Borges Wine building is more than 100 years old. They offer educational tours, guided wine tastings and sell wine by the glass, as well.
#18 Poncha: Madeira Rum Punch
Poncha is the island’s potent rum drink…and it’s dangerously delicious. It is affectionately referred to as the Drink of the Fishermen and was traditional consumed to keep the common cold away.
The concoction is made from simple ingredients: Madeiran sugar cane rum, honey, lemon juice and orange juice. The liquids are poured into a jar, swirled around with a Poncha stick (locally called a mexelote) and then served in small glasses.
There are variations of this strong alcoholic beverage, including a sweeter passion fruit version – Poncha Maracuja – and in the summer, it is sometimes poured over ice.
Fun Funchal Bars for Poncha
All the bars in Funchal Old Town serve Poncha, but there are a few places that stand out.
Rei da Poncha is a busy little corner bar that mostly attracts tourists. They offer a dazzling array of Poncha flavors – and sell a meter-long tasting paddle of Poncha drinks for groups who want to sample several different kinds (not recommended as an order for one!).
At Rei da Poncha, they also make the island’s other famous beverage, Nikita, which is a refreshing combination of pineapple juice and beer.
After Rei da Poncha, slide into the Pharmacia Do Bento bar next door (which doubles as a hardware store), which is always full of locals pontificating on various subjects!
A Mercadora, across the street from the Funchal Market, is an unpretentious place to try classic Poncha. Part grocery store – with a bar tucked in the back – regulars and tourists filter in and out of the shop for a glass of good Poncha, some peanuts and a chat.
#19 Brisa Maracuja: A Madeira Original
An original Madeira soft drink that dates to the 1970s, Brisa Maracuja is a carbonated passion fruit juice beverage. The fizzy drink, which contains no added sugar or colorings, is utterly satisfying on sweltering summer days.
The drink comes in bottles – and needs to be softly shaken before opening to mix the concentrated juice with the sparkling water.
Where To Drink Brisa
Brisa is available everywhere on Madeira Island. Order it with your lunch at a café or as a vodka mixer at the local bar. Or, simply grab a bottle from the grocery store!
#20 Coral by Madeira Brewery: Local Funchal Beer
Coral Beer is local Madeiran brew – and it’s lager is rather uninspiring (we didn’t try the stout). Yet, it can satisfy a thirst, especially when it is served ice cold on warm summer days. Another bonus is that it’s quite cheap, with some pints costing less than 3 euros.
Where To Drink Coral Local Beer
Visitors will have no problem tracking down Coral Beer. Pick a place, any place, and they will surely have Coral Beer on draft or in the bottle. Although it’s far from our preferred beer in Madeira to drink, we did find a few places where the ambiance more than made up for the tasteless suds.
Snack Bar California quickly became one of our favorite little local spots for a beer and a snack (along with every beer ordered, they serve the best Funchal tapas free of charge).
Cais da Ribeira – on the end of one of the waterfront piers – is another excellent place to drink Coral Beer in Funchal, simply for the sublime location on the sea.
#21 Craft Beer: Best Madeira Bars
When we booked our trip to Madeira, we had little hope of finding true craft beer on the island. However, we were absolutely elated when our research revealed multiple dedicated craft beer bars in Funchal.
Most Funchal craft beer bars have a nice selection on tap – plus even more options in bottles and cans from mainland Portugal craft breweries. There is also a small production of craft beer in Madeira, with beers featuring local flavors.
Best Bars Funchal for Craft Beer
We routed our way around in search of the best bars in Funchal serving craft beer – and, in the end, we discovered quite a few fun options.
Fuga Cidade is a favorite spot for craft beer on Madeira Island. They pour 8 craft brews on tap, as well as offer a selection of bottles and cans (which can be consumed onsite or purchased for take-away at a lower price).
Another excellent spot is Funchal Tap Craft Beer and Food. The space is modern and casual, the beer is cold and the nachos are amazing!
Num Num Bar is the taproom for Vilhoa Brewing and one that we were really looking forward to visiting – but it was unfortunately closed during our stay.
On the west side of Funchal, Musa Lounge is a chic bar that offers craft on tap (mostly sours and ciders during our visit).
The Snug Smokehouse – an American BBQ joint – has a nice selection of craft beer on tap and in cans and bottles in the cooler.
Right on the Funchal Marina Waterfront, Beerhouse offers a variety of mostly German style beers along with a full menu of typical Madeira dishes.
One of our favorite cafes in Funchal with a sea view, Barreirinha Bar Café, has a selection of ‘craft beer’ by Madeira Beer Lab, which is produced by Coral Beer (but tastes better than their lager!).
