Terceira Food Guide: What and Where to Eat in Terceira, Azores

Where to eat in Terceira? 10 best restaurants in Terceira, Azores

1. A Caneta

A Caneta lies on the northern side of the island, in the town of Altares. It was recommended to us by our local friend, and it simply had to be included in this Terceira food guide as one of the best Terceira restaurants. 

What makes it so special? The extraordinary quality of the food and, in particular, the meat, the homey service, and the vintage and refined vibe of the restaurant. In summer, a delightful terrace welcomes you in a green environment.

A Caneta is an ideal spot to try a delicious and abundant Alcatra. The portion for 2 could easily satisfy 3 people, but the staff was happy to let us take home our leftovers. Also, if you are planning to order Alcatra, skip the starters and side dishes!

The restaurant is a good spot to try other Terceira food specialties: from noble cuts like flank steak, to more popular but delicious ones like the tongue. I am sure that you will leave happy regardless of your order.

You will also find a little corner with local Azorean products like ghee, honey, jams, liquors, and so much more. If you don’t have a lot of time for souvenir shopping, make sure you get something here.

2. Vista Grill & Lounge

Vista Grill was not only one of my favorite Terceira restaurants, but one of the highlights of my entire trip! Located right on the ocean in the quiet town of Porto Martins, Vista Grill & Lounge specializes in grilled food.

The kitchen features a live-fire grill, which brings out deep, smoky flavors in the food. We had grilled tuna and swordfish. The tuna was thick, juicy, and had a texture almost like steak, while the swordfish was tender and fresh, with an ocean flavor. 

Even the grilled vegetable sides were bursting with taste. Also, don’t skip the codfish croquettes, crispy, flavorful, and one of the best starters we had on the island (or maybe entire Portugal?).

We chose to sit outside to have a beautiful ocean view, but inside is also nice, with an antique setting that blends with modernity seamlessly.

3. Restaurante Tradicional e Típico Quinta do Martelo

Restaurante Tradicional e Típico Quinta do Martelo is featured in just about every Terceira food guide and comes highly recommended across the island, so of course, we had to give it a try.

Located on a quiet hillside on the north side of São Mateus da Calheta, the restaurant is surrounded by nature and history. Originally a local grocery store dating back to the last century, it has gradually evolved into a full culinary and cultural complex.

This is one of the best places to try traditional Terceira dishes, with Alcatra being the star of the show. It was genuinely spectacular, rich, flavorful, and incredibly generous in portion. Even though we decided to skip the starters, we couldn’t even get close to the bottom of the dish. 

Due to the restaurant’s popularity, I recommend making a reservation in advance. Also, note that some specialties are only available by request, as they require up to a full day to prepare. And they don’t do takeaways, so be mindful when ordering.

All in all, Quinta do Martelo may feel a little touristy, but it’s still a great place to sample some of the best food in Terceira, Azores, especially if you’re looking to experience local flavors in a charming and picturesque setting.

4. Beira Mar

If you’re wondering where to eat seafood in Terceira, Azores, Beira Mar should be high on your list. Located in the coastal town of São Mateus da Calheta, Beira Mar is a spacious, casual restaurant with a stunning ocean view and a well-earned reputation. 

It’s especially famous for its seafood soup served in bread, rich, thick, and full of flavors. It’s a true comfort dish and one of the Terceira food highlights.

The menu is packed with the freshest seafood, and their grilled limpets are among the best you’ll try in the Azores. I also tried their garlic prawns and they were really outstanding. However, you can’t go wrong with the catch of the day.

Prices aren’t exactly cheap, but they’re fair for the quality and portion size, and the overall experience makes it worth it. Beira Mar is very popular among locals, so I recommend you book ahead, especially for dinner with a sunset view.

5. Adega de São Mateus

If you are familiar with the Portuguese food scene, you know that tascas are part of the local culture. One of the best seafood restaurants in Terceira is Adega de São Mateus, a local family-owned tasca where the flavor of the ocean is vivid in every bite.

Located in São Mateus da Calheta, in the main little square of the town, right in front of the cathedral, Adega de São Mateus is a place where the fisherman tradition is still alive and where locals hang out for a delicious meal at a fair price.

