Madeira has some spectacular gastronomy traditions to dive into during your next visit, whether it be finding the perfect bakery for your daily pastel de nata or indulging in the traditional cod dish, bacalhau. This city is full of restaurants waiting to be discovered. From budget-friendly dining and old-town gems to Michelin-starred spectaculars, your taste buds will be tantalised during your time in Funchal. So, where exactly to go...

Belmond Reid’s Palace - William Restaurant

Up first is the stunning setting of Belmond Reid’s Palace, where guests have been welcomed for bespoke afternoon tea for over 130 years. With a wraparound terrace providing breathtaking views of the Atlantic, you’d struggle to find a more picturesque setting to dine. Found inside the Belmond Reid is the Michelin-starred restaurant, William, where elegance meets Portuguese gastronomy. There’s a small menu full of delectable dishes to enjoy during this luxury experience, with panoramic views of Funchal’s vistas.

Restaurante La ao Fundo

If you’re wandering Funchal’s Old Town and find yourself peckish, Restaurante La ao Fundo is a must-visit. Nestled away towards Funchal Bay, this reasonably priced restaurant has a menu you could spend the afternoon picking away at. Delight in chef Jaime Cruz’s magical dishes, from creamy brie matched with pear, breaded shrimp with avocado or a fresh mozzarella salad to start. There are plenty of traditional choices here too, with pan-fried octopus, fresh cod and tuna tartare on offer.

Akua

Known for its spectacular seafood, Akua has been dubbed one of the best places to dine in Funchal. The restaurant received a Tripadvisor Travellers Choice award last year and it’s easy to see why! Chef Júlio Pereira explores the flavours of Portugal in his own unique way, offering fried codfish tacos, white fish ceviche and mussels in a Jaipur sauce. With several homemade desserts on offer and hand-picked wines to match the dishes, dining at Akua is a real delight.

Restaurante Informal

Restaurante Informal does exactly what it says on the tin, it offers a laidback vibe to excellent Portuguese food. While the setting may be relaxed, with understated decor hidden away in one of Funchal’s many squares, the food here is incredible. This restaurant is another winner of Tripadvisor’s Travellers Choice award, with rave reviews for their warming stews, homemade breads, fresh seafood and mouthwatering desserts.

Bistrot des Anges

This restaurant received a Tripadvisor Award for being the second-best place to dine in all of Funchal, so it’s easy to see why it attracts tourists and locals alike. Bistrot des Anges offers the full dining experience with exceptional service, great ambience and delightful food. Dishes such as the prawn and salmon salad are made with seafood fresh from that morning and there’s something on the menu for everyone. From non-traditional dishes such as juicy burgers and pesto covered spaghetti to fillet swordfish and an array of meat options.

Armazém do Sal

This restaurant offers a unique dining experience at the heart of Funchal. With a fully rustic interior of wooden beams and stone walls, this restaurant is bursting with character as well as delicious food! This restaurant veers more on the expensive side, but for the chef’s creation dishes of pork belly, grilled squid and salmon pappardelle, your taste buds will be thankful you splashed the cash.

Il Gallo d'Oro

Il Gallo d'Oro is the height of luxurious gastronomy in Funchal. Boasting an impressive two Michelin stars, dining at this restaurant is an explosive journey for the senses. Chef Benoît Sinthon strives to bring Madeira's ‘paradise on earth’ nickname into his kitchen. The intricate creations using different colours and textures with his food will leave you amazed! Dining here is an experience more than a meal, so make sure to head to one of Europe’s most-praised restaurants in the Michelin Guide.

Mercearia Dona Mécia

To finish, a special mention goes to Mercearia Dona Mécia, where you can find some of Funchal’s best pastries. This lovely little patisserie might just take the crown for the best pastel de nata in Funchal. You’ll find it in a picturesque pocket of the old town, so you can sit and enjoy the Portuguese delicacies, or a light bite for lunch, surrounded by beauty.