Food in Madeira Portugal is deeply rooted in the island’s maritime surroundings and Portuguese heritage. This beautiful sub-tropical island in the North Atlantic Ocean is not only a feast for the eyes with its lush landscapes, but also a haven for food enthusiasts too.
This page lists all of the different types of Madeiran food and drinks you can find on the island.
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My last visit to Madeira was in summer 2023 on a solo trip, where I made it my mission to taste each and every Madeiran food speciality I could find. This involved travelling all around the island, going on food tours and visiting local markets. You may also like to check out my main Madeira Travel Guide if you are thinking of travelling to Madeira.
Food in Madeira Portugal
On to the food! I have split this guide into 5 sections. You can use the jump links below to skip to each section, or simply scroll through the post to see all the food and drink sections.
- Seafood Dishes in Madeira
- Meat Dishes in Madeira
- Vegetarian Dishes in Madeira
- Desserts in Madeira
- Drinks in Madeira
You will also find a frequently asked questions section at the bottom of the post, along with my recommended food tours in Madeira, and a section on where to stay in Madeira too.
Further reading: Ultimate Madeira Travel Guide.
Here’s your guide to the must-try culinary delights on Madeira Island.
1. Food in Madeira Portugal: Seafood Dishes
Being an island, food in Madeira Portugal is heavily centred around seafood. Here are the three most famous and popular seafood dishes to try in Madeira:
Espada (Scabbardfish)
Despite its rather alarming appearance when plucked from the depths of the North Atlantic, scabbardfish is an integral part of Madeira’s cuisine, culture, and economy. It constitutes around 50% of all catches. It looks pretty horrendous, but it’s very tasty!
There are several popular and slightly unusual ways to serve the scabbardfish (espada):
Scabbardfish with Banana (Peixe Espada com Banana)
The amalgamation of fish and fruit might sound peculiar, but it’s surprisingly good. The espada, lightly floured and fried, is topped with a caramelised banana. This traditional Madeira dish is usually served with potatoes, beans, vegetables, or rice.
Scabbardfish with Passionfruit (Peixe Espada com Maracujá)
Another popular preparation of espada is with passionfruit. This dish offers a combination of sweet, savoury, and tangy flavours. I really enjoyed the contrasting flavours. I ate these dishes all round the island, but of course I found the best ones in the least touristy places.
Espada Sandwich
If fruity toppings aren’t your preference, you can opt for a classic Madeira dish: a breaded espada fillet served inside a crusty bread roll with sauce and salad. You won’t find this dish in fine dining establishments; it’s more of a casual option typically served from takeaways after locals depart from the bars. It’s a great late-night option after a few drinks (side note: make sure you try Madeiran poncha cocktail if you’re out late!)
Further reading: 25 Unique & Amazing Things to do on Madeira Island.
Lapas (Grilled Limpets)
Fresh limpets (or lapas) are a true delicacy from Madeira. They are lightly grilled and served with garlic butter. As the island’s waters are clean and free from pollution, these shellfish, often caught in the morning, are served later the same day.
Lapas are best relished at a beach bar, preferably at sunset, paired with a few beers or wines. These ones were from the Calhau bar on the beach opposite the Savoy Saccharum hotel (read my review of the Savoy Saccharum here).
Polvo (Fresh Octopus)
The polvo in Madeira tastes so fresh you’ll wonder how you ever ate octopus anywhere else. This dish, while not exclusive to the island like some typical Madeira specialties, remains incredibly popular. Usually served with a drizzle of olive oil, balsamic glaze, and a touch of lime, it’s a must-try while you are on the island.
2. Food in Madeira Portugal: Meat Dishes
Espetada
For meat enthusiasts, the ‘espetada’ has to be experienced. This Madeiran specialty features succulent, well-seasoned meats grilled over hot coals. Chunks of marinated beef, traditionally prepared, are skewered and served hanging on bay leaf sticks.
Espetada is traditionally prepared with beef, but some restaurants also serve a chicken version.
