The rugged volcanic island of São Miguel serves up some of Europe’s most unique dining experiences. In the geothermal valley of Furnas, you’ll find the island’s signature dish – cozido, a hearty meat and vegetable stew cooked underground by volcanic steam. This local specialty tastes even better after a relaxing soak in the area’s natural hot springs.
I’m especially fond of the evening dining tours in Furnas, where small groups get to witness their dinner being lifted from the earth before feasting in a traditional setting. Over in Praia da Vitória, the private island dining experiences showcase the best of Azorean barbecue and locally-produced wines – all while learning about centuries-old cooking traditions from passionate local hosts.
Our favorite food tours combine authentic meals with cultural insights, keeping groups intimate for a more personal experience. Check out these top-rated dining adventures on São Miguel:
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Key Points
- The Culinary Highlights of Furnas experience offers a unique opportunity to taste the region’s signature cozido stew cooked in a volcanic caldera.
- The Island Dinner Experience in Praia da Vitória provides an intimate, 4-hour dining event in a private Azorean home, immersing guests in local traditions and gastronomy.
- The Night-Time Adventure in Furnas combines a guided nature walk, relaxation in geothermal hot springs, and a traditional cozido stew dinner for a well-rounded cultural experience.
- Guests highly recommend the dining experiences, praising the wonderful evenings, delicious food, excellent wine, and engaging conversations with local families.
- Travelers should book in advance due to the small group sizes and limited availability, ensuring they can secure their desired dining experience on Sao Miguel Island.
Furnas: Night-Time Experience With Thermal Baths and Dinner
What better way to experience the natural wonders of Sao Miguel Island than a night-time adventure in Furnas? For €66.90 per person, visitors can enjoy a 6-hour experience that includes geothermal hot springs and a traditional cozido stew dinner.
The evening begins with a pickup in Ponta Delgada, followed by a guided nature walk through the Furnas volcano complex. Guests can then relax in the Poça da Dona Beija hot springs and savor the delicious cozido, cooked in the volcanic caldera.
With a small group size limited to 8 participants, this tour offers an intimate and personalized experience. The highly-rated local guide, air-conditioned transportation, and included insurance and entrance fees make this a great value.
Travelers have praised the knowledgeable guides, delicious food, and stunning views, contributing to an overall 4.8/5 rating based on 383 reviews. This night-time adventure in Furnas is a must-do for anyone seeking to enjoy the natural beauty and culinary delights of Sao Miguel Island.
Read our full review: Furnas Night-Time Experience With Thermal Baths and Dinner Review
Book now: Check availability
Praia Da Vitória: Island Dinner Experience With Locals
One can embark on a captivating island dinner experience in Praia da Vitória, where visitors can enjoy local culture and savor the flavors of Azorean cuisine.
Priced from $83.99 per person, this 4-hour small group tour (limited to 10 participants) offers a chance to taste local meats, enjoy Portuguese wine and beer, and indulge in traditional barbecue and desserts.
Participants will experience local life in a private Azorean home and garden, interacting with the family during dinner preparation.
This cultural interaction provides valuable insights into the island’s traditions, history, and gastronomy, offering the best local recommendations for restaurants and activities.
With a 5/5 overall rating based on 3 reviews, past guests have praised the wonderful evening, delicious food, excellent wine, and great conversation.
The experience includes hotel pickup and drop-off, though it’s not suitable for those with mobility impairments.
Travelers are advised to check availability and bring their passport or ID card.
Read our full review: Praia Da Vitória: Island Dinner Experience With Locals Review
Book now: Check availability
Recap
Sao Miguel Island offers a diverse range of dining experiences that immerse visitors in the island’s natural beauty and local culture. From enjoying a night-time thermal bath experience in Furnas to savoring a traditional island dinner with locals in Praia Da Vitória, travelers can indulge in unforgettable culinary adventures that showcase the unique charm of this Portuguese archipelago.