Funchal is packed with quality restaurants, from Michelin-starred establishments to smaller, more traditional names. This is your chance to discover local gastronomy and Portuguese flavors. You’ll find something to suit every budget. We were won over by the Madeiran specialities on offer at the city’s fine restaurants!
Discover our selection of the best restaurants to eat out in Funchal, and a few other good addresses as a bonus. We believe that culinary exploration is part of the journey, so take the opportunity to awaken your taste buds!
This opinion is completely independent, based on our experiences. We made our own choices, visited the area anonymously, and paid our bills in full.
Funchal’s best restaurants: our 3 favourites
Before discovering our detailed opinions on each of the establishments we have selected, take a look at our 3 favorite addresses:
- Restaurant Desarma (1 star): nestled on the 11th floor of The Views Baia Hotel, we enjoyed an exceptional gastronomic menu that revisits traditional Madeira dishes with originality and finesse!
- Restaurant Casal da Penha (bib): on the perched terrace, we feasted on freshly caught fish, lightly grilled lamb chops and crisp vegetables. Authentic, generous cuisine!
- Restaurant 5 Sentidos: tucked away in the corner of a secluded downtown alleyway, this restaurant features local produce. We savored every bite, and spent a delicious moment between 2 visits.
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Michelin-starred and gourmet restaurants in Funchal
1. Restaurant Desarma (1 star, Hotel The Views Baia)
Restaurant Desarma is renowned for its modern gourmet cuisine and panoramic views from the 11th floor of The Views Baia Hotel. Michelin-starred chef Octávio Freitas revisits traditional Madeira dishes with creativity and finesse. As soon as we arrived, we were taken care of and introduced to the staff. The welcome was warm, yet distinguished. Before reaching our table, we discovered the magnificent orange marble kitchen, where the magic happens!
From appetizer to dessert, we were transported by the flavors, textures and precision of the dishes. It was a real treat, both for the eyes and the palate. We rediscovered local specialties, while contemplating the incredible view of Funchal’s rooftops and the ocean on the horizon. Don’t hesitate to extend your luxury getaway by staying one or more nights at the hotel. – see prices, availability and book.
Practical information:
- Neighborhood: northwest of downtown.
- Type: gastronomic starred.
- Capacity: more than 25 place settings.
- Price range: between €175 and €275 per person (excluding drinks).
- Portuguese specialities: yes.
- Particularly suitable for children: no.
- Reservations required here.
2. Restaurant Il Gallo d’Oro (2 stars, The Cliff Bay Hotel)
Run by French chef Benoît Sinthon since 2004, Restaurant Il Gallo d’Oro was awarded Madeira Island’s first Michelin star in 2009. With 2 Michelin stars, a green star and a sommelier’s award, you’ll enjoy an exceptional culinary experience! Recently renovated and elegant, the dining room boasts a view of the ocean. This gourmet establishment is part of The Cliff Bay Hotel – See prices, photos and availability.
The à la carte menu features Iberian-inspired aromatic creations and local produce. Some are grown directly in the hotel’s vegetable garden, as the restaurant is committed to sustainability. Menus are expensive, but it’s the perfect opportunity to experience a suspended, out-of-the-ordinary moment!
Practical information:
- Neighborhood: west of downtown.
- Type: gastronomic starred.
- Capacity: more than 25 place settings.
- Price range: between €245 and €295 per person (excluding drinks).
- Portuguese specialities: yes.
- Particularly suitable for children: no.
- Reservations required here.
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3. Restaurant William (1 star, Reid’s Palace Hotel)
A renowned gastronomic destination, Restaurant William boasts a unique setting and a breathtaking view of the Atlantic Ocean. Chef José Diogo Costa is renowned for his refined cuisine that highlights fresh, local produce, while incorporating a touch of originality. The establishment offers vegetarian, vegan, gluten-free and lactose-free options.
Here, you can enjoy fine, tasty Portuguese dishes, while taking in the panoramic view of the Funchal coastline. It’s the perfect place to spend a romantic evening! To extend your luxury experience, we recommend a stay at Reid’s Palace Hotel, home to the Reid’s Palace restaurant. – See prices, photos and availability.
Practical information:
- Neighborhood: west of downtown.
- Type: gastronomic starred.
- Capacity: more than 25 place settings.
- Price range: between €105 and €160 per person (excluding drinks).
- Portuguese specialities: yes.
- Particularly suitable for children: no.
- Reservations required here.