Carne Vinha d’Alhos
This is a popular combination of pork marinated in garlic and wine. This dish, once a Christmas Eve tradition (now a year-round treat), is infused with herbs, garlic, red pepper flakes, salt, and black pepper. In the Azores, it is served with potatoes, while in Madeira, it’s often accompanied by bolo de caco bread and/or potatoes.
Picado / Picadinho
Picado (also known as picadinho) is a typical Madeiran dish comprising tasty beef cubes served on a bed of fries, often complemented by tomatoes and other toppings.
This is a staple meat-and-potatoes Madeiran dish found in restaurants and snack bars across the island, best shared and served with wooden toothpicks for spearing the meat.
As with lots of food from Madeira Portugal, some eateries on the island offer picado with squid or octopus instead.
Cozido (Meat Stew)
This classic Portuguese meat dish enjoys popularity in Madeira as well as on the mainland. Originating as a humble peasant’s meal using whatever meat was available, it now typically features salted pork and sausages like chorizo and blood sausage. It’s often served with a side of meat or beans.
Sopa de Trigo (Wheat Soup)
Translating to “wheat soup,” this hearty Madeira dish has been a staple for centuries. Ingredients such as salted pork, potatoes, pumpkins, and carrots simmer in a flavorful broth with buckwheat. Locals often prepare this winter dish, but it might also appear on restaurant menus as a starter.
Prego
Another carnivorous delight in Madeira’s cuisine is the simple prego—a beef steak served between slices of bread. The word “prego” means nail, and is believed to reference the motion of hammering garlic into the meat.
There are lots of versions of this dish available in Porto on the mainland (quite often with a fried egg on top), but in Madeira a ‘prego especial’ is served in warm bolo de caco bread with garlic butter.
3. Food in Madeira Portugal: Vegetarian Dishes
While food in Madeira Portugal tends to lean towards meat and seafood, there are also a few options for vegetarians.
Espetada de Vegetais
Inspired by the famous espetada (kebab) dish, Espetada de Vegetais is a vegetarian version that replaces meat with a colourful array of marinated vegetables such as bell peppers, cherry tomatoes, onions, and mushrooms. Grilled to perfection and seasoned with Madeiran spices, these kebabs are often served alongside meat versions.
Further reading: The 20 best towns in Madeira (and where to stay in each one)
Bolo do Caco
Bolo do Caco is a traditional Madeiran bread that serves as a base for various dishes but can also be eaten on its own, spread with garlic butter. This savoury bread is often served as a side dish or appetiser, providing a delightful combination of crispy exterior and soft interior. Food in Madeira Portugal often incorporates this bread, and you’ll find it everywhere you go, all over the island.
Milho Frito
Milho Frito, or Fried Cornmeal, is a popular dish that can be enjoyed by vegetarians. It involves frying cubes of seasoned and polenta-like cornmeal until they achieve a golden brown, crispy texture. Often served as a side dish, Milho Frito complements other Madeiran specialties.
Sopa de Tomate e Cebola
Tomato and Onion Soup is a comforting and hearty dish. Made with ripe tomatoes, onions, garlic, and aromatic herbs, this soup captures the essence of Madeiran flavours. It is typically served with a drizzle of local olive oil and crusty bread on the side, and quite often comes with a poached egg too.
4. Food in Madeira Portugal: Desserts
From traditional treats to modern creations, Madeira’s desserts are sure to satisfy any sweet tooth. Here are some notable Madeiran desserts:
Bolo de Mel
A popular food in Madeira Portugal, Bolo de Mel (Honey Cake) is a quintessential Madeiran dessert with a rich history. Made with molasses, sugar, nuts, and spices, this dense and moist cake is often enjoyed during festive occasions and celebrations.
While this classic Madeiran delicacy is typically linked to the Christmas season, its production in abundance during the festive period allows it to be enjoyed throughout the year due to its excellent shelf life. Residents often claim that its flavours mature and improve over time.
