What should I order at Santa Maria?
Santa Maria
Espetada (local beef skewer)
Mentioned multiple times as perfectly done on a laurel skewer with bay leaf, highlighting the skillful preparation and local flavor.
Sushi
Highly praised for exceptional quality, unique flavors including exotic fruit, and excellent presentation. Several reviewers called it the best sushi they had ever had.
Steak on the stone (Black Angus steak)
Recommended for the interactive experience of cooking your own steak on a hot stone; noted for being outstanding and well-prepared.
Octopus
Described as divine, well prepared, and well presented, with multiple reviewers mentioning its delicious taste.
Risotto (including pesto risotto with salmon, and risotto with sun-dried tomatoes and rocket)
Praised for superb quality and delicious flavors, recommended by vegetarians and non-vegetarians alike.
Black Scabbard fish (Espada)
Frequently highlighted as top quality, especially when served with fried banana; considered one of the best in Madeira.
Lapas (grilled limpets)
Noted as a standout seafood dish with big juicy meat and great taste, highly recommended by multiple reviewers.
Fried banana
Mentioned as a delicious accompaniment, especially paired with Black Scabbard fish; described as awesome and well presented.
Portuguese style steak with potatoes
Recommended as delicious, with a flavorful sauce despite being a bit salty, considered a good local dish.
Desserts (including homemade desserts and dessert degustation)
Frequently praised for freshness and taste, with special mentions of passion fruit mousse and tiramisu, enhancing the overall dining experience.
Garlic bread
Recommended as a must-try item, praised for quality and presentation.
Pork cheeks
Described as amazing with perfect flavor blending and freshness.
Tuna
Mentioned as well cooked and delicious, sometimes served for grilling on a hot stone.
Hours
| Monday | 12 to 11 PM |
|---|---|
| Tuesday | 12 to 11 PM |
| Wednesday | 12 to 11 PM |
| Thursday | 12 to 11 PM |
| Friday | 12 to 11 PM |
| Saturday | 12 to 11 PM |
| Sunday | 12 to 11 PM |
About Santa Maria
Santa Maria is a Portuguese restaurant, cocktail bar, sushi restaurant, and wine bar in Funchal, Madeira, located on Rua Santa Maria in the city center. Reviewers consistently praise the espetada, black scabbardfish, sushi, and desserts, along with friendly service and an extensive wine list. The restaurant offers indoor and outdoor seating, including rooftop seating, and is described as casual, cozy, quiet, romantic, and trendy. Its price range is €15–25, and it is popular for lunch, dinner, and solo dining.
Amenities & services
Service options
- Outdoor seating
- Delivery
- Takeout
- Dine-in
Highlights
- Great beer selection
- Great cocktails
- Great coffee
- Great dessert
- Great tea selection
- Great wine list
- Rooftop seating
Popular for
- Lunch
- Dinner
- Solo dining
Accessibility
- Wheelchair accessible entrance
- Wheelchair accessible restroom
- Wheelchair accessible seating
Offerings
- Alcohol
- Beer
- Cocktails
- Coffee
- Hard liquor
- Late-night food
- Organic dishes
- Private dining room
- Small plates
- Vegan options
- Vegetarian options
- Wine
Dining options
- Lunch
- Dinner
- Dessert
- Seating
- Table service
Amenities
- Bar onsite
- Restroom
- Wi-Fi
- Free Wi-Fi
Atmosphere
- Casual
- Cozy
- Quiet
- Romantic
- Trendy
Crowd
- Family-friendly
- Groups
- LGBTQ+ friendly
- Tourists
- Transgender safespace
Planning
- Dinner reservations recommended
- Accepts reservations
Payments
- Credit cards
- Debit cards
- NFC mobile payments
- Credit cards
Children
- Good for kids
- High chairs
- Kids' menu
Parking
- Usually difficult to find a space
Pets
- Dogs allowed outside
Frequently asked questions
What is Santa Maria known for?
Santa Maria is especially known for espetada, the local beef skewer served on a laurel skewer, along with black scabbardfish and sushi. Reviewers also mention homemade desserts and a strong wine list, which makes it stand out on Rua Santa Maria in Funchal.
What dishes are most recommended at Santa Maria?
Reviewers repeatedly recommend espetada, steak on the stone, black scabbardfish, grilled limpets, octopus, tuna, and sushi. Desserts also come up often, especially passion fruit mousse and dessert tasting plates, so many visitors pair a main course with something sweet.
What is the atmosphere like at Santa Maria?
The atmosphere is described as casual, cozy, quiet, romantic, and trendy, with rooftop and outdoor seating available. It seems to work well for couples, groups, and solo diners, especially because it is in the city center and has a relaxed street-side setting.
Is Santa Maria good value, and what is the price range?
The listed price range is €15–25, and many reviewers say the food, portions, and service are excellent for the price. Several comments call it very reasonable or worth what you pay, especially for dishes like sushi, seafood, and steak on the stone.
When is the best time to visit Santa Maria?
Lunch is a strong choice, since reviewers specifically mention having great lunch experiences and returning for lunch again. Dinner reservations are recommended, and one review notes that sushi is served after 18:30, so that is the time to go if you want both the Japanese dishes and the evening atmosphere.
Is parking available at Santa Maria?
Yes. Usually difficult to find a space is available.
Does Santa Maria have vegetarian options?
Yes, Santa Maria offers vegan options.
Is Santa Maria kid-friendly?
Yes, Santa Maria is good for kids.
Restaurants like Santa Maria in Funchal
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