The Azores is not just a paradise for outdoor adventurers—it’s also a culinary haven with a distinct food culture that reflects the islands' volcanic landscapes, lush pastures, and rich fishing grounds. Whether you’re hiking along dramatic cliffs or swimming in natural pools, there's always something delicious waiting to be discovered at the end of your adventure.

Azorean cuisine is a feast for the senses, with flavors rooted in tradition, simplicity, and fresh local ingredients. The islands offer an authentic, unpretentious culinary experience where the food tells a story of the land and sea. From hearty stews cooked in volcanic soil to sweet, creamy pastries, the Azores will delight food lovers in search of something unique and delicious. Let’s take a culinary journey across the islands to explore the most iconic dishes, local specialties, and unforgettable dining experiences.

São Miguel: The Volcanic Heart of Azorean Cuisine

São Miguel, the largest and most populous of the Azores islands, is a foodie’s dream, known for its unique dishes that take advantage of the island’s volcanic geography. One of the most famous (and coolest!) dishes you can try here is Cozido das Furnas, a hearty stew of meats and vegetables cooked using the natural heat from the volcanic steam of the Furnas Valley. This dish is literally slow-cooked in the ground, with pots placed in volcanic vents for several hours. The result? Tender, melt-in-your-mouth meats and vegetables infused with a smoky, earthy flavor you won’t find anywhere else. You can watch the entire process, from the digging up of the steaming pots to the serving of this traditional dish at local restaurants.

For seafood lovers, Lapas Grelhadas (grilled limpets) are a must-try. Limpets, small shellfish native to the rocky shores of the Azores, are grilled with garlic and butter, and their briny, fresh flavor is like taking a bite of the Atlantic Ocean itself. Pair them with local bread and a glass of wine for a truly authentic experience.

For dessert, try the island’s famous Queijadas de Vila Franca, small, rich custard cakes made from eggs and sugar. These sweet treats have been made using the same recipe for centuries, and a visit to São Miguel isn’t complete without tasting at least one (or five) of these delectable cakes.

Terceira: The Island of Rich Traditions and Bold Flavors

On Terceira, food is a central part of the island’s cultural identity. Alcatra, a traditional beef pot roast, is one of the island’s most famous dishes. Cooked slowly in clay pots, the meat becomes incredibly tender and flavorful, marinated with garlic, bay leaves, and Azorean wine. Alcatra is usually served during festas (festivals), but you can find it in local restaurants year-round. Eating Alcatra in Terceira, especially in a local tavern, feels like being welcomed into someone’s home—a true reflection of Azorean hospitality.

Another dish to try on Terceira is Torresmos de Vinha d'Alhos, marinated pork belly fried to crispy perfection. These flavorful bites are usually accompanied by local bread and red wine from Biscoitos, a small village famous for its volcanic vineyards.

Terceira is also known for its sweets. Donas Amélias, small cakes made from honey, cinnamon, and raisins, are a local favorite. Originally created in honor of a visit from Queen Amélia of Portugal, these rich cakes are packed with the flavors of the island’s history and are a perfect souvenir to take home.

Pico: The Island of Wine and Whaling

Pico is a rugged, volcanic island known for its black lava fields and stunning vineyards, where grapevines grow between stone walls that protect them from the wind. The result is the island’s famous Verdelho wine, a slightly sweet, golden wine with a mineral, earthy quality that reflects the island’s unique volcanic soil. A visit to Pico isn’t complete without a tour of the UNESCO-listed vineyards, where you can sip wine with a view of the majestic Mount Pico, the highest peak in Portugal.

Pico’s volcanic landscape is also home to a rich fishing tradition. The island’s most iconic seafood dish is Caldeirada de Peixe, a fish stew made with the freshest catch of the day. Whether you’re dining in a local restaurant or enjoying a seaside picnic, this dish is a celebration of the island’s connection to the Atlantic.