Best bistronomic restaurants in Funchal
4. Restaurant Avista (bib, Hotel Les Suites at The Cliff Bay)
Nestled in the Hotel Les Suites at The Cliff Bay, one of the best boutique hotels in Madeira in our opinion, this fine dining restaurant boasts a magnificent ocean view. We were impressed by the beauty of the scenery from the terrace.
Headed by chef Benoît Sinthon, who also runs Restaurant Il Gallo d’Oro, you’ll discover Mediterranean cuisine in a relaxed chic setting. The concept is to share plates to sample several dishes, including Algarve red shrimp, Spanish croquettes and PDO cheese platter. Want to extend your luxury getaway? Stay one or more nights at the hotel – See prices, photos and availability.
Practical information:
- Neighborhood: west of downtown.
- Type: bistronomic.
- Capacity: more than 25 place settings.
- Price range: between €25 and €70 per person (excluding drinks).
- Portuguese specialities: yes.
- Particularly suitable for children: yes (menu).
- Reservations recommended here.
OUR FAVORITE ACTIVITY IN Madeira
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5. Restaurant Casal da Penha (bib)
Situated at the crossroads of 2 cobbled lanes, this restaurant first attracted us for its traditional facade, which is full of character. We headed for the terrace, located high up, to enjoy the sunshine. Colorful plants and flowers brightened up the space, making it even more charming!
Upstairs, we discovered a well-stocked wine cellar. In fact, we had a glass of Madeira white wine to accompany our dish: filet of Black Saber. This fish is one of the pillars of the island’s traditional gastronomy. It was particularly well executed! We also tried the lamb chops, which were very good but slightly overcooked. As a side dish, we shared crunchy baby vegetables, crispy polenta and potatoes, and melt-in-your-mouth sweet potato chunks.
Practical information:
- Neighborhood: west of downtown.
- Type: bistronomic.
- Capacity: more than 25 place settings.
- Price range: between €20 and €60 per person (excluding drinks).
- Portuguese specialities: yes.
- Particularly suitable for children: yes.
- Reservations recommended here.
6. Restaurant 5 Sentidos
Although we arrived late for lunch, the staff greeted us with a smile. We really liked the restaurant’s decor, which was inviting and relaxed. We could even watch the waiters behind the counter putting the finishing touches to our dishes.
For starters, we tried traditional Portuguese bread with tender pieces of beef in sauce. It was a very successful and tasty appetizer. We then feasted on duck confit, mashed potatoes and new carrots. The tarragon and anise sauce went perfectly with the meat. Excellent value for money. It also offers an inexpensive menu for weekday lunches around €10, and vegetarian and vegan options.
Practical information:
- Neighborhood: downtown.
- Type: bistronomic.
- Capacity: less than 25 covers.
- Price range: between €10 and €50 per person (excluding drinks).
- Portuguese specialities: yes.
- Particularly suitable for children: yes (menu).
- Reservations recommended here.
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7. Restaurant Santa Maria (old town)
Strolling through Funchal’s old town, we were drawn to Restaurant Santa Maria for its original concept. On the menu, we discovered traditional Portuguese dishes, as well as a whole range of sushi dishes. We were very curious to try them, but they were no longer available to order when we ate there. They are, however, very popular with customers.
We sat down on a table outside to enjoy the lively atmosphere of the busy street. To whet our appetites, we shared a salad of crispy calamari with onions, peppers and herbs. For the main course, we opted for the black pork cheek. The waitress came straight to our table to transfer the meat from the cast-iron casserole to our plates. It was a real success: the pork was perfectly cooked, the truffle purée excellent, and the carrots melting.
Practical information:
- Neighborhood: old town.
- Type: bistronomic.
- Capacity: more than 25 place settings.
- Price range: between €10 and €40 per person (excluding drinks).
- Portuguese specialities: yes.
- Particularly suitable for children: yes (menu).
- Reservations recommended here.
8. Tipografia Restaurant (Old Town, Castanheiro Boutique-Hotel)
Located on the first floor of the Castanheiro Boutique-Hotel, one of the best hotels in old Funchal, this restaurant offers a varied menu featuring traditional island dishes. You’ll find Sabre Noir tempura, with banana puree and roasted sweet potato accompanied by passion fruit aioli. It’s a revisited version ofespada com banana, Madeira’s emblematic fish and banana dish.
Featuring a large, pleasant outdoor terrace, this establishment is located in the old town, close to the Museum of Photography and Praça do Município. The menu combines Portuguese cuisine with Mediterranean and Italian flavors: risottos, pasta and ravioli. After a delicious meal, why not book an overnight stay on the hotel’s panoramic rooftop? – See prices, photos and availability.
Practical information:
- Neighborhood: old town.
- Type: bistronomic.
