10 Foods and Drinks You Have to Try in Madeira

From bolo do caco to poncha, here are the dishes and drinks that define the island’s flavor.

Divya

Divya

Madeira, Portugal

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1. Bolo do Caco

A soft round flatbread cooked on hot basalt stone, often served warm with garlic butter.

2. Espetada

Beef skewers cooked over an open fire, traditionally seasoned with bay leaves and coarse salt.

3. Black Scabbardfish with Banana

A dish unique to Madeira combining deep sea fish with sweet local banana.

4. Lapas

Grilled limpets served with garlic and butter, often eaten straight from the shell with bread.

5. Picado

Small cubes of beef served on a communal platter with fries, perfect for sharing.

6. Poncha

Madeira’s signature drink made with aguardente de cana (sugarcane rum), honey, and lemon juice.

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7. Nikita

A sweet drink blending beer, ice cream, and pineapple juice — refreshing and unusual.

8. Madeira Wine

Fortified wine produced on the island with styles ranging from dry to sweet, perfect for tasting flights.

9. Passion Fruit Pudding (Pudim de Maracujá)

A light tropical dessert made with fresh passion fruit pulp.

10. Queijadas da Madeira

Small sweet cheese tarts perfect with an afternoon coffee or as a road trip snack.

Looking for things to do?

Go check out my guide for the best free things to do as well as itineraries and travel tips to make your trip unforgettable.

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