For a truly unique food experience, visit one of Pico’s old whaling villages and try Linguiça com Inhames, a spicy local sausage served with yams. This simple yet flavorful dish reflects the island’s agricultural roots and is a satisfying meal after a day of hiking Pico’s volcanic craters.

Faial: The Island of Sailors and Sweet Treats

Faial, known for its vibrant marina in Horta, has a rich maritime history, which is reflected in its seafood cuisine. Polvo Guisado, a slow-cooked octopus stew, is one of the island’s most beloved dishes. The octopus is tenderized and cooked in a flavorful sauce of tomatoes, garlic, and Azorean spices. Whether you enjoy it at a seaside café or a small family-run restaurant, this dish is sure to impress seafood lovers.

Faial also has its share of sweet delights. Fofas de Faial are light, airy pastries filled with custard or chocolate cream, perfect for a sweet pick-me-up after a day of exploring the island’s stunning landscapes.

São Jorge: The Cheese Island

No visit to São Jorge is complete without tasting its famous Queijo de São Jorge. This hard, tangy cheese has been made on the island for over 500 years and is still produced in traditional ways. The cheese has a strong, slightly spicy flavor, and locals love to eat it with a glass of Azorean wine or in a sandwich with fresh bread. São Jorge cheese is so beloved that there’s even a cheese museum in Velas where you can learn about its history and sample different varieties.

After sampling the island’s signature cheese, try Tuna Bifes, fresh tuna steaks marinated in garlic and herbs and grilled to perfection. The tuna in São Jorge is caught fresh daily and is incredibly tender and flavorful.

Flores: The Garden Island and Its Unique Flavors

Flores is a paradise for foodies seeking something off-the-beaten-path. This remote island offers a bounty of fresh ingredients and traditional dishes that you won’t find anywhere else in the Azores. Sopa de Agrião, a watercress soup, is a local favorite, made with fresh greens harvested from the island’s fertile gardens. This light yet flavorful soup is often served with crusty bread and local cheese.

Another specialty of Flores is Fried Eels, a dish that reflects the island’s unique ecosystem. The eels are caught fresh from local rivers and fried until crispy, then served with a squeeze of lemon and herbs. This dish is definitely an adventure for the taste buds!

Graciosa: Small but Full of Flavor

Graciosa, one of the smallest islands in the Azores, packs a punch when it comes to traditional food. The island is known for its delicious pastries, particularly Queijadas da Graciosa, sweet cheese tarts that have been made using the same recipe for generations. These bite-sized treats are rich, creamy, and utterly addictive.

Graciosa is also famous for its seafood, particularly Cavaco, a type of slipper lobster found only in the waters around the island. This rare and highly prized crustacean is often served grilled with garlic butter or in a seafood stew.

Hidden Gems and Off-the-Beaten-Path Experiences

For those seeking authentic, lesser-known food experiences, head to small village markets and local festivals, where you can sample traditional dishes prepared by locals. During summer festivals, the Festas do Espírito Santo (Festivals of the Holy Spirit), many villages across the Azores serve Sopas do Espírito Santo, a hearty soup made with beef, cabbage, and mint, served with bread soaked in broth. It’s a dish that brings the community together and offers a taste of Azorean tradition at its most authentic.

Another off-the-beaten-path culinary experience is catch-and-cook fishing tours. These tours allow you to fish in the waters around the islands, and then cook your catch with local chefs who’ll teach you how to prepare traditional Azorean seafood dishes. It’s a hands-on way to immerse yourself in the culture and flavors of the islands.

A Culinary Adventure Like No Other

The Azores may be known for their dramatic landscapes and outdoor adventures, but their culinary traditions are just as captivating. Each island offers something unique, whether it’s São Jorge’s legendary cheese, São Miguel’s volcanic stews, or the fresh seafood that graces every table. From family-run restaurants in small fishing villages to farm-to-table experiences in lush, green valleys, the Azores promise a food adventure that’s as authentic as the islands themselves.