We were a bit overwhelmed with all the choices of fish available, however, the waiter was there to help out and recommend the freshest choices on the menu. I still dream about the grouper I had at the Adega de São Mateus.

The final bill was a positive surprise as well. So, I can safely say Adega de São Mateus is the place to be if you are looking for cheap eats in Terceira Island, Azores, while keeping an extraordinary quality of food.

6. Fumeiro de São João

Fumeiro de São João is a relatively new restaurant on the island, but it quickly became one of the top places to eat in Angra do Heroísmo. It blends classic Azorean charm with a contemporary interior that feels both stylish and welcoming. 

You’ll find must-try Terceira Island dishes like Alcatra and grilled limpets, but my recommendation is to go for the steaks. After spending months in Argentina, we have become so spoiled with meat, and yet this restaurant lived up to our expectations.

I had the filet mignon bitoque, and it was tender, flavorful, and cooked exactly how I like it. I also tried the steak with mustard and honey sauce, and even though I usually avoid mustard, this one completely won me over. 

The wine selection is also worth mentioning. You can pick a bottle from the Azores or find some of the best Portuguese wines. Unfortunately, there are not many options if you just want a glass of wine.

If you’re wondering where to eat in Terceira, Azores, Fumeiro de São João is a perfect choice. And visiting this restaurant is one of the must-do things in Angra do Heroísmo.

The owner of this restaurant is the son of Roberto, who owns Restaurante Taberna Roberto. It is another fantastic place to eat in Terceira, however, we visited it without checking the opening hours and found it closed. Hopefully next time!

7. Adega dos Sabores

Tucked away in the quiet town of Terra Chã, just a short drive from Angra do Heroísmo, this family-run restaurant feels like stepping into someone’s home kitchen. The atmosphere is warm, unpretentious, and focused entirely on flavor and genuine hospitality.

Despite its simple setting, I had some of the best food in Terceira, Azores, here. The prawns were massive, juicy, and perfectly grilled. And the slow-cooked octopus? So tender, it melted in my mouth.

And can we talk about the service? The owner welcomes you like an old friend, shares thoughtful recommendations, and recommends the best wines & beers with pride. His love for the island and its food comes through in every little detail.

If you’re looking for local food in Terceira, Portugal, and want an authentic experience far from the usual tourist routes, Adega dos Sabores should definitely be on your list.

8. Queijo Vaquinha

If you are wondering what to eat in Terceira for first-time visitors, one of the most obvious answers is cheese. With a population of cows that wins over the people, Terceira and the whole Azores take great pride in their delicious cheese.

One of the stops included in every Terceira food guide is Queijo Vaquinha, a farm located in Nossa Senhora do Pilar, a few kilometers away from Angra. As this is the biggest cheese manufacturer on the island, their cheese can be found in many supermarkets in Terceira.

The farm produces four cheeses from the mildest to the most mature, with a spicy option. Everyone gets a tiny degustation plate with these cheeses for free. Once you are done, you can buy your favorite or pick something from the menu.

Queijo Vaquinha also produces honey, which is a perfect pair for some cheeses. The prices are super affordable and don’t get cheaper than that. If you want to visit their factory and learn about cheese-making tradition, reach out via email.

9. O Forno and Delia Martins

No Terceira food guide would be complete without mentioning Dona Amélia cake, the island’s most iconic dessert. This rich, spiced treat was originally created to honor Queen Amélie’s visit to the island in 1901, and it remains one of the most beloved local specialties.

If you want to try a truly great version, head to O Forno in Angra or Délia Martins in Biscoitos, two bakeries that are known for making some of the best Dona Amélia cakes in Terceira. It tastes even better with a cup of locally grown tea.

I have to say that O Forno didn’t impress me beyond Dona Amélia, while Delia Martins had some of the best pastries in cakes. Despite staying in Angra, we planned some extra trips to have breakfast at this local Portuguese bakery.

10. Loja do Gelado – Quinta dos Açores

If you’re looking to satisfy your sweet tooth in Terceira, Loja do Gelado – Quinta dos Açores is a must-visit. Known for producing some of the island’s creamiest and most flavorful ice cream, this spot is part of the larger Quinta dos Açores brand.

