Ranked by TableJourney editorial score.
Beef cut into thick cubes, rubbed with garlic and coarse salt, threaded onto a fresh bay-laurel branch and hung over wood coals. The laurel scents the meat from the inside as the fat renders down.
Espetada began as a cattle-herders' and festival dish in the Madeiran interior, cooked on branches cut from the laurel woods that cover the island's slopes. The wooden skewer is not a garnish. Green laurel does not burn through, and its oils pass into the beef while it sits over the embers. Restaurants now hang the finished skewer from a metal stand at the table so the juices drip onto bolo do caco below. Câmara de Lobos and Estreito de Câmara de Lobos built their reputations on it, but every Funchal grill runs a version.
3 editor picks for Espetada in Funchal, ranked by editorial score. All Funchal signature dishes · Espetada across every city.
Casal da Penha is a family-run Funchal restaurant just off the hotel strip, with a classic dining room, a Madeiran terrace and a grilled fish carte.
OrderEspetada on the laurel skewer, or the grilled codfish that fills most tables here.
TipThe terrace is the reason to come. Ask for it when you book rather than on arrival.
Doca do Cavacas is built on the rock above the Ponta da Cruz sea pools in Funchal, serving grilled fish, shellfish and espetada by the water.
OrderGrilled fish of the day, with the natural pools below the terrace.
TipClosed Mondays. Lunch on the terrace catches the sun over Praia Formosa.
Casa das Espetadas cooks Madeira's laurel-skewer espetada over wood in Funchal, with beef, chicken, tuna and pork versions off the same fire.
OrderBeef espetada on the bay-laurel skewer, hung at the table.
TipClosed Wednesday and Thursday, and the terrace runs folklore and fado on some evenings.
Espetada makes more sense with someone from Funchal explaining it. These are the classes and tours we have checked, with booking links.
Day trip · 8 hours
Sample the fine wines of Madeira on a full-day tasting tour from Funchal and learn about the island's wine industry and delicious food. Stop at a selection of wineries...
Guided tour · 8 hours
Take in the landscapes of Madeira's vineyards on this full-day tour. Ride Fajã dos Padres cable car, visit a wine cellar, taste local wines and enjoy a typical Madeira...
4 hours
A snorkeling adventure is a truly exciting and memorable experience. With crystal clear waters and lush marine life, the island offers stunning scenery and unforgettab...
