Casa dos Salgados
Casa dos Salgados: A Hidden Culinary Gem on Madeira Island
Introduction
Discover Casa dos Salgados, a rustic restaurant perched off the beaten path in Camacha, Madeira. Expect authentic Portuguese cuisine, rustic charm, and a breathtaking vista. This blog explores how to reach it, menu highlights, booking tips, and scenic stops along the way.
Location & Getting There
Casa dos Salgados lies in Camacha, near Santa Cruz, accessible via a road and a short scenic path .
Many guests drive from Caniço, park, then follow an old “Royal Road” trail that leads down to the restaurant.
<- Wear sturdy shoes— no heels, flip flops and stilettos please.
Atmosphere & Vibe
The interior feels like a cozy man-cave with wood panels from wine crates and a warm, homey layout. Ladies are obviously welcome.
You will be greeted on an enclosed veranda offering sweeping views of the Vale do Porto Novo, the Atlantic, and the Desertas Islands.
The host, Inácio, and sometimes a cat named Inês (“The Queen”) make guests feel truly welcome. Inácio is a wine lover and he loves to share his passion with his guests.
Menu & Food Highlights
They serve hearty Portuguese and Madeiran specialties like duck rice, Cozido, grill, stews, soups, and homemade dishes.
The non exhaustive menu includes:
- Feijoada (Brazilian-style beans)
- Duck rice (arroz de pato)
- Portuguese stew (Cozido à Portuguesa)
- Macarrão Casa dos Salgados-style
- Wheat soup, black-pork spare ribs, tenderloin skewer, and mixed grill.
The rice—cooked with fatty pork cured for six months—is especially praised and is a specialty for most but not for me. The apple pie is definitely worth a detour.
Wine & Pairings
Inácio selects regional wines mostly from Douro and Dão, chosen to pair perfectly with daily dishes. Bottles typically cost €40 and up. Guests are encouraged to follow his lead—he knows his wine well.
Do You Need a Reservation?
Yes—booking in advance is essential, especially during summer. Many guests must pre-order their main dish at the time of reservation. Here is the phone number: +351291923149
We highly suggest to reserve, it is close to mandatory. Without it, it’s nearly impossible to dine.
Scenic Stops Along the Way
While en route from Caniço or Camacha, you can enjoy views over Madeira’s verdant landscapes. The path itself is part of the experience. Some visitors combine a walk on the Levada do Caniço and stop at Casa dos Salgados for coffee or apple pie.
Summary Table
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Location | Camacha, near Caniço, Madeira |
| Access | Drive + short walk via “Royal Road” |
| Reservations | Mandatory – pre-order main dish |
| Cuisine | Traditional Portuguese & Madeiran |
| Wine | Excellent selection, expert pairings |
| Atmosphere | Rustic, warm, scenic veranda |
| Scenic Stops | Levada walks, views over valleys |
| Highlights | Duck rice, petiscos, apple pie, views |
Final Thoughts
Casa dos Salgados is more than just a meal—it’s an experience. From the adventurous approach to the personalized service and hearty dishes, it stands out as a must-visit culinary destination on Madeira. Plan ahead, lace your walking shoes, and prepare for a memorable lunch with spectacular views.
