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What to order
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Poncha
Recommended multiple times as a standout local drink, with one review calling the lemon version 'the typical drink for Madeira' and another saying it is the 'best poncha in town.'
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Apple Pie With Ice Cream
Mentioned more than once as a favorite dessert; reviewers praised its balance of richness and flavor and called it delicious.
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Brunch
Frequently recommended for its quality, value, and satisfying portions, with several reviews highlighting it as delicious, filling, and a great choice for breakfast or a late morning meal.
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Small Plates
Often praised as a great way to sample a variety of dishes; reviewers said the selection was excellent, fresh, tasty, and sophisticated.
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Waffles
Specifically singled out as beautifully prepared and of a very high standard, making them one of the most memorable dishes.
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Swordfish Tacos
Highlighted as a unique and delicious specialty, with reviewers calling them a 'taste sensation' and praising the flavor and tenderness.
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Mussels
Recommended alongside the swordfish tacos as a particularly enjoyable and distinctive dish that reviewers loved.
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Vegetarian Breakfast Option
Mentioned positively as a good brunch choice, appreciated for being tasty and helping make the restaurant appealing to vegetarians.
Details
Hours
| Monday | 10 AM to 12 AM |
|---|---|
| Tuesday | 10 AM to 12 AM |
| Wednesday | Closed |
| Thursday | 10 AM to 12 AM |
| Friday | 10 AM to 12 AM |
| Saturday | 10 AM to 12 AM |
| Sunday | 10 AM to 12 AM |
About The Old Pharmacy
The Old Pharmacy is a restaurant and bar in Ponta do Sol, Madeira, known for tapas, brunch, and drinks like poncha, sangria, and wine. Reviewers consistently praise the small plates, breakfast and brunch combos, and desserts such as waffles, brownie with ice cream, and apple pie with ice cream. The place is described as cozy, historic, casual, and often lively, with outdoor seating and a view near the ocean or in a cute alley. It is also noted for friendly service and good value, with prices in the €10 to €20 range.
Amenities
Service options
- Outdoor seating
- Onsite services
- Takeout
- Dine-in
Highlights
- Great beer selection
- Great cocktails
- Great coffee
- Great dessert
- Great tea selection
- Great wine list
Popular for
- Breakfast
- Lunch
- Dinner
- Solo dining
Offerings
- Alcohol
- Beer
- Cocktails
- Coffee
- Hard liquor
- Late-night food
- Quick bite
- Small plates
- Vegan options
- Vegetarian options
- Wine
Dining options
- Breakfast
- Brunch
- Lunch
- Dinner
- Dessert
- Seating
- Table service
Amenities
- Bar onsite
- Restroom
Atmosphere
- Casual
- Cozy
- Historic
- Quiet
- Romantic
- Trendy
Crowd
- Groups
- Tourists
Planning
- Accepts reservations
Payments
- Credit cards
- Debit cards
- NFC mobile payments
Children
- Good for kids
Parking
- Paid parking lot
- Paid street parking
- Usually somewhat difficult to find a space
Pets
- Dogs allowed
Frequently asked
What is The Old Pharmacy known for?
It is best known for tapas and small plates with a Portuguese accent, plus poncha and brunch sets. Reviewers repeatedly mention the varied boards, mini tacos, and other shareable dishes as the reason people come back.
What dishes are most recommended at The Old Pharmacy?
Reviewers specifically highlight the mini tacos, swordfish tacos, mussels, eggplant tacos, cheese and potato tortilla, salmon with cream cheese, waffles, brownie with ice cream, and apple pie with ice cream. The breakfast combos that include coffee or tea, orange juice, and items like ham and cheese also get strong praise for being satisfying and well presented.
What is the atmosphere like at The Old Pharmacy?
The vibe is cozy, historic, casual, and often described as romantic or trendy, with both indoor and outdoor seating. It works well for solo dining, couples, and groups, although the inside can feel limited in space when busy.
Is The Old Pharmacy good value, and what is the price range?
The listed price range is €10 to €20, and reviewers often call it fairly priced or excellent value for the quality and portion size. Some note that a few dishes are a bit small, but many say the brunch sets, small plates, and desserts are worth the price for Ponta do Sol.
What should I know about timing or seating at The Old Pharmacy?
It can get full inside, so outdoor seating is a useful backup, and some reviewers mention being offered a table outside when the indoor room was packed. It is also a good late option, with the kitchen reported open until 23:00 and people still eating and drinking at night.
Is parking available at The Old Pharmacy?
Yes. Paid parking lot, Paid street parking, Usually somewhat difficult to find a space is available.
Does The Old Pharmacy have vegetarian options?
Yes, The Old Pharmacy offers vegan options.
Is The Old Pharmacy kid-friendly?
Yes, The Old Pharmacy is good for kids.
