Madeira Food and Drink

A few restaurants offer fine dining, but for the most part Madeiran food is simple and plentiful; even a lunch of parrot fish will come with potatoes, chips, tomatoes, yams and salad – bear that in mind if you're used to light lunches. At the start of a meal you may well be served with a basket of home-made bread, whether you order it or not – it's a delicious accompaniment to an aperitif while you take in the menu.

Specialities

• Caldeirada (fish soup)
• Bife de atum e milho frito (tuna steak and fried maize)
• Espada (black scabbard fish, often served with a baked banana)
• Bolo de mel (Madeira honey cake)
• Estefada (stew, usually lamb or beef)
• Espetada (skewered chunks of beef grilled over a charcoal fire)

Things to know

The water around Madeira is very deep so, with a few exceptions, seafood such as crabs, langoustines and lobsters have to be imported and are therefore correspondingly expensive. Fish is plentiful and delicious.

Tipping

Tipping is not generally expected since most hotels and restaurants include a service charge. A small tip for good service can be left at your discretion.

Drinking age

18