What Food to Try When Visiting Madeira ⋆ Lifeguin

Tasty Things You Should Eat When On Madeira

Madeira is a paradise for foodies, meaning we were so much more excited to explore what it has to offer. One of the reasons why the food here is so good is that Madeira’s volcanic soil and favorable climate create an ideal environment for cultivating a wide variety of fruits, vegetables, and herbs.

And that’s not the only reason. Madeiran cuisine is rooted in age-old cooking methods passed down through generations. We were lucky because one of our close friends comes from Madeira, so he recommended us the best of the best, which we happily share now. In this blog post, we’ll take you on a gastronomic journey through the vibrant flavors and interesting facts that make Madeiran cuisine a true delight for travelers. Each dish we mention also has a local recommendation for the best place to get it.

Below a map of the places we tried and recommend.

Let’s start with the food before mentioning some delicious desserts.

Bolo do Caco

A trip to Madeira is complete with trying Bolo do Caco, a traditional flatbread that has stood the test of time. Made from sweet potato and cooked on a caco, a type of basalt stone, this bread has a slightly sweet, nutty flavor and a chewy texture. It’s often served warm with generous amounts of garlic butter and pairs perfectly with local fish or meat dishes. Although it’s the simplest dish, it remains our favorite one. We had this heavenly garlic bread in every restaurant and snack bar and have been dreaming about it ever since. 😅

Best restaurant to get it: try them in each, because they all do their twist on it.

Espetada: For Every Meat Lover

Madeira’s Espetada is a carnivore’s dream come true. This traditional dish features succulent chunks of marinated beef skewered on laurel sticks and grilled to perfection. The marinade, typically consisting of garlic, bay leaves, salt, and red wine, imparts a distinct flavor that sets Espetada apart. Served with a side of milho frito (fried cornmeal), this dish offers a delightful combination of textures and tastes. And it is also served uniquely – on a hanging sword.

Best restaurant to get it: Restaurante Santo António

Arroz de Marisco: Seafood Heaven

Arroz de Marisco, or seafood rice, truly celebrates Madeira’s abundant coastal treasures. This aromatic dish combines fresh seafood, like prawns, clams, mussels, and fish, with fragrant rice cooked in a flavorful broth infused with tomatoes, garlic, onions, and a hint of saffron. The result is a rich and hearty stew that encapsulates the essence of the ocean.

Best restaurant to get it: O Arco restaurant

Filete de Espada com Banana

Fish and banana don’t sound right? Hear us out. Filete de Espada, or scabbardfish fillet, is a delicacy showcasing Madeira’s waters’ bounties. This is a unique fish, with its long, slender body and distinctive appearance. Filete de Espada com Banana, or Black Scabbard Fish with Banana, is a marriage of two distinct ingredients that might initially seem unusual but come together in perfect harmony on the plate.

Adding bananas might raise an eyebrow or two, but this is a cherished tradition in Madeira. The island’s unique microclimate provides the perfect conditions for cultivating sweet, flavorful bananas. Sliced and sautéed until golden, they bring a natural sweetness and a touch of caramelization to the dish. When the tender filet of scabbard fish meets the caramelized bananas on the plate, magic happens.

Best restaurant to get it: O Arco restaurant

Bacalhau à Brás: A Portuguese Staple with a Madeiran Twist

Bacalhau, or salted codfish, is a beloved ingredient in Portuguese cuisine, and Madeira is no exception. The Madeiran version, Bacalhau à Brás, features shredded salted codfish sautéed with onions, garlic, and matchstick fries, bound together by scrambled eggs. This hearty dish showcases the island’s ability to elevate a simple ingredient into a flavorful masterpiece.

The best restaurant to get it: Panoramik Ocean

Picado

When it comes to exploring the culinary treasures of Madeira, one dish stands out as a true gem – Picado. The dish typically features small, bite-sized pieces of beef or pork marinated in a blend of garlic, bay leaves, and other aromatic spices, then sautéed to tender perfection. The result is a burst of rich, savory flavors that captivate the taste buds. Picado is incredibly versatile, allowing for a wide range of creative interpretations. While the traditional recipe calls for beef or pork, chicken or seafood variations can be found in some restaurants.

Best restaurant to get it: Victoria Restaurante

Read also about Things to Eat and Drink When In Portugal

Let’s look at some of the delicious desserts to try out.

Pastel De Nata

Have you tried Pastel de nata, the famous Portuguese egg custard tart? It is widely enjoyed in mainland Portugal and other parts of Western Europe, Asia, and former Portuguese colonies like Brazil, Mozambique, Macau, Goa, and East Timor. We tried it in Lisbon first, but it is widely available in Madeira.

Bolo De Mel

This classic cake, which gets its name because it was traditionally served with Madeira wine, is a little firmer and close-textured than a regular sponge. It’s one of the oldest delicacies on the island. If you truly want a great experience, step into the hidden treasure of Fábrica Santo Antonio, an enchanting biscuit shop in Funchal.

Here, locals flock to procure their beloved bolo de mel, sugar cane biscuits, and an array of traditional jams. The moment you cross the threshold, you’ll be transported to a bygone era reminiscent of the sweetest memories from Christmases past. The entire space is adorned with a tasteful decor, boasting old-fashioned wicker baskets brimming with sweet delights – a sight to behold.

Bola de Berlin

This delectable pastry, also known as a Berliner or a Portuguese doughnut, is a true indulgence for those with a sweet tooth. Imagine sinking your teeth into a pillowy-soft, golden-brown sphere of dough generously filled with a luscious, velvety custard or fruit jam. This is the essence of a Bola de Berlim. Each bite is an exquisite balance of textures, as the outer layer yields a creamy, flavorful center. Traditionally enjoyed during summer vacations at the beach, it’s a symbol of carefree days and simple pleasures.

Queijada (Cheese Pastry)

We accidentally stumbled across this, having no idea what we were buying. Queijada is a testament to the craftsmanship and creativity of Madeiran bakers. It begins with a harmonious blend of fresh cheese, sugar, eggs, and a touch of citrus zest, resulting in a smooth, creamy filling that’s pure ambrosia. This velvety concoction is cradled in a delicate pastry shell, creating a perfect union of textures and flavors. As you take your first bite, you’ll be greeted by a dance of flavors. The gentle sweetness of the filling harmonizes with the subtle tanginess of the cheese, creating a delightful contrast that awakens the taste buds.

Madeira’s culinary scene is a testament to the island’s rich cultural heritage and natural abundance. So, pack your appetite and embark on a gastronomic adventure that’s sure to leave you with memories as delectable as the flavors of Madeira.

Cheers to the taste of Madeira!

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