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10 Vegetarian-friendly Restaurants in Madeira

(Last update Nov 2025)

“Hi, I’m vegetarian and I would like to know which is the best Vegetarian Restaurant in Madeira?”

This is a question I get frequently asked and to be honest I don’t think Madeira is the easiest place to find exclusive Vegetarian or Vegan Restaurants.

However there’s a growing awareness around healthy, organic food. Thanks to our fertile soil and mild climate, the island has always been rich in fresh fruits, vegetables and herbs, so this makes perfect sense. There’s also an Organic Market each Wednesday morning at Avenida Arriaga in Funchal.

Indian and other Asian restaurants in Madeira are usually very vegetarian-friendly, a great backup option when exploring the island.

If you’re craving for a pizza there are a few Italian Restaurants in Madeira that offer Vegan options such as Pizzas do Mauro, Pizzaria Lume or Al Forno.

As for online orders, I suggest Vantastic and Casa Botânica.

– Vegetarian vs Vegan. What’s the Difference?

Neither vegetarians nor vegans eat meat or fish. Vegetarians may consume dairy products and/or eggs.
Vegans exclude all animal products, including dairy & eggs.

Good to Know Before You Go

Even though traditional Madeiran cuisine is meat and fish based (olá, beef espetada and scabbard fish), most local restaurants already serve naturally vegetarian side dishes, such as:

• Sweet potatoes and regular potatoes
• Rice and mixed vegetables,
• Fried corn cubes (milho frito)
• Fresh salads (tomato, lettuce, onion)
• Bolo do caco, Madeira’s iconic bread, which can be filled with almost anything

Bolo do caco

Madeira is also know for its abundant fresh fruits such as Passion fruit, Custard Apple (Annona) and Pitanga!

Lupins, olives and peanuts are also typical plant-based snacks served with drinks.

Lupins – yellow & salty beans, your typical snack in Madeira

For full vegetarian or vegan meals, though, you’ll want to know where to go and that’s where this list comes in:

Funchal

• Mundo Vegan
• Fala Fala Veg Food

Funchal – Restaurants with Veggie Options

• Terra
• Horta
• Café do Museu
• Prima Caju
• Treehouse Restaurant

Outside Funchal

• O Forno – Ponta do Pargo
• Pimpinela’s – Santa Cruz
• Veganaria – Ponta do Sol

If you’re looking to combine great food with special occasions, you might also enjoy my guides to fine dining in Madeira and the places for drinks in Madeira to pair with vegetarian-friendly restaurants.

Getting Around & Planning Your Trip

If you’re visiting Madeira and planning to explore beyond Funchal I suggest:

Renting a car with Discover Cars : ideal for reaching more remote restaurants and viewpoints.
Booking experiences through GetYourGuide: many tours are flexible and easy to combine with restaurant plans.

FAQ – Vegetarian & Vegan Eating in Madeira

Is Madeira vegetarian-friendly?
While traditional cuisine is meat and fish based, Madeira now has dedicated vegetarian and vegan restaurants, plus many places offering good plant-based options.

Are there fully vegan restaurants in Madeira?
Mundo Vegan and Veganaria are fully vegan, and there several other places offer clearly marked vegan dishes.

Is it easy to eat vegetarian outside Funchal?
Funchal has the highest concentration of options, but elsewhere on the island you’ll usually find vegetarian side dishes and adaptable meals.

Do I need to speak Portuguese to order vegetarian food?
Not necessarily. Most restaurants understand English, but it helps to say “sou vegetariano” or “não como carne nem peixe.”

Final Thoughts

Madeira may not be a traditionally vegetarian destination, but it has always been an island naturally rich in fresh produce, so  eating plant‑based here is easier and tastier than ever before.

I hope this updated guide helps you enjoy your vegetarian meals in Madeira. If you know a great spot I’ve missed, feel free to leave a comment, I’m always happy to keep this list growing.

Bom Apetite![:]