Vegan in Madeira: The Best Spots and Alternatives
Are you looking for vegan restaurants in Madeira, vegan products at the supermarket, or just some tips for a vegan vacation on the island? Then you’ve come to the right place.
I’m Lena, a yoga teacher and author, and I’ve been living in Madeira for five years. On the island, I offer yoga classes, hikes with my dog Kitty, and various nature experiences. If you’d like to learn more about me and my life in Madeira, you can find my About Me page here.
In this guide, I’ll share my personal recommendations for vegan dining in Madeira—from creative vegan dishes to vegan versions of traditional Madeiran cuisine, as well as supermarkets and little-known gems that aren’t listed in every travel guide.
You can find out why I follow a mostly vegan diet today and how I came to do so in my personal blog post on the topic.
Vegan in Calheta
Buddha & Sakura, Calheta
As far as I know, Buddha & Sakura in Calheta is the only Indian restaurant on Madeira’s southwest coast. If you’re in the mood for authentic Indian cuisine, you should definitely stop by. I tried the vegan dal, which was very flavorful and delicious.
I was particularly impressed by the friendly staff, who give you a warm welcome. While the atmosphere and the terrace can’t quite keep up with some of the restaurants right on the marina, the great food more than makes up for it. If you love Indian food or are looking for a vegan option in Calheta, you’ll definitely find what you’re looking for here.
Calhau Bar
The Calhau Beach Club is located right on Calheta Beach and is part of the Saccharum Hotel. The atmosphere is relaxed, and the view of the ocean makes it truly special. I was there around 11 a.m. and had the avocado sandwich, which was very tasty. The vegan lunch menu is also worth mentioning, even though I haven’t tried it myself yet. The prices are a bit higher, but the location, ambiance, and view make up for it. A lovely spot for a relaxing break by the sea.
Vegan in Paul do Mar
Makai
Makai in Paul do Mar has a lovely terrace with a view of the sea. My favorite thing there is definitely the vegan popsicle—I’ve hardly found anything like it on Madeira so far. They also offer vegan options like couscous and a pizza that can be ordered vegan. Overall, the restaurant hasn’t completely won me over in terms of food, but I’m happy to stop by for the vegan popsicle and the relaxed atmosphere.
Bar de Lapa
Bar de Lapa is a lovely bar and restaurant right on the Paul do Mar harbor. There are only a few small tables up on the terrace, but if you manage to snag a seat, you’ll have a wonderful view of the sea. During my visit, I had a vegan bruschetta with hummus and spinach, which I really enjoyed. I definitely recommend it as a light snack.
Vegan in Ponta do Sol
Veganeria
Veganaria is my absolute favorite hidden gem in Madeira! Behind this little shop is a German couple who passionately craft handmade vegan cheese alternatives.
On the cheese platter, you’ll find vegan mozzarella, Camembert, cream cheese, and other specialties, among other things. I’m particularly fond of the truffle cheese. It’s served with delicious sandwiches and, to top it all off, a vegan cheesecake that tastes absolutely incredible.
If you’re traveling around Madeira as a vegan, you definitely shouldn’t miss Veganaria.
Palm Spot Resteraunt
The Palm Spot Restaurant in Ponta do Sol is located right across from the beach and offers a beautiful view of the sea. In addition to its great location, the restaurant delights guests with creative vegan dishes that you won’t find just anywhere on Madeira. I especially recommend the beet carpaccio, the pasta with pumpkin sauce, and the homemade falafel with hummus. There are also several vegan options for dessert. I tried the matcha panna cotta and loved it. If you’re looking for modern, inventive cuisine with a view of the sea, you should definitely add Palm Spot to your list.
Vegan in Prazeres
Restaurant Olhar do Campo
From the outside, this pizzeria in Prazeres seems rather unassuming at first glance and almost resembles a small snack bar. Inside, however, you’ll find a cozy atmosphere with wooden tables and plenty of charm. I ordered the vegetarian pizza here without cheese—and it was really delicious. The dough is made with special Italian flour and tastes wonderfully authentic. A great spot for anyone looking for a good vegan pizza in Madeira.
XS Cafe
The XS Café in Prazeres is a small, cozy café with a relaxed atmosphere. The menu features fresh juices, sandwiches, and homemade cakes. I highly recommend the eggplant sandwich with hummus—it’s vegan and tastes absolutely amazing. It pairs perfectly with a slice of their homemade vegan apple cake.
If you’re in Prazeres on a Sunday, it’s doubly worth a visit: the popular fruit and vegetable market takes place nearby every Sunday. You can find out more in my blog post about Sundays in Madeira.
Vegan in Ponta do Pargo
Gato Legal
Gato Legal is a cozy coffee roastery in Madeira that’s known for more than just its freshly roasted coffee. The menu always features vegan options, such as a vegan burger and a vegan sandwich. There’s usually a vegan cake as well, with the selection changing regularly. It’s a lovely spot for a relaxing coffee break or a casual lunch.
Restaurante O Forno
For me, O Forno in Ponta do Pargo is a real hidden gem in Madeira. In addition to traditional Madeiran dishes, they offer a surprisingly wide variety of—and, above all, truly delicious—vegan options. I was particularly impressed by the soy-based vegan picado—the first vegan picado I’ve found in Madeira. But the vegan tagine and the vegan Bolognese are also highly recommended. If you’re in the area and in the mood for hearty, homemade food, you should definitely stop by here.
Vegan in Caniço
Bar Sai De Baixo
Sai de Baixo Alto Astral in Canico/Gaula is a special place right by the sea with a relaxed, alternative atmosphere and a Brazilian vibe. Nestled beneath a massive bridge, you might not even expect to find this lovingly designed spot here.
In addition to delicious food, there are regular special events, sunset gatherings, live music, DJs, and Brazilian music. Sometimes they also offer special menus that can be reserved in advance—including delicious vegan options. If you’re looking for a laid-back atmosphere away from the typical tourist spots, you should definitely give this place a try.
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