Queijadas da Madeira
These small, cheesecake-like pastries, known as Queijadas, are mostly popular in the Santa Cruz region in the East of Madeira. Available across the island, these small, flattened cakes boast a round shape and a delightful flavour. Made with fresh cheese, sugar, eggs, and a hint of cinnamon, they are quite moreish!
Following a tradition shared by many Portuguese desserts, queijadas originated nearly 1,000 years ago in convents.
Pastel de Nata
This is not a Madeiran speciality (it’s from mainland Portugal, originating in Lisbon) but it’s available all over Madeira, and I couldn’t leave it out. A flaky pastry filled with a creamy custard, sometimes topped with a sprinkle of cinnamon. The versions you get in madeira are not as good as the ones from Lisbon or Porto, but they are still good.
Pudim de Ovos (Egg Pudding)
Made from sugar, milk, eggs, and citrus fruit, the Pudim de Ovos (Egg Pudding) is a delicious dessert, especially served on festive occasions. It tastes a little bit like a creme brulee, but less rich.
Rabanadas Madeirenses
Similar to French toast, Rabanadas Madeirenses are made by soaking slices of bread in a mixture of milk and eggs, frying them until golden brown, and then dusting them with sugar and cinnamon. This simple yet comforting dessert is often enjoyed during the Christmas season.
Pudim de Maracujá
Passionfruit Pudding, or Pudim de Maracujá, is a tropical delight that captures the essence of Madeira’s exotic fruits. This creamy pudding, often topped with passionfruit sauce, is a refreshing way to end a meal. It can be enjoyed on its own or incorporated into a biscuit base, similar to the preparation of a cheesecake.
Tropical Fruits
Madeira, with its subtropical climate, is abundant in exotic fruits. Food in Madeira Portugal often incorporates fruits. Desserts often feature fresh tropical fruits like passionfruit, banana, and guava, adding a burst of natural sweetness to various sweet treats.
Visit the Mercado Dos Lavradores in Funchal and you will have a plethora of options, including tamarillo, mango, pineapples, dragon fruit and custard apples.
5. Drinks in Madeira
Now I have introduced you to the various food in Madeira Portugal, it is time for drinks! From world-famous fortified wines to locally inspired drinks, here are some notable Madeiran drinks:
Further reading: The 14 Best Hotels in Madeira, Portugal.
Madeira Wine
Madeira wine, with its sweet and strong taste, is a testament to the island’s winemaking heritage dating back to the 1400s. Visit Blandy’s Wine Lodge in Funchal or embark on a wine tour to discover the distinct varieties, from sweet to dry. You can also buy Blandys wine on Amazon.
Similar to the port wine from Porto, Madeira wine underwent fermentation with grape liquor, ensuring its resilience during the lengthy journey back to mainland Europe. Its sweet and robust flavour quickly won over consumers, a preference that has endured through the years.
Madeira is globally acclaimed for these unique fortified wines. The wines are often classified by their sweetness levels, ranging from dry to sweet. Varieties include Sercial (dry), Verdelho (medium dry), Bual (medium sweet), and Malmsey (sweet). The wine is aged through a distinct heating and cooling process, known as estufagem, which imparts a distinctive flavour profile, making Madeira wine a popular choice for both sipping and cooking.
Poncha
Poncha stands out as the most renowned beverage on the island, a rum-based concoction featuring honey, sugarcane, and typically citrus juice. Its origins are traced back to the fishing village of Câmara de Lobos, where it is said to have been first created.
In addition to the classic fishermen’s punch, numerous poncha bars offer an array of flavours such as passionfruit and tangerine. Most bars will let you have a go at making the poncha too (I did this, but I think I was better at drinking it than making it).
The locals told me about a funny saying they have about poncha: after one poncha you are ok, after two ponchas you cannot drive, and after three ponchas you can speak Chinese!
Click here to see a Drink Poncha t shirt on Amazon.