More of the Best Restaurants Funchal
We have highlighted several restaurants in Madeira where visitors can find Must-Eat Madeira Food, but there are a few more places worth mentioning. You will find all of our recommended Funchal places to eat on the Funchal Restaurant Map below.
Rustikus
A small restaurant only open between noon and 4pm on weekdays, Rustikus is a favorite spot for local food. The menu – which typically consists of two fish dishes and two meat dishes – changes daily. The food is phenomenal and the prices are low, which is why we rank it as the best lunch in Funchal.
Brunch Club Madeira
Travelers craving an Instagrammable brunch should find their way to Brunch Club Madeira – the best Funchal Brunch restaurant in town. From pancakes to eggs benedict, every dish is scrumptious, fresh and perfectly plated.
Chalet Vicente Restaurante
When we asked a local where they like to dine, they didn’t hesitate to tell us, Chalet Vicente Restaurante. Although we never made it to the restaurant for a meal, they get high marks for serving authentic Madeiran food – like Espetada, Polvo and Sopa de Peixe.
Fado Restaurant Funchal
Fado is the music of Portugal – and there are a few restaurants in Madeira that host live Fado performances. Restaurante Sabor a Fado offers a memorable Funchal dining experience with nightly Fado music and a menu of local Portuguese cuisine.
Michelin Guide Funchal Restaurants
The top-rated Michelin Star restaurant in Funchal is Il Gallo d’Oro which offers a gastronomic experience in the form of a multi-course tasting menu.
Other notable Michelin recommendations are William (at Reid’s Palace Hotel), Avista and Restaurante Casal da Penha.
Vegetarian Restaurants in Funchal
As we mentioned, finding a vegetarian or vegan meal in Funchal is a bit of a challenge. However, there are a few restaurants that excel at meatless meals.
Mundo Vegan is an all-vegan establishment that makes everything from burgers to smoothies (and it’s best to reserve a table in advance).
A combination vegetarian restaurant and food shop, Bioforma serves a range of dishes that are meat free and reasonably priced.
Armazem do Sol is not a dedicated vegetarian Funchal restaurant, however, they do offer a small vegan menu on request.
Funchal Map of Restaurants
Use this link to Google for an interactive version of our Funchal Restaurant Map that highlights where to find the most iconic Madeira dishes.
Funchal Restaurant Tips
We have covered where and what to eat in Funchal, Madeira – but we have a few final tips for dining out on your vacation to Portugal.
Funchal Budget Meals
Travelers on a budget can still experience some of the best Funchal foods. Rather than dining at restaurants, eat at local snack bar cafes, which typically offer the lowest food prices in Madeira.
Cooked Beef in Funchal
When ordering beef – in the form of Espetada or a Filet – the waiter will surely ask how you like your meat to be cooked. In Portuguese, there are three levels: Mal Passado (rare), Medio (medium rare) or Bem Passado (well done).
We typically like our steak to be cooked medium rare – or Medio – but when ordering steak in Funchal, Medio will only be seared on the outside and still a bit raw on the inside. We chose to order beef Bem Passado for our meals.
Funchal Reservations
Visiting Madeira is popular year round and the top Funchal restaurants can get incredibly busy – so it’s best to make a reservation if possible.
Tipping at Restaurants in Funchal
When eating in Funchal restaurants, diners do tip for good service, although it is not required to the same level as in the US. We generally tipped about 10% for good meals in Madeira.
Planning a Trip to Madeira
There is so much more to planning a Madeira trip than figuring out what and where to eat. However, we have heaps of tips that will help you plan an amazing holiday!
Start with our guide of Things To Do in Funchal that showcases the best activities and sights.
Additionally, use our day-by-day Itinerary for Madeira to plan how to spend your time on the island.
Visiting mainland Portugal, too? Great! We have been fortunate to spend ample time in both Lisbon and Porto and have detailed travel guides for both.
- Portugal 10 Day Itinerary
- How To Spend 3 Days in Lisbon (Plus, the Best Miradouro Viewpoints and Prettiest Churches)
- Top Things To Do in Lisbon for Free
- Planning a Perfect Day Trip to Sintra
- How to Spend 5 Days in Porto (Plus, a DIY Walking Tour of Porto)
- A Guide to Porto Food and the Best Porto Craft Beer Bars
- Top Tips for Planning a Vacation to Europe
Organize your Madeira Trip
As you begin to make plans and restaurant reservations, staying organized is key. We recommend using our Printable Travel Planner – to stay on top of all your Funchal vacation details!
Start planning your trip to Portugal! Search for the lowest airfares, the best accommodations and fun things to do…then start packing! Want more vacation advice? Head over to our Travel Planning Page for tips on traveling – and for country-specific information, take a look at our Travel Guides Page!
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