Nestled in the middle of the Atlantic Ocean, the subtropical Portuguese island of Madeira offers a European Hawaii-like experience, boasting a tropical old-world charm and a spectacular volcanic landscape. The island’s stunning scenery includes black, rocky beaches, a UNESCO Heritage Laurisilva forest, steeply terraced landscapes, and year-round sunny weather. Madeira has consistently received recognition as the Best Island Destination in the World by the World Travel Awards since 2013.
Madeira’s cuisine is a blend of influences from global traders who visited the island since the 15th century and the island’s native fruits and seafood. The favorable, tropical climate allowed Latin American and Asian fruits to thrive on the island. Madeira’s introduction to sugarcane from Sicily resulted in the creation of Portuguese rum. The island is known for its bananas, with the fruit being a top commodity. Additionally, Madeira is famous for its namesake fortified wine and abundant seafood, which plays a central role in the local cuisine.
The island’s fresh produce, available year-round due to its eternal spring-like climate, has turned Madeira into a burgeoning culinary destination. Innovative chefs in Madeira draw inspiration from traditional dishes, such as espetada, lapas (limpets), and black scabbardfish, while incorporating modern twists. Notably, in 2009, Il Gallo d’Oro became the first Michelin-starred restaurant in Madeira, and it has retained this status since 2017, with two Michelin stars and a Green Star for sustainability in gastronomy in the 2023 Michelin guide.
Here are seven top dining destinations in Funchal, the capital city of Madeira:
- Razão Restaurant at Socalco, located just outside Funchal in Calheta, offers a menu that varies daily based on fresh market, fishery, and garden produce, providing a delightful surprise for diners.
- William at Belmond Reid’s Palace, situated in the iconic Belmond Reid’s Palace, offers fine dining with a focus on Madeiran produce, including local fruits and coastal seafood.
- Galáxia Skybar at the Savoy Palace provides breathtaking views, inventive cocktails, and small bites, making it an ideal spot for enjoying drinks and panoramic views of Funchal.
- Casal da Penha, a Michelin Bib Gourmand restaurant in the center of Funchal, offers traditional Madeiran and Portuguese dishes in a charming, family-owned establishment.
- Vila do Peixe is a seafood restaurant in Câmara de Lobos, offering freshly grilled seafood like tuna, sea bream, and black scabbard fish, with stunning views of the city and the bay.
- Armazém do Sal, housed in a 200-year-old salt warehouse, serves contemporary Madeiran and Portuguese dishes with a local twist, making it a great stop for tourists exploring the city.
- Desarma, located on the rooftop of the hotel The Views Baía, offers a unique fine dining experience that combines traditional Madeiran ingredients with molecular gastronomy and artistic plating, creating a multisensory culinary adventure.
Madeira’s culinary scene has been steadily gaining recognition, offering a delightful fusion of tradition and innovation in a picturesque island setting.