Ginja Liqueur
Ginja, or ginjinha, is a Portuguese cherry liqueur that is also enjoyed in Madeira. The liqueur is made by infusing sour cherries in aguardente (firewater) and sweetening the mixture with sugar. Ginja is often consumed as a digestif, and it has a sweet and slightly tart flavour that appeals to those with a penchant for fruity liqueurs. You will also see it served in chocolate cups as a dessert.
Nikita
Nikita is a popular Madeiran beer cocktail that combines lager beer, pineapple ice cream, and pineapple juice. This sweet and frothy concoction is a favourite among locals and tourists alike, especially during warmer months. It provides a refreshing alternative to traditional beers and is often served in large glasses.
I was sceptical at first, but I have to say it was really nice! Like a cross between a beer and a pina colada.
Liqueurs
Madeira produces a variety of fruit-based liqueurs, often crafted from local fruits such as passion fruit, tangerine, and banana. These liqueurs showcase the island’s abundant fruit harvest and offer a sweet alternative for those seeking a taste of Madeiran spirits.
Brisa Maracujá
Abundantly cultivated on the island, passionfruit holds a significant place in Madeiran gastronomy, including the popular soft drink, Brisa Maracujá. On a warm summer day, this sweet, fizzy beverage is the perfect thirst-quencher.
Food Tours and Food Experiences in Madeira
For an introduction to food in Madeira Portugal, I recommend trying a food tour in the region. Below are some of the top-rated tours in Madeira, from my preferred tour operator Viator (I also use Get Your Guide as well, but Viator is my go-to).
1.Madeira Food & Cultural Tour: Walking tour in Funchal with seven food tastings with a local experienced guide. Learn about food in Madeira Portugal whilst eating your way through the town!
2. Half-Day Wine Tour in Madeira: Wonderful wine trail through the Laurissilva forest with wine and tapas included.
3. Genuine Food Experience at Recanto : Farm dining experience on the western outskirts of Funchal. Start your experience with a welcome drink, then tour the farm to harvest ingredients. Then, learn to prepare a 3-course meal of regional seasonal dishes including traditional espetada. Finish your meal with a local digestif.
4. Cooking Experience and Market Tour: Learn about food in Madeira Portugal with this food-themed experience. The trip starts with a visit to a local market that sells unusual fish, tropical fruits, seasonal vegetables, and exotic flowers. Continue the adventure to a hotel rooftop to make local dishes, followed by a generous lunch with Portuguese wine.
5. Full Day Wine Tasting Tour with Lunch: Great-value tour includes hotel pickup, lunch, and wine tasting. Visit wineries and wine cellars in Câmara de Lobos, Porto Moniz, or São Vicente. Sample a variety of Madeira wines and learn more about the winemaking process, then enjoy a delicious Madeiran lunch paired with local wines.
6. Private Wine Tour by Open Top 4 Wheel Drive: Join a private guide and visit vineyards built on cultivated terraces to learn about the famous fortified Madeira wine as well as table wines made on the island. Your tour also visits the Girao Cape viewpoint and the Seixal natural pools for a quick dip.
7. The Espetada Evening Food & Culture Tour: Pickup from Funchal included. Visit a local bar for appetisers and a restaurant for dinner with your local guides.
View all Madeira tours on Viator here. You can reserve tours immediately without paying anything up front, and cancel for free. Viator is a TripAdvisor company, so you know you will get a good service.
Food in Madeira Portugal: FAQs
Here are some frequently asked questions about food in Madeira Portugal (and drinks!)
Q: What are the traditional dishes of Madeira?
A: Madeira offers a range of traditional dishes such as Espetada (kebabs), Bolo do Caco (traditional bread), and black scabbard fish, often served with banana or passionfruit. The above Madeira food guide details all of the main dishes you need to know about.
Q: Is Madeiran cuisine mainly focused on seafood?
A: Yes, seafood is prominent in Madeiran cuisine. Espada (black scabbardfish) and Lapas (limpets) are popular seafood options. Meat options are also very popular.
