A Parreira — Restaurant in Funchal

I want to be more objective in this review and provide more specific details about this wonderful restaurant. First of all, I must praise the food – the farm meat is amazing. We ordered beef skewers, which was wonderful. And the staff is friendly.

Be prepared for a slightly different service approach: instead of being seated at a table and given a menu, you’ll likely be guided to a place where you can personally select the meat you'd like to eat. You may be offered two small pieces of grilled cheese for an additional €5.50, and "bolo do caco" at €3.50 each. After selecting, you'll need to pay, but only in cash, which raises some questions.

Next, you'll go to a bar counter to choose side dishes and drinks. No menu is provided – they simply ask what you’d like. You also pay in cash here, and when I asked to pay by card, the request was denied. The prices are generally above the island’s average. You then cross the road to take your seat. The meat and bolo do caco are prepared in front of you. At the end of your meal, if you've ordered any extras, be ready to go back to the bar to settle the bill – once again, in cash – and no receipt will be given.

Summary: Delicious farm food, but the restaurant has some areas that need improvement. The lack of receipts and cash-only policy are the most...

A Parreira is a fantastic communal style restaurant that serves traditional Madeiran cuisine and provides an after-dinner show! The tables are organized in long rows so that everyone sits across from each other and side-by-side, so you might have the opportunity to meet new people and make new friends. On the tables, there are the hooks that hold the giant skewer rods for the estapadas. The beef estapadas were amazing! Entrees typically come with two side dishes, which have large portions, so come hungry! While you're having dessert, you hear the steady beat of a drum, followed by other instruments and singing. Then the traditional dancers parade from the back of the restaurant toward the stage. Prepare yourself for a fun and energetic show. My heart goes out to the children that participate in this show because this tradition will carry on through them. I loved seeing the generational range from older to youngest, whether they played music, sang, or danced! Overall, this was an amazing experience and we're thankful for our hosts at A Parreira, especially on Christmas Eve!...

Great place for traditional atmosphere and folk dances

Parreira is the place to go if you want to experience Madeira’s folk dances on weekends. The interior décor is warm and traditional, attracting locals and tourists who come for the authentic atmosphere and to listen to bailinho.

The menu offers a wide variety of traditional Madeiran dishes and desserts. Food quality is decent, not extraordinary, but satisfying for those seeking local flavors. What truly stands out is the service: the staff are exceptionally friendly, attentive, and often share a few light-hearted jokes with guests, adding to the welcoming atmosphere.

Overall, this is a good spot for a cultural evening in Funchal. Come for the lively folk performances, the charming décor, and the genuinely...