Our top 10 favourite restaurants in Praia

Praia, the capital of Cape Verde on the island of Santiago, is a bustling African town with a touch of the Mediterranean.

When it comes to the local cuisine, seafood abounds, but there’s plenty of alternatives on offer with a great range of restaurants enjoyed by locals, tourists and expats alike. Here are just a few of our favourites. You'll find a map at the end of the post showing all their locations.

1. Secreto Iberico

Rua Ilha Santa Luzia , Palmarejo , Cidade Da Praia

While a little out of the way and tricky to find, we think Secreto Iberico is well worth the effort. You'll receive a warm welcome in this cosy tapas bar, and of course, great food and wine.

2. Mirage

Praia Shopping, Quebra Canela, Praia

Situated in Praia's shopping mall, people come here to enjoy the wonderful views out to sea, good food and service. The limited menu offers a range of Mediterranean and Portuguese dishes.

3. Kebra Cabana

Quebra Canela, Praia

With lovely views across the beach of Quebra Canela, this is a great place for a lunchtime snack and a cool beer. A mix of locals and tourists come here to enjoy the laid-back atmosphere and good, inexpensive food.

4. Churrasqueira Dragoeira

Avenida Uccla | Achada Sto. Antonio, Praia

You’ll smell the smoky barbecue before you see it when you visit this great value, no frills grillhouse, popular with locals and visitors alike. A simple eatery that’s great value for money.

5. Tia Irene

Achada de Santo Antonio 27, Praia

A small and popular restaurant, well known for its seafood.

6. Pão Quente

Rua 13 de Janeiro, Achada Santo Antonio, Praia

This simple bakery, that's one of a chain in Praia, is great for breakfast or a lunchtime snack. Their custard tart from Portugal, pastel de nata, comes highly recommended (although it might be best to get your coffee elsewhere).

7. O Poeta

259A Achada De Santo Antonio, Praia

With a stunning view across the bay from its hilltop position, this is a popular seafood and Mediterranean restaurant-come-lounge bar, with live music at the weekends from 9pm.

 

above: Perceves, a local delicacy in Cape Verde, image credit: mimohe | Shutterstock

 

8. Restaurante Pescador

Prainha, Praia

Excellent seafood restaurant with generous portions. (It's worth noting that you will be charged for the olives, water etc brought to your table when you arrive unless you refuse them.)

9. Punto d'Incontro

Avenida Cidade de Lisboa, Praia

A popular Italian trattoria serving mainly, but not exclusively, homemade pasta dishes and thin crust pizzas (with a great range of toppings). Keep an eye out for their regularly updated menu on the blackboard.

10. Quintal da Música

Avenida Amilcar Cabral 70, Praia

With a name that literally translates as ‘the backyard of music’, this place is not to be missed by music lovers, with live performances most evenings. In the centre of the old town, it’s popular with both locals and tourists, offering traditional cuisine and wine from the nearby island of Fogo.

 

And if you are looking for somewhere to stay in Praia check out Oasis Praiamar Hotel and Pestana Tropico Hotel.