- Capacity: more than 25 place settings.
- Price range: between €20 and €60 per person (excluding drinks).
- Portuguese specialities: yes.
- Particularly suitable for children: no.
- Reservations recommended here.
9. Villa Cipriani Restaurant (Reid’s Palace Hotel)
Set in a charming oceanfront villa, Restaurant Villa Cipriani belongs to Reid’s Palace Hotel. As the foreign-sounding name suggests, you’ll enjoy refined, modern Italian cuisine: tagliatelle, cannelloni, gnocchi, ravioli and other savory surprises.
Enjoy traditional dishes from chef Marcelino Fernandes in one of Madeira’s finest luxury hotels! It’s perfect for a romantic meal for two. We strongly recommend that you make yourself at home on the outdoor terrace. You’ll enjoy a privileged view of the coastline as you feast.
Practical information:
- Neighborhood: west of downtown.
- Type: Italian bistro cuisine.
- Capacity: more than 25 place settings.
- Price range: between €25 and €60 per person (excluding drinks).
- Portuguese specialities: no.
- Particularly suitable for children: yes.
- Reservations recommended here.
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Best traditional restaurants in Funchal
10. Restaurant Armazém do Sal (old town)
Restaurant Armazém do Sal is tucked away at the end of a small cul-de-sac in the heart of the old town. Its stone walls, wooden beams and outdoor terrace give it plenty of character. We really liked the medieval-influenced decor. Perfect for a timeless dinner!
As an aperitif, we tried the island’s traditional cocktail, the Poncha. It’s made with sugarcane rum, bee honey and lemon juice. To accompany our drink, we were treated to a delicious tuna tartare as an amuse-bouche. To keep the momentum going, we tried the soft-shell crab served on a bed of hommos. We didn’t particularly love this starter, as it had a strong “taste of the sea”. We did, however, like the crunchiness of the crab shell. For the main course, we opted for the shrimp risotto, which was very tasty, but lacked a little subtlety. If you have the time, we recommend you try the gourmet menu or the chef’s creations!
Practical information:
- Neighborhood: downtown.
- Type: traditional bistronomic cuisine.
- Capacity: more than 25 place settings.
- Price range: between €25 and €80 per person (excluding drinks).
- Portuguese specialities: yes.
- Particularly suitable for children: no.
- Reservations recommended here.
11. Restaurant Cantinho dos Amigos (old town, inexpensive)
Nestled in a small cobbled alleyway in old Funchal, just a few metres from the Sé Cathedral, this traditional restaurant offers typical Madeira dishes at a reasonable price. Seafood is cooked with generosity: shrimp, tuna, squid, salmon, sea bream and octopus.
The value for money is really interesting, especially as it’s so well located. It’s the ideal place to give your children a taste of the island’s cuisine without breaking the bank. Between 2 visits, enjoy a convivial meal on the outdoor terrace!
Practical information:
- Neighborhood: downtown.
- Type: traditional cuisine.
- Capacity: less than 25 covers.
- Price range: between €10 and €30 per person (excluding drinks).
- Portuguese specialities: yes.
- Particularly suitable for children: yes.
- Reservations on +351 291 236 357.
Best fish and seafood restaurants in Funchal
12. Restaurant Peixaria no Mercado (old town)
After visiting Funchal’s covered market, head for Restaurant Peixaria no Mercado! As the name suggests, you’ll enjoy seafood dishes from the Mercado dos Lavradores.
We set up on the outdoor terrace to enjoy the lively street atmosphere. To accompany our homemade lemonade, which was particularly refreshing, we tried seaweed butter spread on slow-rising bread. It was a delight! After this amuse-bouche, we enjoyed the braised cabbage with kimchi olive oil. The cod croquettes and homemade tartar sauce won us over, although a little too fatty. During your visit to the Old Town, we highly recommend eating here!
Practical information:
- Neighborhood: downtown.
- Type: seafood cuisine.
- Capacity: more than 25 place settings.
- Price range: between €20 and €40 per person (excluding drinks).
- Portuguese specialities: yes.
- Particularly suitable for children: yes.
- Reservations recommended on +351 291 222 249.
13. Restaurant ÁKUA by Chef Júlio Pereira (Old Town)
Located in a picturesque alleyway in old Funchal, Restaurant ÁKUA is a popular address for lovers of fresh fish and shellfish. It offers a refined culinary experience, highlighting the authentic flavours of the sea.
Chef Júlio Pereira is renowned for his expertise and passion. He creates innovative dishes that celebrate local produce. We were attracted by the shop window displaying the day’s catch. We saw black shrimp, large prawns, mussels and lobsters.