Q: What is Poncha, and why is it popular?
A: Poncha is a traditional Madeiran drink made with aguardente, honey, and citrus juice. Its refreshing taste makes it a popular choice in social settings.
Q: Are there options for vegetarians in Madeira?
A: Traditional food in Madeira Portugal is mostly centred around meat and fish dishes, although there are some dishes suitable for vegetarians. These include Espetada de Vegetais (vegetable kebabs) and Milho Frito (fried cornmeal), along with various salads. But Madeira is better suited to meat and fish eaters than vegetarians.
Further reading: 16 of the Best Levada Walks on Madeira Island
Q: What is the significance of Madeira wine?
A: Madeira wine is a unique fortified wine with various varieties, from dry to sweet. It’s both enjoyed as a beverage and used in cooking.
Q: Are there unique desserts in Madeira?
A: Traditional desserts include Bolo de Mel (honey cake), Queijadas da Madeira (cheese pastries), and Rabanadas Madeirenses (similar to French toast). Lots of desserts feature local sugar cane and lemon juice.
Q: Is tipping customary in Madeira restaurants?
A: Yes, tipping is customary, and leaving around 5-10% of the bill for good service is common.
Q: Where can I find authentic local markets in Madeira?
A: Funchal Market (Mercado dos Lavradores) is a vibrant market in the capital city, offering fresh produce, local delicacies, and handmade crafts.
Q: Are there food festivals or events in Madeira?
A: Yes, Madeira hosts food festivals like the Madeira Wine Festival and Gastronomy Week, celebrating local specialties. Food in Madeira Portugal is a celebrated affair, and there is usually something going on every month of the year.
Q: Can I find international cuisine in Madeira?
A: Yes, especially in urban areas like Funchal, you can find a variety of international cuisines alongside traditional Madeiran offerings.
Q: What is the best time to try local specialties in Madeira?
A: Many local dishes are available year-round, but festive periods offer an excellent opportunity to try a wider variety due to increased production.
Further reading: The Best Time to visit Madeira Island, Portugal.
Q: Can I buy Madeiran honey or other local products as souvenirs?
A: Yes, Madeira is known for its high-quality honey. You can find it and other local products in markets and specialty stores. Food in Madeira Portugal is also available to buy at Funchal airport.
Further reading: 20 Gifts and Souvenirs to Buy From Madeira.
Q: Are there guided food tours available in Madeira?
A: Yes, several companies offer guided food tours, providing an opportunity to explore the island’s culinary scene with local experts. See my guided food tours section above.
Q: What is the recommended drink to pair with traditional Madeiran dishes?
A: Madeira wine is a classic choice to complement traditional Madeiran dishes. Try a wine tour to learn more about Madeiran wine.
Q: Can I find street food in Madeira Portugal?
A: While street food in Madeira Portugal is not as common as in some other places, you can find local snacks and treats in markets and popular tourist areas.
Further reading: Ultimate Madeira Travel Guide.
Q: Is tap water safe to drink in Madeira?
A: Yes, tap water is generally safe to drink in Madeira. The water quality is high, and locals often drink tap water.
Q: What are the typical breakfast options for food in Madeira Portugal?
A: Traditional Madeiran breakfast options may include Bolo do Caco (bread), local cheeses, fresh fruits, and coffee.
Q: Are there culinary workshops or cooking classes available for tourists?
A: Yes, some establishments offer culinary workshops and cooking classes, allowing tourists to learn and experience Madeiran cooking firsthand. See my guided food tours section above.
Q: Can I find gluten-free options in Madeira restaurants?
A: Yes, some restaurants in Madeira are aware of dietary preferences, including gluten-free options on their menus. However you may have to search for them, as not all restaurants cater for different diets.
Q: What is the etiquette for dining out in Madeira?
A: It’s customary to greet with “Bom dia” (Good morning) or “Boa tarde” (Good afternoon). Also, it’s polite to wait for everyone to be served before starting your meal.
