Terceira Island: a pearl in Azorean cuisine and its best restaurants
Terceira Island’s cuisine reflects centuries of cultural influences and a deep connection to the sea and land. As a trading center frequented by galleons from exotic lands, the island’s gastronomy evolved during the 16th and 17th centuries. Spanish troops, refugees from absolutism, and English traders left their mark, as did convent recipes for sweets and liqueurs. The result is a diverse culinary landscape rich in flavors.
Traditional dishes: Morcela, Caldeirada and much more!
Terceira’s iconic dishes are closely tied to the island’s vibrant festivals, especially the Holy Ghost Festivals. Staples like “Holy Ghost soups,” “alcatra” (slow-cooked beef), and “cozido” (meat and vegetable stew) are popular during summer celebrations, often accompanied by the local aromatic red wine, “vinho de cheiro“. The sweet bread “massa sovada” is a festive favorite, shaped into various forms, including animals and human figures.
The island’s cuisine features many seafood and traditional dishes. Popular recipes include “caldeirada” (fish stew) with apples, “sarapatel” (like haggis), and “morcela” (blood sausage). Seafood specialties such as octopus “à moda de Santa Catarina,” limpets, goose barnacles, and crabs highlight the surrounding Atlantic’s bounty. Terceira’s cuisine also includes game dishes like rabbit in “molho de vilão” (a special sauce).
Through our tour packages you can taste and enjoy all of these dishes firsthand! Check them out!
“Donas Amélias”: the star of the Terceira’ sweets
This island is known for its sweets, with over 200 recipes rooted in convent traditions. Many of these desserts, such as “donas-amelias” (spiced honey cakes) and “coscorões” (fried pastries), have a long history. These sweets often feature in religious festivals, symbolizing gratitude for miracles. “Donas-amelias,” for example, were named after Queen Amélia’s visit to the Azores in 1901, combining local ingredients like honey and spices.
Sugar paste sweets, crafted into intricate shapes like flowers, animals, or even human body parts, are popular during the Holy Ghost Festivals. These confections make great souvenirs, showcasing the island’s artisanal skills.
Local cheeses and wines: perfect to and a meal
Fresh cheeses made from goat’s milk, and the famous “Ilha” cheese from cow’s milk, are popular choices to end a meal. The island’s wines, particularly “verdelho” from Porto Martins and Pesqueiro and wines from Biscoitos, are renowned. The volcanic soil of Biscoitos adds a distinct minerality to the wines, making them unique.
Terceira’s drink culture also features the local liqueur “Angelica” and “vinho abafado”, a semi-sweet wine traditionally consumed as a digestif.
5 Recommended restaurants in Terceira Azores
To fully appreciate Terceira’s cuisine, dining at local restaurants is a must. Here are some of the top recommendations:
1. Beira Mar (São Mateus da Calheta)
Known for its fresh seafood, this restaurant offers stunning ocean views and dishes like grilled limpets, octopus, and fish stew. The relaxed atmosphere makes it ideal for enjoying traditional seafood dishes.
2. Adega Lusitânia (Angra do Heroísmo)
Famous for “alcatra,” Adega Lusitânia serves traditional Azorean cuisine in a rustic setting. The slow-cooked beef dish, prepared in clay pots, is a must-try. The menu also features other local favorites like “morcela” and “massa sovada.”
3. O Pescador (Praia da Vitória)
Located near the beach, O Pescador specializes in seafood dishes such as grilled fish, shrimp, and shellfish. The restaurant offers a cozy atmosphere and a wide selection of local wines to pair with your meal.
4. Quinta dos Açores (Angra do Heroísmo)
This farm-to-table restaurant offers a mix of traditional and contemporary dishes made with locally sourced ingredients. Their beef and dairy products are highly recommended, as well as desserts like “donas-amelias.”
5. Cais d’Angra (Angra do Heroísmo)
Situated by the marina, Cais d’Angra combines local ingredients with modern culinary techniques. The menu includes a variety of seafood and meat dishes, accompanied by an extensive wine list.
There’s plenty to taste, but there’s also plenty of places and activities to do on the island! Explore what to do and see!