The ice cream here is made with fresh milk from Azorean cows, and you can absolutely taste the difference. While ice cream isn’t exclusive to Terceira, the quality of local products is, so you will want to try it during your trip.

There is a wide variety of flavors, many inspired by local ingredients like passion fruit, pineapple, and even Dona Amélia cake. But my favorite was the chocolate flavor, together with the tangy Sao Jorge cheese. Don’t judge it before you try it.

11. Coffee Cabana

Would you believe there’s a coffee plantation in Terceira? It sounds unlikely, but Coffee Cabana proves just how many surprises this small island can hold.

Hidden in a lush setting, the space is home to coffee cultivation, a banana plantation, and scattered papaya trees. You are welcome to walk through the plantation, and it truly feels like stepping into a hidden corner of the island that few know about.

There’s also a peaceful terrace where you can sit down, sip something warm, and take in panoramic views of the ocean and the surrounding mountains. It’s hard to imagine a better place to slow down.

The highlight here is, of course, the coffee, served in a way you’ve probably never tried before. One method uses an alembic for brewing, while another prepares the drink almost like a tea by boiling the peels of the coffee cherry. 

And if you’re searching for vegetarian food options in Terceira, Azores, Coffee Cabana is one of the few spots on the island where you’ll find thoughtful plant-based choices. Just pick a sunny day to visit Coffee Cabana!

12. Wine tasting

If you’re exploring the best food in Terceira, Azores, including Azorean cuisine in Terceira, Portugal, a stop at a local winery is a must, and Dimas Adega in Biscoitos is the perfect place to do just that.

A tasting at Dimas Adega typically includes several house wines, such as a crisp Verdelho white, a smooth Seyval Blanc, and a bold Caladoc red. Each wine reflects the island’s natural elements.

In addition to wine, Dimas Adega also produces artisanal liqueurs made from local ingredients. You can enjoy a relaxed tasting in the open air, surrounded by the vineyards themselves.

A reservation is a must, as visits are usually by appointment and often include a guided tasting experience. You will find all the contact details here. https://www.dimasadega.pt

🍷 Can’t make it to the wine degustation? Visit the Wine Museum in Biscoitos to learn more about wine-making traditions and purchase some local bottles.

What to eat in Terceira, Portugal

Alcatra – The Star of Terceira Cuisine

If you have to pick one traditional Terceira dish to try on the island, it must be Alcatra. This slow-cooked beef stew is simmered for hours in a clay pot with red wine, garlic, onions, black peppercorns, cloves, and bacon, creating an intensely flavorful dish.

Note: if you don’t like beef, some restaurants serve Alcatra with pork, chicken, beans, or octopus. While slow-cooked octopus might sound weird, it was one of the best dishes we tried in Terceira, so make sure you give it a try. 

Lapas Grelhadas (Grilled Limpets)

Seafood plays a big role in Azorean cuisine in Terceira, Portugal, and grilled limpets are a local favorite. Known as lapas grelhadas, these shellfish are grilled with garlic, butter, and lemon until sizzling. Served as a starter or snack.

Seafood in Terceira

Beyond limpets, be sure to try local favorites like tuna and swordfish. Depending on the day, you might also come across seasonal catches like grouper or Boca Negra. These are often grilled simply with just a pinch of salt, letting the natural quality of the fish shine.

Local Steak

Thanks to the island’s lush green pastures, Terceira is known for its high-quality beef. It’s a simple dish, but the quality of the meat makes it something special. When looking for the best food in Terceira, don’t skip a visit to a traditional steakhouse.

Azorean Cheeses

Queijo Vaquinha is the most popular cheese producer in Terceira, however, you will find plenty of other options from other islands as well. You will also want to try local butter and maybe even stock up on Azorean ghee.

Dona Amélia Cakes

For dessert, look for Dona Amélia cakes. These small, spiced molasses cakes were created in honor of Queen Amélia’s visit to the island in 1901. Flavored with cinnamon, molasses, and raisins, they’re dense, rich, and unique to Terceira.

Vinho dos Biscoitos – Terceira’s Local Wine

Produced in the volcanic vineyards of the Biscoitos region, this wine has a distinct minerality that reflects the island’s terroir. For anyone interested in wine, this is a must on your Terceira Azores food guide.