Practical information:
- Neighborhood: downtown.
- Type: bistronomic seafood cuisine.
- Capacity: more than 25 place settings.
- Price range: between €30 and €50 per person (excluding drinks).
- Portuguese specialities: yes.
- Particularly suitable for children: no.
- Reservations recommended here.
Best light and healthy restaurants in Funchal
14. Restaurant Horta
Restaurant Horta is distinguished by its magnificent decor in natural tones. Light wood furniture adds a touch of warmth to the space. Tastefully arranged plants add a sense of freshness and serenity to the whole. It’s the ideal place to enjoy a memorable culinary experience, where aesthetics and gastronomy meet in harmony.
You’ll enjoy fine, well-balanced dishes presented with care. Vegetables feature prominently on the menu. The establishment also offers vegetarian, vegan and gluten-free options. Between the braised lentils with zucchini spaghetti, the vegetable curry, the honey and apricot cake, and the homemade ice cream, you’ll love this excellent table!
Practical information:
- Neighborhood: west of Funchal.
- Type: bistronomic.
- Capacity: more than 25 place settings.
- Price range: between €20 and €50 per person (excluding drinks).
- Portuguese specialities: yes.
- Particularly suitable for children: no.
- Reservations recommended here.
15. Restaurant Imperfeito
Restaurant Imperfeito is a pleasant establishment with an indoor dining room and covered terrace. The dishes are refined, well-presented and truly delicious. It also offers an excellent selection of wines.
We highly recommend this place to lovers of good food, as it’s a bistro with really reasonable prices. A culinary experience not to be missed if you live west of Funchal!
Practical information:
- Neighborhood: west of Funchal.
- Type: bistronomic.
- Capacity: more than 25 place settings.
- Price range: between €20 and €40 per person (excluding drinks).
- Portuguese specialities: yes.
- Particularly suitable for children: no.
- Reservations recommended on +351 937 561 943.
Tapas restaurants where to eat with your children in Funchal
16. Restaurant O Americano (old town, not expensive)
Restaurant O Americano is the ideal place to introduce your children to local gastronomy at low cost. It offers a selection of Madeira specialities in the form of tapas. Seated at a table right on the street, we enjoyed the friendly atmosphere of the old town while drinking the island’s signature beer, Coral.
In addition to boards and snacks to share, you’ll also find a selection of complete dishes. We ordered the house tuna braised with sweet potatoes and onions. The portions were very generous. We had 2 nice fish steaks, but they were almost raw in the middle. The sweet potatoes added a sweet note, enhanced by the berries and onions.
Practical information:
- Neighborhood: downtown.
- Type: tapas bar.
- Capacity: more than 25 place settings.
- Price range: between €10 and €30 per person (excluding drinks).
- Portuguese specialities: yes.
- Particularly suitable for children: yes.
- Reservations on +351 967 925 452.
17. Restaurant Jarana (tapas & enchidos)
Restaurant Jarana is a friendly place where Spanish and Portuguese flavors meet. With a menu rich in local tapas and Iberian cured meats, this is a good address for families. Shared dishes let children sample Madeira’s specialties at their own pace.
As for adults, the wine list is very interesting. Tortillas and omelettes are particularly recommended by customers. Prices are very affordable for the quality of the cuisine.
Practical information:
- Neighborhood: downtown.
- Type: tapas bar.
- Capacity: less than 25 covers.
- Price range: between €15 and €25 per person (excluding drinks).
- Portuguese specialities: yes.
- Particularly suitable for children: yes.
- Reservations on +351 291 222 489.
Other restaurants to eat in Funchal
See our complementary selection of fine restaurants:
- Restaurant Il Vivaldi: housed in a typical Madeira building, this elegantly decorated establishment offers tasty, well-presented traditional dishes.
- Restaurant Bistrot des Anges: chef Carole Vallat takes you on a Mediterranean voyage with her French and Italian cuisine!
- Restaurant A Tendinha: this little establishment may not look like much from the outside, but it’s very popular with the locals. We ate homemade Portuguese dishes at rock-bottom prices. Unbeatable value for money in Funchal!
- Restaurant MadCuba – Villa Marista: would you like to try Cuban cuisine? This fine restaurant is renowned for its warm atmosphere and exotic specialities!
- Restaurant Galeria: located on Rua Santa Maria, a street not to be missed in Madeira’s capital, this establishment has a certain character and offers well-prepared typical cuisine.
- Bar Barracuda: if you’re visiting the Lido area west of Funchal on a tight budget, this little restaurant is well worth a visit. A word of advice: opt for the home-made dish of the day!
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