Where to Stay in Madeira
Below is an abridged version of my main Where to stay in Madeira post. You may also be interested in 14 of the Best Hotels in Madeira.
Consider the following towns when deciding where to stay in Madeira. I have included links which will take you to Booking.com if you would like to check prices. Click here to see all availability in Madeira.
a. Funchal
The capital city offers a wide range of accommodations, from luxury hotels to budget-friendly options. Funchal is bustling with restaurants, shops, and cultural attractions, making it a convenient base for exploring. It’s also a great choice if you want a mix of city life and coastal beauty. See prices and availability for Funchal.
b. Calheta
This area is known for its golden sandy beach and is a great pick for those seeking a more relaxed and beach-oriented vacation. I stayed in Calheta in 2023 and wrote a review of the Savoy Saccharum Resort & Spa.
Calheta offers a selection of hotels and self-catering accommodations. See prices and availability for Calheta.
c. São Vicente
If you’re interested in exploring Madeira’s natural beauty, São Vicente offers a serene atmosphere nestled amidst mountains and valleys. It’s a great choice for nature lovers and hikers. See prices and availability for São Vicente.
d. Porto Moniz
Famous for its natural swimming pools, Porto Moniz is a picturesque coastal village. It’s an ideal spot for a peaceful getaway and is known for its unique volcanic landscapes. See prices and availability for Porto Moniz.
e. Machico
This historic town is close to the airport and offers a beautiful beach, making it convenient for a short stay or if you want easy access to transportation. See prices and availability for Machico.
f. Santana
Known for its charming A-frame houses and lush green surroundings, Santana provides a tranquil rural experience. See prices and availability for Santana.
g. Ponta do Sol
This sunny village is perfect if you’re looking for a quiet, laid-back atmosphere. It offers stunning sunsets and a peaceful ambiance. See prices and availability for Ponta do Sol.
h. Câmara de Lobos
A traditional fishing village with a vibrant local atmosphere, Câmara de Lobos is an excellent choice for experiencing authentic Madeiran culture. See prices and availability for Câmara de Lobos.
i. Ribeira Brava
This coastal town offers a mix of local life, historical sites, and beautiful sea views. I found it quite s imilar to Funchal but a lot less busy and with more of a local feel. See prices and availability for Ribeira Brava.
j. Ponta Delgada
Located on the north coast, Ponta Delgada is a small village known for its natural beauty and quietness. See prices and availability for Ponta Delgada.
Further reading: The 14 Best Hotels in Madeira, Portugal.
Accommodation in Madeira
Here is a map from Booking.com showing hotels by location. You can zoom in, zoom out, drag and move the map. If you click the map, it will take you to Booking.com where you can look more closely at your options.
Booking.comI recommend reserving your room immediately to get the best price. It’s usually free to reserve, and you can always cancel later on. See the main Madeira page from Booking.com.
Booking links
Here are your booking links again, all in one place. These links will get you the best prices on Booking.com today:
Hotels in Funchal | Hotels in Calheta | Hotels in São Vicente | Hotels in Porto Moniz | Hotels in Machico | Hotels in Santana | Hotels in Ponta do Sol | Hotels in Câmara de Lobos | Hotels in Ribeira Brava | Hotels in Ponta Delgada | All hotels in Madeira.
Further reading: The 20 best towns in Madeira (and where to stay in each one)
Quick links for Madeira
- Reserve your Madeira Hotel early, before they sell out.
- Remember to pack decent sunscreen and a packable sun hat.
- Book Madeira tours in advance (no payment required up front).
- Take a quick-dry sand-repellent beach towel.
- Packing cubes are a traveller’s best friend. I recommend these ones.
- Going hiking? These are the best hiking socks.
- If you need a rental car, book one at Discover Cars and pick it up at the airport.
- Need something to read on the beach? 20 Best Books For Travellers.
Food in Madeira Portugal: Related Posts
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Food in Madeira Portugal: Pinterest pins
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